For backpackers comparing Hamburg and Strasbourg, both cities offer distinct experiences and manageable budgets. This guide uses realistic estimates for typical European backpacking costs.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
Both Hamburg and Strasbourg can fit within a backpacker’s budget, with typical spending estimates for Western European cities ranging from €35-55 per day. Strasbourg might offer a slight edge on certain expenses due to its compact nature, potentially reducing transport costs, but Hamburg provides more diverse budget-friendly activity options.
- Accommodation: Hostel dorm beds in both cities generally range from €18-35 per night.
- Food: Expect to spend €10-20 per day on food, utilizing supermarkets, bakeries, and street food.
- Local Transport: Daily transport passes or individual tickets usually cost €5-10.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Accommodation costs are relatively similar, reflecting typical Western European prices. Backpackers can generally find hostel dorm beds in both Hamburg and Strasbourg for €18-35 per night. Prices fluctuate based on season, with peak summer months (June-August) typically seeing higher rates. Booking in advance is always recommended for better deals. During off-peak times like late fall or early spring, options closer to €18-25 are more common.
What Are the Food and Dining Budget Expectations?
Both cities offer diverse culinary experiences for various budgets. Backpackers can typically budget €10-20 per day for food by focusing on supermarkets, local bakeries for breakfast/lunch, and street food options. A budget meal in a casual restaurant or pub, or using grab-and-go options, usually costs €10-18 in both locations. Hamburg, being a larger port city, might offer a slightly wider array of international budget eateries, while Strasbourg excels in traditional Alsatian fare.
What Are the Transport and Activity Budget Considerations?
Local transport typically costs €5-10 per day in both cities for daily passes or multiple single tickets. Strasbourg’s city center is very walkable, especially areas like Petite France and the Cathedral district, potentially reducing daily transport needs compared to Hamburg’s more spread-out layout which often requires using its extensive public transport network.
Many attractions in both cities have entry fees (e.g., museums typically €8-15). However, both offer free walking tours, parks, and vibrant neighborhoods to explore without charge. Hamburg’s Speicherstadt (historic warehouse district) and HafenCity are largely free to wander, offering unique architecture and harbor views. Strasbourg’s UNESCO-listed Grande Île, including Petite France, provides ample free exploration opportunities.
Overall, a backpacker should budget approximately €40-60 per day for a comfortable experience in either Hamburg or Strasbourg, including accommodation, food, and transport. Prices are generally lower during spring and fall shoulder seasons compared to the peak summer months. Utilize resources like AllInMap to discover free Wi-Fi, public restrooms, and other amenities to further optimize your budget.
