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Home » Europe » Backpacking Travel Guide

The COMPLETE Backpacking Europe Travel Guide | 2024

Where in the world can you comfortably pass 3 countries and 3 different languages in a day? That’s the wonder that travelling Europe offers you. This continent has cultural variety, wild parties, mind-boggling history, world-class hostels, and new friends in spades. 

I was born in Europe, so my travels here go back as far as my memories do. I’ve basked on the glorious Spanish beaches, skied in the Italian Alps, and dived into the depth of Roman history. 

And yet, my crazy adventures in Europe are still only just beginning. I’m ALWAYS craving more. 

Whether you’re thinking of a quick beginners’ trip or a full-blown, life-changing interrailing affair, you’re bound to fall in love. Maybe it’ll be a place, or a person or two. 😉 

Although, if you don’t already know, backpacking Europe is no cheap thrill. Especially in the likes of Paris, Barcelona, and Amsterdam, even a hostel dorm can set you back and send you home with your tail between your legs if you’re not careful. I’ve heard one too many backpackers calling home asking mummy to pay their return ticket. 

But you don’t need to be like them. Because you’ve got this backpacking Europe travel guide!

I’m here to dish it all. I’ll give you the low down on costs, the best travel itineraries   and all the tips and tricks you’ll ever need on on how to backpack through Europe . 

It’s so beautiful I’m going to cry.

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Why Go Backpacking in Europe?

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Backpacking Europe has no equal. There is no region on earth with such a diverse range of landscapes, cultures and languages contained within such a small(ish) space. Everywhere else is frankly boring when pitted against the technicoloured dream coat of Europe.

From alcoholic Bavarian breakfasts, ancient ruins and train rides so pretty they could briefly render a local politician speechless, the breadth and scope of Europe is enormous. Not forgetting we can make a mess in Eastern Europe and Scandinavia too, you’re basically screwed unless you have about a year.

For many people, backpacking Europe is about ticking off a list of the famous and well-known cities . Let me tell you now. GET THIS SILLY IDEA OUT OF YOUR HEAD. You’re not hitchhiking with the Jehovah’s Witnesses or conquering Triglav, Olympus or Korab from a Starbucks/Costa/Pret a Manger are ya?!?

Find the balance. Visit some awesome cities, but make time to head out into the sticks and see the side of Europe you didn’t expect. There is an impeccable backpacking vibe in Europe, and you are bound to take some truly questionable stories home with you…

…If only you knew where to look… 😉

How to backpack through Europe

Right children, as a native European with more travel experience than Leonardo di Caprio’s wandering eyes, I have some juicy advice for you. First things first: Europe is expensive. Learn how to mooch through Europe on a budget !

Staying at a hostel in a well-known city (e.g. London, Rome, Paris, Barcelona) can set you back around $70. If you’re trying to make your trip last, it is worth knowing which are the cheap countries , and how to get some sleep in the ones that aren’t.

It’s also worth remembering which countries aren’t in the Schengen zone. Not only might you need to make additional travel adjustments, but it is worth knowing if you want to extend your stay in Europe . Basically, this is just the UK, a large swathe of Eastern Europe, and Turkey. Good for long stays!

You may want to grab an interrailing ticket if you’re travelling far and wide. These can work out much cheaper than paying for each individual train, which is another great boost for the budget. Taking a tent can also save you some serious bank whilst backpacking Europe.

Europe is fucking huge and it packs a punch too. This means that even on a (hypothetical) lifetime Europe backpacking trip, just accept it: you’re never going to see it all.

Backpacking Europe is best when you can travel it slowly . But don’t stress it because there’s plenty of ground you can cover even on a shorter trip to Western Europe.

How long to backpack europe? This depends on you, your budget and how much you want to see. If you only have a week or so, I recommend that you focus your Europe trip on either A) just one country or B) a few close-together cities. Luckily, the travel infrastructure is really good: train travel is a dream and buses are frequent. Plus, thanks to the European Union and its open borders, once you’re in one country, you can basically keep crossing borders as often as you’d like.

Here are a few ideas for an awesome backpacking trip to Europe.

2-Week Travel Itinerary for Europe – The Big Bois of Backpacking Europe

Start your travels from Berlin . Germany’s capital is like its own little islet – nothing like the rest of the country. Explore its history and party at world-famous clubs before heading out to Hamburg – you know, to get a taste of “normal Germany”. I highly recommend staying in St. Pauli which is the coolest area in Hamburg!

From Germany, cross over to Holland’s boozy, breezy, fun capital Amsterdam . From there, it’s easy to take a train or a bus to Brussels, in Belgium. (You could also stay in Ghent which is much prettier. Do take a day trip to Bruges, though!)

The next stop is dazzling Paris , undoubtedly the capital of romance in Europe. From Paris, take the Eurostar train to visit London .

This is the last stop in your itinerary. Wherever you’re headed next, London is one of the biggest transportation hubs in Europe.

1-Month Travel Itinerary for Europe: Southern Europe Gems

One month is the ideal Europe backpacking trip for first-timers. You’ll have time to explore a few countries and stay an extra few days in the places you fall in love with. In this itinerary, we’re diving into Southern Europe.

Start your trip in Lisbon , Portugal’s capital and one of the liveliest cities in Europe. Take trips to Sintra and Porto . Sintra can be done as a day trip whereas visiting Porto warrants at least a night’s stay.

Next, cross the border to Spain to explore Madrid . From the Spanish capital, finding onwards transportation to Barcelona is super easy. (Barcelona is also a long-time backpacker favourite!)

From Barcelona, cross over to France and spend a couple of days on the French Riviera. You could also do a lil’ side trip to Monaco to gawk at the rich&richer. But just a warning – this area is expensive as hell!

Next up, we head to Italy where you’ll spend the rest of your trip. First, explore Milan ; the fashion capital.

Then head to the floating city Venice, then the ultra-beautiful Florence . Lastly, end your trip in a highlight with a stay in Rome .

3-Month Travel Itinerary for Europe: Holy Shit, It’s the Grand Tour of Europe

Having 3 months or more for backpacking through Europe is an awesome experience. Make the most of the 90-day Schengen Zone liberty (plus the UK). You can move at your own pace and take the time to enjoy the places you love.

Still – need I remind you? – Europe is fucking massive. 3 months is a great trip but you’ll still struggle to cover everything possible. Sometimes it might even be the best option’s better to take a cheap plane ride between destinations rather than waste a day on a bus.

Stop first in Greece . Staying in Athens is really epic and it is a great gateway to the famous Greek Islands. ( Mamma Mia , anyone?) 

Next up – Italy . Explore Naples for the origins of that pizza in Naples. See the remnants of a super-influential ancient culture in Rome, and hike along the coast in Cinque Terre.

From Italy, visit Switzerland , AKA ‘the pit of doom’ when it comes to backpacking Europe on a budget. However, the Swiss Alps are some of the most beautiful parts of Europe so it’s worth a splurge.

Continue on to Vienna, Austria . It may look fancy but it has a punk rock heart and there are some great places to stay in Vienna too.

Then, we move on to Germany . Munich is your gateway to experiences in Southern Germany and it has great connections to other awesome cities in Germany: Nuremberg, Frankfurt, Cologne, Dresden, and eventually, Berlin.

Travel through the Netherlands and Belgium to Paris, France . From there, you can easily get to London and further explore the UK . I highly recommend making a stop in Edinburgh to get a taste of Scottish life.

From the UK, you can fly down to Barcelona and conclude your trip by adventuring around Spain and Portugal .

If you are going to be spending a whole month in Europe bouncing between different countries, then we recommend downloading the HolaFly Europe eSim package before your trip begins. Packages start at just $1.20 per day and can offer data access and internet connectivity all over Europe for the entire duration of your trip.

Wherever you decide to go on your Euro backpacking trip, the magic will surely blow your mind. Each country in Europe is unique, full of surprises, and requires its own individual approach and strategy with regard to your travel budget in Europe. Some European cities are overrated – and it’s handy to know which are.

Uh, just one thing: Europe, as a whole, has dozens of countries. (44 or 51, depending on what kind of geographical allowances we’re making…)

As I’m writing a blog and not a book, this Europe travel guide is focused on Western and Southern Europe . Meaning I’m only covering 11 countries and a bit today. Boo.

But don’t despair! There’s plenty more to explore in Europe.

• Backpacking Scandinavia travel guide
• Backpacking Turkey travel guide
• Backpacking the Balkans
• Backpacking the Caucasus

Backpacking Italy

Italy has been a popular vacation destination for a looooonggg time. Tourists have been coming here for years to see the likes of the Colosseum, drink wine in Tuscany , tour the canals of Venice – all that touristy stuff.

Consequently, few people stray far from the main backpacking route in Italy and, unsurprisingly, many say that tourism here has become a bit calcified. Some might say that Italy can offer nothing else besides the same postcard views and disgruntled baristas.

But there’s a lot more to see in Italy besides the usual attractions because, let’s be honest, everything in Italy is beautiful . Pound for pound, Italy might be one of the most beautiful countries in the world and you’d be hard-pressed to find a single ugly stone here.

The beaches of Puglia and Sardinia are among the most brilliant in Europe (they don’t compare the former to “The Maldives” for no reason). The Dolomites are truly one of a kind and few other mountains can really compete.

Rome … Rome is amazing . Where else can you find masterpieces from almost every era of western civilization?

Italian food, which has received a similar treatment, should be explored with equal enthusiasm. Sicily with its miles of coastline produces some of the finest seafood in the country, not to mention amazing desserts. The tagliere (deli meats) of Toscana are the best you’ll find.

So give Italy a chance! Don’t let the jaded, bitter tourists tell you there’s nothing new to see or do here; you just need to get off the beaten path a bit. Visit Florence , see the Almafi Coast but set aside some time for exploring the lesser-visited regions, like Marche, Umbria, Calabria, and so on.

But also – what’s wrong with seeing the same stuff as everyone else? There’s a reason Rome is popular. A gorgeous reason…

Backpacking Europe can never be completed without dipping a toe into Italy.

What to Know Before Visiting Italy

• Don’t miss out on … staying in Bologna . It evades most people’s radar even though it’s arguably the coolest city in Italy. Amazing food, beautiful architecture, and a nightlife that doesn’t quit.
• You know what’s overrated… the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Soooo many horrible selfies and awkward poses. Take a moment to actually appreciate the nearby duomo and baptistry guys.
• The coolest hostel is… The RomeHello Hostel . Offering some top-tier communal spaces, many activities for the guests, comfy beds, a great location, and good vibes atmosphere.
• The best food is found… everywhere! Really – you’re in Italy – you can’t go wrong here. Genoa, Bologna, Naples, and Sicily all take top honors.

Backpacking France

France might just be one of the most diverse countries you’ll set your foot in whilst backpacking through Europe. In addition to two coasts and two mountain ranges, France has a wide variety of cultures, landscapes, and food packed into one country.

Paris is amazing and seriously one of the most exciting cities in the world. It’s a city of romance, famous art, morbid history, and grand architecture. But don’t stop your exploration at the capital!

The Mediterranean coast, so-called French Riviera , is something straight out of your dreams. Trekking or skiing in the Alps is an unforgettable experience.

Bordeaux is one of the coolest cities I’ve ever visited, and staying in Lyon and Marseille are just as pretty. Let alone all the tiny little towns that are straight out of a postcard…

There are so many places to stay in France . Wherever you turn, you will find different kinds of wine, cheese, and even variations of the French language. If you love food, culture, and outdoor playgrounds, a stopover in France is an obvious choice for backpacking Europe.

Forget about the old stereotypes about the French being rude and uptight. The French can be like soft-boiled eggs: they have a shell on the outside but with it removed they are softies at heart. France is full of lovely soft-boiled eggs, uhm I mean humans…

Since France is quite a large country in European terms, there are so many hidden gems that I have lost track. From stunning medieval castles to picturesque villages and cities, backpacking in France is truly an unforgettable experience.

What to Know Before Visiting France

• Don’t miss out on… Staying a night at a mountain refuge in the Alps. Le Refuge de la Charpoua is particularly epic.
• You know what’s overrated… paying to go up the Eiffel Tower. Paris is expensive . Save money and see it from below.
• The coolest hostel is… The People – Paris Nation . Excellent location. It has beds with curtains (I love privacy), a cozy cafe/bar where to chill and work, and a great terrace to see the sunset.
• The best food is found in… Can’t go wrong with a bit of Brie and a bottle of Bourdeaux. But that’s just the beginning; as they say there, is a different wine and cheese to try every day of the year…

Backpacking Portugal

Portugal is a grand paradise of sorts. The pace is slower than other European countries (and compared to other offenders on this list, cheaper, too).

The country is packed with friendly locals, charming villages, fun parties, and one of the most chill vibes you will come across anywhere on earth.

Backpacking in Portugal is very easy and Portugal is my favourite country to solo travel in Europe too. Ultimately it’s a great place to begin your international adventure, solo or not.

Spot the famous blue tiles in Porto. Feel like a royal at the castles in Sintra.

Eat seafood in Lisbon. Drink ice-cold beer and smile like a fool whilst taking in an epic sunset over the ocean in Algarve.

Most backpackers start their trip in Lisbon as it appeals to just about everyone. There’s amazing food, good weather, great parties in Bairo Alto, and lots of places to see nearby. Definitely don’t skip Sintra ; the epic village full of fairytale castles is one the top places to see in Portugal.

The south of Portugal, also known as the Algarve , is the more Mediterranean part of the country. It resembles more southern Spain not only in the scenery but in vibes.

Expect a lot of tourists and more than a few drunken, wandering Aussies. But hey – the coastline is gorgeous and stays warm all year round. You can also find some of the best surf in the Northern Hemisphere off Portugal’s many beaches .

In Northern Portugal, Porto is a popular student city. It’s also bustling, busy, fun, and beautiful. Some backpackers even prefer it to Lisbon!

Portugal also has two semi-autonomous island regions: the Azores and Madeira. Both are very different from the mainland and absolutely magical.

Hiking in Madeira is uniquely epic! But visiting Azores is like backpacking a mini-New Zealand.

What to Know Before Visiting Portugal

• Don’t miss out on… Porto. Backpackers love Lisbon , but its northern neighbour is just as cool. Keep an eye out for its famous blue tiles.
• Keep an eye out for… drunken backpackers in Lagos . It’s not widely advertised but this place is a SHITSHOW at night. If you’d like to be one of them, stay in one of the party hostels.
• The coolest hostel is… Home Lisbon Hostel – The people’s favourite: mama’s cooked dinner, free walking tours, and a super homey feeling. You feel so welcome here.
• The best food is found in… the Mercado da Ribeira in Lisbon. This is the Mecca of all food markets, the cream of the crop.

Backpacking Spain

Many backpackers claim Spain as their favourite country. Are they right?

I think so. You do not have to look too far to see why this country, in addition to producing some lovely human beings, is a magical land for backpackers.

Like to sleep? You came to the wrong country. The Spanish have breakfast at 10, lunch at 4, and dinner at midnight.

Spain is a country that truly never sleeps. It’s in the culture to practice sleep deprivation in style. Maybe all those midday siestas help?

Spain just has a certain charm to it. Small plates of delicious tapas , cool, cold wine served with sweet orange and melon…

Is it those fine beaches? Old olive groves running through tiny villages? Or the church in Barcelona that is a perpetual construction project?

My suspicion is that my love of Spain is deeply rooted in all of the little nuances you experience daily whilst travelling here. Many backpackers just roll through Barcelona and maybe go visit Madrid . Whilst those cities are not to be missed, backpacking through Spain without exploring its other regions is a mistake.

In the north, you can hike majestic mountains in Asturias and eat awesome seafood in San Sebastian . Track down the origins of paella when staying in Valencia .

Explore Andalucia in the south with its Islamic architecture, free tapas, and the cheapest prices in Spain. (Seriously – Granada, Seville, and Cordoba are AWESOME.) Go to a football game. Find some flamenco.

Doesn’t that sound like fun? This is Spain.

What to Know Before Visiting Spain

• Don’t miss out on… the Basque region. It’s like a completely different country, with epic landscapes and an extremely fascinating history. San Sebastian is the best place to stay.
• You know what’s overrated … bull fights. The Spanish hardly go to them – it’s cruelty set up for tourists’s entertainment. Opt for a flamenco show or tapas tour instead.
• The coolest hostel is… The Central House Madrid Lavapiés . Everything a hostel should have. Relaxation, work and social areas. A pool, a bar, a terrace, lockers, and curtains on comfortable beds.
• The best food is found in… Granada. Andalucia has some of the only totally free tapas in Spain, and Granada has the best tapas restos. Asian fusion or Moroccan tapas? You’ll find it here.

Backpacking Switzerland

If you are planning on spending time in the Alps, a hiking trip to Switzerland is an obvious choice. Switzerland is a land full of the Alps, quaint villages, and hip cities.

Heard of the Matterhorn mountain? (That’s the Toblerone mountain.) It lives in Switzerland.

In addition to its powdery peaks, Switzerland is also home to gorgeous alpine lakes. Take in some of the ancient castle fortifications lakeside by day and sip the legendary Swiss hot chocolate by night.

Zurich may be the financial heart of Europe but it’s still surprisingly cool. Lausanne is small but gorgeous, and the capital Bern is equally so. Don’t skip Luzerne since it just might be the most beautiful city in Switzerland. But these are just a few ideas of where to stay in Switzerland – numerous hidden gems await.

You do have to pay for the pleasure in Switzerland . For better or worse, the Swiss people have this whole thriving economy thing down to a T.

As a country long resistant to changing over to the Euro, the Swiss Franc is as strong as ever before. For backpackers, this translates into a scenario of high cost, high reward.

That said, Switzerland will certainly do anything but disappoint. It’s worth the splurge even if you are backpacking Europe on a budget.

What to Know Before Visiting Switzerland

• Don’t miss out on… the Bernese Oberland. This region features probably the most famous and stunning hikes in Switzerland . Check out the trails around Eiger and the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
• Keep an eye out for… the prices; the pure, unadulterated, merciless, eye-gouging, seemingly unreal prices. You’ll need to employ every trick in the book to keep costs down.
• The coolest hostel is… Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof Interlaken. It offers a ton of freebies!
• The best food is found in… the grocery stores. Swiss food is just ok; certainly not worth the prices at the restaurants!

Backpacking Germany

After gaining a (justified) terrible reputation on the world stage in the first half of the 20th century, Germany has emerged over the last 50 years as an economic powerhouse and centre of culture in Europe. Modern-day Germany is an awesome place to go backpacking through Europe – and a fan favourite among many gap year kids and older travellers alike. You won’t be hard-pressed to find a great hostel in Germany .

As a lover of cool cities and good beer, I am totally enamored with Germany. While famous for its fast cars and pretzels, there is so much more to see whilst backpacking Germany: historic towns, medieval monasteries and fantastical castles , culture-filled cities, fairy-tale forests, and majestic mountains.

To top it off, Germany has one of the strongest economies in the EU, yet traveling here is surprisingly affordable in comparison to the rest of Western Europe. (Pro tip: Eastern Germany is even cheaper than Western Germany.) Backpacking Germany is a great addition to any European travel itinerary!

Most backpackers gravitate towards Berlin , and for good reason: its nightlife is unbeatable and there is a wealth of culture to keep people interested. But the capital is its own thing – it doesn’t resemble the rest of Germany at all. For European backpackers, there are tons more awesome spots to uncover.

Dresden , beaten to shit during WWII, has been wonderfully restored. Hamburg is one of the coolest cities in the country, at least if you’re staying in the St Pauli neighbourhood.

Bavaria in the South is known for the Black Forest area (one of Germany’s National Parks ), an unintelligible dialect of German, and beautiful scenery. Finally, Regensburg may be the prettiest town in the country. But there are SO MANY others – some completely micro-sized.

What to Know Before Visiting Germany

• Don’t miss out on… visiting a beer hall. No one can drink like the Germans and by that, I mean with such control and enjoyment at the same time.
• You know what’s overrated… Munich. The city itself, whilst pretty, doesn’t offer a lot in the way of attractions. The locals can be pretty arrogant too.
• The coolest hostel is… Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft . A cozy social vibe. A bohemian retro-style hostel with a cafe that becomes a bar at night. And a common area open 24 hours with free coffee and tea.
• The best food is found in… Berlin. The gastronomic scene is incredibly diverse, unlike many other German cities where food tends to be homogenous. Vegetarianism is alive and thriving here!

Backpacking The Netherlands

Coffee. Canals. Cannabis. Windmills. Those are some of the things that come to mind when thinking about The Netherlands.

Visiting Amsterdam has long been a favourite backpacker haunt and is well worthy of exploration. It is THE place in Europe to (legally) rock into a coffeeshop, order a joint, and sit down to smoke it.

If you like riding bicycles long-distance, The Netherlands is a perfect country in which to feed that urge: The Netherlands is almost entirely flat. If you have had long challenging days trekking or biking in the Alps, the flatness here will be a welcomed change.

You will find that Dutch people often speak perfect English which is impressive as Dutch sounds nor looks anything like English. Because the country is relatively small, you can travel around here with ease whilst taking in a majority of it.

Most backpackers make a stop in Amsterdam and leave the rest of the country be. Don’t get stuck in the capital city – at least take a day trip from Amsterdam .

What to Know Before Visiting The Netherlands

• Don’t miss out on … partaking in some magic mushrooms while visiting Amsterdam. Seriously, those Van Gogh paintings are mental when you’re frying.
• You know what’s overrated… staying in the HEART of Amsterdam – it’s overly expensive and crowded. One could stay outside the city, save a bundle, and then take the train in. I suggest finding a hostel in Utrecht instead.
• The coolest hostel is… Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark . All the services that you need as a backpacker. Nice areas to chill, work, and hang out. Great atmosphere to meet other travellers. Probably the best location in Amsterdam. The park and Museumplein right next to you.
• The best food is found … while staying in Amsterdam , only because of the stroopwafels! These are one of the greatest treats ever.

Backpacking Belgium

Let’s be honest: Belgium doesn’t offer much in way of stand-out attractions. There is no Colosseum, no Montmartre, no legalized drugs, or raging Berghains. Just a lot of charming houses, calories, and dreary weather.

And for these reasons, I LOVE Belgium. How amazing is it that Belgium places beer in such high and hallowed regard? Bless the Belgians who seem to have no problem smothering their fried potatoes in aioli and mussels with heavy cream. I love that you can go backpacking in Belgium with zero expectations and still be impressed.

It’s almost as if Belgium is a guilty pleasure of sorts. The whole country is just one big bar where you can eat and drink to your heart’s content and no one gives a shit.

If you’re traveling between France and the Netherlands, it is absolutely worth stopping over in Belgium for a little while. Antwerp would be the best place to base yourself although Ghent and Bruges are worth seeing . Bruges gets absolutely zombified with tourists, though – prepare yourself.

And you shouldn’t skip the nation’s capital Brussels . It’s also the capital of the European Union but in addition to stiff people in suits, there are also many cool things to see in Brussels .

If you wanted a really enjoyable backpacking Europe experience, consider sleeping at a brewery for a few days! Most have guesthouses attached. In particular, Het Anker is great. Otherwise, Brussels’ hostels are the best place to stay on a budget.

What to Know Before Visiting Belgium

• Don’t miss out on… staying in Ghent , the prettiest medieval town in Belgium. It’s mostly known for its canal houses and local mustard. Gruut, a precursor to today’s beer, is also made in Ghent.
• Keep an eye out… when you’re in Brussels. Whilst certainly “edgier” than most European cities, Brussels can be a little too rough at times.
• The coolest hostel is… Hostel Uppelink Ghent . Though the building may be a bit old, the location is unbeatable. It’s literally next to the city’s famous Sint-Michielsbrug bridge.
• The best food is found in… the “brown bars”, where they serve the fried potatoes and mussels in excess.

