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Europe Backpacking Tours

If you want to immerse yourself in different cultures and experience some incredible adventures along the way, a Europe backpacking tour should be at the top of your bucket list. Hop around the continent or explore a single country like Greece — either way, this style of travel delivers the perfect balance of must-see sights and once-in-a-lifetime activities!  

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Backpacking Europe routes

Backpacking northern europe.

If you want to travel slightly off the well-trodden tourist trail, Northern Europe might just be the perfect option for your European backpacking adventure. Destinations in this region — including Scandinavia, Finland , Iceland , and the Baltics — boast some of the most beautiful, diverse, and otherworldly landscapes on the planet. Discover the best of these underrated gems on the following tours:   Iceland Express Duration: 5 days Highlights: Explore the Golden Circle route, experience the sheer power of the Gullfoss (Golden) double waterfall, soak in the famous Blue Lagoon Scandi Highlights Duration: 7 days Highlights: Explore the city of Olso, experience Stockholm by bike, see the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen Absolute North Duration: 12 days Highlights: Soak up the scenery at Nyhavn in Copenhagen, marvel at the gorgeous fjord coast of Norway , explore Tallinn’s medieval centre   Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights Duration: 6 days Highlights: See the geothermal fields of Geysir and Strokkur, gaze at the sky in search of the Northern Lights   Explore more Northern Europe backpacking tours here .

Should I backpack Europe?

• Backpacking is a fun and affordable way to make your Europe travel dreams a reality
• With efficient and reliable trains, planes, and buses galore, it’s relatively easy to travel across the continent
• Staying at hostels means you’ll end up meeting new people and making lifelong friends — even if you’re travelling solo
• Carrying your belongings on your back gets tiring fast
• The crowds and queues at major attractions can quickly ruin your travel experience
• Certain cities, such as Barcelona and Paris, are notorious for scams and pickpockets, so you’ll need to be extra cautious when travelling to these destinations

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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. 

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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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• Europe Travel Budget: How Much Does it Cost to Backpack Europe?
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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

From Paris to Berlin: 1 Week

Islandbound: 2 Weeks

Popular group tours.

Whole of Europe Group Tour: 4 Weeks

Girls on Tour: Central Europe

Girls on Tour: Western Europe

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My Step-By-Step Guide to Backpacking Europe

Backpacking Europe is one of my favorite things to do as a traveler. There isn’t a year I don’t criss-cross the continent (except 2020 when no one was crossing Europe).

During the summer, hostels burst with life, the Mediterranean sparkles, streets fill with people drinking wine and enjoying the day, and the late night setting sun leads to long wonderous days. Winter brings Christmas markets, skiing, fewer crowds, and lower prices! And Spring and Fall bring the right mix of people, temperatures, and prices that make these two my favorite seasons to travel Europe.

Since starting this website in 2008, I’ve written a lot of posts on Europe. I visit Europe multiple times a year, have been all over the continent, lived there on multiple occasions, and I have even run tours there.

With so much content on the blog, I wanted to create a resource page that will help you plan your backpacking trip to Europe with ease. That way you don’t miss anything! In this post, you’ll find all my best resources on planning a backpacking or budget trip to Europe, including destination guides, transportation tips, accommodation information, ways to meet people, and so much more!

So, without further ado, here’s everything you could ever want to know about backpacking Europe:

Table of Contents

Step 1: Plan Your Backpacking Europe Trip

Step 2: get your gear for backpacking europe, step 3: how to get amazing accommodation in europe, step 4: get around europe on the cheap, step 5: save money while backpacking europe, step 6: find out what to see and do in europe, get your in-depth budget guide to europe.

How Not to Feel Overwhelmed While Planning – Planning the perfect trip to Europe can be daunting and overwhelming. I’ve been there and I understand, but I can tell you from years of experience that the more you plan your trip, the more anxiety you will face.

How to Save for Your Trip – Is money stopping you from taking the trip of your dreams? Here are 22 easy ways to cut down on your daily expenses so you can save money to backpack Europe.

How to Find a Cheap Flight – Getting to Europe can be half the challenge. Luckily, there are a ton of flight deals to the continent now if you know when and how to look for them. This article will show you how to always get a cheap flight to Europe.

How to Earn Points for Free Flights and Hotel Stays – Free travel is my favorite kind of travel! This post shows you eight strategies I use to get over a million frequent flier points. These will get you out of your house faster, cheaper, and in comfort!

How to (Legally) Stay in Europe for More Than 90 Days – Every year, thousands of travelers wonder how they can stay in Europe for more than 90 days, which is the limit in the Schengen Zone. The good news is that there are a few different ways to stay. In this post, I share what you can do to stay legally beyond 90 days and on the continent in general.

How to Avoid Paying ATM Fees – You should never have to pay any bank fees while you are accessing your money in Europe! Here is my advice on how to avoid bank fees as your backpacking Europe.

Is Europe Safe to Visit? – Here is how to ensure you stay safe while traveling across the continent.  

What to Pack for Your Trip – What should you pack on your trip? Well, there is no one right answer, but this list will give you a good place to start. It’s what I take on my trips with me (though you’ll need to make some seasonal variations, I’m sure!).

The Ultimate Packing List for Female Travelers – In this post, Kristin Addis shares her packing insights for women, so that you can travel just about anywhere without spending a fortune on gear.

How to Buy Good Travel Insurance – Travel insurance is one of the most important things you’ll need for your trip. You wouldn’t have a car without car insurance or a home without home insurance, and you can’t have a trip without travel insurance!

The Best Travel Cameras – Wondering what kind of camera you should get for your trip? This post will show you exactly what you need — no matter your budget!  

How to Find a Good Hostel – This article features my best tips on how to find an affordable, clean, and fun hostel where you can meet a lot of amazing people.

The Best Hostels in Europe – This is a list of European hostels that I would definitely use again if I have the chance. Hope this helps with your next European backpacking adventure!

How to Become a House Sitter – This is a how-to guide to house-sitting, a wonderful opportunity that allows you to stay in a location rent free in exchange for watching someone’s house.

For more budget accommodation suggestions, check out my hostel hub page . It has all my favorite hostels around Europe!

If you’d rather stay in hotels, this page has all my favorite hotels in Europe .

And to find out where to stay in each city, visit my list of the best neighborhoods in Europe!  

The Ultimate Guide to Saving Money with Eurail Passes – Everyone traveling to Europe wonders if they will save money by buying a rail pass or if it’s cheaper to buy tickets as they go. This detailed post outlines everything you need to know about buying a rail pass!

Europe is also an amazing destination for road trips. Countries like Iceland , Scotland, Ireland, Portugal, and Norway are all amazing places to explore by vehicle.

If you’re planning to drive around Europe, use Discover Cars to find the best rental prices. They search rental companies big and small to find you the best deals.

You can use the widget below to get a quote. It’s fast and free:

How to Save Money on Food – While traveling Europe, food often becomes a major expense. Here are some tips for saving money on food so you still can afford a nice meal out every now and then.

How to Use the Sharing Economy to Save Money – The rise of the sharing economy has made backpacking Europe so much easier and cheaper. This post lists all my favorite ridesharing, house sharing, local meeting websites so you can get off the tourist trail and experience day-to-day life with locals!

61 Tips to Make You the Savviest Traveler – These 61 travel tips will help you become an expert traveler who gets around Europe cheaper, better, longer, and smarter!

14 Major Travel Scams to Avoid – Losing money to a preventable travel scam sucks. Learn what scams to look out for in Europe and save yourself a potential headache!

How to Crush it on Couchsurfing – While Couchsurfing isn’t as popular as it once was, it’s still an option for intrepid backpackers. This post can introduce you to the basics and help you find hosts around Europe.

How to Become a House Sitter & Get Free Accommodation – Pet sitting is a great way to get free accommodation when traveling Europe. It’s easy to get started too! This post will show you everything you need to know.  

Additionally, here are a few of my favorite companies in Europe. These are the comoanies I use when I’m looking for things to do, food tours, walking tours, and more!

Walks – Walks offers in-depth history, food, and cultural tours in cities around the world (especially Europe). Its small-group tours offer exclusive behind-the-scenes access other companies can’t get and use really incredible and knowledgeable guides. I can’t recommend them enough.

Devour – Devour has all kinds of amazing food tours around Europe. If you’re a foodie who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, these tours are the best on the continent. I take them every chance I get.

GetYourGuide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. The site has tons of tour options in cities all around the world, including cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more! It’s a good resource to search for specific tours in any destination.

And for a complete overview of Europe in one easy-to-read post, you can check out this free guide . It covers all the basics, including ways to save money, things to see and do, when to go, and more!

This massive resource list will help you plan your trip to Europe in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step pattern so you won’t get lost, overspend, or stress out about your upcoming dream trip. Europe is one of my favorite regions of the world (which is why I spend so much time there). There’s so much variety in food, culture, and language, as well as so much history. I love the continent and hope you use these tips to plan your ultimate backpacking adventure in Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Europe: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For suggestions on where to stay during your trip, here are my favorite hostels in Europe !

Don’t Forget 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. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Europe? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Europe for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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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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15 tips for backpacking through Europe

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written by Eleanor Aldridge

updated 10.06.2024

Europe has it all: sprawling cities and quaint villages; boulevards, promenades and railways; mountains, beaches and lakes. Some places will be exactly how you imagined. Others will surprise, with their under-the-radar nature or statement-making modern architecture. Whether you're planning to see it all or explore the hidden corners of the continent, these are our top 15 tips for backpacking through Europe.

1. Pick your season wisely

2. take the train, 3. be savvy about accommodation, 4. plan your trip around a festival, 5. eat like a local, 6. find the freebies, 7. get outdoors, 8. allow yourself the odd splurge, 9. stay up late, 10. hit the beach, 11. go under the radar, 12. stay safe, 13. try street food, 14. stay at least two weeks, 15. pack your luggage smartly.

The information in this article is inspired by the Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget - your essential guide for visiting Europe.

Travel ideas for Spain, created by local experts

Andalucía Explored

Discover the best of Andalucía's breathtaking palaces, churches, museums, vineyards, and more, as you travel through spectacular scenery dotted with pueblos blancos and bordered by rugged mountains and coast en route to Granada, Seville, Ronda and Jerez de la Frontera.

A culinary experience in Seville

Explore the cuisine and surroundings of Seville in Andalucia. From Iberian ham over sherry wines to the production and secrets of olive oil, this tour is an ideal weekend getaway. Decide yourself if you prefer a rental car or a chauffeur-driven car to explore the beauty of Andalucia.

Spanish Honeymoon

Discover Andalusia, starting with the cultural city of Seville, then on to Córdoba and Granada, home of the stunning Alhambra Palace. Next you'll visit Granada and the Albayzin Arab quarter, then enjoy a stunning hot-air balloon ride, before ending your trip with a luxury boat trip from Marbella!

Made for Madrid

Take to the Spanish capital for art, culture and a taste of life in the city, Madrileño-style. Explore age-old churches and pretty plazas, stroll through the lovely Buen Retiro Park and visit captivating Toledo. Then, come sundown, discover the city's vibrant barrios and lively nightlife.

A Madrid getaway

Spend four days discovering the wonders of Spain's capital Madrid: from fascinating museums like El Prado and Reina Sofia over exploring unknown corners with your private guide to a day trip to the surroundings, this itinerary packs the best of Madrid.

Hidden Spain - From Barcelona to Basque Country

Do you want to explore highlights in Spain while staying in nature at the same time? Look no further. Start your Spanish adventure in Barcelona before heading off to the mountains - drive your rental car to Andorra and further on to Basque Country. Decide between driving yourself or guided tours.

For fewer crowds during the summer season , you could consider heading east. The Balkan coastline, the Slovenian mountains and Baltic cities are all fantastic places for making the most of your money. When tourist traffic dies down as autumn approaches, head to the Med. The famous coastlines and islands of southern Europe are quieter at this time of year, and the cities of Spain and Italy begin to look their best.

Wintertime brings world-class skiing and epic New Year parties. Come spring it’s worth heading north to the Netherlands , Scandinavia, France and the British Isles, where you’ll find beautifully long days and relatively affordable prices.

Getting around by train is still the best option, and you’ll appreciate the diversity of Europe best at ground level. Plus, if you make your longest journeys overnight and sleep on the train, you’ll forego accommodation costs for the night. Most countries are accessible with an Interrail Global pass or the equivalent Eurail pass.

Depending on your time and budget, choose one corner of the continent then consider a budget flight for that unmissable experience elsewhere.

