Choosing between Vienna and Oslo for a backpacking trip involves weighing cultural experiences against significant budget differences. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you decide.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Vienna is considerably more budget-friendly than Oslo. Backpackers typically spend €45-70 per day in Vienna, while Oslo often requires €80-120+ per day. This general estimate includes accommodation, food, and local transport.
What Are Typical Accommodation Costs for Backpackers?
Accommodation costs vary significantly. In Vienna, a dorm bed in a well-rated hostel generally ranges from €20-40 per night (estimated). In contrast, Oslo’s hostel dorm beds typically cost €35-60+ per night (estimated). These ranges can fluctuate based on location, amenities, and booking in advance.
How Much Should Backpackers Budget for Food?
Food expenses in Vienna are generally lower. A daily food budget of €15-30 (estimated) allows for a mix of supermarket groceries, street food (like sausages for €4-7), and occasional cheap meals. Meals at local restaurants in Vienna might range from €10-20.
Oslo’s food prices are among the highest in Europe. Backpackers should budget €30-50+ per day (estimated) for food. Even supermarket groceries can be expensive, and cheap eats like kebabs or hot dogs often cost €10-18. A basic restaurant meal can easily start from €20-35.
What Are Daily Transport Expenses?
Public transport in both cities is efficient. In Vienna, a single public transport ticket is around €2.40, and a 24-hour pass is approximately €8. A daily transport budget of €5-10 (estimated) is usually sufficient.
Oslo’s public transport is more expensive. A single ticket typically costs €4-5, and a 24-hour pass is about €10-12. Backpackers should budget €10-15 per day (estimated) for transport in Oslo.
Does Seasonality Affect Prices?
Yes, seasonality impacts prices in both cities. Peak summer months (June-August) generally see higher prices for accommodation and flights. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) often offer better value and pleasant weather, making them ideal for budget-conscious travel. Winter can be cheaper, but with fewer daylight hours and colder temperatures.
Conclusion
For backpackers prioritizing budget, Vienna offers a rich cultural experience at a significantly lower cost. Oslo provides breathtaking natural beauty and a vibrant city experience but demands a higher financial commitment. To find free amenities and further reduce costs in either city, tools like AllInMap can be helpful.