Backpacking the UK

The UK is just one of those places that I have fallen in love with over the years. If you are in the mood for a wonderful campervan and trekking adventure, backpacking in the UK is the journey you have been waiting for.

Note to my geographically challenged friends – the UK is a country comprised of 4 countries: England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. And the Brits WILL get mad at you if you refer to the whole area as “England” ( Ed: Sounds about right).

England and Wales have large sections of coast that are far off the beaten path and offer up excellent hiking/camping possibilities. The Highlands in Scotland have some of the last true wilderness areas in Western Europe. The Scottish Islands look like something out of a fairytale book.

Along with stunning natural landscapes, the UK is home to major centres of culture in Europe. In England, the ineffable London is an icon for obvious reasons. I also highly suggest chasing down ghosts in Canterbury , getting smart in Oxford , and basking on the beach in Brighton . And the Lake District in Northern England is incredible!

Scotland is a world of its own. The Scottish capital city of Edinburgh is full of awesome things to do. This region has landscapes so green that the hills seem to have been spray-painted in every sense of the word.

It has remote islands dotted with whiskey distilleries, lochs, and cascades. One could easily spend all their time backpacking in Scotland and could totally forget about “the south”.

The hiking trails and huts in the Highlands offer up an endless supply of hiking opportunities in a breathtaking environment. Throw in the vast cultural richness of the big cities and small villages and you have yourself one great place to go traveling.

Backpackers don’t go to Wales as often but for no good reason. It also offers awesome hiking opportunities, and Cardiff is a small-ish but cool, cultural city.

What to Know Before Visiting the UK

• Don’t miss out on… going off the beaten path in the Scottish Highlands. If you really want a unique experience, try island hopping in the Hebrides.
• You know what’s overrated… Buckingham Palace. Just skip it.
• The coolest hostel is… Onefam Notting Hill . This award-winning hostel is one of the best locations in the capital. It’s perfect for solo travellers to make friends for life.
• The best food is found in… The Indian food in the North (Manchester and Yorkshire). For that matter, the vegan scene nationwide is thriving and varied.

Backpacking Ireland

The lush, green, enchanted, and enchanting island of Ireland perches serenely at the furthest boundary of Europe. Beyond it, there is nothing but the Atlantic until it reaches the New World.

Somehow, Ireland’s location and geography are encapsulated in its culture. It is European but only just; civilized, yet it’s wild and rugged. It rains a lot but remains perpetually pleasant and inviting.

Sometimes crudely dismissed as the UK’s little cousin, backpacking Ireland offers visitors the chance to explore the most plucky nation in the world and get a glimpse of a simpler world that has sadly vanished forever elsewhere. That is not to patronize though, Dublin is every bit the cosmopolitan ( and expensive ) EU capital, and the once-troubled Belfast wears its gritty history with pride.

But head out to the Burren , or the lanes of Cork , and you will find warm taverns ringing with the sound of the fiddle and a way of life where time still takes its own time.

The headline draw in Ireland is the capital Dublin where you can visit Kilmainham Gaol and pull a pint at the Guinness brewery. But not to be missed are the Cliffs of Moher, the ancient streets of Galway , and the colored houses of Cork in the capital of “authentic Ireland”.

For the edgier side of the Emerald Isle, cross the (porous & invisible) border to the North and check out the murals of Belfast. From here you can easily visit Game of Thrones locations or check out the geologically wondrous Giants Causeway .

What to Know Before Visiting Ireland

• Don’t miss out on… Watching an Irish sport (hurling or Gaelic football) game in a pub.
• You know what’s overrated… kissing the Blarney Stone. You’ll wait sometimes hours in line just to share spit with other people over a hole in the wall. Yes, it’s as unnecessary as it sounds.
• The coolest hostel is… Jacobs Inn . Offering a super cool bar area and rooftop terrace, the pod sleepers will make sure your ready for a top day tomorrow.
• The best food is found… at the Galway Seafood Festival. If you happen to be staying in Galway in September and October, don’t miss out on this.

Backpacking Greece

Getting to know Greece is one of the most rewarding backpacking trips to be had in Europe. Those blue and white houses and perfect Mediterranean landscapes you have seen on postcards live up to their hype in real life.

Greece is a charming, laid-back country. Backpacking the Greek Islands has been one of my favourite travel experiences. This is due not just to the beautiful views, but to the food, beaches, wonderful people, and plethora of history.

Island hop the Cyclades. Pop over to Crete . Experience life with no cars on Hydra. Whatever you get up to in the Greek islands, a Europe backpacking trip that makes it here is hell of a good time.

But wait! Greece may be best known for its islands but there is a whole mainland of INCREDIBLE stuff to explore, too! (Also, it’s way cheaper than the tourist-crowded islands.)

Visit Athens , the capital full of ancient history and cool graffiti. I know the city gets a bad rap but it’s actually pretty cool. For one thing, the nightlife here is fantastic – rebellious, wild, and absolute fun. Another draw is the Acropolis.

Close to Athens, you’ll find Delphi , an adorable little town with the ruins of a once-famed oracle’s home. Meteora is known for its unique monasteries built on top of stone pillars. Thessaloniki , Greece’s second city, is full of good vibes and great food.

If you’re a history and/or mythology geek, backpacking Greece is gonna get your socks spinning out of excitement.

What to Know Before Visiting Greece

• Don’t miss out on… the Ionian Islands. This part of Greek islands receives a fraction of tourists yet hosts some of the most beautiful places in the country. Zakynthos has good places to stay .
• You know what’s overrated … Santorini. It’s overcrowded, expensive, and on the verge of being spoiled.
• The coolest hostel is… Athens Quinta . Travelling is all about finding those magic places that make you feel at home. This hostel takes that idea and runs with it. Including, free breakfast!
• The best food is found in… Crete. It’s well-known for its culinary culture. It’s far enough away from the mainland that the food is quite different as well.

Off the Beaten Path Adventures in Europe

Europe gets BUSY. Hundreds of millions of people, both from Europe and elsewhere, travel around it every year.

And you know what? 80% of those people do one of two things. Either they just visit a few cities or they go on cookie-cutter tours where they are shuffled around from one famous attraction to another, plowing through a sea of baguettes, gelato, and, tapas along the way.

(Actually – that doesn’t sound half bad…)

It’s easy to get off the beaten path by visiting Europe’s hidden gems . In the Netherlands, go anywhere that’s not Amsterdam; in the UK, anywhere that’s not London ( Ed: not quite sure about that, but close).

But there are also a few countries that have not been included in this guide yet, and I’d like to give them a little shout-out. They are not traditionally on the backpacker trail but they are awesome, plus they’re right on your route so it’s very easy to visit them!

For starters, Vienna in Austria is easily amongst the most beautiful cities in Europe. While visiting Vienna , everywhere you look there is some regal remnant of the Hapsburgs: a palace here, a monument there, and plenty of museums to go along with them.

Checking out Luxembourg can also be nice since it’s easy to get to and fro from the Netherlands or Germany. It’s expensive as fuck and the eponymous city doesn’t offer much to see but there are some awesome Luxembourg Airbnbs including enchanting countryside castles.

Check out some of the micro-nations, too. Vatican City is super easy to include since it’s literally smack-bang in the middle of Rome – the world’s smallest country measures less than a square kilometre. Visiting Monaco is an easy day trip from the French Riviera, and San Marino from Bologna, Italy.

Staying in Andorra , on the border between Spain and France, is a great idea. It’s particularly gorgeous in the autumn. Liechtenstein is one of the weirdest places in Europe. Full of cool stuff, most tourists visit the town Vaduz for a day but the Liechtensteinian Alps are worth a couple of days of hiking!

Other than that, explore small villages. Go on multi-day treks. Climb the mountains that aren’t the Alps (though they are stunning). You could also just fuck off to Georgia for a bit to extend your stay (who cares if it is actually in Europe or not).

Couchsurf with locals. Spend a few extra days getting to know a popular city. Do things that aren’t on the “must-see sights” in backpacking Europe travel blogs.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Well, with dozens of countries and countless cities in Europe to visit , it’s a bit hard to pinpoint the BEST things to do in Europe.

But you gotta start from somewhere. So here are some of the top things to do whilst backpacking Europe on a budget.

1. Go to a one-of-a-kind festival

Europe loves to celebrate every little occasion they can, be it the death of a saint, a harvest, or even just a long weekend. Between the cultural holidays – of which there are MANY – the seasonal festivals, and the more modern musical festivals, you’ll have many opportunities to just let loose. And let loose is what you should do.

You could check out the Carnival at Venice, get wasted in Dublin on St. Patrick’s Day, and get tomatoe’d at La Tomatina in Valencia. Let alone some of the world’s best music festivals like Boom Festival (psytrance), Glastonbury (pop-adjacent), and Roskilde (also pop-adjacent).

2. Go island hopping in Greece

Greece is composed of over 227 islands – which means there are over 227 places to go on an adventure. Live out your mythical fantasies on the islands of Ithaca or Crete, escape the hecticness of life on Sikinos, or join the hordes of partiers on Ios and Mykonos. Your choice.

2. Eat all the tapas in Spain

In Spain, tapas are not just a plate of food; they’re a way of life. They require time, attention, company, and most of all, love, to truly appreciate.

When visiting Spain, it is absolutely mandatory to sit down to a tapas meal with friends and to converse over them, preferably for an entire night. The best tapas are found in Andalucia, especially in Granada .

3. Hike in the Alps

Of all the great mountain chains in the world, the Alps are probably the most accessible. Over the years, it has been tamed and crisscrossed with so many trails that just about anyone can visit here. Tours around the 3 highest mountains in the range, Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa, and the Grand Combin, as well as the otherworldly Dolomites, are all exhilarating experiences and among the best hikes in the world .

5. Get cultured in Italy

The most historically significant and consequently most popular cities to visit in Italy are Rome, Venice, and Florence. These “museum cities” deemed culturally significant by the government are preserved as best as possible.

They are like interactive history lessons that you can walk amongst or even get lost in for days at a time. I highly recommend you make time for the Colosseum, the work of Di Vinci, and the Vatican museums.

6. Dance like no one’s watching

The party cities in Europe are on a different scale than the rest of the world. I’m talking about Berlin, Amsterdam, and Manchester. The stories from the clubs are the stuff of legends.

The level of freedom and debauchery is enough to make even the most open-minded do a double-take. Even if you aren’t able to get into the infamous Berghain, you can take your nights (or days) whichever way you please.

7. Change your plans

It’s always good to have an idea of itineraries while you’re backpacking Europe. But there’s nothing more heartbreaking than falling in love with a place (or person? ) and having to leave for your next destination. So leave a bit of wiggle room in your route for surprises.

Extend your stay at the cheap hostel with the cute bartender. Buy the last-minute plane ticket to meet that travel buddy again. Let the universe take control a bit too.

8. Take the scenic route

Europe has one of the most developed train travel networks in the world. You can get just about everywhere by rail, which is fantastic news when Backpacking through Europe!

These insane views and comfy carriages make some of the best train journeys in the world . It’s a classic; characters in The Murder on the Orient Express and Dracula have traversed the same rails. It’s damn romantic too, so settle down.

Granted, it’s more expensive than the bus so it’s not the best way to save money. But with high-speed trains, you can really make the most of your time on a Euro backpacking trip. So sometimes it’s worth the extra Euro.

9. Get High in Amsterdam

Would this really be The Broke Backpacker if I didn’t encourage you to sample some grade-A Dutch weed? The Dutch are very progressive when it comes to mind-altering substances so if you’re looking for a place to do some drugs safely and legally, Amsterdam might be to your tastes!

Just be respectful about it – residents of Amsterdam are not big fans of the hordes of drug tourists wandering the streets of the city.

10. Deep dive into London

London is one of those amazing cities that you could spend a lifetime exploring. It has a reputation for being expensive – and there’s good reason for that.

But there are so many museums and attractions to visit – many of which are absolutely free! With cheap flights, free walking tours, and a London Pass , it can actually be a surprisingly budget-friendly destination. The British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye are all worth putting on your Europe itinerary.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Hostels are the most affordable accommodation option for backpacking Europe on a budget. Well, aside from dreamy mountain huts, your awesome tent, and a stranger’s couch. Lucky for you, Europe is THE place for living da hostel life in all its glory.

This continent might hide some of the best hostels in the world – but arguably also the worst…

These incredible hostels in Europe come in all shapes and sizes. But remember, a cheap hostel isn’t necessarily a perfect hostel. In fact, it rarely is (but, yes, you can occasionally hit the jackpot).

But not all of them are dedicated to parties. You’ll also find loads of boutique hostels for flashbackers, quiet rooms for families, and even some female-only hostels for solo female travellers .

Well, back to the good stuff. When you’re backpacking Europe, you find accommodation is generally very safe, clean, and fun. Pub crawls and get-togethers are a staple in almost any hostel.

But if you’re wanting to plan a trip to Europe on a budget… well, you’ll have to make do with sharing the bigger dorms. Even hostels can sometimes be a bit pricey in Europe, especially in France or Switzerland. Still, they’re way cheaper than Airbnbs or hotels.

Airbnb is a great option if you want some space away from travellers and a more authentic experience. Though they’re not always the cheapest way. If you’re in a group, the prices can be more reasonable.

• Where to Stay in Spain
• Where to Stay in Portugal
• Where to Stay in France
• Where to Stay in Italy
• Where to Stay in Scotland
• Where to Stay in Ireland
• Where to Stay in Switzerland
• Where to stay in Greece

Backpacking Europe does not have a reputation as a budget-friendly place for travellers . The prices in the popular tourist destinations have sky-rocketed in recent years, and it doesn’t look like they’re slowing down any time soon. 

It’s pretty cunning actually. The cheap flights entice you in and BOOM: you’re stuck paying the price for it – literally. 

For most travellers, booking hostels is your cheapest option. Cheap hostels range from around $25 – $50+ a night for a bed. If you’re in a group, Airbnbs can (but not always) be cheaper. 

Though, where there’s a will, there’s a way. There is, and always have been, savvy travellers making their way around Europe with clever tricks to save money. 

I recommend both of these options over hotels mainly because you usually get a kitchen to prepare your own food. Doing this can bring your food bill down to around $10 – $15 a day. You could easily spend more than this on one meal of you eat out. You can find street food for around $6 but it’s not always the best quality. 

Booking flights, trains, and buses in advance is the best way to save money. That way, flights go for as little as $20 and buses $10. The same goes for accommodation: the sooner you book, the better deal you will get. 

If you want to let loose a bit, drinks in bars are generally quite expensive which can be up to around $10 in some places! So most people in Europe pre-drink (buy cheap drinks from the supermarket to drink a home before they go out) . Hostel bars usually have the most reasonable prices.

One budget-saving tip for first-time backpackers is to sort out your travel banking . Currency conversions and ATM fees stack up.

Get a travel card like Wise (formerly Transferwise) . With this, you can easily combat extra charges. Especially if you’re backpacking trip through Europe has many countries, this will make things much cheaper.

A Daily Budget For Europe

I have broken down the average daily travel costs in Europe you can expect in order to help you get to grips with your own Europe backpacking budget.

Travel Tips – Europe on a Budget

Okay, so now that you got an idea of the average costs for backpacking in Europe… What if I told you that you could save even MORE? Here are some of the best money saving tips for travelling Europe on a shoestring budget.

• Camp : With plenty of awesome beaches, forests, stunning countryside, and far-flung mountains, camping whilst backpacking Europe on a budget is a great option. Grabbing a solid backpacking tent is never a bad idea! Just be aware that wild camping is illegal in most of Western Europe. So if you want to do it, you gotta be a little sneaky about it.
• Cook your own food:  Travel with a  portable backpacking stove  and cook your own food to save some serious cash whilst backpacking across Europe. If you are on a tight budget, cooking grocery store food is your best option to save. With a stove in tow, you can do this even without a kitchen.
• Hitchhike : Hitchhiking is a 100% free and adventurous way to get around. In Europe, it’s pretty safe and easy although some countries are tougher than others.
• Couchsurf:  The Portuguese, Greeks, Spanish, Germans — they are all awesome folks. Get to know some! Check out Couchsurfing  to make some real friendships and see a country from the perspective of locals.
• Dive some dumpsters: Dumpster diving helps if you’re a little broke for a store-bought meal, too. There’s an art to it but you can soon get the hang of it.

Why Should You Travel to Europe with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… So do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

So precisely when is the best time to visit Europe on a budget?!

Western Europe is a total madhouse in the summer; millions upon millions of tourists descend on the continent. Cruise ships fill the harbours, tour buses clog the road, and flight prices increase.

Whilst the middle of the summer can be a very beautiful time to visit, the summertime is the most crowded season and it is also the hottest. Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, and Greece can be so hot in July and August that all you want to do is switch places with that white wine bottle sitting in the bucket of ice.

Europe is also very prone to seasonal pricing. Prices rise with the temperatures in the summer.

Point being, come in the summer if you must, but I don’t recommend it. The spring and the fall seasons are the best time to visit Europe on a budget. The temperatures are mild, and a majority of the people who were here on summer holiday have now sulked back to their offices and suburban hells.

Springtime in Paris and other European cities is as romantic as it sounds. Flowers are blooming and the birds are out. You can go in a t-shirt during the day without having the sun cook you alive.

You will find the lowest prices in most regions in the winter. Southern Europe – Algarve in Portugal, Andalucia in Spain, and Greek islands – is still pretty warm in the wintertime.

If you love winter sports, a winter visit is an obvious choice to explore the French, Swiss, or Italian Alps. Just note that pricing in ski destinations goes heads-up in the winter. The snow season is hugely more expensive than the summer.

Also, note on common European holidays: Europeans get around on their own continent a LOT during peak school holidays. This doesn’t necessarily mean higher prices but it DOES mean impenetrable crowds. Times to avoid outside of the peak summer season are usually mid-September, mid-February, Easter, and New years/Christmas.

What to Pack for Europe

When you’re backpacking Europe, depending on where you’re going and WHEN you’re going will change your packing list. Spain in the summer looks very different from Germany in the winter. But on every adventure, there are some things that are an excellent addition to your backpacking packing list that will really help your Europe backpacking trip.

On every adventure, there are 6 things that are an excellent addition to your backpacking packing list. They will greatly enhance your Europe backpacking trip too.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

In order to get the most of your backpacking trip around Europe, you want to ensure that you get your phone plugged in and connected to a local network as soon as possible. That way you can use map apps to save yourself hours of being lost in city streets, get on Tinder to find yourself some company, and order in food on those days when you just can’t be bothered to go outside.

Note that if already have an EU SIM then it will work seamlessly in all over EU member states. However it will stop working when you leave the EU (such as when you cross from Eire to Northern Ireland or Montenegro to Serbia) . Likewise if you are visiting Europe from the US or Australia, you may find yourself having to change sims multiple times during your trip…unless…

Our recommendation is to get yourself the HolaFly e-SIM Europe package . It works in 32 different European countries and offers unlimited data. There are a number of different packages available and the 30-day one costs $64 USD. What we particularly love about e-Sim is that you don’t need to remove your native sim, and can download your e-Sim package before you even leave home!

We have previously written a full HolaFly eSIM review which you can check out or else you can just hit the button below and check out the European Packages.

So how safe is Europe ? Very, very safe, actually.

There’s very little violent crime in Europe, traffic is mostly organised, and there are few natural disasters… The possibility of something bad happening to you on your journey backpacking Europe is slim, to say the least.

Your biggest concern is probably pickpockets and thieves. They particularly target crowded markets and train stations. Always be alert when moving about in big cities especially if you have all of your gear with you.

And those operating in big European cities are true pros – it’s not always enough to just keep your wallet in a purse instead of a back pocket. Keep a keen eye out, especially in Paris, Barcelona, and Rome.

The most popular European tourist sites are also teeming with scammers. With a little research on the most common tourist scams in Europe, it’s not hard to avoid them at all.

It is never a good idea to be out shit-faced drunk, alone, and loaded with cash – especially not at 3 am. Be smart, make good choices and it shouldn’t be too difficult to guard yourself and your belongings.

A few years back, Europe faced a string of terrorist attacks. Nothing new has arisen in the past few years so travellers shouldn’t feel worried about terrorism… And besides, unfortunately, we now know that these kinds of attacks are not only happening in Europe.

These events were rare but they did receive a lot of attention and negative press. That led to a lot of pro-nationalist anti-Muslim rhetoric across Europe even though plenty of other groups were also committing acts of violence.

And as diverse as a lot of cities in Europe are, Europeans, in general, are pretty damn white, and everyday racism is still well and alive. This doesn’t necessarily make Europe unsafe, it just means that it’s not impossible that ethnically diverse travellers might hear some snide commentary.

However, there are some happy news for other possibly-vulnerable backpackers: solo female travellers and LGBTQ+ travellers can thrive in Europe since Western Europe is generally safe for them.

• Is Amsterdam Safe?
• Is London Safe?
• Is Barcelona Safe?
• Is Naples Safe?
• Is Berlin Safe?
• Is Paris Safe?

Sex, Drugs, and Rock n’ Roll in Europe

Europe likes to party, a lot .

And not just one kind of partying, but all kinds of European Backpacking trip debauchery. There are your squats in Paris, beach clubs in Ibiza , warehouse raves in Berlin, music festivals in the Netherlands, all of that, and then some. You can’t beat chilling on some church steps at 3 am sipping negronis with friends either.

When it comes to partying, each culture has its own way of doing things. The Italians like the slow burn, starting with a spritz at aperitivo, then a nice dinner with wine, a cocktail at a local bar, before finally moving on to shots at the bar.

The Spanish are similar except they start all of this at 9 pm and go until 4 am. The Dutch appear to be hydrating all the time, but don’t be so sure; they’re big fans of the molly water.

You get the gist though. If you’re going to tour the party cities in Europe , you need to choose your parties well .

There are a couple of parties that shouldn’t be missed:

• Staying at one of the legendary party hostels .
• Going to a nightclub in Berlin. (Berghain is overrated – there are multiple that stay open 24/7!)
• Drinking in the piazzas of Rome.
• Dipping into a baggy in Amsterdam.
• A night in the Delirium Brewery in Brussels.

Also, be aware that not all European cultures take kindly to drunkenness. The Mediterranean cultures tend to frown upon people who can’t handle their shit. The further north you go, the less people care about your state of mind.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Europe

Europe is a safe place to travel but that doesn’t mean you’re completely invulnerable. Sometimes you fall down the stairs in a club in Athens… or get your iPhone nicked on the Paris metro…

Going anywhere without travel insurance is too risky – so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure. The best kind of travel insurance will cover both your material stuff as well as your physical self. Backpacking Europe can be a dangerous occupation.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Of course, there is no one answer to this question. Where do you want to go backpacking?!

Once you dial in where you plan to go, it is only natural to start your backpacking Europe trip in the country first on your list. Easy!

Whilst looking for cheap airfare to your destination, I advise that you look at multiple cities and find cheap flights – even if that city isn’t in your targeted country. You can easily fly between capitals in Europe on the cheap, or take a super-cheap bus.

For example, if you want to begin your backpacking Europe adventure in Spain but the tickets to Paris are going for $200 less, odds are you can score a budget flight to Madrid or Barcelona from Paris for less than you would have paid flying directly to Spain.

Be wary that the Schengen zone is threatening to introduce a nice new piece of red tape for anyone outside of the EU for 2024. Keep up to date on the ETIAS website , where the EU are concocting new ways of making it hard to travel.

Insider tip : Those budget-friendly flights often charge an arm and a leg for baggage. If you just travel with hand lugagge, you’ll save money and spend less time in the airports. That means more time to actually visit Europe.

Entry Requirements For Europe

If you want to travel long-term in Europe , then you may need a Visa. Entry and Visa requirements vary between different European countries although many of them do follow broadly similar criteria.

