As a fair and balanced travel writer, I’m here to help you compare Bucharest and Lyon for your backpacking adventure. Both cities offer unique experiences, but their budget implications differ significantly.

Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget?

Bucharest generally offers a significantly lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Lyon. Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in many European cities.

• Bucharest (Estimated): Expect to spend approximately €30-50 per day.
• Lyon (Estimated): Anticipate a higher budget of around €50-80 per day.

How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?

Accommodation is often the largest expense. Hostel beds in European cities typically cost €15-30 per night.

• Bucharest: Hostel beds generally fall within the €15-25 range for a dormitory bed.
• Lyon: Expect to pay €25-40 for a hostel bed in a dormitory, often at the higher end or slightly exceeding the typical European range.

What Are the Food Budget Expectations?

Daily food budgets for backpackers typically range from €10-20. Meals at local restaurants generally cost €8-15 in many European cities.

• Bucharest: It’s possible to manage on €10-18 per day. Local meals (e.g., ciorba, mici) can be found for €7-12 at casual eateries.
• Lyon: Budgeting €15-25 per day is more realistic. While bakeries offer affordable options (€3-6), eating out at Lyon’s famous bouchons or local restaurants will likely cost €15-25 or more per meal.

How Much is Daily Transport?

Public transport expenses typically amount to €5-10 per day in European cities.

• Bucharest: Public transport is very affordable, with daily passes costing around €3-7.
• Lyon: Public transport is efficient, and daily passes typically cost €5-10.

When is the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel?

Seasonal patterns affect prices in both cities. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights than the peak summer months. Both Bucharest and Lyon follow this general trend, making shoulder seasons ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Are There Ways to Save Money in Both Cities?

Yes, both cities offer free attractions like parks, walking tours, and free entry days for some museums. Utilizing apps like AllInMap can help backpackers identify free amenities and budget-friendly activities, regardless of the city. Self-catering for some meals also significantly reduces costs in both destinations.