For backpackers comparing European destinations, Edinburgh, Scotland, and Stockholm, Sweden, offer distinct experiences and budget considerations. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you choose:
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Edinburgh typically offers a lower daily budget for backpackers than Stockholm. A realistic daily budget for Edinburgh ranges from approximately €40-70. This generally breaks down as:
- Accommodation (hostel dorm): €20-35 per night
- Food (mix of self-catering, street food, budget meals): €15-25 per day
- Local Transport: €5-8 per day
Stockholm, known for its higher cost of living, will require a larger budget, typically ranging from €55-95 per day. This breakdown generally includes:
- Accommodation (hostel dorm): €30-50 per night
- Food (mix of self-catering, budget meals, fewer cheap options): €20-35 per day
- Local Transport: €6-10 per day
Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in many European cities, making Edinburgh closer to the average, while Stockholm is noticeably above it. Prices for both cities can fluctuate seasonally, with spring and fall typically offering lower prices than the peak summer months.
Which City Offers Cheaper Food Options?
Edinburgh generally provides cheaper food options for backpackers. In Edinburgh, budget-friendly meals such as fish and chips, pasties, or pub lunches can often be found for €8-15. Supermarket prices are also generally lower, making self-catering more economical.
Stockholm’s dining scene is notably more expensive. Even budget-friendly restaurants often start around €12-20 for a main dish. Groceries for self-catering are also typically priced higher than in Edinburgh.
How Do Transport Costs Compare?
Transport costs are comparable, but Stockholm might be slightly more expensive. Both cities have efficient public transport systems. In Edinburgh, a single bus fare is around €2-3, with day passes available for around €5-6. In Stockholm, a single journey costs approximately €3-4, and 24-hour passes are roughly €13-16. Both cities are walkable in their central areas, allowing backpackers to save on transport by exploring on foot.
What About Free Activities and Amenities?
Both cities offer a good range of free activities, but finding free amenities can be challenging in both. Edinburgh boasts numerous free museums and galleries, including the National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Gallery. Exploring the Royal Mile, hiking Arthur’s Seat, and enjoying the city’s parks are also free. Stockholm offers free attractions like the Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace (seasonal), exploring Gamla Stan (Old Town), and some cultural institutions may have free entry days or times. Finding free public restrooms or water fountains can be difficult in both cities without specific knowledge. Resources like AllInMap can help backpackers locate free amenities such such as public toilets, water fountains, and Wi-Fi hotspots, which can help further reduce daily spending in either destination.
