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Now in its fourth full year, the Europe Backpacker Index has been totally updated for 2014. Primarily due to a few notable currency shifts, the rankings have changed on quite a few key cities so it’s helpful to take a fresh look at each of them.

The decline of the Turkish Lira has been dramatic to the point that Istanbul is back into the bargain category again, and everywhere else in that country is even cheaper. The other best bargains continue to be in the former East, with wonderful cities like Krakow, Budapest, and Prague still far cheaper than their counterparts a bit to the west.

We’ve also added four new cities this year due to popular demand, bringing the total to 51. You’ll find Valletta (Malta), Vilnius (Lithuania), Santorini (Greece), and Interlaken (Switzerland) included to help round things out even more.

Are you a hotel person rather than a hostel person?

If your budget is higher than that of a backpacker you should check out our:
>>> Europe 3-Star Traveler Index for 2013

The above list shows some significant shifts for some cities on the list below, indicating that certain destinations are better bargains than others, depending on your style of travel.

How the Backpacker Index works

Prices for most things (hostels, transportation, attractions) are fixed and certain, but prices for a “budget lunch” or a pint of beer can vary depending on where you go. Still, our estimates are based on a lot of research, and should be very close if not right on.

Costs for each city

• One night in the cheapest bunk at the least expensive hostel with a good location and good reviews
• Two public transportation rides per day
• One paid/famous attraction per day (Every city is loaded with free things to do for budget-conscious travelers, but here we take the average cost of a major attraction in each city for each day.)
• Three “budget” meals per day (We took our minimum meal price and added 20% to make it more realistic for a longer trip).
• Three cheap, local beers (or wine) each day as an “entertainment fund.” Non-drinkers might have dessert and coffee or attend a local music performance instead, so this is a general benchmark that should be proportional for each city.

Additional backpacker resources

• 18 Cheapest European cities to fly into
• 7 Common mistakes to avoid when choosing a hostel
• Should you buy a Eurail Pass? Here’s how to decide

European Backpacker Index for 2014

From cheapest to most expensive

1 – Bucharest, Romania (cheapest)

Definitely not Romania’s most charming town, Bucharest seems in little rush to attract visitors from the West. Fortunately, those that make the effort to come will at least be rewarded with low prices all around, which certainly help make up for the other frustrations of visiting. And that huge parliament building is worth a look. Hostels seem to be getting cheaper lately, so it’s even more appealing for the backpacker set.

• Currency: Romanian leu
• Cheap/good hostel: Funky Chicken Hostel = 15.64/night
• Transportation: 4.00
• Meals: 39.60
• Drinks/Entertainment: 7.50
• Attractions: 12.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: RON 78.57 – US$24.69/day

>>>Bucharest prices and weather

2 – Kiev, Ukraine

Kiev is a long way from the normal backpacking trail so it doesn’t get any accidental visitors. It’s also still somewhat challenging for those who don’t know Russian or Ukrainian, though that part is likely to change in the coming years. Fortunately Kiev is quite cheap for budget travelers.

• Currency: Ukraine Hryvnia
• Cheap/good hostel: Magic Bus Kiev – 65.00/night
• Transportation: 4.00
• Meals: 90.00
• Drinks/Entertainment: 42.00
• Attractions: 10.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: UHR209.68 = US$25.61/day

>>>Kiev prices and weather

3 – Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia remains a fantastic bargain among European capitals, with a very pleasant city center that is quite welcoming of foreign tourists. Prices of nearly everything are very cheap, except for inbound flights from other major cities. For this reason, Sofia is out of the way for anyone who isn’t doing an extensive tour of the region.

• Currency: Bulgaria Leva
• Cheap/good hostel: Hostel Mostel – 13.70 (includes breakfast)
• Transportation: 2.00
• Meals: 13.20
• Drinks/Entertainment: 4.50
• Attractions: 4.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: BGN36.40 = US$26.32/day

>>>Sofia prices and weather

4 – Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade is one of the Balkan cities that had years of trouble in the 1990s and still struggles a bit to attract tourism. You won’t find an abundance of checklist attractions here, but you will find a lively and interesting urban center with good nightlife and appealing prices.

