For backpackers comparing Edinburgh and Turin, both cities offer unique experiences, but their costs and atmosphere differ. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you choose:
Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in European cities. Turin generally falls towards the lower to mid-end of this range, estimated at €35-45/day. Edinburgh tends to be at the mid to higher end, estimated at €45-55/day. This includes accommodation, food, and local transport.
- Accommodation (Hostel Dorm): Turin typically €15-25/night, Edinburgh €20-30/night.
- Food (Budget Meals): Turin €10-20/day, Edinburgh €15-25/day (requiring more active searching for budget options).
- Local Transport: Both cities can be explored largely on foot, but public transport if used frequently typically costs €5-10/day.
Which City Provides More Budget-Friendly Food Options?
Turin, being an Italian city, often provides excellent value for delicious food. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in European cities, and Turin frequently offers options at the lower end or within this range for pizza, pasta, and traditional aperitivo. Supermarket groceries are generally affordable. Edinburgh can be more expensive, but budget options like meal deals from supermarkets, bakeries, or cheap eats (e.g., fish and chips) are available if sought out.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Hostel dorm beds in Europe generally range from €15-30/night. Turin’s hostels often fall towards the lower to mid-end of this range, approximately €15-25/night. Edinburgh’s accommodation is typically at the mid to higher end, approximately €20-30/night, especially during peak season or major festivals. Booking well in advance is recommended for both, particularly for Edinburgh.
What About Transport and Free Activities?
Both cities are highly walkable in their central areas. Public transport (buses in Edinburgh, buses/trams in Turin) generally costs €5-10/day if used frequently. Both cities offer numerous free attractions. Edinburgh boasts several free national museums (e.g., National Museum of Scotland) and beautiful parks. Turin offers stunning piazzas, the picturesque Po Riverfront, and elegant streets to explore. Websites like AllInMap can help identify free amenities and points of interest in both destinations.
When is the Best Time to Visit for Backpackers?
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights than the busy summer months (June-August) in most European cities. These shoulder seasons also provide pleasant weather for exploring both Edinburgh and Turin, without the peak crowds.