Travelling by train is perfect for backpacking through Europe Pixabay/CC0

Although accommodation is one of the key costs to consider when planning your trip, it needn’t be a stumbling block to a budget-conscious tour of Europe. Indeed, even in Europe’s pricier destinations the hostel system means there is always an affordable place to stay – and some are truly fantastic. Homestays will often give you better value for money than most hotels so they are also worth considering.

If you’re prepared to camp, you can get by on very little while staying at some excellently equipped sites. Come summer, university accommodation can be a cheap option in some countries. Be sure to book in advance regardless of your budget during the peak summer months.

Choosing accommodation is one of the essential tips while backpacking through Europe © pikselstock/Shutterstock

There’s always some event or other happening in Europe, and the bigger shindigs can be reason enough for visiting a place. Be warned, though, that you need to plan well in advance.

Some of the most spectacular extravaganzas include:

• St Patrick’s Day in Ireland , when Dublin becomes the epicentre of the shamrock-strewn, Guinness-fuelled fun
• Roskilde in Denmark , Glastonbury’s Scandinavian rival with a mass naked run thrown in for good measure
• Italy's bizarre battles of the oranges in Ivrea.

Attending amazing festivals is one of the best ways to get unique experiences during backpacking through Europe Pixabay/CC0

Related articles from the blog

You'll come across some of the world's greatest cuisines on a trip to Europe, so make sure to savour them. A backpacking budget needn't be a hindrance either. If you shun tourist traps to eat and drink with the locals, you'll find plenty of foodie experiences that won't break the bank.

Treat yourself to small portions but big flavours with a tapas dish or two in Spain; relish the world’s favourite cuisine at an Italian trattoria; or discover the art form of the open sandwich with smørrebrød in Denmark . Don’t skip breakfast, either – an oven-fresh croissant or calorie-jammed “full English” are not to be missed.

Smorrebrod in Denmark © Shutterstock

Being on a budget doesn’t mean you should miss out, even in some of the world’s most sophisticated cities. Many iconic European experiences are mercifully light on the pocket.

Look out for free city walking tours, try the great Italian tradition of aperitivo in Rome , make the most of the free museums in London and try cooking with local ingredients rather than eating out. We've got lists of the top free things to do in Paris , Barcelona , London , Lisbon and Berlin to get you started.

It can be tempting to focus backpacking through Europe on a succession of capital cities – but you'd be missing out on a lot. Europe offers a host of outdoor pursuits that animate its wide open spaces. From horseriding in Bulgaria ’s Rila Mountains and surfing on Portugal ’s gnarled Alentejo coast to skiing in Norway . Or, watching Mother Nature’s greatest show in Swedish Lapland .

Midnight sun in Swedish Lapland © Shutterstock

One advantage of budget travel is that it makes splurging all the sweeter – and for a little "flashpacking" guidance, we include Treat Yourself tips throughout our latest Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget . If you're mostly staying in dorms, splash out on the odd private hostel room or boutique hotel; swing by a speakeasy for cocktails in Paris; gorge yourself on pasta in Rome; and allow yourself a day of watersports in Croatia .

Whether it’s Berlin and London’s hipster dives, flamenco in Seville, or the enotecas that celebrate Italy’s rejuvenated wine industry, there are countless reasons to stay up till sunrise. Europe lives for the wee hours and you'll be following in some famous footsteps.

Think about ordering a knee-buckling Duvel beer at Brussels ’ historic La Fleur en Papier Doré , a time-worn café once the favourite hunt of Surrealist painter Magritte and Tintin creator Hergé. Sip a pint in one of Oxford's historic pubs , like the Eagle and Child, J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis's old haunt.

Clubbed and pubbed out? It's time to hit the beach . If you're looking for heat, Formentera’s beaches are quieter and wilder than on neighbouring Ibiza, while Croatia and Italy have a slew of beautiful stretches of sand. If you want to head off the beaten track, consider Mogren in Montenegro , part of the so-called “Budva Riviera” that stretches either side of Montenegro’s party town par excellence.

Looking for ideas for your holiday? Explore our guide to the best beach destinations for holidays in Europe .

While travelling in Europe, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy its stunning beaches Pixabay/CC0

If you're looking for Europe's charm without the crowds, you'll want to consider straying from the well-worn routes. Some of our favourite under-the-radar towns include Olomouc in the Czech Republic, a pint-sized Prague with fewer people and more charm (and cobblestones). OR Berat — a gorgeous Albanian town where row after row of Ottoman buildings loom down at you from the sides of a steep valley.

The town hall in Olomouc © Shutterstock

Take some basic precautions to stay safe. It’s not a good idea to walk around flashing an obviously expensive camera or smartphone and keep your eyes (and hands if necessary) on your bags at all times.

Exercise caution in hostels and on trains. Padlocking your bags to the luggage rack if you’re on an overnight train increases the likelihood that they’ll still be there in the morning. It’s also a good idea to take a photocopy of your passport and keep it safe somewhere online.

When travelling around Europe, don't get hung up on restaurants and cafés; almost every major city has an amazing street food scene.

Also, keep in mind that 90 per cent of the time street food will cost you less than in a restaurant, and often it can be even better than restaurant food. For example, the latest trend in London is gourmet street food, with food trucks popping up all over the capital selling everything from pork sandwiches to custard cakes.

Street food truck © Shutterstock

Although longer backpacking trips through Europe seem more expensive than shorter trips, there are a number of advantages to long trips, and it's quite feasible to spend 1-2 weeks in Europe without breaking the budget.

On longer trips, you have the chance to fully experience and explore several cities or even countries in Europe. In addition, your travel itinerary becomes more flexible and allows you to edit your plan using, for instance, advice from travellers you meet during your trip.

Ready to explore Europe? We have prepared the most convenient European itineraries for you to explore the continent.

Europe is, for the most part, a year-round destination. However, backpacking through Europe imposes certain restrictions in terms of the number of things you can take with you.

Depending on your chosen destination and the season, you should approach your travel essentials wisely. Especially when travelling in colder seasons or to countries like Norway or Switzerland , make sure you take warm clothes and boots with you, even in summer, to help you explore the snowy mountains.

Feel inspired? Check out our Rough Guides books and start planning your perfect trip.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be .

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image © RossHelen/Shutterstock

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Five Great Backpacking Europe Routes

Last Updated on February 14, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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For many, the act of donning a backpack and wandering aimlessly throughout the European continent is seen as something of a right of passage. Travelling on a budget is becoming easier and more accessible for people of any age with many options available for some non-traditional backpacking Europe routes.

Most people don’t have an unlimited amount of time to set aside for travel, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a backpack Europe at all. With this in mind, here are some things to keep in mind when planning a budget trip and also some itinerary ideas for any length of time!

Table of Contents

Planning a European Backpacking Route

Before I dive headfirst into all of the possible backpacking across Europe routes you could take, there are a number of things to consider before you begin planning your itinerary. Everything from your own particular travel style, your budget, and the season in which you plan to travel are all significant components that should be appraised prior to booking a flight.

Travel Style

One of the biggest factors that needs to be considered when planning a backpacking Europe trip is how you intend to travel. More often than not, people planning a trip tend to get overly excited and seem to think that it’s a good idea to pack as many places as possible into a short period of time.

This can be one of the biggest mistakes you can make, as it will more likely lead to exhaustion and travel burn-out rather than a fulfilling backpacking experience.

I am definitely a massive advocate for slower-paced travel as I believe that it allows travellers to really experience a city, town, or country while reducing the possibility of overwhelm and exhaustion. This is why, generally speaking, I would recommend spending an average of three nights in each place you intend to visit.

For bigger cities with many points of interest, I would recommend extending this to four or five nights (or more) and for a smaller town or city, I honestly wouldn’t recommend spending fewer than two nights.

While it may seem on the surface that destinations are close by, travel days are a huge time drain and take, at least, half of an entire day and can be tiring. This inevitably leaves less time to adequately explore your destination. A good way to counter this is by staying in one strategically located destination where you can easily access other places for day trips.

Getting Around

How you plan to get around Europe is also another key consideration when planning your Europe backpacking route. Depending on which region you happen to be visiting, there are different transport options that are available to you.

For instance, if you’re planning on spending the majority of your time in the Balkans or the Baltics , you’re not going to want to rely on train travel — trains aren’t well-developed in these regions! No, you’re going to want to take the bus instead.

In fact, if you’re looking to save money in a lot of countries throughout Europe (even if there is a well-developed train system), then the bus might be the best option for you, especially in countries with expensive train networks.

Whether you’re looking to book a bus or a train, however, we recommend using Omio , which compares bus and train routes and allows you to book the best option for you. For buses, we also recommend using Flixbus. They are an affordable bus company that operates throughout Europe and have prices that are particularly friendly to those trying to stick to a budget.

If you are in a country where it makes more sense to take the train or you just prefer it to the bus, then it is worth it to look into getting a rail pass. Depending on where you’re from, purchasing to Eurail pass or an Interrail pass could be one of the smartest financial decisions you could make while planning out your trip.

If you’re interested in visiting a lot of regions around Europe, there are also budget airlines on the continent such as Ryanair, WizzAir and EasyJet. These are not as cheap as they used to be, but you can still find affordable flights on occasion – especially if you’re not checking in any luggage.

It’s likely that you’re going to be trying to be backpacking Europe on a budget and this directly effects what kind of route or itinerary you devise.

Contrary to popular belief, the entire European continent isn’t outrageously expensive and there are certainly a number of regions that can be incredibly affordable for Western travellers. That being said, however, your money can definitely go a lot further in most Central and Eastern European countries than in Western Europe.

When trying to figure out a budget for a backpacking Europe itinerary, it is best to just come up with a general ballpark figure of how much you’re willing to spend and how long you want to travel. This can give you a greater idea of where it would be best to go and when.

The main costs that need to be considered during any number of backpacking through Europe routes are the prices of accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and entertainment.

However, there are also pre-trip expenses to consider like travel insurance. World Nomads offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

Another option if travelling long term is SafetyWing . They offer travel medical insurance policies at one of the lowest rates on the market.

To overgeneralise, it’s hardest to stick to a tight budget for backpackers in most Western and Northern European countries. Central Europe is best for a mid-range budget and Eastern Europe and the Balkans tend to be the most affordable regions on the continent. Obviously, there are exceptions to these guidelines depending on the country or city you happen to be travelling in.

The last major thing to consider is which season is best to travel in. The European continent very much experiences all four seasons, with most countries experiencing cold, snowy winters and hot, muggy summers.

Tourist seasons in Europe are broken up into three distinct categories: high season (June – August), low season (December – February), and shoulder seasons (March – May and September – November).

There are definite pros and cons to planning your route through any of these seasons. If you plan to travel during the high season, you can definitely expect some of the best weather.

The days are normally very warm and, due to Europe’s more northern location, also quite long. Most of the tourist facilities will be open and there are also a number of festivals and cultural events that tend to take place during the summer.

Conversely, travelling in the high season does come with its own setbacks. As it is the most popular time to visit Europe, accommodation, restaurant, and tourist attraction prices are often inflated. Popular sites and seaside cities and towns can become incredibly crowded and with that comes a high demand for everything, making it a lot less easy to be flexible.

If you do plan to travel in the high season, it’s generally pertinent that you book most things ahead and plan well in advance. We recommend booking hostels through Hostelworld or budget rooms through Booking.Com which often allows you to book without paying upfront. Another great option, particularly if travelling as a couple is to use Airbnb, which is available throughout Europe.

Travelling in the low season can be an appealing option for those who are looking to avoid tourist crowds and who don’t mind the inevitable cold weather. Travelling around the Christmas season can be especially rewarding, as most cities and towns go all out with cheerful decorations, lights, and wonderful Christmas markets.

Prices are also often a lot cheaper than in the high season and it can be a lot easier to be flexible with your travel plans. Due to low demand, however, you may find that some tourist attractions either have very limited opening hours or are closed entirely and, due to cold weather, a seaside escape isn’t really in the cards if you’re travelling in the winter.

If you were to ask my opinion, I would say to plan your trip in the shoulder seasons. The weather, while sometimes unpredictable, is generally milder and often pleasant and the tourist crowds are few. The inflated prices of the summer aren’t usually in place and also the accommodation demand isn’t as high, leaving more room for flexibility.

Three-Week Backpacking Europe Routes

If you are short on time but still want to experience the travelling mindset that comes with backpacking, then three weeks is the perfect length for an itinerary. Because it is synonymous with travelling on a budget, these routes for backpacking Europe will concentrate on Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans.