• Currency: Serbian Dinar (prices below are in euros)
• Cheap/good hostel: Avnoy Hostel – 4.52/night
• Transportation: 1.28
• Meals: 7.20
• Drinks/Entertainment: 3.00
• Attractions: 2.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €20.97 = US$28.27/day

>>>Belgrade prices and weather

5 – Krakow, Poland

Krakow continues as Europe’s best travel bargain. The low prices have drawn in larger numbers of Europeans for weekend breaks, and there’s many great and cheap hostels, bars, and restaurants to keep prices low while you are enjoying the beautiful old city and the local culture. Put this one on your list before demand forces prices up like in Prague and Budapest.

• Currency: Polish Zlotych
• Cheap/good hostel: Benedict Hostel – 30.00/night
• Transportation: 5.60
• Meals: 21.60
• Drinks/Entertainment: 18.00
• Attractions: 12.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: PLN77.20 = US$28.87/day

>>>Krakow prices and weather

6 – Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Another Balkan-area city whose name conjures up images of its past troubles, Sarajevo is another that is struggling to attract tourists. The location deep into the mountains is remote, but it’s also gorgeous once you arrive. The Muslim Old Town next to the modern center is very interesting and incredibly welcoming. This one is a hidden gem, partly because it’s so hard to reach.

• Currency: Converted Mark (fixed, so prices below are in euros)
• Cheap/good hostel: Tower Hostel – 5.56/night
• Transportation: 1.80
• Meals: 7.20
• Drinks/Entertainment: 3.00
• Attractions: 2.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €19.56 = US$29.26/day

>>>Sarajevo prices and weather

7 – Budapest, Hungary

Another excellent travel bargain, Budapest is all-around cheap and it gets high marks from visitors. The castles and cathedrals are enough, but here you also get thermal spas that are cheap enough even for the backpacking set. Hostels, in particular, are great value, but you have to get a bit out of the center to find inexpensive hotels. Touristy hotels and restaurants near the river are not budget friendly.

• Currency: Hungary Forint
• Cheap/good hostel: Rastel Hostel – 2045/night
• Transportation: 700
• Meals: 2640
• Drinks/Entertainment: 960
• Attractions: 1000
• Daily Backpacker Index: HUF6930 = US$33.12/day

>>>Budapest prices and weather

8 – Riga, Latvia

It’s surprising to see a city so far north also so high on the cheap-cities list, but it turns out that Riga is quite a bargain for the backpacking set. Hostel beds in particular are very affordable, and so is pretty much everything else. Riga’s main problem is that it’s a bit out of the way for those not on an extensive tour. The country joined the Eurozone on January 1, 2014, and many people expect prices to head up at least a bit.

• Currency: Latvian Lats
• Cheap/good hostel: Central Hostel – 5.30/night
• Transportation: 1.40
• Meals: 8.64
• Drinks/Entertainment: 6.40
• Attractions: 2.90
• Daily Backpacker Index: €24.24 = US$33.21/day

>>>Riga prices and weather

9 – Istanbul, Turkey

The classic east-meets-west city had been creeping up in price, but the decline of the Turkish Lira lately has made it a bargain again. There’s no shortage of markets, temples, and attractions for even a longer stay, and everywhere else in Turkey is cheaper. Accommodation is more expensive than you might expect. Check our list of recommended cheap Istanbul hotels for bargains in all price ranges.

• Currency: Turkish lira
• Cheap/good hostel: Mavi Guesthouse – 20.36/night
• Transportation: 4.00
• Meals: 16.80
• Drinks/Entertainment: 18.00
• Attractions: 14.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: TRY 76.67 = US$35.89/day

>>>Istanbul prices and weather

10 – Warsaw, Poland

Poland’s largest city is still rather cheap overall, but most visitors vastly prefer Krakow of the two. Still, Warsaw is building a tourist infrastructure quickly these days, and this is an interesting piece of the post-Soviet puzzle in the region. The infrastructure for foreign tourists is improving rapidly, so visiting should be easier as time goes on.

