When planning a backpacking trip, both Bordeaux, France, and Lisbon, Portugal, offer unique experiences. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you decide, based on realistic budget estimates for backpackers in European cities.

Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?

Lisbon generally provides a more budget-friendly experience compared to Bordeaux. Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in European cities. While both cities can fit within this range, Lisbon often allows for a more comfortable experience at the lower end.

• Accommodation (Hostel Dorm): Expect €15-30/night in both, but Lisbon typically has more options available closer to the €15-20 mark.
• Food: Budget €10-20/day. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in European cities.
• Local Transport: Plan for €5-10/day for public transport.

Bordeaux, aligning with Western European price points, might see costs leaning towards the higher end of these estimated ranges.

How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?

Hostel dorm beds in both cities typically range from €15-30 per night. Lisbon frequently offers a greater selection of hostels and guesthouses at the lower end of this spectrum, especially outside of peak summer months. Bordeaux, while having hostels within this range, may have fewer budget options available, and prices can quickly rise with demand. Remember that spring and fall typically offer lower accommodation prices than the peak summer season in both locations.

What are Typical Food and Drink Expenses?

Backpackers can realistically budget €10-20/day for food. In both Bordeaux and Lisbon, a casual meal at a local restaurant or eatery typically costs €8-15. Lisbon is well-known for its affordable local ‘tascas’ (taverns) where a satisfying main course can often be found for €7-12. While Bordeaux also offers excellent dining, average restaurant prices for similar meals might be slightly higher. Supermarket groceries, bakeries, and street food options (like pastries or simple sandwiches) are readily available in both cities to help reduce daily food costs significantly.

What About Transportation and Activities?

Daily local transport, utilizing public transit like metros, buses, and trams, typically costs €5-10 in both cities. Lisbon boasts a well-connected and generally inexpensive public transport system, including its iconic trams and funiculars. Bordeaux also has an efficient tram network that makes exploring easy. Many of the main historical sites and city centers in both are highly walkable, reducing the need for constant transport. Free activities such as exploring historic districts, parks, and viewpoints are abundant in both destinations. AllInMap can assist in locating free amenities and points of interest.