For backpackers comparing destinations, Edinburgh and Valencia offer distinct experiences and budget considerations. Here’s a balanced breakdown to help you decide.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
For backpackers, Valencia generally offers a lower daily budget compared to Edinburgh. Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in European cities. An estimated daily budget in Valencia could range from €30-45, while Edinburgh often requires €45-65. Prices can fluctuate seasonally; spring and fall typically offer lower prices than summer in both locations.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Accommodation, primarily hostels, reflects the general cost difference. A dorm bed in a reputable hostel can range from €15-30/night in Europe. In Valencia, backpackers can typically find hostel beds for €15-25/night. Edinburgh, being a more expensive capital, usually sees hostel dorm beds priced between €20-30/night, often hitting the higher end or exceeding it during peak seasons.
What About Food and Drink Expenses?
Food expenses are a significant part of a backpacker’s budget, typically €10-20/day. In Valencia, meals at local restaurants or “menu del día” options typically cost €8-15. Utilizing supermarkets for groceries can bring daily food costs down to €10-15. Edinburgh’s dining scene is generally pricier; meals often start from €10-18, making estimated daily food costs closer to €15-25 if eating out regularly. Cooking in hostels helps manage costs in both cities.
Is Public Transport Affordable in Both Cities?
Public transport costs generally range from €5-10/day in European cities. Both Edinburgh and Valencia boast efficient public transport networks. In Valencia, single bus or metro tickets cost around €1.50-€2.00, with multi-journey passes offering better value for an estimated daily cost of €5-8. In Edinburgh, single bus tickets are approximately £1.80 (around €2.10-€2.20), and day tickets are about £4.50 (around €5.20-€5.30), putting estimated daily transport costs in the €5-10 range.
Which City Offers More Free Activities?
Both cities provide excellent free and low-cost activities for backpackers. Valencia offers numerous parks, strolls along the beach, and free-to-enter markets. Events and festivals, especially during warmer months, often have free components. Edinburgh is rich in history and culture, offering free entry to many national museums and galleries (e.g., National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Gallery), scenic walks up Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill, and atmospheric exploration of its Old Town. AllInMap can also assist in finding free amenities and activities in both destinations.
