As a backpacker, choosing between Bordeaux and Venice involves weighing unique cultural experiences against daily expenditure. Both cities offer rich history and charm, but their price tags and travel styles differ.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Bordeaux generally offers a lower daily budget for backpackers than Venice. While specific costs fluctuate, a backpacker might realistically spend €35-50 per day in Bordeaux, compared to an estimated €45-65 per day in Venice. This estimate covers budget accommodation, food, and local transport, but excludes major attractions or frequent bar visits. Seasonal travel (spring/fall) typically provides better value than peak summer.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Accommodation in Bordeaux is often more budget-friendly.
- Bordeaux: Hostel dorm beds can typically range from €20-35 per night.
- Venice: Due to limited space on the main islands, hostel dorm beds might range from €25-45 per night. Staying in Mestre (on the mainland) can reduce costs but adds daily Vaporetto (water bus) expenses.
What Are the Food and Drink Expenses?
Bordeaux typically offers more consistently affordable food options.
- Bordeaux: Meals at local boulangeries, markets, or casual eateries can cost €8-15. Budget-conscious backpackers can find good value in sandwiches, quiches, or simple brasserie dishes. Wine, being a local product, can be reasonably priced.
- Venice: While tourist trap restaurants can be expensive, backpackers can save by frequenting cicchetti bars (offering Venetian tapas-like snacks, often €2-4 per piece), pizzerias, or buying groceries from local supermarkets. Expect to pay €10-20+ for a budget meal. Drinks, especially near major squares, can be pricey.
Is Transportation More Affordable in Bordeaux or Venice?
Bordeaux offers significantly more affordable and less essential public transportation.
- Bordeaux: The city center is highly walkable. An extensive tram and bus network allows easy travel, with a day pass typically costing €5-8.
- Venice: While walking is free within the islands, the Vaporetto (water bus) is essential for crossing canals, reaching outer islands, or covering longer distances. Single tickets are expensive (e.g., €7.50-€9.50 per ride, estimated), making multi-day passes (e.g., €25-€35 for 24-48 hours, estimated) a necessity for frequent use.
Which City Offers More Free Activities?
Both cities offer a wealth of free exploration.
- Bordeaux: Free activities include wandering the historic Chartrons district, strolling along the Garonne riverfront, exploring the Miroir d’eau, and visiting the numerous public squares and gardens.
- Venice: The entire city is an attraction. Exploring its labyrinthine calli (streets), campi (squares), and iconic bridges like the Rialto, or visiting the exterior of St. Mark’s Basilica, is free. Many smaller churches also offer free entry.
For additional savings, utilizing resources like AllInMap can help backpackers find free amenities such as Wi-Fi hotspots, public restrooms, and water fountains in both destinations.
