When planning a backpacking adventure, choosing between the historic grandeur of Edinburgh and the charming green city of Ljubljana involves weighing different budget and experience factors. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you decide:
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Ljubljana typically offers a lower daily budget for backpackers. A realistic estimate for Ljubljana is €35-55 per day, covering basic accommodation, food, and local transport. For Edinburgh, expect a higher daily expenditure, likely ranging from €50-80 per day (converted from GBP), due to generally higher costs in the UK. Remember, Edinburgh uses the Great British Pound (£), while Ljubljana uses the Euro (€).
What Are the Typical Accommodation Costs?
Hostel prices form a significant part of a backpacker’s budget. In Ljubljana, expect to pay approximately €15-30 per night for a dorm bed in a reputable hostel. In Edinburgh, hostel dorm beds are generally higher, estimated at €25-45 per night (converted from £GBP), making it a more significant expenditure.
How Much Should Backpackers Budget for Food?
Food costs can vary widely based on your dining choices. In Ljubljana, a backpacker’s food budget can be €10-20 per day if utilizing grocery stores, local bakeries, and affordable eateries. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15. For Edinburgh, a daily food budget is estimated at €15-30 per day (converted from £GBP), with meals at more casual pubs or restaurants often starting around £10-20 (€12-24). Cooking in hostels can significantly reduce costs in both cities.
What About Local Transportation Expenses?
Both cities are highly walkable, especially their central areas, but public transport is available. In Ljubljana, a daily transport budget is typically €5-10, covering bus rides via a prepaid Urbana card. In Edinburgh, local bus services require an estimated €6-12 per day (converted from £GBP) for multiple rides or a day ticket.
When is the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travelers?
For both Edinburgh and Ljubljana, visiting during the shoulder seasons—spring (April-May) and fall (September-October)—typically offers a better balance between pleasant weather and lower prices compared to the peak summer months. Accommodation and flight costs tend to be higher in July and August.
Are There Free Amenities Available?
Both cities boast numerous free attractions. In Ljubljana, you can enjoy the Dragon Bridge, Triple Bridge, and Tivoli Park without cost. Edinburgh offers free entry to many national museums and galleries, as well as scenic walks like Arthur’s Seat and the Royal Mile. Tools like AllInMap can help backpackers locate free public amenities such as restrooms, Wi-Fi, and water fountains in various cities.
