For backpackers prioritizing budget, Oslo and Seville offer vastly different cost experiences. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you choose:

Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?

Seville is significantly more budget-friendly than Oslo. Backpackers can typically expect to spend an estimated €45-75 per day in Seville, while Oslo will likely cost an estimated €90-140 per day or more. Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in many European cities, making Oslo a clear outlier.

• Seville (Estimated Daily Budget):
  • Accommodation (hostel bed): €20-35
  • Food (budget meals/groceries): €20-30
  • Local Transport: €5-10
• Oslo (Estimated Daily Budget):
  • Accommodation (hostel bed): €40-70
  • Food (budget meals/groceries): €40-60
  • Local Transport: €10-15

How Do Accommodation Costs Compare for Backpackers?

Hostel prices are a major differentiator. In Seville, a bed in a well-rated hostel dormitory can generally be found for €20-35 per night. In contrast, Oslo is one of Europe’s most expensive cities; expect hostel dormitory beds to range from €40-70 per night, even for basic options.

What Are the Typical Food Costs in Each City for a Backpacker?

Seville offers much more affordable dining. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities, and Seville often sits at the lower end or below this, with tapas starting from €3-5 and budget menus for €10-15. Groceries are also relatively cheap. In Oslo, food costs are substantially higher. Even budget-friendly grocery shopping will be significantly more expensive, and simple restaurant meals can easily cost €20-30+. Backpackers in Oslo often rely heavily on cooking their own meals.

How Do Transport Costs Differ for Getting Around?

Public transport in both cities is efficient. A single ride on public transport in Seville typically costs around €1.40-1.50, with daily passes available for around €5-8. In Oslo, single tickets generally cost around €3.70-4.00, and a 24-hour pass is approximately €11-12, making transport considerably more expensive.

Which City Offers More Free Attractions and Activities?

Both cities offer free experiences, but Seville has a generally more accessible “free culture” (e.g., walking historic districts, park visits, some cathedral parts). While Oslo boasts free-entry sites like Vigeland Park and the Royal Palace grounds, many museums and attractions come with significant entry fees. Utilizing tools like AllInMap can help backpackers find free amenities and points of interest in both locations.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Each City to Save Money?

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights than summer in most European cities. This holds true for both. For Seville, avoiding the intense summer heat also enhances the experience. For Oslo, visiting outside peak summer and winter sports seasons can result in better deals, though overall costs remain high.