For travel in EU countries, a Schengen Visa is required (unless you are from another EU country in which case all you need is your passport/ID). Note that some EU countries are not part of the Schengen agreements and separate visas are required for visiting. Thanks to almost borderlessness of the EU though, travelling between EU/Schengen countries is usually super easy.

The ETIAS system will begin working in 2024, so make sure you stay prepared for that!

Out of the countries covered in this guide, countries that are not part of the EU are the UK, Ireland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore can usually obtain visas for most European countries on arrival. It can be significantly harder for everybody else. Overstaying visas is not recommended.

It is very wise to work out which countries you wish to visit and check their individual entry requirements before you set off. Regarding overland travel, note that even if you are only passing through a country en route to another, entry requirements will still apply.

There are many great ways to get around Europe – and it’s super easy! Western Europe has excellent transportation networks and usually booking tickets online is hassle-free.

The cost of travelling around Europe CAN lighten your wallet though, especially if you travel a lot. To be able to travel Europe cheaply, you have to know the tricks to do it.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best ways to travel Europe.

Long-distance buses are probably the cheapest option, though they tend to be the most time consuming as well. A 9-hour journey with a company like Flixbus is likely to cost you between 25-50 Euros depending on when you book.

I like Flixbus because, if plans change, you can cancel for a small fee and re-book when you’re ready. You can score long-distance buses for as little as 10 Euros if you’re really on it.

Many Western European countries might also have their own national budget bus lines.

Train travel is an awesome way to backpack Europe. Many backpackers specifically build their backpacking Europe itineraries around travelling on a train – this is called interrailing.

They’re really easy to use and there are all different kinds. Smaller domestic trains connect all corners of the countries.

High-speed trains and sleeper trains connect countries. The central train stations are usually right in the middle of the major European cities, often making it more convenient than flights.

If you plan on hitting up multiple countries in Europe, the Eurorail Pass  is a great option. You can buy a rail pass for one country or for all of Europe. Buying train tickets individually adds up fast, so buying a pass is a great trick to travel Europe on a budget.

Renting a car is surprisingly affordable in Europe and will give you unrestricted freedom to go and do what you want. And finding a car rental is no trouble at all.

Booking in advance is the best way to ensure you score the lowest price and your choice of vehicle. Often, you can find the best car rental prices when you pick up the rental from the airport. You can easily rent a car from any major city in Europe.

Driving in Europe is also pretty easy with lots of well-maintained highways and clear signage ahead!

You don’t feel like driving yourself? BlaBlaCar is a great website for connecting drivers with people interested in carpooling. You do have to pay for the ride. However, it’s usually cheaper than a train, faster than a bus, and more fun than travelling alone!

Travelling by campervan is the most classic, most awesome option. You have unparalleled freedom and access to places you would not otherwise have. You also eliminate the need to pay for accommodation every night.

If you’re travelling long term, it can be a great way to travel Europe on a budget if you buy your own campervan. For shorter term travellers, renting a campervan is easy to do all across Europe. Then you get complete freedom within the contient.

Those long, long highways of Europe are just begging for someone to get on them on two wheels… Europe is an excellent destination for long-distance motorbikers and bicyclists.

For motorbiking, France and Germany are particularly popular. For bikepackers , the Netherlands is pleasantly flat to cycle around.

Europe is one of the best places in the world to hitchhike, even long distances. I recommend studying a map before sticking your thumb out there.

Try to get an idea of which roads you need to take to get to your destination. Europe is full of tiny, winding backroads that splinter off in all directions.

It goes without saying that you should not try hitchhiking in major cities. While hitchhiking in Europe is safe generally, it is important to be on your guard and use good judgement when accepting rides.

From personal experience, hitching rides in Western Europe can be tricky. Finding rides along major highways – that Western Europe is full of – can be hard as there aren’t good places for cars to stop (looking at you, Germany and Northern Greece).

In other places, like Spain, I struggled to find rides because lots of people (falsely) seemed to think that hitchhiking was illegal. Plus, Western Europeans’s got places to be and might not be receptive to picking up a stranger.

The best hitching luck I had was in Switzerland, Austria, and France. I highly recommend trying it everywhere though!

Onwards Travel from Europe

Europe is home to many major global travel hubs and international airports. This means you can get anywhere in the world – often with a direct flight – depending on where you’re going. If you are on a grand European or world tour, heading to Eastern Europe and making your way into Turkey and beyond is a straightforward affair.

In fact, you can fly from London or Paris to Istanbul for as little as 20 Euros with some forethought (although rare). Plus, you’ll find lots of train options going to Istanbul from all over Europe.

Keep in mind as well that countries in North Africa are sometimes just an hour or two flight away. Backpacking Morocco and Tunisia are great options after travelling Europe on a budget. There are also daily boats from Southern Spain to Morocco for about $40 USD – not too pricey at all!

Boats run to North Africa from Sicily too, so if you fancy marauding in Tunisia , you can easily hop over from Italy. I would strongly advocate for this, because backpacking Europe is not complete without a little Africa.

Want to spend more time in Europe? No problemo!

While the cost of living in most Western European countries is quite high and work visas can be tricky to navigate, there are lots of options available for industrious backpackers. (Though you DO need a work visa pretty much everywhere.)

The UK and Ireland are especially popular for native English speakers; there are tons of Aussies living in London.

EU nationals don’t usually need visas to work in other EU countries so things are easier for them.

And you didn’t hear this from me… but there might be a chance for backpackers to do a bit of work under the table as well. Get chatting with locals, stay open, and keep your ears perked. There are lots of backpackers earning a bit of extra cash from helping out in bars, farms, and festivals, especially in the summer travel season.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

The Digital Nomad Scene in Europe

Despite certain weather challenges, Europe is HUGE for digital nomads. Sure, most countries in Western Europe are real expensive to live in. That doesn’t mean they wouldn’t attract digital nomads.

London, Berlin and Amsterdam all have massive digital nomad communities. However, these nomads may not stay in the city all year. They are also usually more high-earning nomads.

Those just starting to learn how to be a nomad prefer to head to eastern Europe – Bulgaria, Ukraine, Romania, and Hungary are all top destinations for broke nomads.

Portugal is hands down the best country for digital nomads in Europe. It’s one of the more affordable countries (although getting more and more expensive), extremely nomad-friendly both in terms of community and locals’s attitudes towards nomads, and super fun. The weather also isn’t half bad! In the Algarve, you can get +30 Celsius temperatures even in the winter.

If Lisbon and Porto are not your speed, definitely consider staying in Madeira . The Portuguese island is rapidly becoming one of the top destinations in the world for digital nomads.

Other cool places for nomads are Greece (especially Athens) and the Canary Islands in Spain. Both are affordable on Western European standards. 

Internet is pretty much a non-issue in Europe . Most of the major cities have high-speed fiberoptic cables lain and the more remote villages have decent coverage. Whilst hiking the Dolomites, I even got 4G using my local SIM card. I could’ve worked in a local rifugio for a few days!

Is this the best digital nomad-friendly hostel in the world?

Come visit  Tribal Bali  – Bali’s first specially designed, custom-built co-living hostel… 

Bali’s most special backpacker hostel is finally open…. Tribal Bali is a  custom-designed, purpose-built co-living hostel  – a place to work, rest, play and stay. A place to find your tribe and hands down the best place in Bali to hustle hard and make new friends…

Volunteer in Europe

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst helping your host community. There are plenty of different volunteer projects in Europe including teaching, construction, agriculture, and pretty much anything.

The list of volunteering opportunities in Europe is pretty much endless. Will you run pub crawls at a hostel in Spain? Help herd sheep in the French Alps? Give hand to a music festival in the UK? The sky’s the limit.

Short-term volunteers usually won’t need a permit, but anyone from outside the EU will need a Schengen Visa to volunteer in Europe for over 90 days. 

There are many ways to find volunteer opportunities but the best way is to start online. Check out some of the best work exchange websites to get started.

The team at The Broke Backpacker have used and can personally recommend Worldpackers . I feel like Workaway is the biggest platform but that doesn’t make it the best.

A heap of the European cultural identity is built on its history. Italy and Greece are home to some of the most brilliant ancient cultures; France is considered the origin of enlightenment; Portugal has a strong (although complicated) history in seafaring and exploration.

It’s no coincidence that Europe has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other continent. When it comes to art, heritage, sports, and music, Europe is considered by many to be the heart and origin of Western culture.

The first and absolutely most important thing that you need to know about culture in Europe is that people are not “just European”. In fact, using “European” as a blanket term for everyone who lives on the continent is pretty ridiculous since it doesn’t really begin to describe anything.

According to Britannica , there are over 160 distinct cultures in Europe, though if we’re being honest this number could be higher. Within each of these cultures are sub-sections and divisions with their own national, religious, and historical identities.

There are over 160 distinct cultures in Europe , though if we’re being honest this number could be higher. Within each of these cultures are sub-sections and divisions with their own national, religious, and historical identities.

What this means is that many people are very proud of their cultural identities and can be mildly offended if you try to paint everyone in the same colour. For example, the Scots are very proudly Scottish, and you definitely shouldn’t try to call them English. 

At best, culture in Europe shows in celebration. At worst, rising tensions related to immigration have given wind to some ultra-right nationalist ideals. (Yikes.)

Europe is also, overall, very modern. Expecting “traditional” stereotypes is a bit silly. People mostly don’t dress in national costumes; at Oktoberfest, the people wearing the fake lederhosen and dirndl are tourists. Not everyone knows flamenco in Spain – in fact, it’s a dance that originated from the Romani community especially in Southern Spain. 

Football fans are crazy everywhere though, that much is true.

What to Eat in Europe

The food in Europe is so varied that my mind reels just trying to think about it. Where do I even begin?

First off, people are extremely proud of their culture’s cooking. Italians sing praise about the quality of ingredients and the simplicity of their style. The French boast about their prowess in the kitchen and complex techniques. The Spanish of course love to talk about their tapas culture.

Secondly, though European culinary traditions have very long histories, most changed completely in the last few centuries. The introduction of new ingredients from the new world was nothing short of revolutionary. The Italians received the all-important tomatoes, the English imported curry, and the Germans got the Turkish kebab.

Most European culinary traditions have very multicultural pasts. North African traders and immigrants have had a profound effect on the Mediterranean diets and cultures as distant as China have purportedly influenced the creation of pasta.

All I can say is that a backpacking trip through Europe will be like a tour of heaven for your stomach. There are so many different kinds of food to try and a staggering amount of diversity. My best advice: try the usual suspects but be sure to experiment a bit.

Must-Try Dishes in Europe

Here are some of the best foods you have to try while backpacking in Europe:

• Pasta (Italy) – A VERY general term: pasta can mean a lot of things. Be sure to have more than just spaghetti.
• Coq Au Vin (France) – A simple, yet delicious stew made from chicken, wine, mushrooms, and garlic.
• Pies (UK) – A staple of just about every pub and inn in the UK. Simple and satisfying.
• Haggis (Scotland) – A slightly spicy mixture of internal organs cooked in a lamb’s stomach is actually really delicious.
• Pastel de Nata (Portugal) – A small, custard-filled egg tart that originates in Lisbon.
• Paella (Spain) –  Rice prepared in a special pan and often prepared with seafood.
• Moules Frites (Belgium) – Mussels prepared in different kinds of sauces and served with fried potatoes.
• Souvlaki (Greece) – What most people imagine to be “gyros” when gyros is just a general term for shaved meat.
• Schnitzel (Germany) – Meat flattened, breaded, and fried.
• Sachertorte (Austria) – A delicacy of Vienna and perhaps one of the best cakes in Europe.
• Stroopwafel (Netherlands) – The best sweet treat ever.

Europe’s super-varied landscape and wealth of cultures mean that there are heaps of cool new experiences to have. Go beyond your regular pub crawls and walking tours and check out some unique experiences you can only have in Europe.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Hiking in Europe

Europe is a land blessed of incredible hiking opportunities with trails both for expert trekkers and beginner hikers . Each country has a wide range of day hikes and multi-day treks on offer. Trekking is a great way to get to know any country by experiencing its wild side.

In addition to well-maintained trail systems, many regions in Europe have a network of mountain huts. For a fee, you can enjoy these super comfortable and unique fixtures of the European mountains.

Here are a few of the best hikes in Europe to get you psyched for an outdoor adventure of your own.

• Mt. Etna Trek, Sicily, Italy : Climbing an active Volcano in Sicily is as much fun as it sounds.
• Walkers Haute Route, France-Switzerland (Chamonix to Zermatt):  A famous high route from Chamonix to Zermatt. The trek features absolutely classic alpine scenery, snowy peaks, glaciers, high meadows and deep valleys, and close-up views of such icons as Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn.
• Tour Du Mont Blanc, France:  The unforgettable circuit around the Mont Blanc massif. Outstanding views up to Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest at 4,810m, and out across the dramatic peaks, glaciers, and deep green valleys of the high Alps. If you have the time, this might just be the most scenic (and most trafficked) hike in Western Europe.
• El Camino de Santiago, France – Spain:  Perhaps the most popular long-distance trek in the world , El Camino is an important trek in the hearts of religious pilgrims and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The Camino is actually multiple trails leading to Santiago de Compostela and eventually Finisterre, “the end of the world”.
• Mount Olympus, Greece: The fabled mountain where the ancient Greek Gods were supposed to have lived is very climbable in just one day.

Surfing in Europe

Many backpackers are unaware that there is some killer surf to be found all across Europe. Portugal is certainly famous for having massive waves and the associated surf competitions.

That said, if you are keen on surfing at some point as you’re backpacking through Europe, you do have some options. Below I have provided a shortlist of surfing hotspots in Europe.

• Biarritz, France : One of the oldest known surf meccas of Europe. The surfing here is great for beginners as well as seasoned rippers.
• Newgale, Wales : Surfing on this beautiful stretch of coast facing out towards the Irish Sea; the waves here are powerful and the views are epic.
• Belhaven Bay, Scotland : This surf spot is only an hours drive from Edinburgh! Make sure you have a good wetsuit. Not the warmest water in the world, but the waves are good at times.
• San Sebastian, Spain : When not eating and drinking, it is easy to hit the beach and catch a few waves before resuming the former.
• Lagos, Portugal : Probably the unofficial capital of surfing in Portugal. There are many surf schools across Lagos that will help you tune up your surfing game in no time.

Museums in Europe

Europe is the world’s best continent to tour museums, both art and history adjacent. (That might have something to do with plundering other countries’ national treasures and refusing to return them… But uh, let’s not focus on that.)

Europe’s best museum city is London. Most of London’s museums are free to visit, and they have some of the best collections of art and historical relics from everywhere in the world. (Again, for certain reasons…) My favourite museums in London are The National Gallery, The Natural History Museum, The British Museum, and Victoria and Albert Museum.

Paris is strong in the museum game too. Definitely visit the Louvre and its most iconic resident Mona Lisa. Don’t grumble about it being small, it’s still awesome. For more morbid explorers, the Paris Catacombs offer a cool glimpse into the city’s history.

More honourable mentions to go Reina Sofia in Madrid, Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, and Dachau concentration camp in Germany (it counts).

Bring your ID – some places, like the Louvre, have free admission to students and people under 25.

Got questions about backpacking Western Europe? I’ve got the answers!

Where should I start backpacking through Europe?

Backpacking through Europe is a momentous task, but starting in Britain or Portugal will stop you having to make tedious back and forth journeys. You don’t want to be doubling back on yourself when distances are so large! That said, you can really start anywhere, just make sure you’ve got enough cash to fly home 😉

How long is the average backpacking Europe trip?

On average, backpackers make a 2-3 week route travelling around Europe. If you want to visit Europe properly, you can easily spend 6 months or more pedalling around. Try going for 2-3 months if you want to get a much fuller picture of what it is like.

What is the Cost of Backpacking Through Europe?

As with anywhere, the cost of backpacking Europe will be down to you, where you go, and how you spend. Western Europe is more expensive and will most likely require $50-$90/day, whilst heading east can put your budget lower, at around $30-$60/day. On top of transport and flights, Europe can seriously add up…

Where are the hottest people in Europe?

I’d say Finland. Source: I’m Finnish. Apparently Nordic people are, statistically, very sexually liberated on a global scale. But I would personally like to guide your attention towards Southern Europe… Greek Tinder is something else, hey.

Who feeds the Loch Ness monster in Scotland?

The park rangers feed the sea snake with tourists that behave badly and/or ask stupid questions. There’s also a bloke who has been on the lookout for years and never seen it. Take from that what you will.

Congratulations! You made it to the end of my Europe travel guide!

I hope the information I have provided will help you navigate the exciting European journey you have decided to embark on. Backpacking in Europe will be one of the most fun experiences of your life, I have no doubts about that.

Europe can be one hell of a place to let loose and have a good time. Between the party-hearty music festivals, discotheques, rave scenes, pub crawls, and other venues of hedonistic tendency, there is ample opportunity for backpackers to get down.

Have fun on your Europe backpacking journey – but like my mum would say, not too much fun! Partying every day is one of the most common backpacker traps that travellers fall into.

When visiting historic sights or religious monuments, be respectful. Certainly do not climb on old ruins or touch priceless paintings. Europe is full of historical treasures. Don’t be that dickhead that contributes to their demise and destruction.

When you can, make an effort to learn at least a few words of the local language of the country you are backpacking in. It’s a challenge as every country has a different language, but a little effort goes a long way. The world need not revolve around us native English speakers!

Do your best to support local artisans, organic farmers, and craftspeople while travelling around Europe. Keep your dollars local, especially in small villages or towns. 

Never take it for granted that you are healthy and financially able to go travelling. Show the world around you some gratitude and help to make a positive impact on it.

Most of all, have the time of your life and spread the love!

Updated May 2023 by Abe Lea

Nic Hilditch-Short

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16 Comments

I am dreaming of backpacking Spain. The only thing I found out of the league in this country is the timing of breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Anyway, given the fact that Spain never sleeps, it can be understood.

Great post! I can’t wait to start planning my European backpacking trip.

My big dream is to visit Oia, Santorini. This place is just magical.

I would suggest you to put Slovenia in this list. In this small country you can find beautiful places for low price and save society

We can’t wait to get there! Once we do, we will add it to the list! cheers.

the most honest and helpful backpacking guide yet. thankyou!!!!!

I really enjoyed reading this post. Especially as a European.

Some insider tips of my own. UK: * Trains are expensive, budget airlines and coaches are great though. Maybe even cycle, we have some amazing National Cycle routes that really open up the countryside (borrow a Boris bike in London-great cheap way to discover the city) *The coastline in the UK is so varied, some of my favourite beaches in the world are on the West cost of Scotland (check out the isle of Skye and the fairy pools). Or try surfing in Cornwall. *Accommodation, Hotels are pricey but try the Youth Hostel Association (YHA) it’s a charity that run hostels up and down the country, usually near iconic landmarks and hiking trails. You can wild camp in Scotland but not the rest of the UK so you’ll have to find a proper campsite in England and Wales.

As for what season to go to Europe: My general rule of thumb is Mountains in the Summer, beaches in the Autumn. Ski resorts are much cheaper in the summer and offer amazing hiking opportunities (think the Dolomites of Ital or Soca Valley in Slovenia). It is simply too hot to be in Greece in August 100 degrees quite frequently. Places like Greece and Croatia are amazing but a lot less hot, and less crowded at the end of September/early October. Netherlands is great in the spring- think colourful fields of tulips. Also consider that the sun doesn’t really set in the summer in places like Iceland and northern Scandinavia.

For almost all parts of Europe wear layers and pack a light weight, windproof waterproof jacket. The temperature and weather conditions can vary so much in just a couple of hours. Leave high heels at home. Trainers are perfectly acceptable almost everywhere…A lot of streets across a lot of Europe are cobbled you don’t want a twisted ankle.

Some awesome tips there, thanks Kayleigh!

Wonderful post.Very helpful and awesome info.really informative post!Nice post.Amazing article.

Thanks for sharing ideas, really informative post! I’m thinking about to do The Kings Trail in Sweden. Is it possible to do only in summer or spring should be fine as well. I’m traveler with tents, so would like to sleep outside as much as possible. Cheers, Rob

You can do the King’s Trail hike in the spring, but you must be aware that there will be few other hikers (maybe that’s a good thing for you), it will be really cold still, and there will be lots of snow to walk through. You would need to be outfitted with the right gear for it to be possible/enjoyable for you. The later in the spring your start (Late April/Early May) the warmer it will be and the less snow you will find on the trail. The best weather for sleeping outside is obviously in the summer. You won’t need to carry as much cold weather gear then either. Hope that helps! Good luck on your hike 🙂

Very helpful and awesome info. Very entertainingly written as well!

Nice post. I’d have to recommend checking out Poland though if you haven’t already (it isn’t mentioned). It is great for backpacking through.

Amazing article. Each and every information shared here is very useful. I went to Europe on a short trip. Visited Switzerland and fell in love with its beauty. A must visit.

Wonderful post. Europe is super backpack friendly – I did Eastern Europe and it is full of hidden gems.

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Tour du mont blanc hike.

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Guided and self-guided hikes, treks, hut treks and glacier treks in the dolomites, provence, the alps of switzerland, italy, austria and france: custom trips and scheduled departures year round with ifmga certified mountain guides or hiking guides.

Alps / France & Switzerland

THE Classic Glacier Trek and probably the most scenic of the Alps.

6.5 days hut-to-hut guided trek on glaciers (40%) and trails (60%) from Chamonix to Zermatt, eye to eye with Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. Suited for strong hikers with very good endurance. Light overnight packs. No previous experience on crampons required. Optional Mont Blanc Ascent afterwards. Mid June – Mid September.

Cortina Dolomites Hut Trek

Alps / dolomites / italy.

“Best Trails around Cortina” – Dolomites Guided Hut Trek

3 – 6 days hut-to-hut trekking through the most spectacular ranges in the Dolomites based in the famous resort town of Cortina. 4 – 8 hours of hiking every day on non-technical trails. Lots of flexibility to adjust the program to weather and the group’s preferences en route. Some huts offer double rooms and shared showers! Excellent food! June – early October. Prefer a self-guided adventure? We can do that too!

Stubai Alps High Route Trek

Alps / austria.

3 – 6 Day guided hut trek on the Stubai High Route in the Tyrolian Alps / Austria

Suitable for all levels but good endurance and stamina are required for 6 – 9 hrs daily hiking. Panoramic, high-level trails, at times with cable protection and eye-to-eye with the glaciated peaks of the Austrian Alps. Via ferrata trails and the ascent of a glaciated peak are optional on some departures. Mid June – Mid October.

Oetztal Alps High Alpine Hut Trek

3 – 6 day guided hut trek with glacier travel and peak ascents in the Tirolian Alps/Austria

High-level traverse with peak ascents using spectacularly located huts/mountain lodges above 3000 meters (10,000 ft) in one of the most glaciated ranges of the Austrian Alps. Well-maintained, panoramic trails, in some spots with cable protection and some glaciated passages that require the use of crampons. Suitable for sure-footed hikers or mountaineers with good endurance and stamina for up to 7 hrs hiking daily.  Mid June – Mid September.

Bernese Alps “Eiger Trek”

Alps / switzerland.

7-day guided trek, hotel-to-hotel on high-level trails in the shadow of the stunning glaciated peaks of the Bernese Alps.

Challenging hiking traverse on sometimes steep mountain trails with lodging in the quaint mountain towns of Interlaken, Grindelwald, Luerren, Kandersteeg to Gstaad. Trip can be shortened for custom bookings, luggage transfer available every other day. Mid June – Mid October. Prefer self-guided? We offer that too!

