When choosing between Frankfurt and Tallinn for your backpacking adventure, budget and vibe are key. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you decide.

Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?

Tallinn generally offers a more budget-friendly experience for backpackers.

• Tallinn Estimated Daily Budget: Backpackers can typically expect to spend €30-50 per day.
  • Accommodation (hostel bed): €15-25
  • Food (groceries & budget meals): €10-18
  • Local Transport: €5-8
• Frankfurt Estimated Daily Budget: Backpackers typically spend €38-60 per day, reflecting its status as a major financial hub.
  • Accommodation (hostel bed): €18-30
  • Food (groceries & budget meals): €12-22
  • Local Transport: €6-10

While backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in European cities, Tallinn tends to fall on the lower end, while Frankfurt leans towards the higher. Prices for both cities can be higher during peak summer season and major events; spring and fall often offer better value.

Which City Offers More Affordable Food Options?

Tallinn typically provides more affordable food options compared to Frankfurt.

In Tallinn, a budget meal at a local eatery or cafe can often be found for €8-15. Supermarket groceries are also generally less expensive, making self-catering a good option. In Frankfurt, meals at local restaurants generally range from €10-20, with options to find cheaper eats like döner kebabs or street food for €5-8. Supermarket prices in Frankfurt are comparable to other major Western European cities, meaning they are generally higher than in Tallinn.

How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?

Tallinn usually has lower accommodation costs, especially for hostels.

Hostel dorm beds in Tallinn typically range from €15-25 per night. In Frankfurt, hostel dorm beds generally cost €18-30 per night, reflecting a higher demand and overall cost of living. Booking in advance is recommended for both cities, particularly during peak travel times, to secure the best prices.

Which City Has Cheaper Local Transportation?

Public transport in Tallinn is generally more affordable than in Frankfurt.

A day pass or single tickets for Tallinn’s efficient tram and bus network typically cost €5-8. Frankfurt’s extensive public transport system (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, buses) is efficient but usually priced between €6-10 for daily travel, depending on the zones. Both cities are walkable in their central areas, reducing the need for daily transport if you choose central accommodation.

Which City Offers More Free Activities?

Both cities offer free activities, but Tallinn’s compact Old Town naturally lends itself to exploring on foot without much cost.

Both cities offer free walking tours, parks, and window shopping opportunities. Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town is a major attraction that can be explored entirely for free, including viewpoints and historic streets. Frankfurt also boasts beautiful parks, the Main River promenade, and some museum free entry days (check schedules). Backpackers can also use resources like AllInMap to locate free amenities such as public restrooms and water fountains in either city.