• Currency: Polish Zlotych
• Cheap/good hostel: The Warsaw Hostel – 35.00/night
• Transportation: 8.80
• Meals: 32.40
• Drinks/Entertainment: 21.00
• Attractions: 15.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: PLN 110.20 = US$37.28/day

>>>Warsaw prices and weather

11 – Zagreb, Croatia

The beach resort towns of Croatia are the main attraction, so Zagreb, which is well inland, tends to be only a short stop for most. Still fairly cheap by European standards, and especially compared to Italy next door, Zagreb is a bargain and a worthwhile pause on the way to one of the beach towns.

• Currency: Croatian kuna
• Cheap/good hostel: Ravnice Youth Hostel – 60/night
• Transportation: 24
• Meals: 78
• Drinks/Entertainment: 30
• Attractions: 30
• Daily Backpacker Index: HRK 222 = US$40.14/day

>>>Zagreb prices and weather

12 – Saint Petersburg, Russia

While struggling to develop enough hostels and tourist-friendly businesses, Saint Petersburg is still definitely in the bargain category for those who can pull it off. Most things are very affordable, and the city would seem even cheaper if its incredible Hermitage Museum/Winter Palace didn’t (justifiably) cost so much. Hotels and tourist restaurants aren’t so cheap, however.

• Currency: Russian ruble
• Cheap/good hostel: Base Camp Hostel – 370/night
• Transportation: 56
• Meals: 312
• Drinks/Entertainment: 210
• Attractions: 400
• Daily Backpacker Index: RUB 1,346 = US$40.97/day

>>>Saint Petersburg prices and weather

13 – Vilnius, Lithuania

With a historic Old Town area as its main highlight, Vilnius impresses most who bother to visit, but it’s still well off the typical backpacker trail. This is another Baltic capital that is surprisingly cheap in many ways, so it’s a worthwhile stop between Latvia and Poland. The Frank Zappa statue is one of the more famous quirky attractions here.

• Currency: Lithuanian Litas
• Cheap/good hostel: Hostelgate – 32.73/night
• Transportation: 7.00
• Meals: 43.20
• Drinks/Entertainment: 15.00
• Attractions: 5.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: LTL79.76 = US$41.01/day

>>>Vilnius prices and weather

14 – Bratislava, Slovakia

You’d think that practically being walking distance from Vienna would make Bratislava a very popular stop for those on a Europe tour, but so far it’s still mostly forgotten. It’s cheaper than Prague and much cheaper than Vienna, so perhaps it will start catching on more in the coming years. A lack of famous attractions doesn’t help, though the pleasant and historic town center is worth a day or two.

• Currency: Euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Hostel Possonium – 12/night
• Transportation: 1.40
• Meals: 9.60
• Drinks/Entertainment: 6.00
• Attractions: 4.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €31 = US$45.21/day

>>>Bratislava prices and weather

15 – Moscow, Russia

Certainly one of the world’s most important cities, Moscow continues also to be frustrating for many travelers, with relatively few hostels and traveler-friendly budget restaurants. Still, if you can get through the paperwork and find a cheap flight, it’s a fairly cheap place for backpacker-types. Tourist hotels and restaurants can be quite expensive, so even though it’s relatively cheap for backpacker types, Moscow can be a drain for 3-star and above travelers.

• Currency: Russian ruble
• Cheap/good hostel: TNT Hostel 500/night
• Transportation: 56
• Meals: 432
• Drinks/Entertainment: 180
• Attractions: 320
• Daily Backpacker Index: RUB 1488 = US$45.23/day

>>>Moscow prices and weather

16 – Prague, Czech Republic

In the 1990s Prague was always used as an example of a city that is incredibly cheap yet still beautiful and historic, but that sort of chit-chat triggered the masses to follow. Still, in spite of high-ish hotel prices and a currency that keeps creeping up, Prague is still quite cheap for those willing to stay in hostels and scout for bargain food and drinks. Plus, it’s still gorgeous, if crowded. Choose from our recommended hotels in Prague list for excellent values at top-rated hotels.

