When choosing between Lyon and Seville, backpackers can find distinct experiences, especially concerning budget and culture. This comparison helps you make an informed decision.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Seville generally offers a lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Lyon. Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in European cities, with Seville often falling towards the lower end of this range and Lyon towards the higher end or slightly above.
- Estimated Daily Budget - Seville: Expect to spend €29-52/day, broken down approximately as: Accommodation: €15-25 (hostel bed), Food: €10-20 (tapas, market, basic meals), Transport: €4-7 (public transport passes/tickets).
- Estimated Daily Budget - Lyon: Expect to spend €40-68/day, broken down approximately as: Accommodation: €20-35 (hostel bed), Food: €15-25 (bakeries, markets, basic restaurant meals), Transport: €5-8 (public transport passes/tickets).
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Hostel prices follow the general cost-of-living differences between the two countries. Hostels in European cities generally cost €15-30/night for a dorm bed.
- Lyon: Hostel dorm beds are estimated to be in the range of €20-35/night, reflecting France’s generally higher cost of living.
- Seville: Hostel dorm beds are estimated to be in the range of €15-25/night, aligning with Spain’s more budget-friendly reputation.
What About Food and Drink Expenses?
Food is a significant factor in daily spending, and both cities offer delicious options at varying price points. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities.
- Lyon: While known for its gastronomy, budget-friendly options exist. Expect to find affordable baguettes, pastries, and market produce for €3-8. A basic meal at a local eatery or ‘bouchon’ might start from €12-20.
- Seville: Tapas culture makes food exceptionally backpacker-friendly. Individual tapas plates often range from €2-5, allowing for a diverse and inexpensive meal. Market food and bakeries are also very affordable, contributing to a lower daily food budget.
How Much is Local Transport?
Public transport in European cities generally costs €5-10/day for multiple rides or a day pass. Both cities boast efficient public transport systems.
- Lyon: A single ticket typically costs around €1.90-2.00, with day passes available for around €5.80-6.00 (prices are estimated and subject to change).
- Seville: A single ticket typically costs around €1.40-1.50, with multi-journey cards offering better value, making daily transport often slightly cheaper than in Lyon (prices are estimated and subject to change).
What’s the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel?
Seasonal patterns affect prices and crowds in both cities. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices than summer.
- Lyon: Visiting in April-May or September-October avoids peak summer prices and crowds, while offering pleasant weather.
- Seville: The shoulder seasons of March-May and September-October are ideal to avoid the intense summer heat and higher summer prices. Easter (Semana Santa) and the April Fair can significantly increase prices.
For both cities, remember that resources like AllInMap can help you locate free public amenities, like water fountains or Wi-Fi hotspots, further stretching your budget.
