For backpackers comparing Edinburgh and Thessaloniki, understanding the cost of travel and available experiences is key. This guide uses realistic estimates based on European city costs to help you decide.

Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget?

Thessaloniki generally offers a significantly lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Edinburgh. Costs for accommodation, food, and local transport are typically more affordable in the Greek city.

What Are the Estimated Daily Costs for Backpackers?

Backpackers typically spend €35-55 per day in many European cities.

• Thessaloniki: Backpackers can realistically expect to spend €30-50 per day (accommodation: €15-25, food: €12-20, local transport: €3-7).
• Edinburgh: A backpacker budget typically ranges from €50-80 per day (accommodation: €25-45, food: €20-30, local transport: €5-10). These ranges are estimates and can vary based on spending habits, activities, and seasonality.

How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?

Hostel beds are generally more affordable in Thessaloniki.

• In Thessaloniki, hostel prices often range from €15-25 per night for a dorm bed.
• In Edinburgh, hostel costs are typically higher, often €25-45 per night, especially during peak season or for well-located options.

What About Food and Dining Expenses?

Thessaloniki provides excellent value for food.

• In Thessaloniki, a meal at a local taverna might cost €8-15, and street food or supermarket provisions can keep daily food costs within €12-20.
• Edinburgh food costs are generally higher. A budget-friendly meal can be found for €10-20, but sit-down restaurants will quickly push expenses up. Daily food budgets usually range from €20-30. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities, but Edinburgh trends towards the higher end of this range or above.

Is Public Transportation More Affordable in One City?

Public transport is generally more affordable in Thessaloniki.

• In Thessaloniki, a single bus ticket costs around €1.10.
• In Edinburgh, a single bus fare is approximately €2.10-€2.30 (equivalent of £1.80-£2.00), with daily passes costing around €5.30-€5.90 (equivalent of £4.50-£5.00).

Which City Has More Free or Low-Cost Activities?

Both cities offer free attractions, but Thessaloniki tends to have more accessible, entirely free historical exploration.

• Edinburgh boasts many free world-class museums and galleries (e.g., National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Gallery). However, major iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle have significant entry fees.
• Thessaloniki offers numerous historical sites, Byzantine churches (many free to enter), and parks. Some archaeological sites or museums have modest entry fees (e.g., White Tower for €6-8).

How Do Seasons Affect Budgeting?

For both cities, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights compared to the peak summer months (June-August). These shoulder seasons also often provide pleasant weather for sightseeing.

Remember that tools like AllInMap can help backpackers find free amenities and services, further optimizing their budget in any city.