Choosing between Edinburgh’s historic charm and Lisbon’s sunny allure for your backpacking adventure involves weighing budget, climate, and overall vibe. This guide provides a balanced comparison to help you decide.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Lisbon is generally more budget-friendly than Edinburgh. Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in many European cities.
- Lisbon: A realistic daily budget, excluding major attractions, might range from €30-58. This includes a hostel bed, food, and transport.
- Edinburgh: Expect a higher daily budget, potentially ranging from €45-77 (converted from GBP, estimated). This makes Edinburgh one of the pricier backpacking destinations in Europe.
What Are Realistic Accommodation Costs?
Accommodation is often the largest expense for backpackers.
- Lisbon: Hostel dorm beds typically cost €15-30 per night. Prices can be higher during peak summer months.
- Edinburgh: Hostel dorm beds are generally more expensive, often costing €25-45 per night (estimated from GBP prices). Expect prices to surge during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August.
How Much Should I Budget for Food?
Food costs depend heavily on whether you cook or eat out. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities.
- Lisbon: Budget approximately €10-20 per day for food, combining groceries with affordable local eateries or bakeries.
- Edinburgh: Expect to budget €15-25 per day for food, as groceries and budget meals tend to be pricier.
What Are Typical Local Transport Costs?
Both cities offer efficient public transport.
- Lisbon: A daily public transport pass (e.g., 24-hour Carris/Metro ticket) typically costs around €6-7. Single fares are cheaper but add up. Budget €5-8 per day.
- Edinburgh: A day ticket for buses usually costs around €5-7 (estimated from GBP prices). Budget €5-7 per day. Both cities are walkable in many areas, reducing transport needs.
What About Free Activities and Seasonal Pricing?
Both cities offer free attractions and seasonal price variations.
- Free Activities: Edinburgh boasts free entry to its National Museums and Galleries. Lisbon offers stunning free viewpoints (miradouros) and exploring its historic neighborhoods. For finding other free amenities like public restrooms or water fountains, resources like AllInMap can be helpful.
- Seasonal Pricing: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights in both cities compared to the peak summer months. Edinburgh sees a massive price spike during its August festivals.
Conclusion: For backpackers prioritizing a lower daily budget, Lisbon generally offers better value. However, Edinburgh provides a unique historical and cultural experience that some may find worth the higher cost.
