Whether you’re drawn to the sun-drenched French Riviera or the Nordic elegance of an archipelago capital, Nice and Stockholm offer distinct backpacking experiences. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you choose.

Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?

Nice, France generally offers a lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Stockholm. While both cities can be explored on a budget, Nice often allows for more affordability.

• Nice Estimated Daily Budget: Backpackers can typically expect to spend an estimated €50-80 per day.

  • Accommodation (hostel dorm): Estimated €25-45/night
  • Food (supermarket, bakeries, budget eateries): Estimated €20-35/day
  • Local Transport: Estimated €5-8/day
  • Attractions/Miscellaneous: Varies greatly

• Stockholm Estimated Daily Budget: Expect a higher daily cost, often estimated between €80-120 per day.

  • Accommodation (hostel dorm): Estimated €35-65/night
  • Food (supermarket, budget eateries): Estimated €30-50/day
  • Local Transport: Estimated €7-12/day
  • Attractions/Miscellaneous: Varies greatly

How Do Accommodation Costs Compare for Backpackers?

Hostel prices are a major factor in a backpacker’s budget.

• Nice: Dorm beds in hostels typically range from an estimated €25 to €45 per night, depending on location, season, and amenities.
• Stockholm: Hostel dorm beds are generally more expensive, with estimated prices ranging from €35 to €65 per night.

What Are the Food and Drink Expenses Like?

Food costs can significantly impact your budget, even for backpackers opting for self-catering. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities, but this can vary.

• Nice: A backpacker’s daily food budget, including groceries from supermarkets, bakery items, and occasional cheap eats (like a slice of pizza or falafel), can be estimated at €20-35.
• Stockholm: Food expenses are notably higher. Even with self-catering from supermarkets, a daily food budget is estimated at €30-50. Eating out, even at budget-friendly spots, tends to be pricier than in Nice.

How Accessible and Affordable is Public Transport?

Both cities have efficient public transport systems, but the cost differs.

• Nice: Daily transport using trams and buses is typically estimated to cost €5-8, depending on single tickets or day passes.
• Stockholm: Public transport, including the metro, buses, and trams, is generally more expensive, with an estimated daily cost of €7-12 for a day pass or equivalent travel.

What About Free Activities and Seasonal Pricing?

Both Nice and Stockholm offer numerous free activities, such as exploring public parks, walking historical districts, and enjoying waterfronts. Resources like AllInMap can help identify free amenities.

• Seasonal Pricing: In both destinations, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) typically offer lower prices for accommodation and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months (June-August).