Central European Highlights Itinerary

The best place to begin many Central and Eastern European trips is in Budapest , which is a fantastic and vibrant city for budget backpackers. This itinerary sees you visiting some of the biggest and brightest major cities in Hungary, Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic.

Budapest – plan to spend at least five days in Hungary’s capital city. This will give you enough time to see all of the great sites, experience its great nightlife and thermal bathhouses and also take a day trip. Budapest is truly one of the best places to visit in Europe so it’s worth taking your time here.

Krakow  – plan to spend at least three days in Krakow , which will allow you explore its beautiful Old Town and Kazimierz Quarter and take a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau or the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Wroclaw – this charming student city is one of the most underrated cities in Europe. Spend three or so nights here and take the time to explore the Old Town, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, lounge in the many parks, and hunt for the many dwarf statues scattered throughout the city.

Berlin – Germany’s achingly cool capital deserves to have at least five nights devoted to exploring it. There are so many cool things to do in Berlin , including eating delicious international cuisine, experiencing its legendary nightlife, admiring the street art in neighbourhoods like Kreuzberg, and getting cultured in some of its many museums.

Prague  – while Prague’s main tourist spots are easy to explore in just one or two days, it is worth spending about four days in the beautiful Czech capital. This will allow you to get off the beaten path in the city. Alternatively, you could use one of these days to spend a night in nearby Cesky Krumlov.

Balkan Highlights Itinerary

If you’re looking to avoid the tourist crowds that are inevitable in the former itinerary and want to get a little bit off the beaten path, heading to the Balkans is a fantastic option. This is one of the most underrated corners of Europe and the Balkan countries are very much worth exploring. Consequently, Budapest is also a fantastic starting point for exploring this under-explored region.

Budapest – though Hungary is not considered a Balkan country, its capital city is a great place to start. Five nights in Budapest is the perfect amount of time to really get to know this amazing city well.

Pécs  – the charming Hungarian city of Pécs is still fairly undiscovered by international tourism, which gives you all the more reason to go! The city itself is wonderful to explore, but it is also surrounded by beautiful nature. Three nights here will give you a taste of a different side of Hungary.

Novi Sad  – as Serbia’s second-largest city, Novi Sad is small but charming. It is worth spending at least two nights here in order to explore its lovely Old Town, fortress, and thriving cafe culture.

Belgrade  – Serbia’s capital city may seem a bit rough around the edges, but it is easily one of our favourite European cities and it is well worth taking a fair amount of time getting to know it. It is becoming infamous for its incredible nightlife, but the cultural and historical significance are worth learning about as well. Spending five or so nights here would be ideal.

Sarajevo – the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina has a long and troubled history. Today, it is a wonderful city that has a definite east-meets-west feel. Three days in this city will allow you to enjoy it’s laid-back lifestyle while also giving you time to go to some museums to learn about BiH’s history.

Mostar  – Mostar is probably one of the most popular cities to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but many treat it solely as a day trip. While the city itself is small, it has quite a tumultuous history that is worth learning about. There are also some great day trips and tours to take from Mostar, including to the Kravice Waterfall and Blagaj Monastery. Three nights in Mostar is a great way to end this trip.

6 Week Backpacking Europe Routes

If you have more time, six weeks is really the ideal trip length. Especially if you’re travelling in the low or shoulder seasons, six weeks allows for more flexibility in your trip planning as well.

Central European Greats Itinerary

If you’re keen to explore more of Central Europe, this is a fantastic route to follow. It sees you exploring both the capitals and smaller towns and cities of Hungary, Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic.

Budapest  – The best starting point for any Central Europe trip , if you have six weeks for your backpacking Europe itinerary, I would recommend spending one of them in Budapest. Seven days in the Hungarian capital will give you a solid amount of time to really get to know and appreciate this fantastic city.

Krakow  – Krakow is a good place to begin exploring Poland. Three to four days here is probably enough to see the sites and take a day trip or two.

Wroclaw  – spend three or four nights in this charming student city

Warsaw – it is worth spending at least three nights exploring the Polish capital

Poznan  – another beautiful Polish city, Poznan’s Old Town is worth spending one full day exploring and it is also a great idea to head to nearby Wielkopolska National Park. Three nights is ideal.

Berlin  – the German capital is another great city to spend at least a week in. This way, you can see the main sites while also getting a bit off the beaten tourist path.

Dresden – a lesser-visited East German city, there are two unique sides to Dresden . Spend three or so nights here to get to know it.

Prague  – the main sites of the Czech capital can easily be seen in two or three days, but spend four or five days here so you can explore other quarters, such as Zizkov. Despite its popularity, there are definitely ways to get off the beaten path in Prague.

Cesky Krumlov  – while this city can be visited as a day trip from Prague, it can be worth spending one or two nights here to see with when the hoards of day tourists go home for the day.

Olomouc  – we are sure that Olomouc is going to become a tourist hotspot in the years to come, so it’s worth spending three or so days exploring this laid-back city before it’s discovered by the masses.

Obviously, there are several other places you could put on a Central European trip, but this is a good outline to follow.

Balkan Greats Itinerary

As I said earlier, the Balkans are a fantastic place to get off the beaten path in Europe. Travellers could easily spend months and months exploring these fascinating countries (we have!), but six weeks is a fantastic length of time to really get an in-depth feel of this wonderful region.

Budapest – 4 to 5 days in the Hungarian capital is a great way to kick off this Europe backpacking trip

Pécs  – three nights is a great amount of time to explore this Hungarian city

Novi Sad  – two or three nights is ideal to get to know the second-largest city in Serbia

Belgrade  – spend a few days getting to know this truly underrated European capital

Sarajevo  – three or so days is a good amount of time to explore the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar  – spend two to three days in this city in the south of BiH

Kotor – two or three days is perfect to explore this beautiful Montenegrin city

Albania – Albania is a really fascinating country to explore, you could spend a couple of days in its capital of Tirana and then a couple more visiting the UNESCO-listed sites in Berat and Gjirokaster. Albania also has miles of pristine Adriatic coastline — Sarande is a great city to enjoy the beach.

Ohrid  – a charming Macedonian city on the banks of Lake Ohrid . Two or three days is perfect to see all of the sites.

Skopje – North Macedonia’s capital can be seen and explored in three or so days

Sofia  – the capital of Bulgaria is often overlooked by tourists , but it is worth spending at least four days exploring this ancient metropolis

Plovdiv – Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Plovdiv has a number of ancient ruins and cool things to do . Three days at least is a good amount of time to spend here.

If you have more time, I would recommend travelling to Kosovo and visiting cities such as Prizren or Pristina. Heading into Northern Greece can be very much worth it as well, especially to see the stunning monasteries at Meteora .

Eastern Europe Itinerary

If you want to stay off the beaten path but would prefer to head north rather than south, consider adding the Baltic States onto your six-week backpacking Europe route. This itinerary sees you starting in Berlin and travelling north through Poland up to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

Berlin – spend a few days in the effortlessly cool German capital

Wroclaw – three days is the perfect amount of time to spend is this cool Polish city

Krakow  – three days in Krakow gives you enough time to experience the best of the second-largest Polish city

Warsaw – spend two or three days exploring the Polish capital

Vilnius  – the severely underrated capital of Lithuania deserves at least four days to explore. Consider taking a day trip to nearby Trakai with its charming lake and castle.

Kaunas  – the second-largest city in Lithuania can be explored in two days

Palanga  – enjoy the beautiful Baltic coastline from this popular Lithuanian coastal town. It is also possible to head to the Curonian Spit from nearby Klaipeda .

Liepaja – Latvia’s third-largest city boasts an interesting history, wonderful art nouveau architecture, a former Soviet prison that you can actually spend the night in, and a beautiful beach. Spend at least three nights enjoying this Baltic gem.

Riga – try to spend at least four full days in Latvia’s vibrant capital city

Tartu – Estonia’s second-largest city has a large student population and many cool things to see and do. Two or three days here should allow you to experience the highlights.

Tallinn – Estonia’s beautiful medieval capital is a popular cruise ship port. The city itself is quite small, however, and can easily be explored in two or three days.

There are so many routes you could take whilst backpacking in Europe, but these five will see you getting a little off the beaten path. They will also allow you to get better value for money than other routes through some Western European countries.

Are you looking for routes for backpacking in Europe? What does your itinerary look like? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Highly recommend Estonia! I spent a whole semester in Tartu and it’s a beautiful place. Saaremaa is also great, with a unique culture and beautiful scenery. Stay in the cottages/cabins for the perfect stay. Also if you can, try the local bread in Muhu. 🙂 It’s a whole thing. Best rye bread ever, and Estonia loves their rye!

Tere õhtust!

Thanks for your comment, Madison! Tartu is one of our favourite cities – highly recommend it, as well! We haven’t made it to any of the islands yet, but it’s on our list as soon as we can. Estonia has so much to offer!

Hey Maggie. Thanks for the awesome article! Im currently in Amsterdam (Hague now actually) but leaving from Amsterdam. I have around 4,000 Euros saved. Im quite a budget /self cooking/ not into touristy sites but am a semi professional portrait /street photographer.

What route would you recommend? Im super interested in the Baltics,Germany, Italy, Spain, Greece, France, Hungary. I’ve cancelled Scandinavia as too expensive as its much too expensive.

is 4,000 Euros enough for 1-3 days I each of the main cities in those countries? Lyon(France), Dresden, Ansbach, Berlin, Santorini, Prague, Budapest, Andalusia/Grenada/Madrid/Barcelona, Milan/Sicily.

Im trying to get some online web design work / Couchsurfing as much as possible.

Whats your advice please? This is the first time ive left New Zealand -my home. I really want to do as many countries as possible before 2020 hits.

Many thanks! Love your blog

Hi Aly, it really depends on your interests which route you should take. It sounds like you want to hit a lot of places in Europe, so I would recommend that you go where the road takes you. As per budgeting, it depends on how long you plan to travel for, but I think that €4000 should be plenty for at least a couple of months of travelling on the cheap. If you want a better idea on prices, check out our backpacking budget article here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/cost-of-backpacking-europe/ Hope this helps and you have an amazing time!

hey, if you backpack in Budapest, make sure you come and visit Bucharest, Romania too… it’s next to us! 🙂

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How to plan a trip to Europe: Guide to Backpacking Europe Routes

The diversity that Europe – as a continent – provides is not replicated anywhere in the world and you can find it all while backpacking Europe routes. If you’re looking for fairytale scenery, rewarding culture, and a history like none other; travel no further because plan your backpacking Europe itinerary carefully and it will bring you all of it at once.

If sandy beach gems with thousands of miles of stunning coastline are what you’re looking for, head to southern Europe. Or if you can stand a cooler climate, the North Sea offers some of the most imposing cliff-lines in the world.

If the beach and sea isn’t your thing, Europe can offer astonishing mountain terrain that even the most devoted mountain-hikers can obsess over. The Alps protrude high from central Europe; taking in France, Switzerland, Austria, and northern Italy.

If you’re a history buff , look no further than a continent whose history has defined dozens of ages – both dark and inspiring – throughout time. From the dark, well-known pasts of the British and German peoples to the inspiring fight for independence for many other countries.

Europe is the world’s greatest fairytale and the story is far from untold.

European travel is different from travel within the United States. There are different languages, sundry cuisines that are unique in their own ways, and the variety of old and new architecture found throughout the continent will bewilder even the most cultured traveler. Walking the streets of Europe can feel like a walk through a far-off fantasy land , and that feeling of exploration is worth it all.

I started backpacking Europe alone around three years ago when I took my first trip abroad. Admittedly, I was completely unsure and had to do copious amounts of research to get a grip on the idea of traveling to a world so different than what I had grown up in.

However, with the lack of assurance came learning experiences I believe every American traveler backpacking Europe routes goes through and soon I was opened to a world I never knew existed. Now, I have many tips for backpacking Europe cost and how to travel Europe on a budget so that you know how much backpacking through Europe cost.

Ultimate backpacking Europe Itinerary on the best backpacking Europe routes

Did you know that only 3.5% of Americans will ever leave the United States to travel abroad? This series of European travel guides were written to inspire the American traveler to explore outside of their comfort zone and outside of their country to see another side of the world; to bring valuable information in helping you achieve that, and to point you in the right direction of where to begin – all from the perspective of a fellow American.

Europe’s almost inconceivable growing list of attractions is its largest lure:

Become further educated on the dark  Holocaust  history found in  Berlin  – one of my personal favorites to learn about is just a small part of the history in this open-minded city. Take a tour of the fascinating, popular street-art scene and take time to appreciate the details of each masterpiece.