• Currency: Czech krona
• Cheap/good hostel: Sir Toby’s – 297/night
• Transportation: 48
• Meals: 348
• Drinks/Entertainment: 75
• Attractions: 240
• Daily Backpacker Index: CZK 786 = US$50.81/day

>>>Prague prices and weather

17 – Tenerife, Spain

The Canary Islands (off the northwest coast of Africa) are a popular warm-weather retreat for many Europeans all year, and Tenerife is the most popular island with English speakers. Prices tend to be similar to mainland Spain, which makes it a relative bargain for most Europeans who are just a cheap flight away. Not many cultural attractions so it’s mainly a place to relax.

• Currency: Euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Hostel Tenerife – 13/night
• Transportation: 2.70
• Meals: 13.20
• Drinks/Entertainment: 6.00
• Attractions: 3.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: 37.90 = US$51.92/day

>>>Tenerife prices and weather

18 – Santorini, Greece

Arguably Greece’s most popular holiday island, Santorini is here mainly as a placeholder for all of them. There are a few sights and cultural attractions but most people (Europeans) come to just relax in the sun during the day and drink into the night. If you stay in hostels or basic hotels and eat in places without sea views, these Greek islands all tend to be quite affordable.

• Currency: Euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Anny Studios Perissa Beach – 11/night
• Transportation: 3.20
• Meals: 14.40
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 3.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €40.60 = US$55.62/day

>>>Santorini prices and weather

19 – Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is cheap by most European standards, but it’s the most expensive city in the Baltic area because it’s a popular getaway for the Finns just a 2-hour ferry ride away. Its closeness to Helsinki also makes it easier to reach than the others, so it’s a bit more touristy as well.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: The Monk’s Bunk – 9.00/night
• Transportation: 2.00
• Meals: 15.24
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.60
• Attractions: 5.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €40.14 = US$55.95/day

>>>Tallinn prices and weather

20 – Valletta, Malta

Nearly hidden just a bit south of Sicily in the Mediterannean, Malta is a small island group with a pleasant climate and an improving tourist infrastructure. The tiny capital city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site on its own, and the rest of the islands offer a nice mix of historical sites and pleasant beaches. Nearly everyone speaks English, so it continues to be popular with Brits.

• Currency: Euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Hostel Malti – 12/night
• Transportation: 5.20
• Meals: 12.00
• Drinks/Entertainment: 6.00
• Attractions: 6.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €41.20 = US$56.44/day

>>>Valletta prices and weather

21 – Lisbon, Portugal

Its out-of-the-way location seems to keep tourism well below the levels that the city otherwise deserves, but those who go to the trouble to reach Lisbon will find an extremely handsome and charming city that is a great bargain as well. The city is particularly known for excellent and cheap hostels that are always in a race to outdo each other, with visitors being the ultimate winners.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Equity Point Lisboa – 7.90/night
• Transportation: 3.60
• Meals: 16.80
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 6.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €43.70 = US$59.32/day

>>>Lisbon prices and weather

22 – Athens, Greece

The Greek capital was once one of Europe’s great bargain cities, and it may be again depending on the currency situation. The infrastructure created for the Olympics has actually turned Athens into a modern and easy-to-visit place, and the Acropolis and other attractions continue to amaze, so it still seems like a reasonable deal for the moment and may get even cheaper. Political instability has kept some people away, which has helped keep hotel and hostel prices affordable.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Pagration Hostel – 8/night
• Transportation: 2.80
• Meals: 19.20
• Drinks/Entertainment: 7.50
• Attractions: 8.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €47.50 = US$62.33/day

>>>Athens prices and weather

23 – Naples, Italy

Italy’s cheapest major city is a very good bargain for those willing to venture south of Rome. Affordable hostels and casual dining choices keep it cheaper than cities to the north, and it has a different atmosphere as well. Naples, as you may know, has kind of a mixed reputation, but still plenty of reasons to schedule a visit.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Welcome Inn – 12/night
• Transportation: 2.40
• Meals: 15.60
• Drinks/Entertainment: 7.50
• Attractions: 9.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €49.50 = US$63.70/day

