As a backpacker, choosing between two iconic European cities like Naples and Paris requires balancing cultural aspirations with real-world budget constraints. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you decide.
Which City Has a Lower Overall Daily Budget?
Naples generally offers a significantly more budget-friendly experience. Backpackers can realistically budget €35-55 per day. This typically includes accommodation at €15-25, food at €10-20, and transport at €5-10.
Paris is consistently more expensive. Backpackers should generally expect €60-90+ per day. Accommodation often starts higher, food requires more careful planning, and transport costs can add up. These estimates can fluctuate; spring and fall typically offer lower prices than summer.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Naples: Hostel beds typically range from €15-25 per night for a dorm bed. Private rooms, while pricier, are still more affordable than in Paris.
Paris: Hostel beds commonly start around €30-50 per night for a dorm bed, often exceeding the general European range, especially in central areas or during peak season. Securing a bed within the €30 range often means booking far in advance or staying further from the center.
What Are the Food and Drink Expenses Like?
Naples: This city is a paradise for budget foodies. Meals at local pizzerias or trattorias typically cost €8-15, aligning with general European estimates. Famous street food like fried pizza or arancini can be found for €3-7. Your daily food budget can easily stay within €10-20.
Paris: While renowned for its cuisine, budget-friendly eating requires effort. Casual bistro meals might cost €12-20. Bakery items, crêpes, or sandwiches from a market are often €4-8. Backpackers should expect a daily food budget of €20-35 to experience Parisian cuisine without breaking the bank. Groceries are a key way to save in both cities.
How Much Is Public Transportation?
Naples: The city has an efficient metro, bus, and funicular system. A single ticket typically costs €1.10-1.60, and a daily pass is around €3.50-4.50 (estimated). A daily transport budget of €5-10 is realistic.
Paris: The Métro is extensive and efficient. A single ‘t+’ ticket costs €2.15, with a carnet of 10 tickets for €17.35. Day passes (Mobilis) start around €8.45 for central zones. A daily transport budget of €5-10 is also generally achievable, especially by utilizing multi-journey tickets or passes.
What About Free Activities and Sightseeing?
Naples: The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is free to explore. Wander the Spanish Quarters, enjoy the panoramic views from Lungomare, or visit many of the city’s beautiful churches with free entry.
Paris: Numerous iconic sights are free to admire from the outside, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Strolling through famous parks like the Luxembourg Gardens or along the Seine is also free. Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month or have specific free collections.
In both cities, walking tours and exploring vibrant neighborhoods cost nothing. Tools like AllInMap can assist in finding free amenities and attractions to stretch your budget further.