Alps: France, Italy and Switzerland

6 days of guided trekking in the Western Alps. This classic trek is an express version, highlighting the most important and scenic parts of the trail while circumnavigating Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc. The trek starts and ends in Chamonix, France. Private trips can be shortened or extended on a custom basis. Light daypacks with daily luggage transfer. Strenuous hiking on good trails, rocky terrain, and snow-covered passes, up to 8 hours of hiking per day with steady elevation gains and losses.

Southern France / Provence

6 Days “Best of Provence” hiking trip from the mountains and the wine country in the north to the rugged coast Line of the Cote D’Azur. Mont Ventoux – Baronnies – Dentelles de Montmirails – Gorge Du Verdon – Les Calanques: Challenging day hikes, based in comfortable hotels in picturesque towns of the Provence. Via Ferrata trails optional. Great trip for spring and fall from April – December.

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We can customize whatever your ideal trip at no cost or obligation. Hut – Treks, Backpacking, Day Hikes, Hotel-Based – you decide! Mix it up by adding a day of guided via ferrata or rock climbing – beginner’s welcome!

Self Guided: The Best High Route Treks in the Dolomites

3 – 9 days of self-guided hut-to-hut trekking in the Dolomites on scenic, non-technical trails along one of the 10 Dolomite High Routes. Customized itineraries with detailed trip descriptions, bad weather and fatigue options, reserved and pre-paid lodging, professional drivers, luggage transfer options and a hotline contact en route. Many of the mountain lodges and huts offer double rooms and shared showers! Excellent food! Requires good fitness and multi-day hiking experience. Mid June – Early October.

Self-Guided: Dolomites High Route Alta Via 1

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• Super scenic, 3-8-day hut-to-hut treks in the heart of the Dolomites
• Fully catered huts, most with showers, some with private rooms
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Self-Guided Dolomites High Route – Alta Via 2

• More challenging hiking than on the Dolomites High Route #1 / Alta Via Uno
• Some exposed sections with cables (via ferrata equipment not necessary)
• 3- to 9-days, hut-to-hut and a mid-trip hotel in Canazei
• Fully catered huts, many with showers, some with private rooms
• GPS tracks, PDF maps, and detailed instructions provided
• Combine it with THE Octoberfest in Munich (Sept/Oct) or sightseeing in Venice

Self-Guided: Tour du Mont Blanc Hike

4-12 days of self-guided trekking in the Western Alps. This classic trek is often completed in 6 days with our ‘express’ itinerary, highlighting the most important and scenic parts of the trail while circumnavigating Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc. The trek starts and ends in Chamonix, France. Private trips can be shortened or extended on a custom basis. Light daypacks with daily luggage transfer. Strenuous hiking on good trails, rocky terrain, and snow-covered passes, up to 8 hours of hiking per day with steady elevation gains and losses.

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Backpacking Europe Routes: 4 Epic Itineraries!

If you’re planning the Euro backpacking trip of your dreams but don’t know where to start, fear not! We’ve put together four Europe backpacking routes that appeal to different interests and types of travelers – the ‘Grand Tour’ of most commonly-visited places; a history buff’s guide to Southern Europe, a budget guide to Eastern Europe and for those of you who just can’t stop traveling, an epic around the continent route at the end!

These handpicked Europe itineraries will suit all kinds of travelers, from those on a blow-out gap year to backpackers who want to get the most adventure for their buck. Sit back and grab a cuppa as we’re about to take you on a whirlwind tour of Europe. 

Related: (opens in new tab)

• How Much Does it Cost to Backpack Europe?
• A Guide to Visas for Europe
• Amazing Hostels in Europe for Backpackers

Top Europe Backpacking Trips: 4 Travel Itineraries

While you may associate backpacking through Europe with train travel and dormitory-style hostels, it’s been a rite of passage since the 18th century, when young people (mostly men) would spend a few years traveling around ‘The Continent’ prior to fully joining society. This was seen as a capstone educational experience – both in terms of seeing classical antiquity up close and interacting with new and different situations, people, and challenges.

This is still the case today too. While Europe’s countless museums , cuisines, and cultural contributions make it a premier travel destination, long-haul travel is also a fantastic way to learn about yourself. 

There are countless combinations of countries, sights, and transit options for a backpacking trip in Europe, and it can be easy to get overwhelmed. The itineraries we’ve mapped out below are very customizable for this very reason. You can add more destinations, or stop a route partway through depending on how much time you have. 

We recommend not squeezing in too much as things will start to blur together and you may find yourself getting fatigued. If you’re limited on time (say, you only have a month or so), pick your favorite neighboring countries to explore in-depth. That way, you’ll still get a bit of the backpacking experience, but you won’t run yourself ragged.

As you plan your Europe backpacking route, consider the best time to visit each place . Southern Europe in particular gets very hot and very busy in the summertime but is very comfortable in the winter. The Low Countries are very gray and rainy in the fall and winter but have mild and lovely summers. 

Relatedly, countries like Austria and Switzerland, as well as the Scandinavian region, are typically not considered budget-friendly destinations. Depending on your funds, you may want to plan to spend a bit less time in these countries or forgo them entirely if you’re sticking to shoestring style travel. Off-season travel can also be a way to save if you can be flexible with dates!

If you’re travelling solo and are nervous about the safety aspect of your trip, we urge you not to worry. There are a number of really safe European countries with excellent tourist infrastructure in place. This means that you can backpack worry-free!

1. Western Europe Backpacking Route: The ‘Grand Tour’

This tour starts in London because Heathrow is a great international hub for incoming flights, but we encourage you to shop around a bit and see if another city (like Paris, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam) is a cheaper place for you to start. 

London is one of the world’s premier cities. It’s absolutely massive and would take months to explore in full. As such, it’s good to prioritize based on your budget and interests. First-time visitors usually hit the following sites: 

• Westminster Abbey
• Buckingham Palace (the residence of the Queen) and its changing of the guard ceremony for royal enthusiasts
• The Houses of Parliament
• Number 10 Downing Street
• The Churchill War Rooms for fans of politics
• Big Ben clock tower
• The (free!) British Museum
• The Victoria and Albert Museum
• The Tower of London (home to the Crown Jewels)
• The National Gallery
• Covent Garden and Neal’s Yard 
• Piccadilly Circus
• Notting Hill for its Portobello Road Market

If you’d like to stay in England a bit longer, consider some cozy cottage time in the Cotswolds , a football match and a few pints in Liverpool or Manchester , or some seaside charm in Brighton . You can also visit famed educational institutions at Oxford and Cambridge , as well as Roman-era baths in Bath . 

Glasgow has great art galleries, like the notable Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. It’s the largest city in Scotland, particularly known for an architecture style that mixes Art Nouveau and Victorian styles. 

Edinburgh , Scotland’s capital, is a great student city, with all sorts of things to do. Trek up Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill, visit the Edinburgh Castle and don’t forget to check out both the Old Town and New Town.

See more: Edinburgh itineraries.

Other great places to backpack in Scotland include Inverness , Dundee , and of course, Loch Ness where you can go monster hunting! The Cairngorms and Glencoe have beautiful mountains for hiking, and fans of critters will love the puffins, ponies, and otters on the Shetland Islands . 

Ireland and Northern Ireland

Dublin , Ireland’s capital, has castles, museums, cathedrals, universities, and of course, great pub culture in the Temple Bar area. St. Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park are beautiful emerald green spaces, and the Guinness headquarters is here as well. 

Galway is an easy day trip from Dublin by bus and is a great example of relaxed, charming Irish life. The home to the Claddagh ring, its Latin Quarter still has medieval city walls, and the city is quaint and adorable.  

Many visitors flock to the astounding Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, which offer 14 kilometers of sea cliffs along the Wild Atlantic Way.

If you’d like to spend more time in Ireland, the Aran Islands , or smaller cities or counties like Cork , Killarney , and Sligo are good options. Ireland also has fabulous nature to explore and ample national parks for hiking, swimming, and outdoor fun. 

Northern Ireland is also a destination to consider, famous for the gorgeous Giant’s Causeway. A quick stop at the beautiful capital of Belfast is also highly recommended.

The Netherlands

Amsterdam is perhaps best known for its tolerant attitude towards partying, prostitution, and recreational drug use, but it’s so much more than that. 

The canal area (Grachtengordel) is like stepping into the Golden Age, the museum district (home to the Rijksmuseum, van Gogh Museum, and more) is world-class, and the funkier Noord and West districts allow you more of a taste of local life. Haarlem is just 15 minutes away by train and offers much of what Amsterdam does so well (in terms of cute houses, cute canals, and cute cafes) with a lot less chaos. 

Rotterdam was bombed almost to nonexistence in World War II, so it’s one of the only cities in the Netherlands that doesn’t have the Golden Age architecture. Instead, it is modern and utterly cool, a stark departure from the rest of the country. 

If you’re visiting in the spring, don’t miss the world-famous tulips in bloom at the Keukenhof or other family-owned farms in the Lisse area. 

Other lovely day trips in the Netherlands include Giethoorn , called the ‘Venice of the Netherlands’ for its extensive canal system; the cheese market in Alkmaar ; the collection of windmills in Zaanse Schans ; Utrecht , a quaint college town with ‘double-decker’ canals; the hub of human rights in The Hague ; pottery and history in Delft ; or the North Frisian Islands on the Wadden Sea for super-cool seascapes and sand dunes, namely Texel . 

Don’t miss these Amsterdam itineraries written by our resident writer!

The capital of Belgium , Brussels has a chic and cosmopolitan vibe. You can’t miss the Grand Place with its stunning guildhalls, as well as the Town Hall. Belgians are also well-known for fries and waffles, treats to indulge in on any visit!  

History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the historic diamond district in Antwerp , as well as the Ardennes , the site of the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. For your dose of medieval charm, check out Ghent or Bruges , which aren’t too far from Brussels.

Luxembourg is a great day trip if you’re passing through en route to France or Germany. It has medieval fortifications, a cute old town called the Grund, and a fascinating interconnected tunnel network called the Bock Casemates. You can see the city from above from the Chemin de la Corniche viewpoint. 

If you’d like to stay longer, other cute cities include Clervaux , the medieval castle in Vianden , and the historic abbey at Echternach . 

Berlin has fantastic clubs and nightlife, a wide range of museums on Museum Island, and a variety of historical monuments, including the Brandenburg Gate and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. 

It has a very different vibe to other German and European cities, much grittier and more modern, and is also quite budget-friendly. Close by on the metro, visit Potsdam for your dose of royal life, with its beautiful Sanssouci Palace and park. 

Munich is a popular destination for tourists, and for good reason. Bavarian culture is perhaps what most foreigners associate with Germany , and you can have your fill of beers, pretzels, and German pub culture here. While away an afternoon at the English Garden, and don’t miss the Nymphenburg Palace and Gardens.

Frankfurt is a banking capital and financial center, as well as being the home of the European Central Bank. It also has a lot to offer tourists in terms of museums and culture. Note that this may be a good hub to fly into, as it is home to one of Europe’s largest airports.

As you can see on a map, Germany is quite large! If you like German culture or want to brush up on your German language skills, this is a great place to spend some extra time if you have it. 

Other popular cities in Germany include Hamburg , Düsseldorf, Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Heidelberg, and Hanover. Baden Baden and Freiburg in the Black Forest are beautiful as well, and there are myriad quaint small towns in the countryside to enjoy. 

Czech Republic

Prague is nicknamed ‘the City of a Hundred Spires,’ due to its baroque Old Town and surrounding Gothic churches. While a relatively small city, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations due to its quaint and compact center. Don’t miss the Astronomical Clock show and the iconic Charles Bridge, which dates back to the 1400s.

Český Krumlov is best known for its castle and mix of baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic styles. For more modernist architecture, check out Brno . If you’d like to visit the home of one of the world’s most popular beers, check out Pilsen .

Vienna is another historical heavyweight, with loads of cultural contributions and museums. It is very calm and quiet for a large city, and you’ll enjoy strolling through its parks and gardens, including the Hapsburg summer residence at Schönbrunn.

Salzburg packs quite a punch for a small town. While perhaps most famous as the setting for the iconic film The Sound of Music , it is also the birthplace of Mozart and has a fantastic medieval fortification called the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Don’t miss the great vegan food available here !

Fans of winter sports will enjoy skiing at Soelden , Saalbach , and Lech , in addition to the winter dreamland at Innsbruck . Many visitors also flock to Hallstatt for the classic view of the church reflected on the water. 

Milan is one of the world’s fashion capitals and home to the Duomo of Milan, one of the world’s most iconic churches. Nearby Lake Como is a haunt of the rich and famous during the summer months, but is lovely off-season as well (and cheaper!)

Rome is a must-stop on any European backpacking route, for fantastic cuisine, awe-inspiring history, and beautiful fountains. Don’t miss the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon for history, and the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and Spanish Steps for iconic photo opportunities. St. Peter’s Square and Basilica are iconic Catholic sites, and the Vatican Museums hold many treasures. 

Venice is a one-of-a-kind place, built exclusively on canals. The Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica (and its resident pigeons), and yearly Carnival celebrations attract a lot of visitors, and you can’t miss the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge. Keep in mind it gets very muggy (sometimes stinky) and crowded in the summertime.

Florence, San Gimignano, Lucca, Siena, and broader Tuscany are in a class all their own, with rolling countryside, Renaissance icons like Michelangelo’s David and the Duomo cathedral, and wonderful cuisine and wine. A quick pit stop in Pisa to see its iconic Leaning Tower is never a bad idea while you’re in the area.

In the south, check out Naples, Sorrento , and the Amalfi Coast for a bit of a seaside escape. Neapolitan pizza is arguably the world’s most famous and originated here. Nearby Pompeii is quite a sight to behold, totally buried under the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD. Alternatively, consider Cinque Terre for a similar vibe to the Amalfi Coast. 

There are countless things to do in Italy , and it may be best to prioritize based on what you like best – history, the outdoors, the coast, etc. as well as your budget. While cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are considered must-sees, customize the rest of your time in Italy with a mix of other things. 

Landscapes, cultural contributions, weather, and dialects vary hugely depending on where you are, and you’ll want to get a good mix in order to make the most of your trip. In general, southern Italy is much cheaper than northern Italy. 

Switzerland

Switzerland is a very pricey location, and as such, may be a country to skip unless you have your heart set on certain destinations. Geneva and Zurich are its most popular destinations, for beautiful lake views and glamorous city life. Its smaller cities, like Basel , Lucerne , and Lausanne are lovely as well, with Interlaken a hub for winter sports fans.

Paris is another of the must-sees on any Europe backpacking itinerary. Similarly to London or Rome, you could spend months in Paris easily, so it’s important to prioritize based on your budget and preferences. Don’t forget, there are plenty of free things to do in Paris too!

Alongside its most popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, don’t miss Sacre Coeur and the Moulin Rouge in the iconic Montmartre neighborhood; the Latin Quarter; shopping (or window-shopping) along the Champs-Elysées; the Luxembourg and Tuileries gardens; and its variety of other museums, like the d’Orsay, the Orangerie, and the Pompidou. 

Versailles is an easy day trip from Paris as well. If you’re spending a lot of time in museums, consider buying a museum pass. It includes a surprising wealth of museums, and if you plan accordingly it will save you a lot of money. 

To get out of the big city, consider spending some time in Provence on the Cote d’Azur or Nice on the French Riviera. Both are fairly posh locales, but possible to do on a budget with some planning. 

Wine fans can flock to Burgundy or Bordeaux , and film aficionados to Cannes . The beaches at Normandy are a sobering and reflective place, and in the intriguing Alsace-Lorraine region, don’t miss the half-timbered houses in quaint Strasbourg , Kaysersberg , or Colmar . 

Also read: Top Destinations for Wine in Europe .

Madrid is a hub of culture, from the amazing art museum El Prado to its wide boulevards and romantic Buen Retiro park. You can also check out the Royal Palace, home to Spain’s royal family, the main square in Plaza Mayor, or catch a Real Madrid game at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Don’t miss the delicious ‘Chocolate y Churros’ at the San Miguel Market. 

Barcelona , the capital of the semi-autonomous Catalonia region, is home to whimsical architecture from native sons Gaudí and Miró , like the Park Guell, Casa Batlló, and Sagrada Familia church. Another church you shouldn’t miss is the iconic Cathedral of the Sea or Maria del Mar. The famous shopping area La Rambla is home to Mercado de la Boqueria, where you can get lots of fresh juices and other goodies. 

Sevilla is a regal place, boasting the sprawling Plaza de España, a massive gothic cathedral, and Royal Alcázar palace. The former Moorish presence is quite felt here in converted architecture like La Giralda, a former minaret-turned belltower. Sevilla is also the birthplace of flamenco dancing, so be sure to catch that while you’re in town. 

Overall, the south of Spain is a particularly wonderful part of the country, with a relaxed vibe, amazing cuisine, and the bonus of being a bit more budget-friendly. 

Check out Valencia, Córdoba, Granada , Ronda, and Málaga for sunshine, citrus fruit, and stunning historical sites like the Mezquita in Córdoba and the Alhambra in Granada . 

For something different, consider spending some time in Bilbao and San Sebastián in the Basque Country, beautiful and modern cities with museums and skyscrapers. Relatedly, one of Europe’s most popular hikes is in this area: the Camino de Santiago . While formerly a religious pilgrimage, many people undertake this journey for non-religious reasons. There are places to stay each night and you can walk anywhere from a day to several weeks. 

If you’re seeking a beach-and-partying break, the beaches in the Canary Islands or the Balearics, like Ibiza, Tenerife , and Majorca . can’t be beaten. Keep in mind transport and lodging can get very pricey in the wintertime, as these boast some of the warmest temperatures in the region. 

Lisbon is a fantastic budget destination, with great weather, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back vibe. The iconic yellow streetcars are a quaint way to travel, or you can trek up the hills to the breathtaking São Jorge Castle for sweeping city views. Don’t miss the lovely azulejo tiles adorning the buildings, and the cool fortifications at Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.   

Close to Lisbon, don’t miss the unbelievable castle and gardens at Sintra . Porto has a cute, cobblestoned medieval district and (of course) fantastic port, and Faro boasts Moorish walls and a great gateway to the rest of the beautiful Algarve region. 

Athens is a vibrant ‘old-meets-new’ place, boasting ancient relics like the Acropolis complex and the Parthenon, amid a great food scene, parks, and gardens.

The Greek Islands are a really special destination suitable for all sorts of backpackers. Party animals will love Mykonos, while Santorini’s white-and-blue buildings are a common bucket-list destination. Milos and Paros are a bit more off-the-beaten-path, and Crete is quite large, perhaps giving you more bang for your buck. Keep in mind the Greek Islands are not often a budget destination, so if you’re traveling shoestring consider planning ahead and comparing transportation options.    

2. Southern Europe Backpacking Route: The ‘History Buff’

History buffs will love Southern Europe for its jaw-dropping array of ancient ruins, medieval fortifications, art, and beyond. 

Southern Spain has a wealth of historical attractions. In Andalucía alone you have the  Mezquita in Córdoba , the Alcazaba in Málaga , the Real Alcazar in Sevilla , the Alhambra in Granada , and Baños Árabes and Puente Nuevo in Ronda . Outside of Andalucía, Tarragona has a Roman Amphitheare, and Cádiz has the Castillo de Santa Ana, as well as a storied naval history.

Southern France has Roman history, Gallic history, papal history, and beyond, with innumerable sites to check out. Visit the iconic double-walled medieval fortifications in Carcassonne ; canals and chateaus in Annecy ; scenes of papal intrigue in Avignon and Orange ; the site of a 2nd-century fortified town in Uzès ; the ‘red city’ of Albi ; Roman ruins in Nîmes ; and The Calanques from the fortifications of Cassis . 

Larger cities in southern France are chock-full of history as well. Arles is one of the oldest cities in France and pre-dates the Romans. Marseilles was originally founded by the Greeks and is thought to be the oldest city in France. Toulouse changed hands from the Visigoths to the Merovingian and Carolingian Franks, originally known as Tolosa in Roman times.

Check out the Bonifacio Citadel and Citadelle de Calvi, as well as Napoleon’s birthplace in Corsica (part of France.)

Italy has a wealth of historical attractions, and not just in Rome. After you’ve seen the Colosseum, the Appian Way, the Forum, and beyond in Rome , be sure to check out some sites in the rest of the country. 

In southern Italy, check out the scene of the volcanic eruption at Pompeii and Herculaneum, lovingly-preserved Doric-style temples at Paestum; ancient cave dwellings at Matera ; and intriguing stone huts in Alberobello . For Napoleon buffs, you can also visit Elba , where he was exiled in 1814.

Sicily has a wealth of ancient sites and offers a great bang for your buck for a Euro backpacking trip. Agrigento is famous for its Valley of the Temples, and the Villa Romana del Casale outside Piazza Armerina boasts one of the most complete mosaics collections in existence today. 

Siracusa and nearby Ortigia Island also have large complexes of ruins in excellent conditions, well worth at least a day or two to explore. For other standalone sites on the island, consider the Tempio di Segesta in Trapani , the Cathedral in Palermo ; the Necropolis of Pantalica ; and Taormina’s Greek theater.

UNESCO describes Valletta, Malta as “one of the most concentrated historical areas in the world.” Established by the Knights of St. John, a Catholic order, Valletta has fabulous gardens, churches, and fortifications dating back to the 1500s. Even older than Valletta is Mdina , the capital of Malta before the arrival of the Knights. 

It goes without saying that a large draw of Greece is its historical offerings, similarly to Italy. As mentioned in the itinerary above, you can’t miss the Acropolis and Parthenon complex in Athens , and the country is littered with other ancient sites of interest. 

A small selection of your endless historical options include:

• Byzantine frescoes in Mystras
• The Oracle at Delphi
• Eastern Orthodox monasteries atop spindly rock formations in Meteora
• The site of the original Olympic Games at Olympia
• The canals at Corinth
• The world’s oldest city in Knossos , Crete
• The Ancient Theatre at the Sanctuary of Asclepius in Epidaurus
• The Mycenae archaeological site of Trojan War fame
• Delos , the birthplace of Apollo 
• The remains of the walled city of Philippi
• The site of the Battle of Thermopylae

North Macedonia

Similar to Greece, North Macedonia has much to offer the history buff. The area around Skopje offers fortresses, bridges, and a market dating back to the 12th century. There is also a Byzantine fortified town at Bargala , the ‘Jerusalem of the Baltics’ in Ohrid , the archaeological site of Tauresium in Gradište , and another fabulous fortress in Isar .

3. Eastern Europe Backpacking Route: The ‘Budget Maximizer’

Eastern Europe is known for being a budget-friendly destination, and this is definitely true. The region is also chock-full of amazing cities, nature, and things to do and explore so it’s a win-win for aspiring backpackers! 

You can start this tour in the Czech Republic, flying into Prague and following the Grand Tour itinerary for Prague, Český Krumlov, Brno , and beyond . From there, head to Slovakia! 

Slovakia has the most castles per capita in Europe, and its capital of Bratislava has a charming old town that is pedestrian-only, lined with cute shops and restaurants. In addition to its castle and castle ruins, it also has majestic churches in different styles.

Košice dates back to the 13th century, and you can still visit the medieval city walls, with the largest preserved historic city center in Slovakia. Today, it is mainly known for steel production, but its historic center is arguably the best in the country. 

For some nature, go bear-watching in the High Tatras National Park or hiking in the aptly-named Slovak Paradise National Park .

Hungary is also a great alternative in which to start this Europe backpacking route, flying into the large hub of Budapest . Budapest is an absolutely fantastic city, with a variety of attractions at a great price point. 

The city is on a geographic fault line, so you have lots of options for thermal baths: check out Instagram-hyped Szechenyi, avoid the tourists at less popular but equally gorgeous Gellert, or have a truly local experience at Lukacs. 

Don’t miss the jaw-dropping Hungarian Parliament building, stroll along the Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church, and explore both Buda and Pest via the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. Have a beer at one of Budapest’s ruin bars, filled with all sorts of oddities, and try some Hungarian goodies at the Central Market Hall. 