Gaze upon the ever-increasingly jaw-dropping beauty of Antoni Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece –  La Sagrada Familia  in Barcelona . It’s slated to complete its century-and-a-half-long construction later this decade. Then, dance the night away as you sip away on Sangria in the city’s thrilling nightlife.

Roam the narrow cobblestone streets that Mozart graced centuries ago in Salzburg .  The snowy Alps surrounding Salzburg make it one of the best places to visit in Europe in December. Skiing in Salzburg is an infamous European winter vacation.

However, if you’re looking for one of the best places to visit in Europe in December and need an escape from the cold, soak up the always-sunny  Mediterranean island climate of Maltese beaches and its clear, calm sea water.

Stomp around the unfathomable-looking northern landscape of the Faroe Islands  that Vikings controlled over a dozen centuries ago. The archipelago is virtually unexplored  by tourists today. You can easily hitchhike from island to island and converse with locals on the way. They are some of the friendliest people you will meet while backpacking Europe routes.

Stroll through the culture-packed, two-sided city of Budapest with its impressive fairytale architecture  and world-renown thermal baths. At night, watch the city lights come on and witness the sparkle of the Danube from atop the Citadel. Don’t forget a bottle of wine! Afterwards, party the night away in Budapest’s unique ruin bars.

Tour the stunning multi-million dollar  imperial palaces of Vienna  that millions of people flock to each summer. Experience the traditional Austrian coffee halls and the beloved Austrian specialty; Wienerschnitzel. Explore your taste buds in the city’s most popular food stall street, Naschmarkt!

Barcelona, Berlin, the Faroe Islands, Malta, Budapest, Salzburg, and Vienna should be on any Europe travel itinerary and the sights that these places have to offer should be on everyone’s Europe bucket list. Whether you’re backpacking Europe alone, with a travel buddy, or with the whole family, these cities and countries outline one of the best backpacking Europe routes in the continent.

These destinations and backpacking Europe routes fall in line perfectly with each other. Their accessibility to one another (for the most part) makes these cities the perfect backpacking through Europe itinerary. With the information from the guides , you will be able to make backpacking Europe cost efficient and more rewarding than imaginable.

There’s a backpacking Europe itinerary to satisfy even the greatest adventurer’s thirst for exploration. Use these guides as a way to build your own backpacking Europe itinerary!

American Travel guide

I remember the first time I traveled to Europe I had gobs of questions: How much does backpacking Europe cost?  What’s the best backpacking Europe itinerary? Where are the best backpacking Europe routes? And most importantly – what do I bring with me while backpacking across Europe?

A United States Passport is needed for any travel outside of the United States. Therefore, to travel to Europe, you must apply for and receive your passport before you can board your plane. Remember to factor in the application fee as a backpacking Europe cost.

Visit this website to see what is required to obtain a passport along with all other governmental information. Alternatively, passport application forms are also available at any U.S. Post Office location.

Choosing a Destination

Once you have applied for your passport, it’s time to begin the fun stuff like mapping out your Europe backpacking routes and building your Europe travel itinerary.

Whether you want to base your Europe travel itinerary on your Europe travel bucket list or follow our Europe travel guide is up to you! I have mapped out some of the best backpacking Europe routes and included detailed tips for backpacking Europe and how to travel Europe on a budget. To see those cities from an American traveler’s perspective, just take a look at the guides!

How to plan a trip to Europe on a budget

To know how to travel Europe on a budget, you must understand the essential costs of backpacking across Europe. Even more so, to build a budget, you need to know what type of traveler you are. You will need to do normal budget planning such as determining what you’re willing to sacrifice and where you draw the line in terms of accommodation.

If you are a citizen of the United States, you have the privilege of being granted an automatic tourist visa within the European Union. The European Union (E.U.) is an agreement between 28 countries within Europe that grants free travel across borders.

The tourist visa granted to American citizens comes with relatively no complications for most with an ordinary backpacking Europe itinerary. However, if you will be traveling for longer than 90 days, you may need to do additional research . However, if you will be in Europe for less than 90 days, you have nothing to worry about in regards to a visa and you can check that off your to-do list.

You can build a solid Europe travel itinerary within the European Union, but it’s important to make sure that your chosen destinations are in the E.U. before leaving.  If they are not, you will have to do a quick Google search to determine whether you need a separate visa for traveling to the chosen country.

How much does backpacking Europe cost?

The main backpacking Europe cost is, obviously, your flight across the pond. I believe it’s a long-believed myth of Americans that you should expect a roundtrip ticket to Europe to exceed one thousand dollars. However, that is not true. You just need to know how to plan a trip to Europe on a budget to understand that intercontinental flights are becoming cheaper every day .

Purchasing an  Interrail  Pass

Backpacking across Europe is made easy by a very thorough network of railways connecting all countries. To complement the network of trains, travelers are also offered the option to purchase an  Interrail Pass which is designed to make the process of buying train tickets less complicated – matter of fact, with an Interrail Pass, you don’t even have to purchase a train ticket before riding.

While it does make the process easier, I would strongly urge against purchasing an Interrail Pass. I traveled by way of Interrail Pass during my first summer backpacking Europe routes and found it to be very limiting and inconvenient.

Extra things to know  

Where do i get euros.

It is not absolutely necessary; however, you can cut some stress from your travels by exchanging dollars for Euros before you leave the United States. Most banks are able to order Euros for you at a fair exchange rate . Consult with your bank about doing so.

If you choose to wait to exchange your dollars for Euros, just ask your bank about international ATM fees first! Alternatively, in most European cities, you will find currency exchange shops near the city center. Make sure you know the current exchange rate of dollars to Euros so that you can ensure you’re not getting ripped-off!

Can I use my cell phone in Europe?

Most cell phone providers offer international roaming at an additional charge. However, some carriers include it in the price of your monthly bill. It’s best to ask your provider what your plan includes.

Alternatively, if you’re going to be in Europe for an extended period, it may be less expensive to purchase a European SIM card upon arrival. Vodafone is a large carrier inside the E.U. and allows coverage in every country a part of the European Union. In order to use a European SIM card, you must first check to make sure your cell phone is GSM unlocked.

Can I use my credit card in Europe?

Most every credit card from the United States can be used in Europe. However, that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t come with an international fee attached to the transaction. Inquire about it with your credit company.

If you’re looking for a new credit card, try to find one that boasts “ No International Transaction Fees ”.

Do I tip in Europe?

It’s a myth that restaurant-goers are not obligated to leave a tip in Europe as they are in the United States. This isn’t true. In most countries, one must still tip. However, rarely will you ever have to leave a tip as large as tips in America. Make your trip more affordable with knowledge of the t ipping practices of every country you visit.

What about speaking English in Europe?

The simple answer to that question is – Yes , most cities on any Europe bucket list have plenty of people who speak English.

That doesn’t mean everyone is speaking English in Europe, however, you’d have a difficult time not finding anyone who could help you with whatever you need in English.

What should I bring?

This is the hardest question to answer because it really depends on the type of traveler you are. For an all-inclusive Europe packing list , check out what I’ve put together based on my own knowledge and experiences of backpacking across Europe.

Why travel to Europe

I have been backpacking through Europe routes for almost three years now . I’ve seen my fair share of a lot of ups and some downs to intercontinental travel.  However, I wouldn’t trade my experiences backpacking Europe routes to save my life. The amount of knowledge you gain and people you meet who change your life is priceless. I will take that opinion to the grave with me.

In addition, it’s important to get outside of America. We’ve built a stereotype of ourselves revolving around American’s ignorance to other cultures and places. And it’s partially true – at least, for me before I ever came abroad.

I couldn’t point out a single city on a European map. I’d be hard-pressed to even point you to a handful of countries.  I probably couldn’t name more than a handful of countries and I sure as hell didn’t know anything worth noting about each of those.

It’s important to educate ourselves not only on the geography but the culture and history of other places and become more united with the world this way.

Stereotypes  

Americans, as everyone else in the world, are very influenced by media. Unfortunately, the media can be very biased and corrupt . Evil and sad stories sell; culture and the amazing secrets about traveling never get told in the media.

In a way, that’s the beauty of travel . Your world is opened up to your own experiences. No one can tell you all that awaits you when backpacking around Europe.

There’s a lot of bad things we hear about happening in Europe. However, I can tell you that these things are by no means the norm. Just don’t let the media stop you from ever going.

Start your backpacking Europe itinerary!

Europe is a continent for any type of traveler . Whether it is the history, culture, scenery, or diversity – backpacking Europe routes will never leave you disappointed. There is a far-off fairytale fantasy world waiting for you and the only thing you need to do is go.

So what are you waiting for? Start packing those bags with Flying and Travel’s all-inclusive Europe packing list for Americans . And while you’re at it, you might as well start planning your Europe travel itinerary . Use these full city guides and start to learn the backpacking Europe cost! There is a completely new and different world waiting, and it’d be a shame to keep it waiting any longer.

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AMERICAN GUIDE TO EUROPE

Travel Europe with Adam

Adam presents his series for Flying and Travel: an American’s Guide to Europe . He’s been traveling Europe and the world whilst living as a digital nomad for 3 years.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

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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

• Best eSIM For Europe Travel | Everything You Need To Know About European Prepaid eSIM Data Plans - June 6, 2024
• Best Travel Shoes — Fashionable & Comfortable Shoes for Traveling - May 31, 2024
• New York Pass Review | Is It A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 20, 2024

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Best Travel Shoes — Fashionable & Comfortable Shoes for Traveling

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The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews

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Home » Gear » What is The Best Backpack For Travel in Europe? EPIC Round Up (2024)

What is The Best Backpack For Travel in Europe? EPIC Round Up (2024)

Europe is a great destination for a burgeoning backpacker. Most European countries are accustomed to accommodating broke backpackers carrying their lives on their shoulders, and the continent sports some of the world’s best public transport networks, allowing travelers to roam freely without needing a car.

There are so many great stops and sights to see on any Eurotrip, but you won’t make it very far without the right backpack. Any old nylon duffel will get you through a week’s trip, but the best backpack for Europe will help keep you on the road for months at a time, all the while pushing you past the big cities of the continent into the heart of exploration.

If you want to see it all, you’ll have to manage the diverse landscapes and different weather patterns that make Europe so interesting to visit. The best bag for the endless summer of the Mediterranean coast might not stand against the changing weather of the Irish plains.

The good news is, modern backpackers can take advantage of Europe’s decades-old travel infrastructure with more great backpack choices than ever. With so many great backpacks on the market, it might be hard to narrow things down to the best bag for you. That’s where we step in.

Things have changed a lot since foreigners first started cutting costs and roaming through Western Europe, but one thing hasn’t: The best way to see this continent and get a feel for the rich range of cultures present is with your home on your back.

These Are The BEST Travel Bags for Europe

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

• Capacity (L) > 46
• Weight (G) > 1559
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 46x40x31
• Price ($) > 195

Tortuga Travel Pack 30L

• Capacity (L) > 30L
• Weight (G) > 1.8KG
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 20.5×12.2×7.5
• Price ($) > 325

Osprey Aether

• Capacity (L) > 65
• Weight (G) > 2267
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 81x40x28
• Price ($) > 315

Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

• Capacity (L) > 30
• Weight (G) > 1500
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 23x48x33
• Price ($) > 268

Farpoint 55

• Capacity (L) > 55
• Weight (G) > 1700
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 60x33x30
• Price ($) > 170

Nomatic Navigator 32

• Capacity (L) > 37-44
• Weight (G) > 2358
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 56x36x23
• Price ($) > 391

TropicFeel Shell

• Capacity (L) > 22-42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 50x30x19
• Price ($) > 290

Osprey UNLTD

• Capacity (L) > 68
• Weight (G) > 2812
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 81x40x38
• Price ($) > 700

WANDRD PRVKE

• Capacity (L) > 31
• Weight (G) > 1300
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 48x30x17
• Price ($) > 216

Osprey Sojourn

• Capacity (L) > 45
• Weight (G) > 4000
• Price ($) > 375

Monarc Settra

• Capacity (L) > 40
• Weight (G) > 2041
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 28x60x33
• Price ($) > 150

Stubble & Co Adventure Bag

• Capacity (L) > 42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 55 x 38 x 24
• Price ($) > 300

Choosing The Right Bag For European Travel

How and where we tested to find the best backpack for europe, final thoughts on the best bag for europe.

