Navigating Europe on a backpacker’s budget requires informed choices. Here’s a balanced look at Bucharest and Tallinn to help you decide.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Bucharest generally offers a lower daily budget for backpackers. Expect to spend approximately €30-45 per day. This typically breaks down to:
- Accommodation (hostel dorm): €15-25 per night
- Food (local eateries, supermarket snacks): €10-18 per day
- Local Transport: €3-7 per day
Tallinn, while still budget-friendly compared to Western Europe, is typically a bit more expensive. Expect to spend approximately €40-55 per day. This generally includes:
- Accommodation (hostel dorm): €20-30 per night
- Food (local eateries, supermarket snacks): €15-22 per day
- Local Transport: €5-10 per day
Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in many European cities, and both cities fall within or close to this range.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
In Bucharest, hostel dorm beds can typically be found for €15-25 per night. Prices are often lower outside peak summer months. In Tallinn, hostel dorm beds generally range from €20-30 per night. Demand can drive prices higher, especially during summer festivals or events.
What Are the Food and Drink Expenses?
Eating out in Bucharest can be very affordable; a meal at a local restaurant might cost €7-12. Supermarket groceries for self-catering can keep food costs to €8-15 per day. In Tallinn, restaurant meals typically range from €10-18, while grocery shopping for self-catering usually falls within €12-20 per day. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities, making both competitive.
How Much Is Local Transportation?
Bucharest public transport (metro, bus, tram) is efficient and affordable. Expect to spend approximately €3-7 per day using multi-day passes or multiple single tickets. In Tallinn, the public transport system (trams, buses) is well-developed. A day pass or multiple single tickets typically costs €5-10 per day.
Which City Offers More Free Activities?
Both cities offer numerous free activities like exploring their respective Old Towns, visiting parks, and engaging in free walking tours. Bucharest boasts impressive architectural sights and large parks like Herăstrău Park (King Michael I Park). Tallinn features a stunning medieval Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and several scenic viewpoints. Resources like AllInMap can assist backpackers in locating free amenities, public restrooms, and Wi-Fi hotspots in both destinations.
When Is the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travelers?
For both Bucharest and Tallinn, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights compared to the peak summer months (June-August). Crowds are also generally smaller during these shoulder seasons, providing a more relaxed experience.