For a less urban experience, check out serene Lake Balaton , try some local wines in caves in the Valley of the Beautiful Women in Eger , or cycle around quaint Szentendre .

Slovenia is also a great destination for those seeking a mix of smaller, beautiful cities and lots of nature opportunities. Capital Ljubljana has a similar vibe to Prague and Budapest (with lovely castles, parks, bridges, and museums), and Piran is famous for Venetian architecture along the Adriatic coast. 

Arguably the most popular location in Slovenia is Lake Bled and its iconic Bled Island and church, surrounded by surreal turquoise water. The Julian Alps surround the lake and are a great, nearby location for hiking. 

Croatia has long been a favorite destination for backpackers due to low prices and few tourists. However, Game of Thrones has led to large crowds visiting very small Dubrovnik (AKA Kings’ Landing.) 

Split is also on the Adriatic Sea and is fairly similar, but a bit bigger. This can lead to more reasonable accommodation prices and a bit more breathing room. Croatia’s capital, Zagreb , is also worth a visit for very different architecture to Split and Dubrovnik in a more Austro-Hungarian style, and also boasts the beautiful Medvednica area just north of the city. 

For natural splendor, nothing beats Plitvice Lakes National Park , a series of gorgeous turquoise lakes linked quasi-vertically by waterfalls. There are also all sorts of beaches in Croatia if you’d like to take a few days to relax by the water, like Golden Horn Beach ‘ s world-famous white sand. 

Montenegro is a great destination for budget travelers and an ideal place for those seeking something a bit less touristy, but still gorgeous. The area around Kotor resembles a Scandinavian fjord, and the Stari Grad (Old Town) and city walls are fantastic to scramble around.

The capital Podgorica isn’t as exciting as other Eastern European capitals but has a cool clock tower and proximity to Lake Skadar National Park . If you want to splash out a bit, consider a visit to resort island Sveti Stefan , one of the most popular destinations in the country. 

Serbia is often overlooked in favor of Croatia and Montenegro but is absolutely worth a visit. Capital city Belgrade is lovely, with competing Roman, Ottoman, Byzantine, and Austro-Hungarian influences as well as great green spaces and cuisine. Novi Sad has the Petrovaradin Fortress and its network of tunnels, as well as very different architecture and vibes to Belgrade. 

Bulgaria is a treasure, with a long and storied history displayed in its folklore, like traditional dancing and arts and crafts. It is also said to be the birthplace of yogurt! Capital Sofia is a great place to see all of Bulgaria’s cultural attractions, or you can visit Nessebar on the Black Sea for a completely different vibe, and its world-famous Sunny Beach. For history and archaeology fans, check out Plovdiv in southern Bulgaria for Roman ruins. 

Did you know? Bulgaria is one of the cheapest countries in Europe !

Romania is perhaps most famous for its mythical Transylvania region, home to beautiful gateway cities Cluj-Napoca and Brașov , medieval fortified towns like Sighișoara, and world-famous Bran Castle , said to be where Dracula lived. 

In the Bucegi Mountains , hike to natural rock formations Babele and the Sphinx, or go underground for salt mine tours at Salina Turda . Capital Bucharest is known for its massive, Soviet-era Palace of Parliament and Old Town Lipscani district. 

Ukraine also has a variety of places of interest for budget travelers. Capital Kyiv has beautiful Eastern Orthodox-style churches, museums, and a reconstructed medieval gate. Lviv is a great place to see Polish and Austro-Hungarian culture collide, and has a world-famous opera and ballet that may be worth a splurge for tickets. 

For something a bit different, Odesa on the Black Sea is also famous for its opera and ballet, as well as the iconic stairway from The Battleship Potemkin and beautiful sea views. Intrepid travelers may be interested in visiting the nuclear disaster site Chernobyl . A tour to the exclusion zone has been determined to be safe and is possible with an official guide. 

Poland has a wealth of cities, attractions, and natural wonders to offer travelers. Similar to other countries in the region, it is a great budget destination, with fantastic food, friendly people, and enough museums and cultural contributions to entertain any tourist for years. 

Capital Warsaw suffered a lot of damage in World War II and was almost entirely rebuilt. The Soviet-style buildings aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but don’t make the mistake of skipping the city! Spend some time eating pierogi, strolling Łazienki Park, visiting the Warsaw Uprising Museum and POLIN Museum, and taking a tour of the Royal Castle as an absolute minimum. 

Cute Krakow is much more popular with tourists for its medieval Rynek Glówny quarter, as well as its proximity to underground marvel Wieliczka salt mine and concentration camp Auschwitz . Poland also has a variety of former German cities with a distinct architectural flair, like Wroclaw , Gdansk , and Gdynia , which are all highly worth a visit. 

In Lithuania, don’t miss baroque capital city Vilnius and nearby Trakai Island for its fairytale castle. At the Curonian Spit , you can see sand dunes that stretch up to 35 meters in height, and those seeking something a bit spookier can visit the sculpture garden at the Hill of Witches. A popular pilgrimage site is the Hill of Crosses , where over 100,000 crosses have been placed over the years. 

Latvia is also an often-underrated country to visit. Its capital Riga has slightly different architecture to its Eastern European contemporaries, with a lot of wood-based and art nouveau buildings at a similarly great price point for budget travelers. 

Nearby Rundāle Palace has a similar aesthetic to Versailles, and Jūrmala is a fantastic resort town that is also close to Riga.

The last stop on this Eastern European tour is in Estonia, a small country with over 1500 small islands. Its capital, Tallinn , has a cute old town with various structures dating back to the 13th century, as well as a medieval fortification tower called Kiek in de Kök. 

Seaside resort Pärnu is known for its distinctive wooden villa-style houses and the ability to mud-bathe. Bog and wetland enthusiasts will love Lahemaa National Park , the former USSR’s first national park.  

4. Around Europe Backpacking Route: The ‘Whole Shebang’

And for those of you who refuse to take your backpack off, we’ve created this final mammoth Europe itinerary. An amalgamation of the Western and Eastern routes (with a couple of tweaks for logistical reasons), this comprehensive Europe backpacking route showcases the best of what the continent has to offer, from balmy beaches, to dramatic castles and everything in between!

The adventure is limitless with this Europe itinerary, you just need to hope that your wallet is too!

Ways to Travel Around Europe

One of the best things about backpacking in Europe is the relative ease of transport between countries. As you plan out your trip, start by analyzing how you can best get between the countries you want to visit. 

A tip here is to combine trains, buses, and flights strategically. These vary widely in price, and you may be surprised at what deals you may find. 

Overall, the big advantage to buses and trains is that they usually drop you off at a more central location, sparing you transport to and from a farther-away airport. However, sometimes you may find that flights are the best fit for your budget or timeline. 

Traveling by train is often considered to be the quintessential way of getting around Europe. Companies like Eurail offer customizable train passes between 33 countries, with regional options and timing options (e.g. 15 days, 30 days, etc.) now on a mobile app. 

This ‘all-in-one’ style pass can be as simple as a hop-on-hop-off, where you show your pass to board the train of your choice. However, some places (like France and Germany) sometimes charge supplements or have a limit on how many passengers can board with a pass per train. For that reason, you may want to book tickets in advance during busy seasons, and always make sure that the journey you are taking is included in your pass! 

The associated downside to Eurail is that it is quite pricey, so you should do the math carefully to make sure you’ll actually save money with this pass. As a rule of thumb, it is largely worth it if you’re spending a lot of time in countries like Switzerland. Conversely, if you’re doing a trip mostly focused on central or eastern Europe, it’s probably cheaper to buy single tickets. 

Although train travel is the most talked-about transport for backpackers in Europe, don’t count out buses ! Companies like Flixbus and Eurolines sometimes have absolutely jaw-droppingly low fares, and charter buses are largely comfortable and reliable. 

Like trains, buses also usually drop you off in central locations, and it’s a really economical way to get from place to place. The associated downside is, of course, time. Buses get stuck in traffic and delays can be common, as well as the fact that buses are without a doubt slower than trains and planes. 

Like Asia, Europe has a variety of budget airlines that have ultra-low fares, like RyanAir, EasyJet, Wizz Air, and beyond. Be warned though, f the fares seem too good to be true, that’s because sometimes they are. 

These airlines are infamous for nickel-and-diming travelers, with add-ons for anything larger than a (small) backpack and hidden fees. However, that said, if you’re at a point in your journey where you have a longer distance to travel, or want to visit an island or somewhere logistically more challenging, you should definitely look into plane travel.

Time to Plan Your Europe Backpacking Trip!

Backpacking through Europe is definitely something that you should take advantage of. It’s totally doable to stick to a budget with some savvy planning, and you will make memories that will last a lifetime. 

We hope this article has helped to show you a few ways to put together your dream Europe backpacking trip. Of course, these routes are just a few among infinite options! 

In case nothing has tickled your fancy just yet, we’ll leave you with some more food for thought… 

• An island tour through the Canary Islands, the Azores, the Greek islands, Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Malta
• A royal jaunt through castles in the British Isles (England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland) France, Germany, Romania, and Slovenia
• An Alpine ski bum tour through Switzerland, Austria, Italy, France, and Monaco

If you have questions about specific countries not mentioned, or have another idea for cool groupings, we’d love it if you’d share it with us in the comments! Happy travels!

Tegan George & Alex McKenzie

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Backpacking Europe: A Beginners Step-by-Step Guide (2023)

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

A detailed guide to planning and booking a trip around Europe, whether you’re travelling solo, in a couple or with a friend!

Europe is a continent that you could travel to hundreds of times, yet still, find something new to discover. Diverse and culturally rich, Europe is just the gift that keeps on givin’. 

Backpacking Europe is for anyone and everyone .

As someone who has visited Europe more times than I can count, I can guide you through the necessary steps to make your dream backpacking trip become a reality.

Planning a successful backpacking Europe trip will take a bit of time, dedication, and research, but it will all be totally worth it!

But first and foremost, I’ll let you in on a secret. If you’re backpacking Europe for the first time, the best way is get around is by interrailing. I speak about this more in my post later, but you can view some of my other posts below. Bookmark them for later!

🚝 Want to buy an interrailing pass for travelling Europe? I recommend checking this website for the best discounts and deals!

• Interrailing Spain: Travel Spain By Train
• Best Hostel In Copenhagen: Steel House Review
• Interrailing Routes 3 Weeks: FOUR Routes You’ll Love!
• Interrailing Italy: Ultimate Guide and Route
• 21 Interrail Tips for First-Timers: Interrailing Europe

What To Pack Interrailing Europe: Packing List Essentials

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Backpacking Europe : A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a successful europe trip.

Europe lies solely in the Northern Hemisphere and is the world’s sixth-biggest continent . It crazily only contains 7% of the world’s land. Hard to believe when you think of all of the diverse countries it includes!

Whilst backpacking Europe, you have 50 unique countries to choose from.

A trip to Russia , the biggest in the continent situated in the North, is completely different to a visit to the smallest country on Earth; The Vatican City , which is actually located in the centre of Rome, Italy.

Whilst planning a backpacking Europe trip, there are some big factors that need to be considered.

For example, the weather! The weather within the continent can be completely different from one country to the next. For example, the UK has an average temperate of 14°C, whereas Turkey tends to linger in the high 20s more often than not.

Even visually, a country like Turkey is going to be an entirely different trip to a visit to the Scottish Highlands. That’s why knowing how to plan a Europe trip successfully is so important. 

This post is a one-stop tour of all the important aspects to consider when backpacking Europe. Whether you’re riding solo, with a partner, friend, kids or Nan ( I mean, I wish I was travelling with my nan), I’ve got you covered.

When using this post to plan your Europe trip, feel free to post any questions in the comment box, or contact me directly on social media! I’m here to help you live out your Europe dreams without the stress 🥰

Step 1: Get together the right travel documents!

Let’s start out with some all-important boring stuff. Travel documents and admin for travelling Europe!

How does Brexit affect travelling around Europe?

If you’re backpacking Europe from the UK, it’s pretty simple on the visa front, even with the new Brexit changes. 

Even after Brexit, we are able to travel freely around Europe, as long as it is for a short stay (up to 90 days in any 180 day period). 

So a weekend in Italy could be followed up by a fortnight’s stay in France. This would all be covered in your 90-day stay limit.

When planning a bigger backpacking trip around Europe, this is something to bear in mind. How long are you going for? Is your visa going to allow this? 

If you are looking to stay for a longer amount of time, you will need to apply for an extended visa. This includes staying for tourism, work, or study. 

This may change in the future. Please always check the latest Government advice. 

Is my European Health Insurance card (EHIC) still valid?

Yes. If your EHIC was issued before the end of 2020, your card is valid until the expiry date on the front of your card. 

After this, the government has said they will issue a different type of card for emergency medical care. There is no confirmation of this and no details have been released. 

It is advised that you buy medical insurance before travelling (anywhere), especially if you have a pre-existing health condition.

Want to start your digital nomad life?

Check out my ebook page (click here!) to see if there’s a guide that suits you. I’m here to help you leave the 9-5 and work remotely around the world! 💻 🌎

Is my UK driving license accepted across Europe?

Remember to take your driving licence with you, as well as your logbook (V5C) and valid insurance documents if you are taking a car that you own. You don’t want to be caught short!

If you are taking your own car, you will need to contact your insurer around 6 weeks before travel to get a ‘green card’ to prove your insurance is in date and in use. 

Anyone over the age of 19 can hire a car in most places throughout Europe. There are a few countries (like the Netherlands, Hungary and Greece) where you will need to be 21+.

Without a doubt, the best way to backpack Europe is by interrailing . This is travelling Europe by train, and this blog is full of information to help you plan an epic interrailing trip!

I’m arriving from outside of Europe, what documents do I need?

First of all, the no-brainer of a passport. Make sure it has 6 months left before its expiry date and you’re sorted (if not, get that ticket to freedom renewed). 

If you’re from America, Canada or Australia (and most other major countries), you will not need a visa for short stay trips. This is similar to UK travellers; where you’re allowed a trip of up to 90 days.

Step 2: Get a rough idea of where you want to go whilst backpacking Europe

Now, when you are ready to plan your backpacking Europe trip, you do not need to make a definitive list of destinations (unless you know a lot about Europe already).

However, it’s good to have some idea of what you want to see and where you want to go on your trip!

Like; are you a beach person and want to hit up the European coastlines? Or would you rather the history and culture of an old city, like London or Paris? You don’t have to decide now, but most people know without a lot of thought what they’re into.

GOOD TO KNOW: Europe is split into Eastern, Northern, Central and Western sections (which is actually quite rarely referred to). 

As you know, Europe is a pretty big continent and each country is extremely different from the next. 

Therefore, for practical reasons, you might want to focus on one section to keep your journey between each European country shorter. 

Check out my interrailing posts if you’re serious about backpacking Europe!

Which part of Europe is best to travel?

• Eastern Europe – Belarus, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Ukraine and most of Russia
• Western Europe – Belgium, France, Luxemburg, Ireland, Monaco, the UK, Netherlands
• Central Europe –  Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Liechtenstein the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Switzerland
• Northern Europe – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden

( FYI – these sections literally change depending on which site you look at. They provide a rough guide if your European geography is a bit pants.)

When I travelled across Europe interrailing , I did cross quite a few sections, so it is possible! Especially if you have an Interrail pass . The trains are super well connected and you can get to most countries in Europe easily (but more on that later). 

Don’t worry if you have zero ideas about what’s in each country or why you might want to visit. So many European countries will surprise you with their beauty, especially the least expected ones!

I’d strongly advise researching different countries in Europe (even ones you haven’t heard of!) before planning your route; just to see what else is out there!

I have detailed posts on interrailing Spain , France and Italy . Make sure you read them before you go!

Need more information about interrailing? I have a whole section on the blog about travelling Europe by train. Check out the most popular blog posts here!

Step 3: Think about your duration:places ratio

Now, I am a big advocate of taking things slow when travelling, especially when backpacking Europe. I made the mistake of planning hundreds (well, nearly) countries into a 2-week trip and ended up burnt out, exhausted, and if I’m honest, a trip that could have been better if I’d not planned as much. 

If you cram too many places into a short amount of time, it just won’t be worth it. 

My advice to backpackers would be to plan to visit fewer European countries and give yourself more time to explore each one.

This also works in your favour when you meet new people and want to tag along with them to a crazy beer festival or realise you’re in a city with the world’s oldest pizza restaurant and have an extra few days to visit. 

How long should you spend in each European destination?

Here are my recommendations for travelling to European countries and cities.

• Major Cities: 2-3 nights minimum
• Small towns/coasts: 2-4 nights minimum, unless you are likely to spend a lot of time on the beach
• Hiking/Camping: 2 nights +, especially if you are planning on a lot of activity during the day. Having to pack up and be ready to leave the next morning can add extra pressure to your (already) strenuous activity. 

Of course, these guidelines are adaptable and personal. If you are on a tough time restriction, just plan less. Plan to go to fewer places in Europe, plan to see or do less, otherwise, you will end up frazzled and end up falling asleep halfway through your strawberry gelato.

I know some of you might be saying “but I want to see everything!” and I get that. If you’re absolutely set on stretching yourself thin and doing a non-stop whirlwind tour of a country in a couple of days; go for it. Maybe plan a few days off work when you return to recover (and be prepared to have to whizz through some of your plans because of how much you have organised). 

I have detailed posts on interrailing Spain , Switzerland , France and Italy . Make sure you read them before you go!

Step 4: Decide on HOW you’re backpacking Europe

You’re in luck here; as backpacking Europe is one of the easiest continents to travel around (and comfortably!). There are quite a few options to choose from, from budget to luxury options.

You’ll find whilst backpacking Europe that most countries will have their own transport systems that have basic hygiene and comfort levels. I’ve been on a few rickety trains through Eastern Europe, and even they were nothing like the rickety-ness of Southeast Asia (if you’ve been to Thailand, you’ll know what I mean).

Train (Interrailing Pass) around Europe

One of the most popular ways to get around Europe is via train. This is due to the easy ‘Interrail’ system . Buying this pass will allow you to travel freely around most countries in Europe, on modern and comfortable trains. 

There are different types of interrail passes , such as;

• Global Pass (2nd Class) – this allows you to visit the entire continent on one ticket. Prices start around £150 for 4 days, up to the 90 day mark for around £500. 

In regards to the class, 2nd isn’t hugely different to 1st and definitely better for those on a budget. 

The Global Pass lets you travel in these 33 countries:

Austria, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey.

• One country pass : If you’re more of a thorough traveller and want to take your time, this one is perfect for a one-country trip. Prices do vary depending on the country you’re wanting to visit, so check out the Interrail Site before purchasing. 

🚝 Need to buy your interrailing pass ? I recommend checking this website for the best discounts and deals!

Still unsure about the interrailing pass? I’ve written a detailed post on why it’s so wonderful here.

Bus around Europe

• Megabus : I love this option. I love Megabus! Although I am a bit weird and love long coach journeys (I just love the chill and snacks, okay?!)

Megabus is a super cheap way to travel to some parts of Europe. So if you’re hitting up the UK, Brussels, Paris or Amsterdam, Google Megabus and find some cheap-as-chips bus tickets to travel the entire length of your chosen country. Seriously, some journeys can be as cheap as £3!

If you’re backpacking in England, trains are going to be your last option due to the incredible amount of £££ they cost. A £5 Megabus journey may cost £50+ on a train. Take it from me, I wouldn’t get a train in England unless I really, really needed to! 

• Busabout/FlixBus: These are essentially the Megabus, but spread further across Europe. Just check out your destination and what bus service the country uses. 

Most of the buses have free Wifi, toilets onboard and are pretty comfy. 

Busabout also sells hop on/hop-off tickets for a set price. If you’re planning on taking multiple trips in a short amount of time and want some activities thrown in, it might be worth looking into. 

Prices start at around £250 for a 2-week pass. 

Flying around Europe

Europe definitely isn’t the cheapest continent to fly around, but if you’re lucky and travelling out of school term time, you may get some budget deals. 

Have a look at Ryanair , EasyJet , Vueling , Flybe , Norweigan Air and Wizz Air for the cheapest deals (even though they add about 6 grand on for luggage. Sometimes I think they don’t actually work out that cheap *rolls eyes emoji*). 

My go-to for booking flights is Google Flights and Momondo . I find they tend to be the cheapest.

Whenever I have travelled through Europe, I have completely mix-matched my modes of transport. I’ve flown, drove, train-ed and bus-ed. It really is all down to where you’re travelling to (for example, if you’re in Ibiza it’s going to be pretty impossible to get on a bus to Italy). 

Step 6: What time of year is best to visit Europe?

Europe is situated in the Northern Hemisphere of the world, so the seasons pretty much look like this;

• Winter: December – February 
• Spring: March – May
• Summer: June – August
• Autumn: September – November 

The temperatures do vary from country to country, but it’s a good guide to have for when you’re planning your trip.

☀️ Spain, Portugal and Greece generally have good weather all year round. Although, they do have times where it can be quite brisk and windy, especially over the winter time. 

❄️ If you’re planning on hitting the slopes, January – February tends to be quieter than the peak season in March. For further info, check out On The Snow to compare each country’s weather for the best skiing time.

Wherever you’re going, check out the weather first before you start packing.

You really don’t want to be left in your flip-flops when there’s a monsoon going on overhead. Been there, done that. It isn’t great. 

Step 7: What to Pack for a Europe trip

Packing can seem like an unbearable task; especially before you’ve started. I find the best way to get the job done quickly and efficiently is to make a list (or if you’re my boyfriend, pack 5 plain t-shirts and a pair of shorts).

You can check out my detailed interrailing packing list here.

If you’re travelling to a snowy part of Europe (like Finland or Norway) I have an extensive Arctic Circle packing list here!

Step 8: Deciding on a budget and saving money whilst travelling Europe

Now we’re down to the nitty-gritty. How much money do you save to take when backpacking Europe?

The answer? It depends. (Sorry). The question you need to ask yourself really is, HOW do you want to travel Europe?

On a tight budget? In luxury? A mix of both? Hostels ? Airbnbs? Signing up for every activity known to man in the entire continent? 

I know when I travel, I’m a mix of cheap and “do I really need to go on that 8th wine tour?” type of spender. I hate missing out on anything, so my priority is usually activities over accommodation.

On my travels, I have met so many people who are the same as me. Dorm rooms, shared bathrooms, messy kitchens – no problem if I’m able to scuba dive the Meditteranean. 

Budgeting for a Europe backpacking trip

The first time I travelled Thailand in 2015, I jetted off for a month in August and spent £1000. Total.

The following year, I spent a month travelling Europe. Total price: £3500. 

Exact same time of year, exact same amount of time. Just a whooooole lot more money. 

My trip around Europe was anything but luxury. We did have a few private rooms and Airbnbs but they were pretty standard.

But, we didn’t scrimp on the activities. We did everything, every excursion, nice meal out, we partied, drank (alcohol probably was 50% of my budget…maybe) and we really pushed the boat out when it came to enjoying ourselves.

Could we have travelled around Europe for less? Probably. I made some rookie mistakes and it was one of my first backpacking trips, so don’t let it put you off.

But, I do think, especially for newbie travellers, it is important to highlight how expensive travelling can be. Especially if you really want to enjoy every moment and live your trip to its fullest. 

Step 9: Choosing accommodation whilst backpacking Europe

This is the part where I should probably say to get the cheapest room possible and rough it out whilst backpacking Europe, but I won’t tell you to do that. 

Instead, I’m going to speak from personal experience here. I have stayed in all types of accommodation (and I really mean, all types). 

If you’re starting out, travelling solo or with a friend, I’d strongly recommend a shared room throughout Europe.