European Travel takes on all sorts of forms. Unless you plan on renting a car, your bag will need to deftly navigate buses, trains, crowded sidewalks, and long walks to the hostel, all while storing everything you need for your trip. 

At the minimum, your bag will need to fit in a luggage rack and pack a week’s worth of clothes. The good thing about traveling through Europe is you’ll never be too far away from the nearest laundry machine, even in the alps, so unless you plan on doing some serious backcountry exploring you probably won’t need to haul around a 70 Liter monstrosity. 

Most passionate minimalists and one-bag travel experts like to set the bar around 35-40 Liters for their bag, which generally provides the maximum amount of storage while still fitting easily in overhead compartments and luggage racks. 

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The storage capacity is just the first piece of the puzzle. Any European adventure will likely have a lot of stops. There’s just too many cities to see and cheeses to try. Unless you’ve got a year budgeted out for roaming and romping, you’ll be living out of your bag and packing it up quite a bit. 

I take ease of access incredibly seriously when considering any new backpack. Ideally, I’d like a bag that lets me live for 24 hours without ever having to open the main compartment. 

Anytime I’m settling down for more than a night or two I’ll unpack, but if I can find a backpack with enough easy access points to get to my toothbrush, a change of clothes, some snacks, and my electronics without having to dig around through the muck and mire of the main drag, I’ll take it.

Finally, a backpack for European Travel should consider safety. Backpackers are easy targets for scammers and thieves, and there’s no such thing as a modern city without a few ne’er do wells lurking near the bus stations.

Nobody wants to travel around with a giant target on their back, but a bright red backpack is the closest thing to wearing a sign that says ‘Hello criminals, I am slightly out of my comfort zone AND everything I own is right here in this bag.’ 

Some backpack makers are catching on and offering jet-black looks that reduce down and don’t give off the wrong impressions, while others are coming up with high-tech solutions like locking compartments and RFID-blocking pockets. There is no backpack that can completely reduce the risk of turning down the wrong corner at the wrong time, but a great European travel bag will keep everything close to the chest and out of access for any potential pickpockets. 

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Best Overall Travel Bag for Europe – Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

• Capacity (L): 46
• Weight (G): 1559
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 46x40x31
• Price ($): 195

At the Broke Backpacker we’re a bit more accustomed to bus rides than bellhops, but it can never hurt to bring your own personal porter on your next adventure. It serves as its own bagman and it just might be the most organized bag Osprey has ever made. 

They didn’t simply pump the dang thing full of pockets, but instead added clutch access points like a full U-zippered main compartment, a protected laptop sleeve, and stow-able hip belt and harness. These perks allow the bag to perform well in all sorts of use cases. 

Unfortunately, there is no bag that is perfect for everyone, and there are a few zones where the Osprey Porter falls short. You might want to look elsewhere if you need a bag to break ultralight records or long-haul walks in the woods. Instead, this bag serves as a perfect companion for anyone planning on spending the next few months wandering through the European Continent. 

The list would be a whole lot shorter if we talked about where we didn’t test it. This bag has seen the Tour de France, the Running of the Bulls , the Cooper Hill Cheese roll, Oktoberfest, and the Battle of the Oranges. Without a fuss, the Porter has fit on all sorts of crowded buses and managed draconian baggage policies to get us there with our gear. 

Best Carry on Backpack For Europe – Tortuga Travel Pack 30L

• Capacity (L):  30
• Weight (G):  1.8kg
• Dims (CM, HxWxD):  20.5×12.2×7.5
• Price ($): 325

The Tortuga Travel Pack is a serious piece of equipment. The revamped 30L version of the Travel Pack has been custom designed to be accepted for carry on all over the world.

As well as being globally carry-on ready, it’s also got a phenomenal design, great organization, and it has HUGE amounts of space. Tortuga might be the company that best knows how to create space within their bags so you can pack the compartments to your heart’s content.

Note that there isa 40L version available but in order to spare you all the wrath of European airlines like Ryanair, we suggest using the smaller 30L version.

I loved taking this pack around Europe as it was accessible, comfy to carry and fit all my gear. One thing I noticed about this pack is how durable and strong the zippers feel.

Best Backpack For Backpacking Europe – Osprey Aether

• Capacity (L): 65
• Weight (G): 2267
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 81x40x28
• Price ($): 315

This heavy-duty option is a great choice for packing everything you own on your shoulders. The Aether is one of Osprey’s more technically advanced backpacks, built for the backcountry and just as suitable for winding cobblestone streets.

Some of this backpack’s models come with a detachable daypack that works great for quick stops, carry-on, and city tours. This is one of the biggest game changers in the backpacking industry and instantly elevated this pack to a must-have in my own closet. You can bring everything you need for a month’s vacation in Europe , all the while storing it in the room with ease, while you take only the essentials with you on your next day trek.

Fully kitted up, Osprey’s flexible shoulder pads and air mesh backing help lighten your load. Although there is no such thing as a bag that makes 70 Liters feel lighter than air, the Aether might be the closest thing to it.

The Aether has been my go-to bag for trips where I plan to be on my feet for more than a kilometer or two. Every time the train station ended up being a few kilometers away from the hostel, or I missed the early bus and had to get walking, I tested the limits of this bag and it passed with flying colors.

Best Bag For Budget Flights In Europe – Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

• Capacity (L): 30
• Weight (G): 1500
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 23x48x33
• Price ($): 268

Anyone who has ever shown up to a Ryanair flight without a printed ticket knows those budget flights can be a trap. The initial tickets are a steal, but the charges can quickly add up. One way budget airlines look to make a bit of extra cash is by reducing the amount of luggage you can take with you.

If you want to take advantage of the cheapest rates out there, this Nomatic travel bag is the best bet to get it done no matter the airline. The travel bag fits regulations and allows you to store more than any other carry-on bag on the market, thanks to Nomatic’s wealth of curious pockets and space-saving maneuvers.

Not only is the bag a high-tech beast, but Nomatic rounded out the edges, protecting your gear in a fully waterproof shell and adding on a few anti-theft perks that make the travel bag pack well above its nimble weight. With a slightly smug grin of satisfaction, we slipped our fully loaded Nomatic Travel bag in between the bars at the airline check-in counter that proved indeed it fits, it flies, and it’s got a full week’s gear inside.

Best Bag For Interrail – Farpoint 55

• Capacity (L): 55
• Weight (G): 1700
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 60x33x30
• Price ($): 170

Europe is best seen by train . There’s a certain romance to zipping past the dry Portuguese countryside without your hands on the wheel. Our favorite train-friendly travel is an iconic travel backpack. The Farpoint series is one of the best one-bag travel choices in the world, combining a bit of trail magic with some convenient storage features to make an extraordinary kit.

Train travel means more lenient luggage regulations, that is unless you’re trying to travel with a surfboard on Renfre. That means you can opt for a slightly larger backpack and store it all. The Farpoint makes it easy to pack a month’s worth of gear with a nice U-shaped zippered opening and large hip belt pockets that will fit a few snacks and train tickets. What makes this bag unique is its versatility.

Osprey pumps plenty of hiking knowledge into all of their packs, so even backpacks made for urban wandering come with clutch comfort features, great rain protection, and the adjustability to fit on any set of shoulders.

Looking for a same sized bag with a few different features? Have a look at the Rei Flash 55 Backpack then!

Best Backpack For European Cities – Nomatic Navigator 32

• Capacity (L): 32-41
• Weight (G): 2358
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 56x36x23
• Price ($): 399

You don’t want to have to stop back off at the hostel multiple times during a grand day out in the city. That means ideally, your backpack will carry everything you need for the day, rain or shine, without being too uncomfortable. That’s the Nomatic Navigator’s specialty. 

This bag can expand and contract from 32 to 41 Liters so you can pack exactly what you need for the day without leaving a bunch of empty space. Even if you start the day with a full bag, the expansion helps you sneak in that op-shop find. We also love the laid-back look of the navigator for city travel. 

Anyone can spot a backpacker a mile away with most of the usual suspects. Bright-colored hiking bags loaded to the brim may have the locals treating you slightly different, or help you stick out in the crowd. The navigator stays lowkey while sneakily storing a whole lot of the good stuff to help you check out new cities like one of the gang. 

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Best Backpack For Hosteling Europe – TropicFeel Shell

• Capacity (L): 22-42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 50x30x19
• Price ($): 290

Your dorm room probably doesn’t include a walk-in closet, but this backpack will make any pod feel like a target for the bling ring. The TropicFeel Shell is trying to completely change up the game, and while there are still some kinks to be worked out, this is a fantastic option for certain travelers.

Anyone who likes to have a perfect place for everything in their gear kit will literally giggle at the number of options the TropicFeel provides .

Between a wardrobe system, detachable toiletry kit, kangaroo pouch, and optional camera cube, you’ll be more organized than ever. Each one of these organizational points is detachable, which means once you arrive at the hostel you can hang your wardrobe, send the toiletry kit to the sink, slip the camera cube into your locker, and hit the town with an incredibly light day bag.

The bag is not the best choice for people heading far off from paved roads, as all the extra detachment points don’t make an incredibly lightweight pack. For anyone whose wandering goals are to make new friends and see new places, this backpack is an easy choice for life going from hostel to hostel in Europe.

Best Backpack For Hiking in Europe – Osprey UNLTD

• Capacity (L): 68
• Weight (G): 2812
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 81x40x38
• Price ($): 700

From the Camino Del Santiago through the Tour du Mont Blanc, hiking in Europe can take you across epic mountains and bounce you along wild surf. There are a lot of bags out there that can get you through a controlled day hike, but the best backpack for pushing things up a notch is the Osprey UNLTD. 

This bag is the culmination of Osprey’s decades of industry dominance. Its starting point is a combination of features that make other Osprey bags great, like a detachable daypack, superior Airscape breathability, and loads of straps and external tool attachments. The UNLTD then takes things to the next level with 3D-printed foam back panels and a carbon frame. 

This immense Antigravity system is the brainchild of Osprey founder Mike Pfotenhauer, who threw it all into this pack. The pack lifts its weight a bit off your shoulders and spreads the load evenly around your body to stay comfortable when long-distance trekking. 

Best Bag For Photographing Europe – WANDRD PRVKE

• Capacity (L): 31
• Weight (G): 1300
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 48x30x17
• Price ($): 216

This tarpaulin terror is one of our favorite up-and-coming backpacks. WANDRD is a Kickstarter darling that has spent the last decade proving that backpacks can be more than large black holes with shoulder straps. 

The PRVKE is the model that finally pushed them over the top and into our hearts thanks to the combination of performance, protection, and cheeky special features. The 31 Liter bag spreads storage across 8 convenient pockets and a main compartment. WANDRD also sells a camera carry case that helps compartmentalize things even further. 

Pockets, protection, and aesthetics combine to create a photography bag that can do a whole lot more. The bag is a perfect carry-on size and has enough quality materials on the outside to keep your gear dry from a few surprise showers. The rolltop wide opening is the cherry on top, allowing you to condense and expand this bag to exactly the size you need. 

Best Wheeled Backpack For Europe – Osprey Sojourn

• Capacity (L): 45
• Weight (G): 4000
• Price ($): 375.00

Europe’s cobbled streets and winding corners are a real challenge for wheeled backpacks. You can’t expect to run any old bag through the Rua da Bica and get out unscathed. If you don’t feel like carrying your gear on your shoulders, you should absolutely splurge for a top-quality roller like the Sojourn. 

This bag does include shoulder carrying straps, but it’s a bit bulky to lift up off its wheels for more than a few meters. It blends the line between backpack and suitcase, providing an ultra-durable set of wheels with a high chassis that helps take this roller off-road. 

You can choose between 45, 60, and 80 Liters to make sure no matter what kind of journey you’re embarking on, you’ll always have some space for souvenirs. 

Best Hybrid Bag For Europe – Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack

• Capacity (L): 40
• Weight (G): 2041
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 28x60x33
• Price ($): 150

Young European travelers have forged ahead on a path of sustainable exploration. There is no bag better to confidently explore the European continent than one made out of recycled materials, like this Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack made from 50 recycled bottles. The Travel Duffel Backpack proves that sustainable materials can do anything polyester can, all without the carbon footprint. 

The pack walks the line between a duffel bag and an old-fashioned backpack, allowing you to easily maneuver your bag through crowded train terminals and throw it over your shoulder for longer walks. It’s one of the only duffel bags in the business with adjustable sternum and waist straps as well as a full-sized laptop compartment to truly toe the line. 

