For backpackers comparing Budapest and Stockholm, cost is often a primary differentiator. Here’s a balanced comparison based on general European travel estimates.
Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
Budapest is significantly more budget-friendly than Stockholm. Backpackers can typically expect to spend an estimated €35-55 per day in Budapest. In contrast, Stockholm is one of Europe’s more expensive cities, with an estimated daily budget ranging from €60-90+ per day. These figures include accommodation, food, and local transport.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Budapest: Hostel dorm beds typically range from an estimated €15-25 per night. Prices can fluctuate based on location, amenities, and seasonality (e.g., summer or festival periods may see higher prices).
Stockholm: Hostel dorm beds are generally much more expensive, often ranging from an estimated €30-50 per night. Booking well in advance, especially during peak season, is advisable to secure better rates.
What Are the Food and Drink Expenses?
Budapest: Eating out can be very affordable. A meal at a local eatery or street food stand might cost an estimated €8-15. Groceries are also relatively inexpensive, allowing for budget-friendly self-catering.
Stockholm: Food and drink are considerably more expensive. A modest meal at a casual restaurant can easily cost an estimated €15-30 or more. Backpackers often save money by utilizing supermarket groceries and self-catering facilities.
Which City Has More Affordable Public Transport?
Budapest: The public transport system (metro, tram, bus) is efficient and relatively inexpensive. A single journey might cost a few euros, and daily or multi-day passes are generally affordable, potentially costing an estimated €5-8 per day if used frequently.
Stockholm: Public transport is excellent but pricier. Single tickets and passes are more expensive, with daily usage potentially adding an estimated €8-15 per day to your budget. Both cities are walkable in their central areas.
What About Attraction and Activity Costs?
Budapest: Offers a mix of free and paid attractions. Many beautiful sights like Heroes’ Square or Parliament exterior are free to admire. Entrance to major thermal baths (e.g., Szechenyi) can cost around €20-30. Museums are generally affordable, often €5-15.
Stockholm: Also has free attractions (e.g., walking through Gamla Stan, parks). Many museums, such as the Vasa Museum, have entrance fees that can range from €15-25. Some museums may offer free entry on specific days or times. AllInMap can help identify free public amenities in both cities.
General Seasonal Patterns: Spring and fall typically offer lower prices and fewer crowds than the busy summer months in both cities.