>>>Naples prices and weather

24 – Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a very good bargain for the backpacking set due to reasonably priced hostels and affordable attractions. In high season (summer) prices go up a bit, but still Bruges is a fine choice to chill out for a few days or more, even though you can see the main sights in less time.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: St. Christopher’s Inn – Bauhaus Hostel – 16/night
• Transportation: 2.40
• Meals: 15.60 (not including breakfast)
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 5.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €48.00 = US$66.03/day

>>>Bruges prices and weather

25 – Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona and Madrid are very different in many important ways, but they are very similar in general prices so there’s no reason not to visit both if you can. And this is another city where hostels tend to get expensive and crowded during summer, but are quite cheap for most of the rest of the year. See our cheap and recommended Barcelona hotels list for some options that are well located and highly rated.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Equity Point Gothic – 8.90/night
• Transportation: 4.00
• Meals: 18.00
• Drinks/Entertainment: 7.50
• Attractions: 11.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €51.50 = US$67.67/day

>>>Barcelona prices and weather

26 – Hamburg, Germany

This somewhat remote city is largely forgotten by most North American visitors, known best as where the Beatles honed their chops, but Hamburg is a lovely and classy city that is worth a stop if you are in the area. Germans, in general, like good value, so there are plenty of good budget sleeping and eating options for the backpacker types.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Meininger Hamburg City Center – 15/night
• Transportation: 2.80
• Meals: 14.40
• Drinks/Entertainment: 7.50
• Attractions: 10.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €51.70 = US$68.08/day

>>>Hamburg prices and weather

27 – Madrid, Spain

This classic European city definitely feels like a bargain compared to capitals to the north. There is great competition among its many hostels, and even private rooms in the city center are often cheap. Check out our cheap Madrid hotels list for well located and dependable bargains. Another money saver is the tapas culture, with cheap eats and cheap glasses of beer or wine as part of the nightly ritual.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Mad Hostel – 11.00/night
• Transportation: 4.00
• Meals: 19.20
• Drinks/Entertainment: 6.00
• Attractions: 10.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €48.20 = US$68.77/day

>>>Madrid prices and weather

28 – Dublin, Ireland

For a city that was once considered cheap, Dublin still feels weirdly expensive these days, especially in light of the larger financial struggles. Fortunately there are some good deals on hostels lately, so hopefully other things (like €5+ for a pint of Guinness in even a dumpy bar!) will loosen up and make the city friendlier for backpackers and budget travelers.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Ashfield House City Center – 9/night (including breakfast)
• Transportation: 3.60
• Meals: 15.60
• Drinks/Entertainment: 15.00
• Attractions: 8.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €51.80 = US$70.14/day

>>>Dublin prices and weather

29 – Berlin, Germany

Those of us who love Berlin still find it hard to convince most people to check it out, which is a shame. This city has endless things to see and do, along with an arts and entertainment scene that rivals anywhere in Europe. All that, plus the competition among its many hostels keeps things pleasantly cheap. Put it on your list and schedule a trip before things change much. See our recommended hotels in Berlin list for some very good rates at highly rated and well located hotels.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Amstel House – 12.00/night
• Transportation: 5.20
• Meals: 16.80
• Drinks/Entertainment: 7.50
• Attractions: 10.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €47.00 = US$70.55/day

>>>Berlin prices and weather

30 – Ibiza, Spain

While it’s not really considered a backpacking destination, Ibiza is popular enough with budget travelers to include here. Hotels can be quite cheap, which makes up for a lack of hostels. Entrance to the main nightclubs in Ibiza will cost a fortune, as will drinks once inside, but if you are content to hang out on the beach then this island can be affordable. Note that the hotel price here is for April, and in summer it will be considerably more. If these rankings were for July, Ibiza would be way down this list, so it’s only really a bargain in the off season.

• Currency: Euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Hostal Giramundo Ibiza – 18.00/night
• Transportation: 2.40
• Meals: 16.80
• Drinks/Entertainment: 6.00
• Attractions: 6.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €43.53 = US$72.88/day

>>>Ibiza prices and weather

31 – Nice, France

As the largest city on the Côte d’Azur, Nice actually has a decent infrastructure for budget tourists, though things can get pretty crowded in summer and prices do shoot up. This is a great base for exploring Monaco and Cannes with a short train journey, but even in the city itself there is plenty to do, and a pleasant beach if you don’t mind rocks where the sand should be.