At 40 Liters, the Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack sits just on the edge of carry-on eligibility, but you shouldn’t have any trouble getting it into an overhead compartment and skipping baggage claim on your way to your next adventure. 

Best Overall Travel Bag for Carry-On Travel – Stubble & Co Adventure Bag

• Capacity (L): 42
• Weight (G): 1.7kg
• Dims (CM, HxWxD):  55 x 38 x 24 cm
• Price (£): 195

The Adventure Bag from Stubble & Co is possibly the most perfectly designed travel bag on the market right now. For those wanting to spend a few months backpacking around Europe, the size and features of this bag really work well.

The bag opens up in a clamshell fashion like a suitcase meaning you no longer have to root around a top-loading bag for a specific item. To go one further in terms of organisation, each half of the bag is divided up into several zippered compartments deep enough to store inside things like packing cubes and other gear. This really makes it easy when you’re moving from place to place every few days as it’s easy to live out of the bag.

In terms of capacity, when combined with its superior organisational features, it offers the perfect size for backpacking around Europe. Bear in mind that in most European cities you’ll be getting around on public transport, so the smaller size of this bag as well as features like the hidden passport pocket make it perfect.

Want more Stubble & Co options? Check out our rundown of the best Stubble & Co. bags .

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

To test these packs, we laid our mits on each of them and took them out for a test spin Over a period of time, various members of our team took these different packs on various trips to put them well and truly through their paces.

Packability

A backpack is designed to carry stuff and as such, top points are awarded for how packable one is. Any decent carry in needs to make sure it maximises the space it does have and facilitates effective packing and we tested this out by packing, and unpacking. Simple right? 

Equally though, we also paid attention to how easy the pack was to unpack – being able to retrieve items quickly and easily bags a bag, bags of bonus points!

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

If a pack is overly heavy or awkward to carry then taking it along on trips becomes uncomfortable. Believe me on this, I have had more than my fair share of backpacks that just weighed an ounce or two, too much or perhaps had crappy straps that dug into my shoulders. 

As such we awarded full marks for packs that minimise weight and maximum carry-comfort.

Functionality

In order to test out how well a pack fulfilled its primary purpose we used it for this purpose. For example, if it’s a carry-on pack then we took it along as carry-on and made sure it actually oasses the Ryanait test and fits into the ever shrinking over-head cabins. For cycle backpacks we strapped them on and got on our bikes. You get the idea right? 

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well those people are fools because good gear can be both practical and cool. As such we also awarded points for how sexy a pack looks. 

Durability and Weatherproofing

Ideally, in order to really test out how durable a backpack is we would drop it from a plane and then run over it. Unfortunately though that is not entirely feasible so instead, we simply inspected the materials used and the build quality of the packs paying attention to things like the seam sewing, the traction of the zips and other pressure points that tend to break. 

Of course, testing out how waterproof a pack is simply a case of pouring a litre of water over it – any packs caught leaking, were promptly banned entirely from inclusion in our round-ups.

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What are you waiting for!? Plane tickets aren’t getting any cheaper. Now that you know the best bags for Europe, all that’s left to do is map out a plan for exploration and then throw it out the window. 

Your trip to Europe will be full of surprises, missed trains, foul weather cancellations, and hidden gems that make you stay a few extra days. Half the fun of a backpacking adventure is the wild places you end up when what you thought was going to happen falls through.

The wrong backpack will make winding up at the wrong bus station and finding out you have to walk another two kilometers sound like a death sentence. But the right choice will have you to saying yes and embracing the journey with open arms.

No matter which backpack you choose, rambling through Europe without a care in the world is a rite of passage for any broke backpacker, and as long as you choose a bag from this list, your exploration will be the beginning of a life on the road. 

Aiden Freeborn

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Backpacking Europe Routes for 2 Weeks: Routes & Tips

Whether you are on a limited budget, have a limited amount of time for traveling, or merely want to pack a lot of sights into a short vacation, these ultimate backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks are the perfect way to fit a lot in on your European getaway!

Backpacking is my personal favorite way of traveling across Europe. With the help of the Eurail , small airlines, and budget-friendly hotels, it’s easier than ever to see multiple countries in a short amount of time.

In this post, you’ll find everything you’ll need to know if you’re considering a backpacking trip across Europe. From the best time to visit Europe all the way to my insider packing tips and more, you can be confident before jetting off to the airport.

Happy Travels!

When is the Best Time to Visit Europe?

Europe’s climate varies vastly across the continent. From the snowy Pyrenees in Spain to the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean in Greece, you could come across all four seasons no matter what time of the year you visit.

Most backpackers are trying to travel on a budget, so if you’re in the same boat, then the best time to visit Europe is in the spring or the fall !

The spring months of March through May and the fall months of late September through November provide great deals on flights, trains, accommodations, tours, and even food prices.

You’ll also get to experience everything with far fewer tourists so you’ll have more opportunities to connect better with the locals and get more of an inside look at what life is actually like for them.

This is by far my favorite time to go backpacking in Europe…

However, since you will be backpacking across Europe, there are a few things to keep in mind. While the winters provide an escape from many of the tourist crowds and you can often find extremely affordable accommodations, you’ll need to carry all of your winter gear on your back.

This means winter coats, boots, hats, scarves, gloves, wool socks, and everything in between. This is a lot of weight to carry and trudging through the snow for miles will be extremely exhausting.

So, if you really want to visit Europe in the winter, consider only visiting one or two countries to save on traveling with all of those heavy items.

If you prefer to visit Europe during the peak season (summer months of June through mid-September ), then you’ll usually get great weather. But, be prepared for expensive accommodations, food, tours, and travel methods as well as tens of thousands of tourists and long wait times everywhere you go.

In my opinion, visit Europe during the shoulder seasons for the best experiences!

What are the Best Countries to Go Backpacking in Europe?

Europe is home to over 40 different countries so choosing which ones to backpack through can be overwhelming! If you’re feeling like you aren’t sure where to begin, then keep reading.

If you enjoy backpacking but want to be in close proximity to stunning beaches , then Greece, Italy, Croatia, Portugal, and Spain are the top of the line.

If you want to backpack through the mountains , then northern Spain, France, Switzerland, northern Italy, and Austria make for fantastic destinations.

If you enjoy city life and want to train travel across the continent, then Germany, Poland, Czechia, the United Kingdom, and Denmark should be on your list.

If you want to make your way through medieval villages and across ancient canals via stone bridges, then Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg are some of the finest countries to visit in Europe.

The best part about visiting countries in Europe is many of them are extremely diverse so you can find mountains, beaches, city life, and medieval villages all in one! Take France, for example. It’s home to luxurious wine vineyards, medieval castles, the great Alps, and the French Riviera.

If this is one of your very first backpacking trips, then I suggest looking into visiting just one or two countries that will provide you with a great range of activities. Then, once you are comfortable getting around Europe, start planning slightly more complex itineraries.

So, what are the best countries to go backpacking in Europe? Coming from an avid backpacker, I believe it depends mostly on your interests, but also on how comfortable you are getting around.

I personally love backpacking through France, Spain, Portugal, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Czechia, Belgium, and Germany. However, this may change for you.

What You Need to Consider Before Backpacking Europe for 2 Weeks

If you are planning on following one of the below backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, then there are a few things you need to consider before booking your flight.

✔️ What’s Your Budget?

If you plan on visiting the UK, Switzerland, and Italy on your trip, but are only budgeting for about $60 per day, that’s not going to work because these are some of the most expensive countries to visit in the world.

Once you have your budget figured out (include flights, train travel, accommodations, and food per day), then you can start thinking about the countries you want to visit.

✔️ Are You Okay With Walking Everywhere?

If you prefer to be close to train and bus stations everywhere you go to alleviate the amount of walking you’ll be doing, then include that in your budget, as well.

If you or someone you are traveling with has limited mobility, then you should consider visiting only one or two countries to reduce the amount of traveling you’ll be doing.

✔️ How Much Will You Pack?

If you thought your school backpack was heavy, just wait until you have two weeks’ worth of clothing, hygiene stuff, electronics, travel documents, and so on on your back!

If you don’t think you’ll be capable of carrying a lot of weight for long walks and hours on end, then it might be best to consider staying in accommodations with a washer and dryer so you don’t need to travel with as much clothing.

✔️ Can You Read a Map?

If not, then you might want to learn how. The tricky part about backpacking, especially solo, is there will occasionally be times where your phone dies and you aren’t sure where the train station is, etc.

This can be problematic especially if you don’t speak the local language and don’t want to pay for an expensive taxi. So, before you jet off to the airport, grab a map of your local town and teach yourself how to read it. If you need help, Youtube is a great place to start!

✔️ Do You Have Travel Insurance or Backup Funds?

This is where travel insurance comes in handy.

I use and LOVE SafetyWing. Practically every trip we’ve ever taken to Europe, we’ve had one or multiple checked bags get lost. SafetyWing was super fast when it came to filing the claims and we were covered when we needed to buy new clothes and travel items.

You can get travel insurance through SafetyWing by clicking here.

In the event that your trip gets delayed or canceled, you get injured or sick, or you need to cut your trip short for a personal or family emergency, you may have to purchase new flights or accommodations without much notice – and these are usually very expensive.

To save on these costs, I suggest purchasing travel insurance so you aren’t left with a hefty bill following your not-so-great vacation.

✔️ Have You Traveled to Europe Before?

If it’s your first time visiting Europe, take a peek at How to Plan a Trip to Europe in 9 Easy Steps and my Greatest Tips for Traveling to Europe for the First Time !

Ultimate Backpacking Europe Routes for 2 Weeks Itinerary Ideas

The following backpacking routes have been designed to last around two weeks, give or take a couple of days. Each route follows a different section of Europe such as North, South, East, and my favorite, West!

These are just a few of the limitless possibilities available to you when you go abroad. If you want to combine different regions into one trip, be sure to use Google Maps to map out your itinerary before booking anything to prevent an inefficient journey.

For example:

Paris ➡️ Barcelona ➡️ Berlin ➡️ Lisbon = inefficient

Lisbon ➡️ Barcelona ➡️ Paris ➡️ Berlin = efficient

2 Week Backpacking Europe Route #1: Ireland, Scotland, and the United Kingdom

These three countries are a match made in heaven for backpackers. While they are typically more expensive than many European countries (London being one of the most expensive places in the world), backpacking makes them affordable possible to visit for thousands of people every year!

This ultimate two-week guide will bring you across the best sights and scenic outlooks in these beautiful countries dotted with sheep, rolling hills, and endless beauty!

Day 1: Arrive into Cork International Airport in Ireland

Even though it will be tempting to fly into Dublin, especially if you are coming from the eastern side of Ireland, do your best to fly into Cork Airport. The flights will likely be more expensive, but this will save you a lot of money in train travel and will keep your trip route efficient.

This will be one of the only times I recommend renting a car… Ireland is one of the best road trip destinations in Europe , so it’s only fitting that you share in that experience!

Once you arrive in Cork, check into your accommodation and settle in. Then, spend the night out on the town in Cork – it’s full of lively pubs and colorful townhouses along the Lee River.

Best budget accommodation:   Rezz Hotel , $87/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Isaacs Cork City , $109/night

Click here to book the ultimate Cork Culinary Tour

Day 2: Cobh, Killarney, Dingle Peninsula

After a hearty full Irish breakfast, drive yourself down to Cobh (about a 25-minute drive). Walk the streets, especially the one known as the Deck of Cards over on Bandon Hill!

This will give you the best view of the city and the iconic Cobh Cathedral. If you have the time on your way to Killarney , you can try squeezing in Blarney Castle , but keep in mind that this will add about 25 more minutes of driving to your day.

Spend some time walking through Killarney’s vibrant town before moving on to the beautiful rolling hills of the Dingle Peninsula . As one of the most highly photographed regions in Ireland, this is one of my personal favorite spots in the country.

Click here to learn about the 11 Best Dingle Accommodations: Where to Stay in Dingle Ireland

Want to see Fungie the Dolphine on a seafari? Check out this amazing Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour from Dingle!

Day 3: Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Galway

After a morning coffee overlooking the beautiful Dingle Peninsula, make your way up to Limerick for a quick poke around the old town before heading directly for the world-famous Cliffs of Moher !

If you do decide to fly into Dublin on your trip, check out these 9 Best Rated Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin or book the top-rated tour below. I also found the 9 BEST Tours from Galway to Cliffs of Moher for 2024 !

Click here to book your Cliffs of Moher and Doolin Day Trip from Dublin

After you’ve walked the edge of these mighty Irish cliffs, head up to the charming fishing village of Doolin . If you have the time and want to explore Galway , it’s a good place to see the wonderful Trad on the Prom show, but if not, ending your day in Doolin is just as good.

