For backpackers weighing their options between Bordeaux and Brussels, both cities offer rich cultural experiences without necessarily breaking the bank. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you decide.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
A backpacker’s daily budget typically ranges from €35-55/day in many Western European cities, covering accommodation, food, and local transport. Both Bordeaux and Brussels generally fall within this range, making them quite comparable. Your spending will largely depend on your choices in accommodation and dining.
Estimated Daily Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation (Hostel Dorm Bed): €18-30/night (estimated)
- Food (Groceries/Street Food/Casual Meal): €10-20/day (estimated)
- Local Transport: €5-10/day (estimated, if not walking)
- Activities/Incidentals: €5-15/day (estimated)
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Accommodation costs for hostel dorm beds are quite similar in both cities. In Bordeaux, expect to pay around €20-30/night for a dorm bed (estimated), with prices varying by season and hostel quality. Brussels offers comparable prices, often in the range of €18-28/night for a dorm bed (estimated), with a wide selection of hostels due to its status as a major European hub.
What Are the Typical Food and Drink Expenses?
Both cities offer opportunities for budget-friendly eating. In Bordeaux, you can find affordable meals at boulangeries, local markets, and casual brasseries, with main dishes often costing €8-15 (estimated). Wine can be a good value directly from producers or in local bars. Brussels excels in affordable street food like fries (frites), waffles, and delicious, reasonably priced beers. Casual meals at local eateries might also be in the €7-15 range (estimated). Backpackers looking to save can generally budget €10-20/day for food by utilizing supermarkets and street food vendors.
How Accessible is Public Transportation?
Both cities boast efficient and affordable public transport systems. Bordeaux is well-served by trams and buses, with single tickets typically around €1.70 (verified current rates can vary slightly) and daily passes available for around €5-7 (estimated). The city center is also very walkable. Brussels has an extensive metro, tram, and bus network, with single rides costing around €2.10 (verified current rates can vary slightly) and a 24-hour pass typically priced at €7.50-8.00 (estimated). Both cities make it easy to explore without excessive transport costs.
Which City Offers More Free Activities?
Both Bordeaux and Brussels provide numerous free attractions. In Bordeaux, you can enjoy strolling through the historic Port de la Lune UNESCO World Heritage site, admiring the Miroir d’eau, visiting many churches, and exploring public parks. Brussels boasts the stunning Grand Place, the iconic Manneken Pis, exploring the city’s famous comic strip murals, and various free-to-enter churches and parks. For finding public amenities like free restrooms or water fountains, platforms like AllInMap can be useful in both cities.
What Is the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travelers?
For both Bordeaux and Brussels, the shoulder seasons (spring: April-May, and fall: September-October) typically offer the best balance of pleasant weather and lower prices compared to the peak summer months. Accommodation and flight costs tend to be higher during July and August. Visiting in winter can be significantly cheaper but will involve colder temperatures and potentially fewer daylight hours.
