Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
Manchester generally offers a significantly lower daily budget for backpackers. While a typical backpacker budget in many European cities ranges from €35-55 per day (estimated), Geneva is considerably more expensive and will often exceed this.
- Geneva: Backpackers should anticipate a daily budget of €70-120+ (estimated) for basic expenses. Hostel dorm beds often start from €40-60+ per night. Food costs €25-50+ per day, even with supermarket focus. Transport is €8-15 per day, though some accommodations offer free passes.
- Manchester: A more realistic daily budget is €45-75 (estimated). Hostel dorm beds typically range from €25-45 per night. Food costs €15-30 per day, allowing for self-catering and casual dining. Transport is €5-10 per day.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Accommodation is a major budget factor. While hostel dorm beds in many European cities might range from €15-30 per night (estimated):
- Geneva: Hostel prices are among Europe’s highest, often €40-60+ per night for a dorm bed.
- Manchester: Hostel dorm beds generally cost €25-45 per night, more in line with major European cities.
What Are Typical Food Expenses?
Food costs vary significantly. While a budget of €10-20 per day for food is feasible in some European cities (estimated), Geneva challenges this. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities.
- Geneva: Eating out is very expensive; a basic lunch can easily cost €20-30. Backpackers rely heavily on supermarkets, where daily food costs are still €20-30+.
- Manchester: More affordable food options are available. Casual meals are found for €10-18, and supermarket self-catering is considerably cheaper, allowing for a daily food budget of €15-30.
Is Public Transport Affordable in Both Cities?
Public transport typically costs €5-10 per day in many European cities (estimated). Both cities have efficient networks.
- Geneva: A single ticket is expensive (e.g., CHF 3.00 ≈ €3.10). However, guests in official accommodations often receive a free public transport pass. Otherwise, a day pass is around CHF 10 (≈ €10.30).
- Manchester: Public transport (buses, trams) is well-developed. A central day ticket costs around £5-7 (≈ €6-8). The city center is also quite walkable.
Which City Offers More Free or Low-Cost Activities?
Both cities offer free attractions, but Geneva’s high cost makes truly cheap experiences harder. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices than summer (estimated).
- Geneva: Enjoy walks along Lake Geneva, the Old Town, and the Jet d’Eau. St. Pierre Cathedral has a small fee for tower climbs. AllInMap can help identify free amenities like public toilets.
- Manchester: Boasts numerous free museums and galleries (e.g., Manchester Museum, Science and Industry Museum). Street art, parks, and vibrant neighborhoods offer plenty to explore on foot.