Once you make your way to Galway (either on Day 3 or early on Day 4), drop off the rental car and take the train from Galway to Dublin .

Day 4: Dublin

After exploring Dublin for a day (be sure to stay for at least one night so you can experience the lively pubs and live music that happens every night), take a train to Sligo . Spend some time exploring the town’s unique position on the northwest coastline.

Looking to spend a little more time in Dublin? Check out Our Perfect 2 Days in Dublin Itinerary

Best budget accommodation:   Hotel St. George by Nina , $86/night Best mid-range accommodation: Celtic Lodge Guesthouse , $120/night

Day 5: Sligo

County Sligo is home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful cliffs, and the country’s tallest, the Slieve League Cliffs ! You’ll also be close to the town of Donegal which produces Ireland’s famous Donegal tweed.

These both make for fantastic day trips from Sligo and can be easily reached via guided tour or a rental car. On your return to Sligo, hop on an evening train up to Belfast, United Kingdom !

Best budget accommodation:   The Riverside Hotel , $95/night Best mid-range accommodation: Sligo Southern Hotel , $130/night

Day 6: Giant’s Causeway and Londonderry, United Kingdom

Once you have had some time to explore the infamous town of Belfast located in Northern Ireland, it’s time to hop on a train up to the Giant’s Causeway .

This impressive nature reserve is home to more than 40,000 basalt columns that plunge out of the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe and is one of the best places to visit in Europe!

After you have had time to explore this infamous site, hop on a train back to Belfast. If you have some extra time for sightseeing, consider including a train ride to Londonderry before your return to Belfast.

Book your Derrie Danders City Walls Historical Walking Tour in Londonderry Here

Best budget accommodation:   Bishop Gate B&B , $88/night Best mid-range accommodation: Maldron Hotel Derry , $104/night

Day 7: Morning flight to Glasgow

Take an early morning flight to Glasgow and explore the town for the day and evening. This port city is known for its excellent shopping and its Victorian architecture.

Book your Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Glasgow Here

Best budget accommodation:   Moxy Glasgow Merchant City , $64/night Best mid-range accommodation: Voco Grand Central Glasgow , $113/night

Day 8: Morning train to Edinburgh

Onto Edinburgh ! Spend the day and evening wandering the medieval Scottish capital. The city is best explored on foot, though renting bikes is quite fun, as well!

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, be sure to book your Scottish Highlands and Hogwarts Express Tour from Edinburgh

Best budget accommodation:   Novotel Edinburgh Park , $87/night Best mid-range accommodation: Ibis Edinburgh South Bridge , $111/night

Day 9: Morning train to Inverness

Located in the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a great place to visit in Scotland. Take some time to explore the Inverness Cathedral , the Inverness Castle , and enjoy some live music at the famous Hootananny Pub .

Book your Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle Tour from Inverness Here

Best budget accommodation:   Columba Hotel Inverness , $69/night Best mid-range accommodation: Rowan Guest House , $97/night

Day 10: Loch Ness and Scottish Highlands

While these gothic towns are full of exciting character, ancient tales, and stunning beauty, I recommend spending the majority of your day exploring deep in the Scottish Highlands .

There are plenty of guided day tours that will bring you to the Jacobite Steam train (now famous due to its involvement in the Harry Potter films) and many of the movie’s famous filming locations.

Loch Ness is also wonderful for talking with the locals about the ancient tale of the famed Loch Ness monster!

Book your BMW X5 SUV Highland Whisky Tour Here

Best budget accommodation:   Kilmichael House B&B , $63/night Best mid-range accommodation: Loch Ness Inn , $130/night

Day 11: Morning train to Aberdeen

After you’ve explored Inverness, take an early morning train to Aberdeen . This is where you’ll find stunning beauty overlooking the Scottish coastline as well as many great museums, castles, cathedrals, and parks to explore.

Spend the day wandering the small town before taking an evening train down to the Scottish capital of Edinburgh !

Book your Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen Here

Best budget accommodation: Mercure Aberdeen Caledonian Hotel , $65/night Best mid-range accommodation:   The Craighaar Hotel , $88/night

Day 12: Morning flight to Manchester

Manchester is one of England’s largest cities and is full of character and charm. From endless art galleries and museums to the home of the infamous Manchester football (soccer in America) games, there’s a lot you can fill your day in Manchester with!

Book your Craft Beer Tour around Manchester Here

Best budget accommodation: Ibis Styles Manchester Portland Hotel , $67/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Whitworth Locke Hotel , $90/night

Day 13: Morning train to Birmingham

Birmingham makes for a great pitstop on your way down to Bristol and Bath. Spend some time wandering through the museums , visit the famous Cadbury World home to Cadbury chocolates, and visit the 17 th -century Aston Hall mansion .

Book your Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Selina Birmingham , $61/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Aparthotel Adagio Birmingham City Centre , $91/night

Day 14: Bristol, Bath, and the Cotswolds 

Make your way from Birmingham down to Bristol via an early morning train and take in the sights from the Clifton Suspension Bridge before making your way to Bath .

As the name suggests, Bath is famous for its thermal spas and ancient Roman baths ! Take some time to soak in the Thermae Bath Spa and The Roman Baths before checking out Bath Abbey , Pulteney Bridge , and the Royal Crescent !

Book your Stonehenge, Avebury, & Cotswolds Small-Guided Day Tour from Bath Here

Best budget accommodation: Z Hotel Bath , $71/night Best mid-range accommodation:   The Devonshire House , $101/night

Day 15: Early train to London

Since many people typically spend at least two days in London , I suggest taking an early train from Bath or Bristol then taking an evening flight home the following day.

This will provide you with enough time to see all of the major sites and attractions as well as take some time to relax and reminisce on your wonderful 2 week backpacking route across Europe!

Book your London East End Food Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Astor Museum Hostel , $53/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo , $116/night

Day 16: Fly home from London

Enjoy your last day exploring some museums or just sit back and people watch with some local food before your flight home. As backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks go, this is by far one of the most scenic and exciting options in my opinion!

2 Week Backpacking Europe Route #2: France, Spain, and Portugal

France, Spain, and Portugal are easily one of the most classic combinations for European itineraries out there. With similar climates, outstanding wine vineyards, vast mountain ranges, and endless beautiful beaches, this trio is easily one of the best backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks.

This itinerary can be completed in either direction, either beginning or ending in Portugal, but don’t begin it in Spain or you’ll end up backtracking a very long distance!

Please keep in mind that with only two weeks, there will be a lot that you won’t get to see. The itinerary below sums up some of the best places to see in Portugal, Spain, France, but is in no way all-inclusive.

Other fantastic day trips would include the mountains of the Andorra Region and the Caminito del Rey hike in Spain, as well as Normandy , Mont St Michel, Colmar, and the wine regions of France plus many more. Do some research on what you want to see and do most before booking your trip to prevent disappointment in the long run!

Want some more Spain travel inspiration? Check out my list of 33 Wonderfully Unique Places to Visit in Spain !

Day 1: Arrive in Porto

Porto and the Porto Valley are known for their exceptional wineries and limitless vineyards along the Douro River. You can spend your day strolling the city’s ancient streets or taking a wine tour along the river. With dozens of museums, art galleries, and exquisite lookouts to be had in Porto, a day here is sure to start your trip off perfectly!

Spend the night here before moving on to the next small towns on this Portugal itinerary – Coimbra and Obidos!

Book your Douro Valley Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting, Lunch, and Optional Cruise Here

Best budget accommodation: The Passenger Hostel , $57/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Chic and Basic Gravity , $136/night

Day 2: Óbidos and Coimbra

Home to dozens of ancient ruins, Romanesque churches, sky-high cathedrals, and medieval cobblestone streets, Coimbra and Óbidos should be included on any backpacking itinerary through Portugal.

While Coimbra is home to a stunning riverside village covered with vibrant buildings and Roman ruins, Óbidos is known for its beautiful white-washed walls, red terracotta rooftops, and a medieval castle!

Coimbra can easily be reached via train whereas Óbidos may require several bus transfers, a car rental, or a guided tour.

Book your Óbidos Historic Village and Mafra Palace Private Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Epic Days Guest House , $40/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Ibis Coimbra Centro , $55/night

Day 3: Arrive in Lisbon

Lisbon is one of my favorite cities in Europe with its red clay roofs, exceptional cuisine, and hospitable people. While this itinerary is going to include nearly two days in Lisbon, if you would rather explore outside of the capital for longer then check out my ultimate one day in Lisbon itinerary !

Lisbon is home to museums galore with over 60 in the city alone! Take your time wandering the city streets, eating Pastel de Natas , and enjoying the sights from the several lookouts that have been strategically placed around the city.

Don’t forget to take a ride on the infamous Lisbon trolley !

Book your Lisbon Sunset Cruise Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Ritz and Freud B&B , $60/night Best mid-range accommodation:   LX Boutique Hotel , $113/night

Day 4: Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril

The region surrounding the capital of Lisbon is known for the beautiful Cascais beaches , the castles of Sintra , and even the popular bucket list destination of the Cabo da Roca – the westernmost point in Europe!

In these regions, you’ll find some of the country’s best flora and fauna, rugged coastlines, medieval castles, and gorgeous white sand beaches. Not to mention, charming towns and hospitable locals!

Book your Private Day Trip of Fairy Tale Sintra Here

Best budget accommodation: The Five House , $49/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Tivoli Sintra Hotel , $81/night

Day 5: Algarve Region

The Algarves are known for their popular towns of Lagos and Faro home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe! Visitors can enjoy swimming at the popular Marinha Beach and Praia do Camilo , boating through the Ponta da Piedade , and kayaking through the infamous Benagil Caves .

If you’re looking to soak up some serious sun on any one of these backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, a trip to the Algarves should be in your future!

Book your Dolphins and Benagil Caves from Albufeira Tour Here

Day 6: Seville, Spain,

The Portugal piece of this backpacking itinerary ends in Faro as you take a train over the border into Seville, Spain !

Easily recognized for the Plaza de España , Catedral de Sevilla , and the Royal Alcázar of Seville , there is no end to the beautiful ancient architecture to be explored here.

Book your Cathedral, Alcazar and Giralda Guided Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Patio de las Cruces , $124/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Abanico , $181/night

Day 7: Fly from Seville to Valencia, Spain

While Valencia is reachable via train (about 9 hours from Seville), it is far more efficient to fly.

In just over an hour, you’ll land on the beautiful shores of Valencia where you’ll find the famous L’Oceanogràfic aquarium , a 15 th -century mercantile , and the 14 th -century Torres de Serranos which offers unbeatable views overlooking the sweeping Spanish coastline.

While it could also save you time to fly from Valencia from Madrid , the train is much more scenic and slightly more affordable ( most of the time – check prices prior to booking one or the other!)

Book your Valencia Old Town Tour with Wine & Tapas in 11th Century Historic Monument Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Casual de las Artes Valencia , $66/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Conqueridor , $72/night

Day 8: Madrid onto Barcelona

I suggest splitting your day between Madrid and Barcelona since you can see most of the best parts of them in a few hours, hence my one day in Barcelona itinerary , but if this feels too rushed then consider including an extra day on your itinerary or skipping one of the towns on the itinerary.

Barcelona is home to a unique network of cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, stunning churches, and an array of different neighborhoods each boasting its own unique personality! Take some time at the Arc de Triomf , in the Gothic Quarter , and on Las Ramblas .

Book your Sagrada Familia, Park Guell & Old Town Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Bruc & Bruc , $69/night Best mid-range accommodation:   HCC Monblanc , $88/night

Day 9: Girona and Cadaqués

From Barcelona, hop on a train and head up to the Costa Brava region of Spain. With endless beaches, white-washed villages, and decadent seafood dishes, you really could spend two weeks here alone.

But, since you’ll be short on time, be sure to take a walk on the Platja Gran in Cadaqués and photograph the colorful buildings lining the Ter River in Girona!

Book your Half-Day Game Of Thrones Walking Tour in Girona with a Guide Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Ubaldo , $65/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Can Pepín , $70/night

Day 10: Marseille, France

Time to depart Spain and make your way into France! The first stop on this France itinerary will be in Marseille ; a charming, yet sophisticated, fishing town known for its high-end restaurants and shopping as well as beautiful scenery around every corner.

Spend some time swimming (or kite surfing !) in the turquoise blue waters of the French Riviera , strolling through the Old Port , exploring the Château d’If , or even hiking through the Massif des Calanques National Park !