Note: Drink prices here are for wine rather than beer, as it’s much cheaper and better as well.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Villa Saint Exupery Gardens – 15/night
• Transportation: 2.00
• Meals: 19.20
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 7.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €55.20 = US$72.88
  /day

>>>Nice prices and weather

32 – Milan, Italy

Milan’s success in finance and fashion have helped make it one of Europe’s most expensive cities to sleep in, although the hostels aren’t as outrageous, so overall expenses are similar to most other Italian cities. Since it’s on-the-way between so many other nearby cities, Milan is definitely worth a stop for a couple days if you can manage it.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: The Monastery Hostel – 16/night
• Transportation: 3.00
• Meals: 16.80
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 10.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €59.80 = US$75.07/day

>>>Milan prices and weather

33 – Reykjavik, Iceland

After its currency collapsed a few years ago Iceland cost about half what it did previously for foreigners, but prices have crept up again and it’s still pretty expensive. Most visitors to Iceland either head to the countryside or fly onward after only a couple days in the capital, so this city isn’t necessarily the best indicator for a proper island-loop trip, but fortunately most of the rest of the country is a bit cheaper, as long as you get the transportation part figured out.

• Currency: Iceland kronur
• Cheap/good hostel: Reykjavik Backpackers – 2491/night
• Transportation: 700
• Meals: 2,520
• Drinks/Entertainment: 1,800
• Attractions: 1,200
• Daily Backpacker Index: ISK 8,205 = US$75.71/day

>>>Reykjavik prices and weather

34 – Florence, Italy

A highlight of so many Italy tours, Florence is cheaper than Rome and Venice in most regards. Hostel competition is fierce and quality is mostly quite good, so this is a good hang-out for weary backpackers. And the food is excellent, if not particularly cheap.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: The Queen’s – 17/night
• Transportation: 2.40
• Meals: 18.00
• Drinks/Entertainment: 7.50
• Attractions: 11.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €49.90 = US$76.58/day

>>>Florence prices and weather

35 – Munich, Germany

Germany’s most popular city for overseas travelers is only a bit more expensive than the others, so budget travelers can get by with few complications as long as they aren’t going during Oktoberfest. Prices of hostels do shoot up a bit during summer, but overall it’s fairly easy to find bargains, and the city is so pleasant that it feels like good value.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Euro Youth Hostel – 14.50/night
• Transportation: 5.20
• Meals: 19.20
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 8.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €55.40 = US$76.58/day

>>>Munich prices and weather

36 – Dubrovnik, Croatia

Compared to the rest of Eastern Europe, the beach resort of Dubrovnik is pricey, but compared to similar beach resorts in Italy, it’s still a bargain. Unfortunately it’s not easy to reach for those who are passing through the region, but it’s worth going out of the way for, especially in season. You might also try Split, which has similar prices and is a little easier to reach by land.

• Currency: Croatian kuna
• Cheap/good hostel: Begovic Boarding House – 165/night
• Transportation: 20
• Meals: 104.40
• Drinks/Entertainment: 45.00
• Attractions: 90.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: HRK 398.40 = US$77.47/day

>>>Dubrovnik prices and weather

37 – Rome, Italy

Regardless of costs, Rome is one of those cities that you’ve just got to visit anyway, so fortunately it’s not as outrageously expensive as some lesser destinations a bit down the list. There are good budget options for most things, but hotels and hostels are more expensive than one might expect, and the main Rome attractions are justifiably expensive as well. Choose from our recommended Rome hostels and hotels for excellent bargains with great locations.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: The Yellow – 14.90/night
• Transportation: 3.00
• Meals: 19.20
• Drinks/Entertainment: 7.50
• Attractions: 12.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €58.60 = US$77.53/day