Don’t always look for the cheapest – look for the most popular. Highest reviews, shares on social media, tagged photos etc.

If you’re anything like me when travelling (a severe social butterfly), you want to be where everyone is at. Is there anything worse than hostel FOMO? 

Do your Europe hostel research. The best kind is speaking to someone else who’s been there before and knows the lowdown on the best spots in town to make hundreds of like-minded pals. (Ahem, shameless plug to myself). 

If sharing a room isn’t your thing, I have also been a more ‘private space’ traveller. The first month I backpacked through SE Asia, my best friend and I were huge fans of private rooms (still in a hostel though, not that loaded). 

Yes, you do get the privacy and luxury of your own bathroom, but we met about 90% less people and drank about 90% less alcohol because of being so isolated from others. 

I’d recommend private rooms if you are a couple, or need a bit of a ‘detox’ from the 20-man dorm room, but shared dorms will always be my go-to for solo travelling.

CHECK OUT THE BEST HOSTELS IN EUROPE HERE!

Best hostels whilst interrailing Europe

One of my best interrail tips is to at least  book your  first hostel in advance .  During the summer months,  hostels in Europe will be fully booked.  It will be tough finding a good hostel last minute.

Use  Hostelworld to pre-book any hostels . They have excellent cancellation policies and you can usually  get your money back right up until 24 hours before staying , so if you have any last-minute changes, you have that flexibility.

Whilst I can’t list every single hostel in Europe, these are some of the best, well-known hostels to stay in whilst interrailing.  Simply click the link to check prices and availability!

• 🇫🇷  Paris:  Generator Paris  or  The People
• 🇭🇺  Budapest:   Maverick City Lodge
• 🇳🇱  Amsterdam:  Ecomama
• 🇩🇪  Berlin:  The Circus Hostel
• 🇵🇹  Lisbon:   Home Lisbon
• 🇦🇹  Vienna:   Hostel Ruthensteiner
• 🇪🇸  Madrid:  Sungate One
• 🇮🇪  Dublin:   Gardiner House

➡  Check out  other European hostels here.

Step 10: Should I buy an Interrailing Pass to travel Europe?

Using an interrailing pass is definitely the easiest way to travel Europe.

Your interrailing pass covers all of your travel, and all of the timetables and routes are online for you to easily access. 

The interrailing pass will save you money, as some single trips between destinations can cost between 50 – 100 EUR. If you buy the Interrailing Pass at the start of your trip, you won’t have to spend any more money on travel (unless you wanted to use a ferry or another mode of transport).

Also, if you book individually with local trains, you’re not going to be able to spontaneously change your plans or get any refunds if things go wrong.

If you’re still worried, sit and do the maths and work out whether the pass is right for you or not. Personally, I love the flexibility of the pass and being able to chop and change right up until the last minute.

Still unsure? Check out my Is the Interrail Pass Worth it? An Honest Review and decide for yourself!

Backpacking Europe: When You Arrive

Yay! If you’ve made it this far in the post, so you must be pretty serious about your trip across Europe. How exciting!

Ok – do this. Close your eyes.

Seriously do it. 

Well, maybe read the next bit first and then close your eyes or you won’t actually have a clue what’s going on. (I’m just trying something here).

When you envision your beautiful future in Europe, living out your dreams, what do you picture yourself doing?

• Drinking champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower?
• Skiing the slopes of the Alps?
• Hiking through the forest in Scandinavia? 
• Eating tapas in Barcelona?
• Sunbathing on the beaches of Santorini?
• Watching the sunrise on a boat in Croatia?

Ok, I’ll stop. I’m close to booking another trip to Europe here myself. 

Anyway, my point here is – if you’re planning a backpacking trip around Europe, do it the way you want to do it. Drink that champagne, eat that bowl of pasta, hike that forest…you get what I mean. 

Don’t miss out on an adventure of a lifetime and regret not doing something for years to come.

Skip buying the dress for your night out in your hometown and save that £50 for a wine tour in Paris. I promise, it’s worth it. 

What to see and do in each country really needs research per destination.

Backpacking Europe FAQs

Is it easy to backpack through europe.

Backpacking Europe is easy if you have done the right planning and have enough money to keep you going. Europe isn’t the cheapest of continents, but it is known for its fast transport systems and comfort.

The problem with Europe (or pro, depending on how you’re looking at it) is that it’s so diverse. You can spend weeks backpacking Europe and still feel like you didn’t see half of it. This can be something difficult to wrap your head around, but it just means you’ll need to plan return trips!

Technically speaking, it is easy to backpack Europe due to modern transport systems, clean and modern hostels, clear and direct signposts and easy driving on roads.

Is it expensive to backpack through Europe?

This really depends on how you want to backpack Europe. However, even backpacker hostels will set you back around £20-30 per night (whereas SE Asia can be as low as £4-5 per night).

It is one of the most expensive continents to travel, but with good planning and savvy spending, you can keep costs to a minimum.

Is backpacking Europe safe?

Like travelling anywhere, travelling Europe has its risks and reasons for you to be vigilant. On a whole, backpacking Europe is safe, and even as a solo female, I have never felt ‘unsafe’ anywhere in Europe.

Of course, keep your guard up, don’t walk in quiet places alone at night, and use your common sense when it comes to staying safe. But overall, Europe is a safe place to travel.

How long should you backpack Europe?

This all depends on your budget and what you want to see during your trip.

If you want to see a fair amount of the continent, you’re going to want to plan for at least 4 weeks. When staying in European cities, you’ll want at least 1-2 nights, and locations out in the countryside or in the mountain ranges, you might want extra time to explore a bit more.

Think about what’s important to you, and how well feasible it would be for you to slow travel Europe.

How much should I budget for a month in Europe?

Excluding flights, I would recommend budgeting at least £1500+ for a month travelling Europe.

This includes all accommodations, trips, activities and food. Food alone will set you back a fair bit on your trip, and you don’t want to miss out on bucket list experiences by not having enough money.

Spend some more time saving so you can experience Europe to its fullest.

How do I prepare for backpacking Europe?

• Check your passport is in date, and you have all the relevant travel documents.
• Buy your backpack. My favourite is this Osprey wheeled 65L , because you can roll it when you’re feeling tired!
• Make a packing list. I have a backpacking essential list here!
• Book your flights and look up how you will travel from the airport to your first hostel or hotel.
• Use Pinterest, travel blogs and Instagram to find places you really want to visit.
• Decide on whether or not you want an Interrailing Pass.
• Pack your bag and GO! Don’t think any more about it, just prepare yourself for a European trip of a lifetime.

Backpacking Europe : In a Nutshell

Now, you truly are all set to book that incroyable trip around Europe!

There is a lot of information here and it may be quite overwhelming, so save or share this post to come back to it later.

But GO YOU for getting this far in a 5000-word post. You must really want that dreamy Europe trip.

And guess what? You deserve it!

👀 Do you have something to share about planning a trip around Europe? Want to add something to the post? Comment below!

Happy travelling!

PSSST, I’m a bit of an expert when it comes to interrailing Europe. Check out my posts here:

• Best Backpack For Interrailing: Ultimate Europe Backpack Guide
• Best Time To Go Interrailing (Europe) Guide: MUST-READ!
• Interrailing Spain: ULTIMATE Guide to Travelling Spain By Train

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MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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Everyone would like to travel to Europe, especially Paris. You can travel by a commercial plane or via private jet. If you want convenient and more safe travel, I think choosing a private jet is a good choice.

Hi Melissa! Unfortunately, most of us can’t afford a private jet, especially my predominantly backpacker audience 😅 however, I will leave your post here just incase anyone can! (And hopefully they take me with them! Haha)

Comments are closed.

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Europe Trip Packages

Backpacking europe made easy.

Whether you dream of eating gelato on sun-soaked Italian piazzas, exploring the cobbled streets of Prague or seeing the lights of Paris, backpacking through Europe has to be on everyone’s bucket list.

But planning your Europe trip itinerary can be a minefield. There are so many things to consider:  how to get around ,  where to stay , which  destinations to include … and that’s before you’ve even considered what to do when you get there!

Coach tours can be an easy option, but travelling with a massive group can make your experience less authentic – it’s definitely not for everyone.

Want to  plan your Europe backpacking trip with minimal stress , but without jumping on board a hop-on hop-off bus? We might just have a solution for you!

From self-guided European routes  with all tickets and accommodation included, to fully guided small group trips to Europe , we’ve got a range of options that could be a great compromise. Check out our options below,  read reviews  or  get in touch  to find out more!

Self-Guided Europe Trip Packages

Pick from our  popular routes or create your very own custom route . Just tell us where you want to go and when, and we’ll sort out the rest. We don’t prescribe activities or set times; we know each traveller has a different idea of what makes the perfect Euroventure:

“The team at Euroventure was outstanding! Not only were they knowledgeable and helpful, but they were always quick to respond, very accommodating, and made every part of our trip personal and meaningful. Highly recommend Euroventure and would definitely book with them again.”  – Dannah

Group Trips to Europe

Join one of our  backpacking tours for 18-30-somethings . You’ll travel with like-minded backpackers and a knowledgeable tour leader in a small group of up to 20 people, allowing you to experience a more authentic side to each country. Travelling safely on trains, buses and ferries like a native, you’ll get a unique insight into local culture:

“I went on the 2 week Central Europe group tour and it was honestly one of the best experiences of my life. We went to Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Venice. The included activities in each city were amazing!”  – Lauren

Popular Set Trips

Le Grand Tour: Puy du Fou

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Islandbound: 2 Weeks

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Whole of Europe Group Tour: 4 Weeks

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The Ultimate 2-Month Europe Backpacking Trip

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Table of Contents

2-Month Europe Backpacking Itinerary & Tips

Europe is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. It is made up of 44 countries, all connected with a system of trains making it one of the easiest places to travel. Whether you are backpacking through Europe on a budget or no budget at all, you will get to see the same stunning landmarks. We spent two months backpacking through Europe in the Fall of 2021. Planning a trip like this does take some time, but that’s where this guide comes in. This guide will give you tips on backpacking, what cities to visit, what to pack, transportation, and more!

Europe Trip Highlights

• Wandering the Charming Streets of Prague, Czechia
• Scirocco Restaurant Collaboration in Naxos
• Blue Caves Boat Tour in Zakynthos, Greece
• Eating Endless Authentic Cheap Greek Gyros
• Seeing Venice, Italy for the First Time
• Staying at a 5-Star Luxury Hotel in Florence
• Hiking the Amalfi Coast
• Relaxing by the beach in the Surf Town of Ericeira, Portugal
• Touring Barcelona for just One Day

Europe Backpacking Route

Backpacking Tips:

• Time of Year: I recommend visiting Europe in the Spring or Fall to avoid the crowds and cold weather.
• Main Forms of Transportation : Europe offers great transportation services that allows you to travel on a budget. We took advantage of the metro and public transportation services in each city. Planes, buses, and trains are a great way to travel long distances.
• Be Flexible: If you are a Type A Planner like me you will most likely have your entire trip planned out, before leaving. Not everything always goes to plan! If you are visiting Europe for an extended time, I recommend having a rough layout of where you want to visit and for how long. Some places you may love and want to extend your stay!
• Always have Extra Water and Snacks : You never know when hunger might strike, so pack some extra snacks and water. Protein bars are my go to. Many cities throughout Europe have FREE drinking water spouts, bring your reusable water bottle to fill up.
• Accomodation : We stayed in a variety of accomodations. Hostels are very budget friendly and a great place to meet people. Depending on how many people you travel with, Airbnb can be a great option with a full kitchen and extra living space. If you have the extra money, don’t be afraid to splurge on one luxury stay even if it is for just one night!
• International Drivers Liscense: Get your international driver’s license before heading to Europe. Rental shops will ask for it and if you are renting a scooter you may want to look into getting your motorcycle license as well.
• Currency: I highly recommend exchanging USD for a couple hundred Euros with your bank before crossing the pond. Europe is very credit card freindly but it is always a good idea to carry the local currency.

Europe Packing Guide

• Carry On Backpack
• Tripped Travel Gear Day Pack
• Walking Shoes
• Travel Sized Curling Iron/Straightener
• Compressable Packing Cubes
• Noise Cancelling Airpods
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Think! High Protein Bars
• USB Portable Charger
• Outlet Adapter
• Power Converter

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Paris, France

24-hours, 1 night.

Paris, France is one of my favorite European cities to visit. This charming city takes my breath away each and every time. Paris does a great job of making you feel like you are immersed in their culture with the numerous landmarks, stunning buildings, and delicious French cuisine. Paris was the beginning of our two-month Europe backpacking trip, and I couldn’t have been more excited.

Why only 24-hours?

We were not planning on visiting Paris at all during our two-month Europe trip because we had both spent some time in the city prior. We found cheap flights from New York to Paris that we could not pass up. Our plan was to head straight to Prague when we crossed the pound but there were not many flights to Prague until the next day. We thought we would make the best of our one night in Paris.

How Long to Spend in Paris : 5 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : French Dinner at Brasserie Dubillot , Warm Flakey Croissants, French Macarons, and Duck Confit

Prague, Czech Republic

3 days, 2 nights.

Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and home to colorful baroque-styled buildings, the Vltava River, and the stunning Charles Bridge. Prague is very traditional with its rich and hearty cuisine. At most restaurants, you will find goulash, Svíčková (braised beef) with dumplings, Grilované klobásy (grilled sausages), and the sweet treat Trdelnik. This was our first time visiting Prague and I quickly fell in love with this romantic city, I cannot wait to return!

How Long to Spend in Prague : 4 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Trdelnik, Tapas at Fortel , Staropramen Beer, and Svíčková (braised beef with dumplings)

Vienna, Austria

4 days, 3 nights.

Vienna is the capital of Austria and home to some of the most gorgeous buildings. You may also hear the city be called “Wien” this is the local’s way of saying Vienna. Being just south of Germany, the prominent language spoken here is German. Many people will speak English, making it easy to navigate and explore the city. There are numerous things to see in this historic and expensive city. If you are traveling on a budget but still want to get the full Vienna experience then this is the guide for you!

How Long to Spend in Vienna : 2 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Goulash, Manner Wafers, Sachertorte, Viennese Coffee, Apple Strudel, Wiener Schnitzel

Budapest, Hungary

4 days , 3 nights.

Budapest is separated into two cities by the large winding Danube River. On the east side of the river is Pest which is known for a lively experience for tourists with bustling cafes and modern shops. Buda lies directly opposite of Pest and is home to the Buda Castle and Castle Hills. You may notice things are a little bit quieter and more relaxed here. I highly recommend visiting both sides, as they are just one mile apart with the famous Chain Bridge connecting the two.

How Long to Spend in Budapest : 4 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Goulash, Drinks at the Ruins Bars, and Töltött káposzta (Stuffed Cabbage)

Zakynthos, Greece

6 days , 5 nights.

Zakynthos is a large northern Greek island known for its stunning Navagio beach and bright blue waters. This is a hidden gem that you may have not heard of but I highly encourage a visit! Zante (what the Greeks call it for short) is an exotic island with a natural landscape of olive trees, beaches, large cliffs, and rolling hills. We stayed in Zakynthos, Greece for one week and absolutely loved our time. If you love adventure as much as us I highly encourage a visit to this stunning Greek island.

How Long to Spend in Zakynthos : 4 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Greek Salads, Portokalopita (Orange Cake), Lamb, and Olives

Athens, Greece

3 days , 2 nights.

Acropolis means the city at the top, Athens is home to one of the best Acropolis sites that still stands today. Millions of people visit Athens Acropolis each year, making it one of the top attractions in this large city. The Parthenon is the main building atop the Acropolis with over 60 marble columns built at a small angle. The symmetry and attention to detail is an incredible work of art that dates back to 447 BC. The Athens Acropolis is one place you should visit once in your lifetime!

How Long to Spend in Athens : 1 Full Day

Must-Try Foods : Gyros, Mousakka, Greek Dips with Homemade Bread, and Dolma

Naxos, Greece

4 days , 4 nights.

Naxos, Greece is one Greek island you need to add to your bucket list. This stunning island is home to white-sand beaches, the Temple of Apollo, and charming white stone narrow streets. The port city and capital of Naxos is Chora, Chora is a small touristy town where the ferry meets the island dropping off visitors from around the world. Keeping with the traditional Greek cuisine Naxos has some amazing restaurants, including one of my favorites in all of Europe!

How Long to Spend in Naxos : 3 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Gyros, Saganaki, Orzo (Greek Pasta), and Naxos Cheese

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is one of the most visited and well-known Greek Islands. Its pristine white-painted buildings, blue domes, and cliff views have been posted all over the internet making this one of the top Greek islands to visit. I first thought Santorini was going to be a bit overrated and overly touristy but it ended up being one of my favorite Greek islands!

*Crete is also a stunning island I highly suggest visiting. It is great for solo travel and adventure.

How Long to Spend in Santorini : 4 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Gyros, Saganaki, Greek Wine, and Spanakopita (spinach pie)

Venice, Italy

Venice is by far my most favorite city in Italy, with its winding canals, charming streets, and gothic palaces. This unique destination is also called “The Floating City” because it is made up of over 100 small islands. San Marco is the most popular island in Venice with historic landmarks, restaurants, and shops. This charming city will surely feel like a dream with delicious Venetian food and romantic gondola rides through the Grand Canal.

How Long to Spend in Venice : 3 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Cicchetti, Aperol Spritz, Pasta E Fagioli, A full Italian Dining Experience, and Baccalà (local fish)

Florence, Italy

Florence is the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region and home to many museums and art galleries. Fiorenza is the birthplace of the Renaissance, the piano, and the famous frozen Italian dessert, the gelato. The famous red tin roofs and large Duomo have been photographed for years and have become a large tourist attraction with over 16 million visitors each year. This is one charming city that you will fall in love with!

How Long to Spend in Florence : 2 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Gelato, Famous Italian Sandwiches from All’antico Vinaio, Florentine Steak Dinner, and a 5-Star Dinner at Mimesi Restaurant

Rome, Italy

We spent four days in Rome exploring all of the major landmarks. The Rome Collesuem was a highlight with the wealth of history and large presence it has. Besides eating the best Pasta Carbonaro of my life we also delved into some delicious Neopolitan and Roman food. Visit the charming Ristorante da Barbara for some classic Neopolitan and Roman dishes.

How Long to Spend in Rome : 4 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Pizza, Pasta Carbonara, Cannolis, and Tiramisu

Positano, Italy

Positano is an Italian village located on the Amalfi Coast of Italy. This colorful city has become one large tourist destination with fancy restaurants and charming hotels overlooking the blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is built on a steep cliffside with winding narrow streets and lots of stairs. Positano is not the cheapest place to visit in Italy but with my top 10 budget-friendly things to do, you can enjoy all that Positano has to offer without breaking the bank.

How Long to Spend in Positano : 3 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Pizza, Gelato, Anything Lemon, and Italian Charcuterie

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon (Lisboa) is Portugal’s capital and one of my favorite cities to visit in Europe. This large city is home to some of the best food with multiple Michelin Star restaurants, authentic pastel de natas, and the famous Time Out Market. Its rolling hills and yellow trams remind me of San Francisco, USA. The colorful tiled buildings and orange-painted city views will take your breath away! Lisbon is a wonderful place to visit with many things to do, famous landmarks, and great food.

How Long to Spend in Lisbon : 5 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Pastel de Natas, Anything at Time Out Market, Salted Cod, Port Wine, and Ginja

Ericeira, Portugal

10 days , 9 nights.

Ericeira is a small surf town on the west coast of Portugal. This stunning place was added to the World Surf Reserve in 2011 making this a surfer’s paradise. Whether you surf or not you will find plenty to do here. The charming downtown offers fun shops and delicious restaurants. My favorite part was the warm ocean views and watching the waves crash in. Ericeira was a great place to regroup and relax after a lot of travel and sightseeing.

Tip: Book a long stay in a relaxing and low-cost area to take a moment and relax after traveling every 3-4 days!

How Long to Spend in Ericeira : 2-14 Days

Must-Try Foods : Seafood, Smoothie Bowls, and Pastel de Natas

Barcelona, Spain

1 day , 2 night s.

Barcelona is one of my favorite cities in Europe. The ease of living, stunning architecture, sandy beaches, and amazing food won me over after our quick visit. Antoni Gaudí paints this bustling city with architectural works of art. The grandest of them all is the La Sagrada Familia, it will take your breath away. I cannot wait to be back in Barcelona to explore more of this wonderful city!

How Long to Spend in Barcelona : 4 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Croquetas, Seafood Paella, Patatas Bravas, and Jamon Iberico

Valencia, Spain

Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city. It is one of the country’s most beautiful places with charming warm colors, unique buildings, and large food markets. It is home to the first Paella, an authentic rice dish. The most famous attraction is the City of Arts and Sciences. Valencia is not a very popular city to visit but it will welcome you with delicious comfort food and fun activities.

How Long to Spend in Valencia : 3 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Paella, Healthy Lunch at Salad Planet, and Fideuà Paella’s (seafood-and-noodles)

Madrid, Spain

3 days , 3 nights.

Madrid is the capital of Spain and is filled with a variety of things to do. It is home to the Royal Palace of Madrid which is the largest functioning palace in Europe. Madrid reminds me of a European New York City with a multitude of food types, large parks, and famous boulevards. The welcoming people, delicious foods, and easy transportation make this one of the top places to visit in Spain.

How Long to Spend in Madrid 3 Full Days

Must-Try Foods : Spanish Hot Chocolate with Churros, Sushi at Sakale, and Huevos Estrellados (fried eggs and potatoes)

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Hiking Tours in Europe

Macs Adventure has built its first-class reputation for self-guided active travel in Europe since its foundation in 2003. We have fine-tuned our European alpine hikes ,  pilgrimages , long distant trails , and indulgent ‘ in style ’ hiking tours. We have uncovered hidden ancient pathways, rocky coastlines, and Roman backroads where civilizations grew, and the best hikes were born. You’ll often be greeted by locals who are eager to share the hidden secrets that nature and culture hold in Europe.

The cultural diversity in Europe affords the opportunity to awaken all your senses! Savor delicious tapas on the Camino Frances , the finest whiskey on the West Highland Way , or unique local fare with a dramatic backdrop of the Alps on the Tour du Mont Blanc . In the Italian Cinque Terre , you will hike past local picturesque vineyards during the day and sip the local fine wine in the evening. Visit the Bernese Oberland to spot the Chamois on mountain paths, or head to Portugal's Silver Coast  to smell the wildflowers in the hills of Sintra.

There are so many special places in Europe, and we’re here to find the right experience for you!

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25 of the best guided and self-guided hiking holidays in europe.

With Europe opening up, many of you have indicated you want to go on an active trip. Here

are 25 of the best hiking trips in Europe, both self-guided itineraries and guided small-group tours.

Portugal - Madeira

The subtropical island of Madeira, a piece of Portugal far out in the Atlantic Ocean, offers dramatic scenery, black sand beaches, volcanic craters and gushing mountain streams. Hiking along the levada irrigation channels is a unique experience, allowing you to access the rugged interior.

Guided - 8 days from CA$1,745

Portugal - The Azores

The remote archipelago of the Azores, part of Portugal but situated in the middle of the Atlantic, is a wonderful playground of volcanic origin. Crater lakes, caverns and thermal springs dot the islands, while the craggy coastline hides picturesque fishing villages. Adventure activities such as hiking and canyoning are the order of the day. Whales are numerous in the many marine reserves while on land a network of natural parks and biospheres protects the unspoiled environment. This tour has you discover 4 of the most interesting islands on foot.

Guided - 8 days from CA$3,199

Spain - Andalucia

In the south of Spain, in the heart of the Andalusian countryside, amid olive groves and picturesque farmland, lies your cortijo, a converted farmhouse, your base for a week of walking. Explore the rugged hills and limestone peaks of the Sierra de Grazalema and walk the famous El Chorro Gorge on the Caminito del Rey. A sure highlight of the trip will be your visit to beautiful Seville.

