Backpackers often weigh destination choices based on budget, culture, and experience. Here’s a balanced comparison of Palermo and Vienna to help you decide, based on realistic European travel costs.

Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?

Palermo, Sicily, typically offers a significantly lower daily budget. Backpackers might spend an estimated €30-50 per day. In contrast, Vienna, Austria, is generally more expensive, with an estimated daily budget ranging from €50-75. Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in European cities, positioning Palermo below average and Vienna above.

What Are Typical Accommodation Costs?

For hostel dorm beds, prices vary by season and location.

• Palermo: Expect to pay approximately €15-25 per night.
• Vienna: Prices generally range from €25-35 per night, often at the higher end of the typical €15-30 range for European hostels.

How Do Food Costs Compare?

Food costs can be managed in both cities with smart choices. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities.

• Palermo: A daily food budget of €10-20 is easily achievable. Street food like arancini (€2-4) and panelle is abundant and inexpensive, while local trattorias offer hearty pasta dishes for €8-12.
• Vienna: A budget of €15-25 per day is more realistic for food. Supermarkets offer affordable groceries, and street food like Würstel (sausages, €4-6) is available. Eating out at casual restaurants usually starts from €12-18 for a main course. Backpackers aiming for the €10-20/day food budget in Vienna will need to prioritize self-catering and market visits.

What About Local Transport Expenses?

• Palermo: The city center is largely walkable. Single bus tickets cost around €1.40-2.00. A daily transport budget of €0-5 is common for those who enjoy walking.
• Vienna: Features an excellent public transport system (U-Bahn, trams, buses). Single tickets are around €2.40-2.80, while a 24-hour pass costs approximately €8. A daily transport budget of €5-10 is reasonable.

Which City Offers More Budget-Friendly Activities?

• Palermo: Rich in history, Palermo offers many free or low-cost experiences. Exploring vibrant street markets (like Ballarò or Vucciria), wandering historic alleyways, and admiring grand churches often come with no entry fee or a nominal charge (€3-7 for some sites like the Palatine Chapel).
• Vienna: Known for its imperial palaces and world-class museums, many of Vienna’s main attractions have higher entrance fees (e.g., Schönbrunn Palace entry starts around €18). However, free activities include strolling through beautiful parks like Stadtpark, exploring the Naschmarkt, and walking along the Ringstrasse.

What’s the Overall Vibe and Experience?

• Palermo: Offers a raw, vibrant, and authentic Sicilian experience. It’s chaotic, lively, and a feast for the senses, with a rich history layered with Arabic, Norman, and Baroque influences.
• Vienna: Exudes elegance, grandeur, and a sense of refined history. It’s known for its imperial architecture, classical music heritage, coffeehouse culture, and well-maintained public spaces.

When Is the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel?

Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) typically offer lower prices for both cities compared to the peak summer months, coupled with pleasant weather. Summer in Palermo can be very hot and crowded, while Vienna’s Christmas markets in winter also draw crowds and can increase prices.

For finding free amenities like public restrooms or water fountains in either city, resources like AllInMap can be helpful tools for budget travelers.