>>>Rome prices and weather

38 – Vienna, Austria

Being one of Europe’s grandest capitals, it’s only slightly surprising that Vienna comes out as a relatively expensive city. Its location between so many other tourist cities makes it an easy one to stop off in for a few days, and while food is a bit expensive, there are some good-value hostels in the city to help make up for it.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Wombats City Hostel – The Base – 11.00/night
• Transportation: 4.20
• Meals: 21.60
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 11.50
• Daily Backpacker Index: €62.50 = US$78.49/day

>>>Vienna prices and weather

39 – Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

This underrated and mostly forgotten city is definitely worth a stop if you are passing between Belgium and France. The location is stunning and the city’s history is interesting, plus the food and drink culture is what you would expect for this part of Europe, meaning there are a lot of great choices.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Luxembourg City Hostel – 25.00/night (including breakfast)
• Transportation: 4.00
• Meals: 15.60
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 4.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €54.50 = US$78.90/day

>>>Luxembourg City prices and weather

40 – Paris, France

Similarly to Rome, it’s just a good thing that Paris isn’t any more expensive than it is, because people are going to visit anyway. As long as you are willing to stay a bit outside the main tourist districts then Paris can be quite reasonable on the wallet, and the quality of food is exceptional nearly anywhere you go. The main attractions are actually fairly cheap compared to major sights in some other big cities. To get the best value have a look at our recommended Paris hostels and cheap hotels section.

Note: Drink prices here are for wine rather than beer, as it’s much cheaper and better as well.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Absolute Paris Boutique Hostel – 19.84/night
• Transportation: 3.40
• Meals: 16.80
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 9.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €61.15 = US$79.51/day

>>>Paris prices and weather

41 – Edinburgh, Scotland

While it’s certainly true that most things in Edinburgh are a bit cheaper than things in London, it’s still far from cheap for most budget travelers. Those who are satisfied with skipping the Edinburgh Castle and the Camera Obscura will find this city very reasonable, except during the Festival season.

• Currency: British pound
• Cheap/good hostel: The Hostel – 9.99/night
• Transportation: 2.80
• Meals: 14.40
• Drinks/Entertainment: 8.40
• Attractions: 12.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: £50.99 = US$81.32/day

>>>Edinburgh prices and weather

42 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

From a price standpoint, Amsterdam may be a victim of its own popularity. Even with scores of hostels throughout the city center, they are still able to get fairly high rates even during shoulder season. Pick from our recommended Amsterdam hostels and cheap hotels for great value and locations. The famous attractions are on the expensive side, though good deals are always available on food and drinks if you know where to look. If you are willing to skip the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum, the city is more in the midrange for Europe.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Flying Pig Uptown – 21.90/night
• Transportation: 5.20
• Meals: 14.40
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 12.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €67.60 = US$86.16/day

>>>Amsterdam prices and weather

43 – Brussels, Belgium

For the budget traveler, Brussels can be a bit difficult since the infrastructure is built mostly for business travelers and government employees. There aren’t many hostel options, and cheap meals are a challenge in the city center area. Still, it’s worth a look for the main square alone if you are heading to or from Bruges, which is much cheaper and listed above.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: 2Go4 Quality Hostel – 25/night
• Transportation: 4.00
• Meals: 16.80
• Drinks/Entertainment: 12.00
• Attractions: 8.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €66.80 = US$90.14/day

>>>Brussels prices and weather

44 – Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, like Stockholm and Oslo below, has a sizzling economy, but along with it they have very high wages and taxes, and that makes things expensive for outsiders. Even hostels are quite expensive, and hotels are worse. As nice as it may be, if cities had prices reflecting their desirability, Helsinki would be much cheaper than it is.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: Hostel Suomenlinna – 25/night
• Transportation: 4.40
• Meals: 21.60
• Drinks/Entertainment: 12.00
• Attractions: 4.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €69.60 = US$91.78/day

>>>Helsinki prices and weather

45 – Copenhagen, Denmark

Finally reaching famously-expensive Scandinavia, it’s just plain tough to find cheap alternatives in this region. Quality does tend to be quite high, so it may not feel like a rip-off, but except for a few dodgy places by the train station, there are just no cheap hotels or hostels in Copenhagen. This is also a good place to give up drinking, or smuggle in some duty-free stuff on your way in.