Guided - 8 days from CA$1,995

Spain - Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago is a network of trails of which the trail running from the south of France through the north of Spain (the Camino Frances) is by far the most famous and popular. The entire pilgrimage takes about 40 days but for those who are short on time, we offer a guided "Best of the Camino" option. In just under two weeks we take you and your fellow pilgrims and hikers along the most scenic portions of the trail, all the while staying in comfort. Best of all - you do not have to carry your own bag as we will transfer it for you.

Guided - 14 days from CA$4,290

Self-Guided - 11 days from CA$3,149

Spain - Picos de Europa

Dramatic limestone peaks and green valleys make up the mountain range in Spain known as the Picos de Europa. It is a tranquil area made for walking and many bird and animal species thrive in this inaccessible wilderness. Discover all this from your centrally located family-run hotel offering stunning views of the highest mountains in the area. Two levels of hikes, moderate and challenging, are offered on alternating dates.

Guided - 8 days from CA$1,895

France, Switzerland, Italy - Mont Blanc

The Mont Blanc Circuit in France, Italy and Switzerland is one of Europe's most famous hiking trails. We have several different hiking trips allowing you to enjoy the scenery to the max. Indulge in amazing alpine views of glacial lakes and mountain vistas while each night you sleep in a comfortable bed and enjoy a great meal.

Guided - 8 days from CA$2,099

Self-Guided - 12 days from CA$3,349

Switzerland - Bernese Oberland

Beneath the peaks of Jungfrau, Eiger and Monch, in Switzerland's Bernese Oberland, are some of the Swiss Alps most scenic hiking trails. Based in Kandersteg we hike the best of them, using cable cars to get us at altitude, and walk among towering cliffs and soaring peaks, glacial valleys and flower-strewn alpine meadows.

Guided - 8 days from CA$3,045

Self-Guided 8 days from CA$2,179

Switzerland - Mont Blanc to Matterhorn

Our Haute Route passes beneath 10 or the 12 highest mountains in the Alps, from Mont Blanc near Chamonix in France to Matterhorn near Zermatt in Switzerland. Spectacular mountain views, stunning valleys and pretty glacial lakes are all around on this fantastic trek through the Alps.

Guided - 15 days from CA$3,895

Italy - Chianti in Tuscany

It is the classical Tuscan view of poppy fields and stately cypress trees leading you into a vista of town walls and fortified towers high up on a hill. Enter the town and wander its cobblestones streets, visit its galleries and shops and sit down for a gourmet meal. On this one-week hiking trip you will discover pretty towns, the renaissance cities of Siena and Florence and sample several varieties of Chianti wines. This is La Dolce Vita, Tuscan style.

Italy - Dolomites

Craggy peaks towering up to the sky, where wooden farmhouses dot the orchard-clad valleys, where hiking trails lead you from mountain huts to spa resorts to glorious vistas. These are the Dolomites, part Austrian, part Italian, with a culture all its own. Hike around the famous Tre Cime, through alpine meadows and along limestone escarpments. En-route, don't forget to stop for a treat in one of the chalets and in the evening, your hotel has excellent spa facilities to sooth those sore muscles!

Guided - 8 days from CA$1,999

Self-Guided - 8 days from CA$2,379

Italy - Cinque Terre

Cliffs plunging into the sea, colourful villages clinging to the mountain side, walking trails wending their way through walled farmyards down to the sea. The Cinque Terre is one of Italy's most famous and most picturesque areas. This trip has you explore the best hiking trails of the Cinque Terre and neighbouring Portofino.

Guided - 8 days from CA$2,095

Italy - Amalfi

Steep mountains rising from the turquoise Mediterranean, slopes covered in lemon groves, white-washed villages lining deep valleys where they meet the ocean. Explore covered alleys leading to hidden courtyards and sit down for a glass of wine or some gelato. Follow ancient footpaths and stairs up the hills to hamlets tucked away in forest-covered hills. Hike up to a vantage point and marvel at the views over this, the Amalfi Coast. This is one of the best coastal hikes in Italy.

Guided - 8 days from CA$1,899

Self-Guided - 8 days from CA$1,799

Tiny Alpine Slovenia offers great scenery amidst which you will find incredible walks and hikes. Pretty landscapes dotted with small churches and quaint villages share the country with amazing mountainscapes. Hike to waterfalls in the Martuljek Gorge, indulge in an abundance of alpine fauna and flora in the Karavanke Mountains, visit Lake Bled, walk the shores of Lake Bohinj and hike the stunning Pokljuka Plateau.

Croatia - Dalmatian Coast

Endless Roman ruins, romantic Venetian towns and Byzantine churches. Sun-bleached hills descending to cobalt blue seas, which in turn straddle a coast dotted with picturesque isles. Inland meanwhile, limestone caverns, river canyons, splendid waterfalls and picturesque lakes will leave you dazzled. This walking trip along Croatia's Dalmatian coast shows you the best of it all, including Dubrovnik, the stunning viewpoints and villages of the island of Brac, Diocletian’s Roman Palace in Split, the waterfalls of Krka National Park, and the limestone cliffs, caves and canyons of Paklenica NP.

Romania - Saxon Transylvania

Transylvania is one of Romania's least disturbed regions, an area of ancient Saxon villages, medieval towns and castles and abundant wildlife. On this trip you will discover all of these on walks through the mountains, forests, canyons and farmland.

Greece - Island hopping

Discover the valleys, olive and citrus groves and Venetian town and market of beautiful Naxos, before taking a ferry to Santorini with its spectacular views. Walk the Cliff Trail along the island's caldera and soak up the atmosphere at pretty Oia. Finally, explore Paros with its Byzantine cathedral and walk an ancient trail to the island's east coast. All the while, enjoy the great food and hospitality Greece is known for. Guided - 8 days from CA$2,199

United Kingdom - Coast to Coast Trail

Crossing England west to east near its narrowest point, the just over 300 kilometre Coast to Coast Path is one of the world's classic treks. It leads through the dramatic scenery of three distinct national parks: Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors.

From St. Bees on the Irish Sea to Robin Hood's Bay on the North Sea you will walk through a variety of landscapes featuring dry stone walls, endless moors, steep hills and mountains and some very charming villages each with their own pub. Stupendous views are the order of the day on this classic English trek.

Guided - 15 days from CA$3,190

Ireland - The Kerry Way

The Ring of Kerry, on Ireland's Iveragh Peninsula, is one of country's most famous sightseeing circuits - and with good reason as it offers spectacular views of beautiful sea and landscapes. The Kerry Way follows a series of hiking trails and farm tracks around the Ring of Kerry, allowing you to access out-of-the-way moors, stunning mountain scenery and forgotten villages. This self-guided holiday along the Ring of Kerry offers you a selection of the best hikes and walks in this part of the Emerald Isle.

Self-Guided - 8 days from CA$2,249

Iceland - Laugavegur

East of Iceland's capital Reykjavik, glaciers, mountains in every colour of the rainbow and ancient forests overlook swirling rivers, soothing hot springs, incredible lava flows and deep gorges. Fantastical rock formations rise up out of carpets of Arctic flowers and brilliantly coloured moss. The Laugavegurinn hiking trail connects Þórsmörk with Landmannalaugar and this trip adds a hike to the famous waterfall at Skogar.

Guided - 7 days from CA$4,590

Norway - Fjordland

Northwest of the Norwegian capital of Oslo, sheer rock walls rise a kilometre up into the sky, farms hang onto impossibly narrow strips of land, while waterfalls tumble down its cliffs. This is Norway's heartland, where Nigardsbreen glacier, the mountains of Jotunheim, lush valleys and three national parks are all within easy striking distance. Explore this spectacular area on foot, allowing you to discover tranquil spots and incredible viewpoints, away from the crowds.

Guided - 8 days from CA$4,679

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Swiss Alps Walking & Hiking Tour

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Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in London

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

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Guided Walking & Hiking Tours in Europe

Destination

Bosnia and herzegovina, czech republic, liechtenstein, netherlands, north macedonia, switzerland, türkiye/turkey, united kingdom, bike & boat, multi-activity, vessels & boats, advanced search, guided walking holidays, explore europe's network of trails with guided walking trips.

A guided walking holiday in Europe is ideal for travellers who prefer the camaraderie of like-minded walkers from around the world and appreciate the local knowledge shared by expert local guides.

Your multi-lingual walking guide is with you from the time your walking holiday commences until it concludes. They work tirelessly to tailor the trip to your interests while also ensuring your holiday runs smoothly for the whole group. Their passion for their country, or the region you are walking through, helps bring to life the flora, fauna and history of their homelands.

Depending on the chosen trip, group sizes generally vary from 6 to 22 people, and somewhat larger on boat based departures. On a UTracks guided walking trip in Europe, travelling in a small group does not mean your experience is tied to the rest of the group. There is always time set aside to go off exploring on your own.

On a guided walking tour you’ll share memories and laughs with travellers around the world who also appreciate the benefits of exploring Europe by foot.

Find your Guided Walking trip

Mont Blanc Guided Walk

Moderate to Challenging

Dolomites Guided Walk

Best of the Spanish Camino

Guided Camino Walk - Sarria to Santiago

Coast to Coast Classic Guided Walk

Challenging

Turkey Walk and Sail

Introductory to Moderate

More about Guided Walking

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• Staff picks

Why travel with us

Responsible travel.

• Accommodation
• Related articles

Trip reviews

Essential information, popular guided walking destinations.

Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.

Our aim is to provide you with the most affordable and comprehensive range of European walking and cycling experiences in a style that allows you to explore Europe your way.

Here’s 10 reasons why you should travel with UTracks.

Our human-powered trips minimise your impact on the environment, taking you out of main cities and contributing to a more even distribution of wealth and resources. We are proud of our Responsible Travel policies, which are currently leading the industry in a variety of ways and are continuously being assessed and improved. By supporting local communities, minimising waste, ensuring that the mules we use on our Mont Blanc trips are properly looked after, adhering to a ‘paddock to plate’ philosophy where possible and offsetting air travel, we are doing our bit to minimise the impact of tourism on the countries we travel to.

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Moderate level, moderate to challenging level, challenging level.

The exact inclusions and equipment for each of our adventures is listed once you've found the trip you want. Our trips are generally more inclusive than others in the market place in line with our philosophy of minimising 'extra payments' displayed outside of the main trip price as well as out of pocket expenses once you reach your destination.

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MUST-DO HIKES IN EUROPE

Via Alpina: Bernese Oberland Traverse €1190

Tour du Mont Blanc (8 days; private rooms) €1195

The Salzkammergut Lakes (classic version) €840

Fishermen’s Way / Rota Vicentina (classic) €745

Dingle Way €990

Amalfi Coast & Capri Island (classic version) €975

Alps: Dolomites National Park €880

Lesser-known hiking gems.

Vercors: trails between the Alps and Provence €830

Rural life & mountains of Transylvania €840

Peaks and lakes of the Rila and Pirin Mountains €660

Lakes and valleys of Slovenia’s Julian Alps €1020

Douro Valley wine trails (UNESCO) €1120

Crete Island explorer: gorges of the South-West €660

Albanian Alps explorer (Theth & Valbona) (classic version) €890

Looking for your next independent walking tour, browse the variety of self-guided inn to inn hiking holidays in italy, france, austria, switzerland, germany, portugal, spain, bulgaria, greece, romania, uk, slovakia, croatia, slovenia, ireland, sweden, albania etc., some of our destinations.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Backpacking europe packing list — my europe travel packing guide.

A comprehensive packing list and advice for budget backpacking and ultralight travel in Europe — including electronics, clothing, toiletries & accessories.

I wrote this backpacking Europe packing list because packing for travel can often be very difficult—especially for beginners. Many first-time travelers make the mistake of bringing too much gear so travel quickly becomes tiresome. Overpacking can also make you a bigger target for thieves because it’s harder to keep track of your belongings. This packing guide for Europe will help you know what type of clothes and gear you should bring and tips for packing light.

Hey Ladies! Check out our new Backpacking Europe Packing List for Women where I cover women-specific packing suggestions.

This Europe Packing List Includes:

• Quick Tips for Packing Light
• Travel Clothing For Europe
• Travel Accessories and Travel Backpacks For Europe
• Travel Toiletries For Europe
• Travel Electronics for Europe
• What Not to Bring To Europe
• Where to Buy Travel Gear

Quick Tips For Packing Light While Backpacking Europe

First, I suggest  limiting yourself to 20-22 lbs  worth of gear (including your backpack).

If you exceed 22 lbs (10kg), you run the risk of exceeding the carry-on weight limit for budget airlines. Even if weight limits aren’t an issue, I still suggest keeping your weight around 20 lbs for the sake of your back.

Quick Note About Looking Fashionable: I understand that packing light and being fashionable isn’t easy. I’ve written a guide on how to avoid looking like a tourist in Europe to help you dress well while traveling.

Cut The Clothing

Clothing is heavy and most inexperienced travelers bring way too much. There isn’t much difference between packing for two weeks or two months because you can simply do a load of laundry when needed.

• Ensure all your shirts and pants pair well with each other for maximum versatility. Choose dark and neutral colors because they hide dirt/stains better than light colors.
• I prefer dressing in layers if it’s cold. A big bulky coat isn’t practical unless you’re going somewhere extremely cold. A thermal base layer, long-sleeve t-shirt, sweater, and fleece jacket combo is more practical than a big coat. You can always add/subtract layers if needed.  Click here for the Savvy Backpacker guide to keeping warm in the winter.

Cut the Toiletries

Liquids, gels, and creams weigh a lot so packing full-sized bottles of shampoo, body wash, and other personal care items can quickly add multiple pounds to your bag.

I suggest limiting yourself to the basics—you can always buy things as you go.

Cut The Shoes

Many travelers pack multiple pairs of footwear but I suggest limiting yourself to two pairs if packing light is your goal.

Clothing Packing List For Backpacking Europe

Let’s start with clothing since clothes make up a bulk of what’s in your bag.

Travel Socks (5-8 Pairs)

I never skimp on socks when I travel.

Ask any experienced traveler and they’ll tell you the same thing.

I highly suggest spending extra money on quality socks because they’ll help keep your feet dry, odor-free, and blister-free. Unfortunately, nice socks can be expensive but I think they’re 100% worth it—plus, they’ll last for years so you can wear them for a long time.

Experienced travelers recommend quality wool socks—you can get lightweight merino wool socks for the summer and they’ll actually keep your feet cool and dry (heavier-weight socks are better for winter travel).

I overpack when it comes to socks so I’ll bring 6-7 pairs because I like the feeling of wearing a fresh pair every day.

Characteristics Of Quality Socks:

• Moisture-Wicking: Feet sweat and feet sweat a ton when you spend hours walking. Merino wool naturally wicks that moisture away from your feet—which assists in eliminating odor and blisters.
• Fast-Drying: Quick-drying materials can be washed in your sink and they’ll dry in a few hours.
• Odor-Blocking: Quite a few socks have anti-bacterial properties and merino wool does this naturally—even in the summer.
• Cotton Is Bad: Cotton naturally absorbs moisture and holds it close to your skin—which leads to blisters and foul odors.

A quality pair of socks can be worn twice before they start to stink (although you’ll want to rotate the days you wear each pair).

TIP: Switch your socks halfway through the day to keep your feet extra happy.

Recommended Sock Brands:

• Bombas Socks : I’m a huge fan of my Bombas Merino wool socks—I wear them nearly every day (I think I own 10+ pairs). They have a great warranty and I find them well-made.
• SmartWool Socks : SmartWool socks were my first “nice” socks and I’m still a fan.
• Darn Tough Socks : Made in Vermont, this brand of really nice socks will last for years.

Looking for more? Check out our article about our favorite socks for travel . 

Underwear (5-7 pairs)

I typically pack around five to seven pairs of underwear but I might pack a few extras since they don’t add much bulk. I prefer underwear that is made from synthetic materials which are designed to be quick-drying, breathable, and odor-resistant.

Here are some favorites:

• ExOfficio (Synthetic): ExOfficio is the #1 brand of travel underwear—they essentially invented the category. They typically cost around $18 to $25/pair but prices fluctuate. Available on Amazon  and  REI .
• The normal price is $22/pair but they are regularly on sale for around $15. Available at REI .
• Prices vary based on cut/style but you can find them for around $20/pair. Available on Amazon .
• They are a bit pricy at $42/pair but they’re top quality. Available at Wool & Prince .
• They usually run about $25-$30/pair via Amazon

For a more in-depth article about travel underwear, check out  our favorite travel underwear!

Shoes for Traveling Europe

I normally recommend only packing one pair of shoes if you’re traveling light but it is understandable if you want to bring two pairs. Check out my favorite travel shoes for specific recommendations .

You’ll be on your feet for hours at a time while in Europe so you  really  want a sturdy pair of comfortable shoes for sightseeing. These days I opt for supportive and stylish New Balance sneakers (something from their 900-series). But I also like leather sneakers that are comfortable during the day and look nice enough for going out at night. Nike, New Balance, Adidas, and similar companies all make leather sneakers like this.

Some people opt for sturdier “hiking” shoes since they’re usually waterproof and have an all-terrain sole. They’re not super stylish but they are usually pretty comfortable. If you plan on traveling during a rainy time of year, I would suggest this option. On that note, I suggest leaving the hiking boots at home unless you plan on doing some hardcore winter hiking.

Don’t forget a cheap pair of rubber flip-flop sandals if you’re going to stay in a hostel. You’ll want them for the showers. Trust me.

I highly  recommend that you leave your dress shoes at home. While sneakers would probably prevent you from entering any  super   swanky  nightclubs, I doubt most budget backpackers can afford the cover charge + drink prices at those places. And a smart pair of sneakers will get you into most places.

For a more in-depth guide to finding the best shoes, check out our guide to  fashionable and comfortable travel shoes .

Shirts and Tops

Button-up shirts (2-4)

I think long-sleeve button-up shirts are the best option when it comes to shirts (be sure to check out my guide to fashion in Europe for a more in-depth guide on being fashionable while traveling in Europe).

When looking for shirts keep the following things in mind:

• Versatile: Don’t bring fancy dress shirts but a nice casual button-up will work well all day and night. Basically, pick something that will look fine in a church/museum, in a café, and a bar.
• Non-wrinkle: It is hard to keep clothes unwrinkled while traveling so non-wrinkle fabrics are super nice.
• Easy to wash: Stay away from things that you can’t easily wash or that are high maintenance.
• Dark colors : Dark colors do a better job at hiding stains. Plus, most Europeans tend to wear darker colors, so you’ll blend in better with the locals.

Brands & Shirts I Like:

• Bluffworks has a few high-performance travel shirts but they’re a little pricey.
• Uniqlo has a number of cheap but decent-quality shirts.
• The  Outlier NYCO Oxford  ($120) fashionable and functional travel shirts.
• Wool & Prince makes some of my favorite Merino wool button-down shirts and polos in multiple colors—again these are fairly expensive.
• REI has a whole slew of clothes built for travel. Patagonia has a number of nice-looking and high-performance options.

Sweaters (1 or 2)

Lightweight sweaters are nice for dressing up or for cool nights. For maximum versatility, make sure your sweaters and button-up shirts all look good together so you can layer them.

If you’re traveling in the summer, it might be wise to save space by not bringing a sweater.

T-shirts (3 or 4)

While I prefer wearing mostly button-up shirts, I still like wearing T-shirts. They are good for around the hostel, sleeping, wearing under other shirts, and even wearing around town. I usually pack about four solid-color shirts since those are the most versatile.

I usually pack a couple of t-shirts made of lightweight merino wool since wool inhibits odor, resists wrinkles, and dries quickly so they can be worn a few times before needing to be washed. That said, wool T-shirts are expensive so normal cotton shirts are fine.

• Bluffworks has a nice quick-dry Threshold Performance T-Shirt for $45 that’s sweat-wicking and quick-drying. They also have a technical Piton Polo Shirt that’s $68.
• Uniqlo has a bunch of solid-color shirts for under $10. Their “U” line of t-shirts is usually around $15 but they’re made out of nice heavyweight cotton.
• Wool & Prince makes some excellent Merino wool t-shirts and polo shirts that I like. The short-sleeved shirts ($68) long long-sleeved shirts ($84) are expensive but I honestly love the fit and feel. Available at Wool & Prince .
• Unbound makes quality unbranded 100% merino wool t-shirts that come in black, grey, and navy. They cost $65 each — which is fairly affordable when it comes to merino wool. Available at Unbound .

Pants (2 pairs)

I normally only travel with two pairs of pants—usually a pair of dark jeans and a pair of neutral-color pants.

Dark jeans can be dressed up or completely casual—plus, they match everything. You can wear jeans for months without washing them and they still won’t stink. Plus, jeans are a staple in every European’s wardrobe. Some hardcore travelers don’t wear jeans because they are fairly heavy and take forever to dry. While they’re right, I still think jeans are perfectly fine for European travel.

Also, bring a pair of well-fitting neutral/dark color chinos (lightweight cotton). These look nice if you want to dress them up a bit.

Luckily, these days there are a handful of brands that make travel pants that look fashionable but are still durable. They were fairly expensive but they’re nice to have.

Here are a few recommended travel pants:

• Bluffworks makes solid travel clothing that is both functional and fashionable. They have two main styles of travel pants—the Original ($98) and the Ascender Chinos ($125). Both pants are super tough, breathable, moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant, lightweight, and they have hidden security pockets.
• Bluffworks also has a pair of super comfortable Departure Travel Jeans that look nice. They’re also lightweight, stretchy, and have a hidden zippered security pocket.
• Western Rise is another company that makes travel-friendly pants that are durable yet stretch stain-resistant. The AT Slim Rivet Pant is their most popular and they retail for $129.
• Uniqlo has cheap travel pants made from high-tech fabrics. The quality isn’t great but they’re cheap.

Shorts: Traditionally, European adults don’t wear shorts but it is becoming a little more common—especially in Southern Europe. I recommend avoiding khaki cargo shorts and athletic shorts because that’s the stereotypical American tourist outfit.

Swimwear:  If you go to the beach, then you’ll need something to wear.

Jackets and Rainwear

Obviously, whether you take a jacket or not will depend on when and where you travel.

• Fleece Jacket – A nice fleece jacket is great because has a great warmth-to-weight ratio. I suggest getting a black one because it will be the most versatile. Patagonia  has a lot of amazing options.
• The Patagonia Houdini weighs in at a crazy light 3.6oz and can be found online for $99. Available via REI  and  Amazon
• Outdoor Research Helium II is another lightweight rain jacket that only weighs around 6oz. It can be packed down the size of a baseball so it’s a nice summer jacket. It is a little pricy at $140-$170. Available via REI  and  Amazon .
• Helium HD Rain Jacket is quite similar to the popular Helium II but it is just a tad heavier at 9oz (which is still insanely light). Unlike other jackets, it has a few extra features like front pockets & pit zips. It sells for around $200. Available via Amazon .
• The Marmot PreCip Jacket is not the lightest jacket on our list (it still only weighs a respectable 11oz) but a bit more durable than others. Price: $100. Available via REI  and  Amazon .
• The Patagonia Nano Puff (11.9 oz) provides a lot of warmth for a light jacket. It’s also more affordable at $199. Available via  Amazon  and  REI .
• The Mountain Hardware “Ghost Whisper” jacket is only 7.2 oz. It is water-resistant, has pockets, and can often be found for under $180 — so it’s a bit more affordable than similar jackets. Available via Amazon  and  REI .
• Uniqlo sells synthetic down jackets for $60-$70. Don’t expect crazy features or ultra-lightweight, but it’s a good budget-friendly option.

