As a backpacker, choosing between Milan and Thessaloniki involves weighing cultural experiences against budget. Both cities offer unique charm, but costs can differ significantly.

Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget?

Thessaloniki generally offers a lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Milan. Backpackers typically spend €30-50 per day in Thessaloniki, while Milan usually requires €50-80 per day for a similar experience. These are estimated ranges and can fluctuate based on travel style and season.

What are the Estimated Accommodation Costs?

Thessaloniki: Hostel dorm beds typically range from €18-35 per night. Milan: Hostel dorm beds are generally more expensive, ranging from €25-45 per night. These are estimates based on typical European city prices.

How Do Food Costs Compare?

Thessaloniki: Backpackers can budget around €12-20 per day for food, often enjoying inexpensive street food like gyros (€3-5) or budget-friendly tavernas. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15. Milan: Food costs are higher, with backpackers generally spending €15-25 per day. Supermarkets and budget eateries offer options, but restaurant meals can start from €15-25. These are estimates based on typical European city prices.

What is the Estimated Daily Transport Cost?

Thessaloniki: Daily transport costs, primarily for buses, are estimated at €5-8. A 24-hour bus ticket is around €4.60. Milan: Public transport (metro, tram, bus) costs are slightly higher, estimated at €7-10 per day. A 24-hour ticket is €7.60. These are estimates based on typical European city prices.

Which City Offers More Free Activities?

Both cities offer free activities like exploring neighborhoods, parks, and religious sites from the exterior. Thessaloniki: Features many ancient ruins and Byzantine churches, some with free entry or low fees. The White Tower offers a view for a small fee, but walking along the promenade is free. Milan: Offers free entry to places like the Sforza Castle courtyards and various parks. Window shopping in the high-fashion districts is also free. However, major attractions like the Duomo or art museums often have significant entrance fees.

When is the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel?

Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights in both cities compared to the peak summer season. These shoulder seasons also provide pleasant weather for sightseeing. This is a general seasonal pattern for European travel.

For finding free amenities like public restrooms, Wi-Fi, and drinking water, apps like AllInMap can be helpful in both Milan and Thessaloniki.