• Currency: Danish kroner
• Cheap/good hostel: Sleep in Heaven – 160/night
• Transportation: 48
• Meals: 114
• Drinks/Entertainment: 105
• Attractions: 70
• Daily Backpacker Index: DKK 477 = US$91.87/day

>>>Copenhagen prices and weather

46 – London, England

London is famously pricey, but it’s also a weird one for budget travelers since it actually has somewhat affordable hostels (at least outside of high season), and all the major museums are acually free. However, pretty much everything else feels outrageously expensive, particularly the other attractions like the Tower of London and the London Eye. For cheap hotel and hostel options see our recommended London hostel and hotels page.

• Currency: British pound
• Cheap/good hostel: Phoenix Hostel – 14/night (including breakfast)
• Transportation: 5.60
• Meals: 17.40
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.60
• Attractions: 12.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: £54.60 = US$97.65/day

>>>London prices and weather

47 – Venice, Italy

No surprises to find Venice so far down the affordability list, but once again this is a city where it’s all easily justifiable, and fortunately you can see all the main sights in just two days and one night if you are tight on funds. Of course, the hostel listed here, along with most cheaper hotels, is not even on the main island, but getting back and forth is cheap and easy. Check our cheap and recommended Venice hotels list for some great choices.

• Currency: euro
• Cheap/good hostel: A Venice Fish – 25/night
• Transportation: 7.00
• Meals: 26.40
• Drinks/Entertainment: 9.00
• Attractions: 6.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: €74.39 = US$100.55/day

>>>Venice prices and weather

48 – Interlaken, Switzerland

The big cities in Switzerland are awesomely expensive because everything is priced for business travelers and the like, so budget travelers are better off skipping them in favor of the small towns of Interlaken or Lucerne to get better views and lower prices. As you can see, things are still very expensive, but at least visitors are in a position to enjoy the Alpine culture and beauty with minimal hassle.

• Currency: Swiss Franc
• Cheap/good hostel: Happy Inn Lodge – 24.42/night
• Transportation: 5.20
• Meals: 28.80
• Drinks/Entertainment: 18.00
• Attractions: 17.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: CHF92.42 = US$103.54/day

>>>Interlaken prices and weather

49 – Oslo, Norway

The good news about Oslo is that most travelers only spend a day or two in the city at most, on their way to the fjords or the countryside. The bad news is that during that short time in Oslo things are insanely expensive, almost without exception. The non-urban parts of Norway are more reasonable, so this is one where you just have to bear it and move on.

• Currency: Norwegian kroner
• Cheap/good hostel: Anker Hostel – 230/night
• Transportation: 56
• Meals: 156
• Drinks/Entertainment: 120
• Attractions: 80
• Daily Backpacker Index: NOK 620 = US$105.77/day

>>>Oslo prices and weather

50 – Stockholm, Sweden

Backpackers who want to visit the homeland of most of their furniture have to go a long distance out of the way to reach Stockholm, and then face shocking prices once they arrive. This is another city where almost nothing is cheap no matter where you look. The long-promised ABBA Museum is now open and it’s predictably expensive as well.

• Currency: Swedish kronor
• Cheap/good hostel: City Lodge Stockholm – 199/night
• Transportation: 72
• Meals: 192
• Drinks/Entertainment: 120
• Attractions: 130
• Daily Backpacker Index: SEK 634 = US$110.89/day

>>>Stockholm prices and weather

51 – Zurich, Switzerland

Certainly no surprise here, especially considering that Zurich also came out on top on our survey of world taxi prices. Still, the cost of everything at the current exchange rate (the Swiss franc is very overvalued now) is astonishing. Also, like Brussels, this is a serious business city, so most things are geared to those with lavish expense accounts, and backpackers are barely an afterthought. Fortunately, the main tourist towns of Switzerland are at least a little less expensive.

• Currency: Swiss franc
• Cheap/good hostel: Youth Hostel Zurich – 41/night
• Transportation: 5.20
• Meals: 28.80
• Drinks/Entertainment: 18.00
• Attractions: 17.00
• Daily Backpacker Index: CHF 109.00 = US$123.60/day

bron: www.priceoftravel.com