Miscellaneous Items

• Sunglasses – Rayban sunglasses are a very classic choice.
• Scarf – Both men and women wear scarves in the summer and winter.
• Hat and Gloves

TRAVEL ACCESSORIES

Here are a few travel accessories you might want to bring along as you backpack through Europe.

Travel Backpack

Every backpacker needs a quality backpack and I’ve written extensively about my favorite travel backpacks . Here are a few of my top picks:

• Aer Travel Pack 3 Review
• Osprey Farpoint 55 Review and Osprey Farpoint 40 Review
• Cotopaxi Allpa 42 Travel Backpack Review

Packing Cubes

Get yourself some packing cubes because it makes backpack-living much easier. Packing cubes are small, lightweight bags used for packing your clothes into separate compartments. I separate items into different cubes — so I’ll put socks in one, underwear in another, shirts in another, etc.

These things make it easy to access all your clothes without having to rummage through everything. They also help reduce wrinkles and they help compress your clothing so you can fit more stuff into smaller luggage.

Here are a few Of my favorite packing cubes:

• Eagle Creek Pack-It Cubes
• Eagle Creek Spectre Tech Packing Cubes
• eBags Packing Cubes
• AmazonBasics Packing Cubes

Read a more in-depth review of our favorite  packing cubes . 

TRAVEL DAYPACK

Bring a small backpack to haul around small items like your camera, rain jacket, etc. as you’re out for the day. Ideally, your daypack will easily pack into your main luggage during travel days. Here’s a list of my favorite daypacks to give yourself an idea of what to look for in a day pack.

eSIM or SIM CARD FOR FAST AND CHEAP MOBILE DATA

The cheapest way to get mobile data for your phone is by using a European eSIM or SIM card — this is much cheaper than using your home carrier’s International Mobile Data plan.

For example, an eSIM data plan will cost you about $3/day as opposed to $10-$15/day from your current carrier.

You can read about my  guide to using smartphones and data plans in Europe  but I recommend buying your eSIM/SIM card from  SimOptions.com or an eSIM from Holafly .

TRAVEL TOWEL

A  quick-drying travel towel  is a must because a normal towel takes hours to dry — which is no good when you’re always on the move (i.e. a wet towel shoved into a backpack will make everything smell musty). These travel towels soak up a lot of liquid but air dry in a few hours.

Here are two travel towels I like:

• PackTowl Personal Microfiber Towel
• Biospired Footprint Lightweight Microsuede Towel

SMALL FLASHLIGHT

A small keychain flashlight comes in handy in hostels so you don’t wake up everyone when you need to find something in the dark. They are also nice for navigating dark streets, illuminating your luggage, etc.

My top pick is the Streamlight 73001 Nano Light Miniature Keychain LED Flashlight —this thing is tiny while still giving off lots of light. Honestly, anything from Streamlight is going to be a solid product so check out their page on Amazon .

Jot down phone numbers, directions, addresses, restaurants, spending, etc. in a Moleskine Notebook ,  Field Notes , or  Rhodia notebook. It also makes a nice souvenir after the trip is over.

PADLOCK & RETRACTABLE CABLE LOCK

Keep your stuff safe when you’re staying in hostels. I like the  Master Lock Set-Your-Own-Combination Padlock  because it allows you to set your own combo.

Retractable cable locks  are handy for securing your bag to your bunk or a luggage rack.

TRAVEL SLEEP SHEET

Consider bringing a sleep sheet/sleep sack if you’re worried about the cleanliness of your hostel sheets. The cheapest option is a cotton Sleep Sheet.  Silk Sleep Sacks  are more expensive but they’re lighter, less bulky, and feel great to sleep in.

EARPLUGS & EYE MASK

Sleeping on trains/planes/buses/hostels isn’t always easy so consider packing an  eye mask . Earplugs are nice too (especially if there is someone who snores in your room). These  Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs  are comfortable for sleeping.

WATER BOTTLE

A  basic water bottle  works but flexible water bottles like the  Platypus Soft Bottle  can be rolled up when empty.

TRAVEL UTENSILS

A set of Plastic Travel Utensils is super handy for picnics since most grocery stores don’t provide utensils. I thought this titanium spork was kind of funny.

TOOTHBRUSH COVER

Steripod Clip-on Toothbrush Sanitizer cover works well to keep your brush sanitized by using some voodoo science. Or you can just get a normal toothbrush cover  if that’s how you roll.

DIGITAL LUGGAGE SCALE

A  digital luggage scale  is great for avoiding those costly overweight luggage fees.

PHOTOCOPIES OF IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

Make copies (physical and electronic) of your passport and other important documents. I email them to myself or save them to Google Docs.

ZIPLOC BAGS (MULTIPLE SIZES)

Separate your dirty/wet clothes with Plastic bags. It’s a good idea to put our liquids in a sealable bag in case of a leak. The large 3-gallon bags are nice for keeping your dirty shoes away from your clothes.

One of the best ways to avoid becoming a pickpocketing victim is to wear a  money belt ( learn more about avoiding pickpockets ). I don’t wear one but a lot of people do.

COLLAPSIBLE UMBRELLA

A  travel umbrella  is good in case of rain.

LAUNDRY STUFF

• Sink Stopper:  Pack a simple  Travel Sink Stopper  if you plan on washing clothes in the sink.
• Travel Laundry Soap : Bring some  Woolite Travel Laundry Soap  or  Travelon Laundry Soap Sheets  if you plan on doing laundry while traveling.
• Flexible Travel Clothesline:  A  rubber braided clothesline  is a nice way to air dry anything you need to wash. Additionally, the braided clotheslines are ideal because they don’t require any clothespins — just stick the clothes through the braids.
• Stain Remover:   Tide To Go Stain Remover Pens and individually wrapped Shout Wipes work really well on stains and take up no space in your bag.

LINT ROLLER

Keep your clothes lint-free with a lint roller and stop looking like a slob.

Research the cities you’re going to visit so check out a few  guidebooks . Our favorite publishers are:

• Lonely Planet
• Rick Steves
• Fodor’s

A small  phrasebook  is nice if you want to learn a bit of the local language.

ELECTRONICS PACKING LIST

Technology has changed how we travel so here are a few gadgets to help fuel your addiction to technology.

Quick Note: Europe and North America use different voltages so some American electronics won’t work in Europe. But don’t worry because high-end electronics like laptops, phones, cameras, etc. will all work fine with a plug adapter (see below). I suggest reading our guide to  traveling with electronics  for more in-depth advice about using electronic devices while traveling.

OUTLET PLUG ADAPTERS

Pack a few  outlet plug adapters . Continental Europe uses the same plug except for the UK — technically, Italy and Switzerland use a slightly different plug but the two-prong plugs (like seen above) still work. If you want to be safe you can buy specific adapters for those countries.

This simple set of adapters from  Ceptics  will work fine but you might want a plug adapter with USB plugs since most electronics charge via USB these days.

TRAVEL POWER STRIP

I’ve stayed in plenty of hostels & hotels have limited outlets so a power strip is a worthwhile investment. The Belkin Travel Power Strip with USB ports  is a popular option since it has USB ports but there are plenty of other  travel power strips .

PORTABLE PHONE CHARGER

Google Maps and Instagram will kill your phone battery so pack a portable battery. I use  Anker PowerCore 10000  because it’s tiny and affordable.

TABLET OR LAPTOP

I hate traveling with a laptop but I’m a big fan of traveling with my iPad.

Smartphones have changed travel forever — especially since there are many awesome apps. Here’s a guide to the  best travel apps  if you want to know what I use on the road.

Curious about data plans and using your phone abroad? Check out our guide to using Data Plans and Smartphone Phones Abroad

Having a book to read on those long flights and train rides is great but lugging a heavy book around is a pain. The  Amazon Kindle  is great for those of you who love to read. You can even download a lot of  travel guidebooks .

A pair of noise-canceling headphones are nice for flights and train rides but they’re a little bulky. I really love traveling with my wireless Apple AirPods—check Amazon since they’re often cheaper on sale there.

I also travel with a simple pair of in-ear headphones for airplanes. We’ve written about  our favorite travel headphones but anything will work.

TRAVEL TOILETRIES

Try minimizing the number of toiletries you bring because liquids add a ton of weight. Don’t forget that you can buy pretty much anything once you’re in Europe. Here is a general list of things you might want:

• Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash: I pour shampoo and body wash into these leak-proof GoToob travel-sized bottles . If I need more then I’ll buy it in Europe.
• Toothpaste & Toothbrush:  Don’t waste your money on a travel toothbrush — just bring a normal toothbrush and a  toothbrush cover .
• Shaving Stuff (Razors & Cream):  You can find pretty much the exact same products abroad but razors do seem to be a lot more expensive in Europe.
• Deodorant: Deodorant that I buy in Europe never seems to work as well so bring your own.
• Chapstick w/Sunscreen
• Contact Lenses/Solution/Glasses:  Contact solution is actually a pain to buy because it’s normally only sold in pharmacies. Plus it isn’t cheap. I’d recommend bringing your own if you can.
• Condoms:  Some souvenirs are no fun… so it’s better safe than sorry. I’d buy them before you go. Amazon has got you covered.
• Travel Fabric Freshener:  Your clothes will probably smell a bit funky after a while so travel-sized  Febreze To Go  is a good way to stay a little fresher.
• Travel Toilet Paper: Play it safe and pack some travel toilet paper in your daypack.
• Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes:  These are a lifesaver when you actually need them.  Cottonelle Fresh Flushable Wipes  are individually wrapped.
• Hand Sanitizer:  You’ll be touching so much dirty stuff all day, and you don’t want to get sick as you’re traveling.
• Body Powder:  Stop chafing caused by all that walking — especially if it is really hot. Anti Monkey Butt  is our favorite.
• Foot Cream:  Pamper your feet with O’Keeffe’s Healthy Feet Cream .
• Pepto Tablets:  Be sure to pack some Pepto-Bismol tablets for all that questionable street food.
• Band-Aids: Heal/prevent those blisters with Band-Aids for feet .
• Pain Medicine: Over-the-counter pain medicine (even basic stuff like Tylenol) is only from a pharmacy in Europe. This isn’t a big problem but it’s nice to have a few pills on hand.
• Prescription Drugs:  Ensure you have the original bottle/box in case you’re asked to prove the medicine is yours. Make sure you have enough medicine to cover your entire trip since it might be hard to get any refills.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance can be a great investment if you run into any trouble on the road because it helps cover your travel gear, flights, accommodation, rail passes, medical emergencies, and more. I use  World Nomads  but here is a  guide to buying travel insurance if you want to know what to look for when buying travel insurance.

Stuff You Don’t Need

There are a lot of things geared toward travelers that you probably won’t need if you’re traveling through Europe.

• Sleeping Bag : Sleeping bags aren’t needed unless you are camping or sleeping on someone’s floor.
• Sleeping Pad : Again, unless you’re camping or sleeping on the ground, you won’t need a sleeping pad.
• Water Filter : Europe has clean water so no need for a portable filter.
• Books : Books are bulky and heavy. Many hostels have a collection of books, and you’re normally free to swap. Travelers also swap books with each other.
• Beach Towel : Normal cotton towels take forever to dry and take up a lot of room. If you do bring one, make sure it is dry before you put it in your backpack because a damp towel will make everything in your bag smell really musty. I recommend a quick-drying travel towel .
• Hiking/Backpacking Food : There is no need for prepackaged travel meals. However, I throw in a couple of RX or Cliff bars just in case I get hungry while on the go.

WHERE TO BUY TRAVEL GEAR

There are so many places to buy all your travel gear so I wanted to put together a list of places to check out.

• Amazon seems to have just about everything and the prices tend to be pretty good.
• Zappos  has much more than just shoes — they also sell a pretty good selection of travel gear like clothes, jackets, socks, and backpacks. Their prices are sometimes a bit higher than other stores but their free super-fast shipping and dead-simple returns are often worth the extra cost.
• REI  is one of the largest outdoor retailers and they have a ton of travel gear. A lot of their stuff is more “outdoorsy” but they’re good for things like backpacks, socks, underwear, etc.
• Bluffworks sells travel clothing that actually looks like normal, fashionable clothes.
• Uniqlo is the king of cheap but fairly decent high-tech travel clothing.

More Packing Tips For Europe

Here are some more helpful packing articles that I’ve written:

• The Best Travel Shoes
• The Best Travel Backpacks
• The Best Travel Pants For Men
• Winter Packing List for Europe
• Best Waterproof Boots for Men
• Recent Posts
• New York Pass Review | Is It A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 20, 2024
• Paris Pass Review — A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 13, 2024
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024

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The Savvy Backpacker is reader-supported. That means when you buy products/services through links on the site, I may earn an affiliate commission—it doesn’t cost you anything extra and it helps support the site.

Thanks For Reading! — James

Questions? Learn more about our Strict Advertising Policy and How To Support Us .

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The best travel backpacks | in-depth buyer’s guide & backpack reviews.

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Passing Thru Travel

12 Budget Backpacking Tips for Traveling Across Europe

Posted: March 1, 2024 | Last updated: March 1, 2024

Backpacking through Europe is a dream for many, offering a tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. However, traversing this diverse continent doesn’t have to break the bank. With smart planning and savvy travel hacks, you can explore Europe affordably, immersing yourself in its richness without exhausting your finances. This guide provides essential tips for budget backpacking in Europe, ensuring your journey is as economical as it is adventurous.

1. Plan Your Route Wisely

Efficient route planning is a cornerstone of budget backpacking in Europe. You can minimize travel distances and costs by focusing on regions where countries are geographically close. For example, Eastern Europe is more affordable and offers rich cultural experiences with fewer crowds than more popular Western European destinations.

Consider starting your journey in cities where flights are cheaper, and then use Europe’s extensive train and bus networks to travel between countries. This approach saves money and allows you to see more within a limited time frame.

Insider’s Tip: Use apps like Rome2Rio to find the cheapest and quickest routes between destinations.

2. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Traveling during Europe’s shoulder seasons – spring and autumn – can lead to significant savings. During these times, flights and accommodations are often cheaper, and popular destinations are less crowded, offering a more authentic experience. Besides cost savings, traveling during the off-peak season means milder weather, making exploring and enjoying outdoor activities more comfortable.

Insider’s Tip: Late September to October offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making it ideal for budget travel.

3. Embrace Overnight Trains and Buses

Overnight trains and buses are not only budget-friendly but also time-efficient. Traveling at night saves on a night’s accommodation while covering significant distances. Europe’s extensive rail and bus networks connect major cities and even cross international borders, making it easy to plan your journey. Additionally, the experience of waking up in a new city is exhilarating and maximizes your daytime for exploration.

Insider’s Tip: Invest in a good travel pillow and earplugs for a more comfortable journey.

4. Stay in Hostels or Use Homestay Apps

Hostels are the go-to accommodation choice for budget backpackers, offering affordable rates and opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Many hostels provide amenities like free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and sometimes even free breakfast. For a more local and personal experience, consider using homestay apps like Couchsurfing, where you can stay with locals for free or a nominal fee, gaining unique insights into the local lifestyle.

Insider’s Tip: Look for hostels with kitchens to save money by cooking your own meals.

5. Eat Like a Local

Eating out in tourist-centric areas can quickly drain your budget. Instead, dine where the locals eat. Street food, local markets, and small family-run eateries often offer delicious and authentic food at a fraction of the price you’d pay in tourist spots. This saves you money and gives you a taste of the local cuisine and culture.

Insider’s Tip: In Mediterranean countries, look for set lunch menus, which are often great value for money.

6. Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours

Most European cities offer free walking tours, a great way to familiarize yourself with a new city. These tours, usually led by enthusiastic local guides, cover major landmarks and provide historical and cultural insights. While the tours are free, tipping your guide is customary and appreciated.

Insider’s Tip: Chat with your guide after the tour for personal recommendations on cheap eats and hidden gems in the city.

7. Use Public Transportation

Opting for public transportation over taxis or car rentals can lead to substantial savings. European cities generally boast efficient and affordable public transport systems. Look into day or multi-day passes for unlimited travel, which are often more economical than single tickets.

Insider’s Tip: Always validate your ticket to avoid fines, as many European cities have an honor-based system.

8. Limit Paid Attractions

While visiting every paid attraction is tempting, these costs can quickly add up. Prioritize which attractions are a must-see for you and look for city passes that offer access to multiple attractions at a reduced price. Many cities also offer free entry to museums and galleries on certain days or hours.

Insider’s Tip: Many museums and attractions have free entry days or hours; plan your visit accordingly.

9. Pack Light and Practical

Packing light is essential for budget backpacking. Not only does it make travel easier, but it also saves you money on luggage fees with budget airlines. Choose versatile clothing suitable for different weather conditions and comfortable walking shoes. Remember, most things can be bought locally if needed, so pack only the essentials.

Insider’s Tip: Pack a lightweight, foldable backpack for day trips and excursions.

10. Stay Connected Affordably

Staying connected is important, but international roaming charges can be exorbitant. Opt for local SIM cards for cheap data, or take advantage of free Wi-Fi in hostels, cafes, and public spaces. This keeps you connected and helps with navigation and finding information on the go.

Insider’s Tip: Apps like WhatsApp and Skype allow free calls and messages over Wi-Fi.

11. Shop at Local Markets

Shopping at local markets is budget-friendly and offers an authentic slice of local life. You can find fresh produce, regional specialties, and sometimes even unique handmade souvenirs at lower prices than in tourist-oriented shops.

Insider’s Tip: Visit markets towards the end of the day for potential discounts as vendors pack up.

12. Be Flexible and Open to New Experiences

Flexibility can lead to unexpected adventures and savings. Be open to changing your plans based on local recommendations, weather conditions, or discovering new opportunities.

Sometimes the most memorable experiences are unplanned and cost little to nothing. This flexibility might mean taking a last-minute bus to a less-visited town or joining new friends on a day trip.

Insider’s Tip: Be open to changing your plans based on local recommendations or new opportunities.

The Bottom Line

Budget backpacking in Europe is about smart planning, flexibility, and immersing yourself in local experiences. By following these tips, you can explore the rich tapestry of Europe without depleting your savings. Remember, the value of your journey isn’t measured by how much you spend but by the experiences you gain and the memories you create.

Traveling affordably allows you to see more of the world, meet diverse people, and embrace new cultures. So pack your bag, set your budget, and embark on an adventure that proves that the best things in travel don’t always come with a hefty price tag. Happy backpacking!

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The post 12 Budget Backpacking Tips for Traveling Across Europe republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Duet PandG.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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What you need to know about European travel this summer

With headlines warning of everything from flight delays to wildfires, summer travel is changing. Here’s how to make sure your trip this summer goes smoothly.

Record numbers of tourists are expected to visit Europe this summer. In the first three months of 2024, the number of international arrivals has already risen by 7.2% compared to 2019’s pre-pandemic figures, according to the European Travel Commission , with 120 million international tourists visiting the region in that time. Yet while this is welcome news for the tourism industry, some challenges remain for visitors, especially during the summer’s busy peak season, when potential flight delays, high temperatures, new laws and major events could all impact travel. Here’s what you need to know to make sure your European trip this summer goes smoothly.

1. What you need to know about flight disruptions

Increased passenger numbers, staff shortages and strikes meant there were 106.7 million delayed air passengers in Europe during peak summer months last year. More than 700,000 passengers were affected over the August bank holiday in the UK alone following a technical meltdown at air traffic control. This year, EasyJet has had to cancel over 100 flights from Paris due to a no-fly zone during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games. Ryanair has also cut flights from its summer schedule after the delivery of several of its new Boeing aircraft was delayed. If you’re due to fly, visit the airport’s website for the latest information, and check social media for real-time updates from other travellers. Remember that you may be owed compensation if you face disruption, but rules vary, so take out a travel insurance policy as soon as you book flights.

( What should you do if your flight is delayed or cancelled? )

2. Why you should consider travelling by train

Keep your carbon footprint low, avoid airport hassle and see even more of Europe this summer by taking advantage of a whole host of new and expanded routes across the continent. New services include a high-speed route connecting Barcelona to Madrid and Seville , a sleeper train from Brussels to Prague , a daily train between Vilnius and Riga , a relaunched night train between Paris and Nice and a sleeper train from Rome to the Dolomites . Following the success of Germany’s €49 unlimited monthly travel pass last year, France has also introduced its own nationwide rail pass for the same price. However, this is only valid for those under 27 and excludes high-speed TGV trains and travel in the greater Paris region of Ile-de-France.

( 6 of the world’s best coastal rail journeys .)

3. What to do you if you’re affected by wildfires

Following unprecedented high temperatures, wildfires swept through some of Europe’s most popular tourist spots last summer, scorching parts of Tenerife, mainland Spain, Greece, Portugal and Italy. This year, protective measures have already been put in place that aim to prevent a repeat of the disaster, with Greece banning all outdoor fires from April and increasing investment in fire detection and water tankers. To ensure you’re protected if the worst happens, arrange travel insurance at the time of booking, then keep an eye on official travel advisories for up-to-date information. If you’re affected by wildfires or any other natural disasters when you’re away, follow the advice of the emergency services and evacuate when instructed, then contact your tour operator or airline for help getting home.

( What to do if you’re caught in a disaster while travelling. )

4. How big events could disrupt your travel  

From Taylor Swift’s tour across Europe to the UEFA European Championship in Germany, Europe is limbering up for a summer of major cultural and sporting events. The Olympic Games in Paris are expected to attract three million more visitors than usual . This is likely to mean a greater demand for accommodation, higher prices, crowded public transport, unexpected road closures and even increased security checks in response to the heightened risk of terrorist attacks. If your holiday does coincide with an event, try to explore beyond the city itself, visit nearby tourist attractions that could be quieter than normal, or just enjoy the inevitable citywide buzz surrounding the main event.

( How to explore Paris this summer beyond the Olympics. )

5. Why you should think about overcrowding

While many destinations welcome a return to pre-pandemic levels of tourism, others are actively trying to deter visitors. In Barcelona , tour groups have been capped at 20 people, while entrance to Athens’ Acropolis is now limited to 20,000 tourists each day. Dubrovnik has already cut the number of souvenir stands by 80%, while thousands attended an anti-tourism protest in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in April. All are concerned that overcrowding leads to skyrocketing prices for locals and causes environmental damage, with increased plastic pollution, erosion of heritage sites and traffic congestion. Consider less-visited destinations instead, swapping Santorini for Folegandros an hour’s ferry ride away, Dubrovnik for Šibenik with its medieval centre and fortress, or Barcelona for the Spanish seaside city of Valencia.

( What’s the problem with overtourism? )

6. How to deal with heatwaves

2023 was the hottest year on record globally, with temperatures in Europe above average for 11 months of the year. The Mediterranean was the worst area affected, with temperatures soaring above 40°C across Italy, Spain, Turkey, Cyprus and Greece. Consider travelling outside the hottest months, between July and September, or visiting destinations further north such as Denmark, Germany, Belgium, Lithuania or Ireland which should escape the most intense heat. If temperatures do climb, wear high-factor SPF, avoid being outside in the middle of the day and wear light-coloured clothes made from breathable materials. Avoid alcohol and drink plenty of water, and keep a close eye on vulnerable people, including young children and the elderly.

7. How to avoid being caught out by local laws and taxes

Do your research before travelling to make sure you don’t fall foul of new laws. A €5 tax for day-trippers was introduced in Venice in April, for example, and will be enforced on selected dates until July. It can be paid online in advance, and those staying overnight are exempt but do still need to register. A second tourist tax of €1 to €5 per night is already applicable to overnight stays and should be paid at your hotel. Be aware that some Airbnbs ask that this is paid in cash. Other new rules in parts of Mallorca and Ibiza ban drinking on the street and prevent shops selling alcohol at night, though you will still be able to buy drinks in bars and restaurants.

Related Topics

• FAMILY TRAVEL
• CITY GUIDES

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