Book your Marseille Shore Excursion: Half Day Tour of Marseille by Electric Bike Here

Best budget accommodation: Ibis budget Marseille Vieux Port , $57/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Holiday Inn Express Marseille Saint Charles , $85/night

Day 11: Nice

Known for its iconic coastal promenade, the Promenade des Anglais , Nice is a beach bum’s dream paradise!

Visitors can also enjoy climbing to the hilltop Castle of Nice to take in exceptional views of the French Riviera or wandering the streets of the bustling Cours Saleya which overflows with flowers and goods.

This will be your last full day on the French Riviera before moving on to the French Alps ! If you enjoy wine tours, be sure to check out some of my favorite wine tours in France or simply book the top-rated tour below!

Book your Provence Wine Tour – Private Day Tour from Nice Here

Best budget accommodation: Hôtel Relais Acropolis , $68/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Villa Rivoli , $104/night

Day 12: Fly Nice to Lyon – train to Annecy

Take an early morning flight, if possible, to Lyon where you’ll board directly on a train to Annecy . While Lyon is a great spot to poke around and has its own unique sights and activities, you’ll likely have more fun in the alpine towns of Annecy and Chamonix .

After a one-hour flight from Nice to Lyon and a 2-hour train ride from Lyon to Annecy, you’ll be ready for some authentic cheese fondue and raclette!

Once you have eaten your weight in French dairy goodness, it’s time to explore Annecy’s Old Town – in particular, the Palais de I’Île . This iconic former prison is the centerpiece of the town. From here, wander over the romantic Puente de los Amores and rent paddleboards or pedal boats to explore Lake Annecy !

Book your Annecy Segway Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Hôtel du Palais de l’Isle , $98/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Atipik Hôtel Alexandra , $105/night

Day 13: Chamonix

The average bus ride from Annecy to Chamonix is only about an hour and 35 minutes, whereas the train will take you about 2 hours – and boy, is it worth it!

The French Alps are world-renowned for their cheese, wine, and, of course… mountain sports! Here, a small village is nestled between ranges of skyscraping snow-capped peaks and the infamous Chamonix Mont Blanc .

Year-round, you can enjoy hiking, paragliding, mountain trekking, rock climbing, white water rafting, rappelling, and more. In the winters, the alpine village transforms into the ultimate ski resort boasting incredible trails from both the Aiguille du Midi and Le Brevent cable cars.

Though Chamonix is a small town , try to include it on any of these western backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks! It is a cultural hub, quaint mountainside village, and adrenaline sport central all in one!

Book your Paragliding Tandem Flight over the Alps in Chamonix Here

Best budget accommodation: Chalet Hôtel Le Prieuré , $70/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Chalet hôtel le Whymper , $73/night

Day 14: Paris

The moment you have probably anticipated your entire life is here… you’re going to Paris ! Full of romance, high-end shopping, and Michelin-star cuisine, the City of Lights is on most people’s bucket lists and it would be a shame not to include it in your itinerary if you’ve never visited.

Of course, there is the Arc de Triomphe , Notre Dame , Les Champs -Élysées , the Sacré-Cœur , and the Eiffel Tower , but any Paris itinerary should also include cruising along the Seine River , exploring a few of the dozens of museums like Le Louvre or the Musée d’Orsay !

Book your Louvre Museum Skip-the-line Access Private Guided Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Pavillon de Montmartre , $89/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Le Regent Montmartre , $102/night

Day 15: Depart from Paris to go Home

Enjoy a croissant and a cup of coffee in the Luxembourg Gardens or the Tuileries Garden before heading off to the train station or airport to return home.

While any one of these itineraries for backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks would be amazing, this one, in particular, is a true gem. Full of fairytale castles, medieval villages, and adrenaline-pumping activities, this trio is one of my personal favorite backpacking combinations in all of Europe!

If you run out of time and only have the option between Barcelona or Lisbon, check out this guide: Barcelona vs Lisbon: The Ultimate City Comparison . Likewise goes for Paris and Amsterdam !

2 Week Backpacking Europe Route #3: Italy and Croatia

When it comes to choosing between any of these backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, this one is the ultimate getaway! From romantic gondola rides in Venice to strolling the Old Town and ancient ruins of Dubrovnik, visitors are exposed to a range of budget to luxury experiences that are unparalleled across Europe.

While you could easily spend a couple of months in these destinations, the next two weeks will bring you across some of the best places to see in these beautiful countries!

Day 1: Arrive in Naples

Italy has several international airports and while it will usually be cheaper to fly directly into Rome or Milan, flying into Naples will prevent you from having to retrace your steps with this itinerary.

Try to land early in the morning so you have a full day in Naples before moving on to Pompei and the Amalfi Coast ! Naples is the birthplace of pizza … so go grab yourself a classic margherita and enjoy the view!

Book your Naples Street Food Tour With Local Expert Here

Best budget accommodation: B&B Hotel Napoli , $51/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Casa Mariella , $70/night

Day 2: Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast

Pompeii is overflowing with ruins from the ancient city including the House of the Faun and a former Roman amphitheater which was once home to gladiator fights and grand events!

The ancient city is also home to the active volcano of Mount Vesuvius and endless archaeological ruins.

Nearby Pompeii sits the popular Amalfi Coastline – home to beautiful the beautiful seaside village of Positano which is known for its vibrant, mountainside homes overlooking the sea!

This is by far one of the most scenic coastlines in Italy and should be included on any Italian itinerary. If you have extra time and are planning on skipping Bari, take a boat ride around Capri !

Book your Pompeii Small-Group Tour with an Archaeologist Here

Best budget accommodation: Pandora B&B , $38/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Il Vecchio Fauno , $57/night

Day 3: Train to Bari

If you are a lover of the sea and beautiful seaside villages, then jump on a train to Bari . Known as the capital of Puglia , this village is home to hundreds of white-washed homes that have been situated around the inlets of the beautiful, turquoise blue Adriatic Sea !

Have fun exploring the iconic Old Town before checking out the 13 th -century castle and the Piazza Mercantile !

Including Bari on your itinerary will add about 7 hours of traveling time versus if you were to just take a train directly to Rome , but since it is so beautiful we believe it is worth the journey. If you would prefer to have more time in Rome, then skip Bari.

Book your UNESCO’s Alberobello and Matera from Bari Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Olive Tree Hostel , $51/night Best mid-range accommodation:   San Nicola D’Amare B&B , $61/night

Day 4: Train to Rome

Whether you are departing Naples or Bari won’t change the fact that I suggest taking an early train to Rome, if possible.

We have only included one day in Rome since much of the sights and attractions are quite touristy and there are far better ones outside of Italy’s capital.

For this reason, we suggest getting an early start so you have at least one full day there to see the Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Sistine Chapel , and the Vatican Museums .

But, if you really love museums and could spend an entire day exploring the Colosseum alone, then I suggest adding an extra day in Rome to your itinerary.

Book your Small-Group Tour of Colosseum Underground, Arena, and Forum Here

Best budget accommodation: The RomeHello , $76/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Napoleon Hotel , $114/night

Day 5: Florence and Pisa

Day 5 of this backpacking Europe route for 2 weeks will take you on a train to Florence and Pisa !

Home to the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore , Michelangelo’s David statue , the Ponte Vecchio , and the Piazzale Michelangelo , Florence is one of the most visited places in Europe!

A day trip to the leaning tower of Pisa is simple with either a guided tour from Florence or a self-guided tour via train! Since this journey from Florence to Pisa is only about 50 minutes, we highly suggest including it in your trip.

Book your Tuscany in One Day Sightseeing Tour from Florence Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel La Torre , $65/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Relais Centro Storico Residenza D’Epoca , $67/night

Day 6: Cinque Terre

In just 3 hours from Florence, a train ride will bring you to the quintessential Italian Riviera: Cinque Terre ! While there are a plentiful amount of sights to be seen in this gorgeous seaside region, the best part of visiting Cinque Terre is to walk through the 5 villages that make up this hillside town.

Each one has its own distinct characteristics and is home to stunning scenery as far as the eye can see. The villages are known as Vernazza, Manarola, Monterosso, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore and are all connected by dirt and cobblestone walkways.

Be sure to buy a bottle of freshly made limoncello while walking around! There are also plenty of great hiking trails between the villages with sweeping views of the coastline so if you like to hike , Cinque Terre is the perfect place to visit!

Book your Cinque Terre Half-Day Kayak Trip from Monterosso Here

Best budget accommodation: Santa Marta Rooms , $136/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Gianni Franzi , $146/night

Day 7: Milan

Another 3-hour train ride from Cinque Terre will bring you into the heart of downtown Milan.

Home to the infamous Duomo di Milano , the iconic cathedral that dominates this vast city, as well as the Sforzesco Castle and several museums and art galleries , Milan deserves one full day on this backpacking Europe route for 2 weeks!

Milan is also famous for its gelato , so be sure to try a scoop… or two… or three during your visit!

Book your Secrets to Learning How to Make Fresh Pasta and Tiramisù Food Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Sanpi Milano , $101/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Ibis Milano Centro , $95/night

Day 8: Venice

To get to Venice, you can hop on another 3-hour train ride or a quick 55 minute fly from Milan. Though flying will typically be more expensive (not always – compare pricing before booking!), since you’ll only have one day in Venice I suggest flying to get the most out of your day.

Over your 24 hours in Venice, be sure to stroll through St. Mark’s Squar e, take a gondola ride down the Grand Canal , walk over the iconic Bridge of Sighs , and if you get the chance, visit Saint Mark’s Basilica during sunset!

Even if you don’t get to all of these things, Venice is a breathtaking city to visit nevertheless. So, consider taking a day to people watch and eat as much gelato, pasta, and pizza as you can on your last day in Italy !

Book your Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola Ride Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Carlton On The Grand Canal , $126/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Ai Mori d’Oriente , $149/night

Day 9: Fly Venice to Zagreb, Croatia

You’re off to Croatia ! Spend the morning in Venice visiting any last-minute sights before jetting off to the airport. Croatia’s capital is home to an impressive Neo-gothic 12 th -century cathedral , the Ban Josip Jelačić Square , and a plethora of museums making it the perfect pitstop on your backpacking Europe route for 2 weeks!

Book your Slovenia, Ljubljana, and Lake Bled Full-Day Small-Group Excursion from Zagreb Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Jadran , $58/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Dubrovnik , $88/night

Day 10: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Just over two hours southwest of the capital sits the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park !

Home to dozens of tranquil blue waterfalls perfect for swimming, endless dense forestry with hiking trails galore, and long wooden bridges for crossing over crystal clear lakes , this is a nature enthusiast’s paradise!

Spend the day jumping into the deep, cool toppling waterfalls and enjoy a picnic on a mossy rock. To reach the national park without a car, hop on a bus in the center of town for a carefree journey!

Book your Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke, Small-Group Tour from Zagreb Here

Day 11: Zadar

Once you have swum until your heart’s content, jump back on the bus and get off at the nearest town with connections to Zadar .

This stunning seaside city is home to turquoise blue waters , endless white-sand beaches , the iconic People’s Square full of shopping, as well as the central Five Wells Square .

Book your Full-Day Sailing Tour in Zadar Archipelago Here

Best budget accommodation: Downtown Boutique Hostel , $29/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Villa Triana , $67/night

Day 12: Split

From Zadar, there is a 3-hour bus journey down to Split . Technically, you could spend days here just exploring all of the ancient ruins and hundreds of charming corners of this terracotta-roofed city, but since you’ll be a little short on time, here’s what you should do.

First, take some time to explore the Diocletian’s Palace (it once housed a Roman emperor!) and then move on to the 4 th -century Saint Domnius Cathedral .

Once you have taken some time to explore the Old Town and stick your feet in the crystal clear waters on one of the dozens of beaches , then it’s time to start strolling Riva ; a lively boardwalk overflowing with great bars and restaurants serving up authentic dishes focused on using fresh, local ingredients!

Book your Krka Waterfalls and Sibenik Day Trip Including Wine Tasting from Split Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Garden Apartment , $50/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Royal Suites Hotel , $95/night

Day 13: Dubrovnik

The last leg of your backpacking journey includes a 4.5-hour train ride down to the stunning coastal town of Dubrovnik . As one of the most popular destinations in the entire country, I suggest spending at least a day and a half here, but more would be best if you can swing it!

The city is easily recognized across the globe for the El hotel Stari Grad – Casco Viejo ; the medieval Old Town full of history and culture.

Along your Dubrovnik travels, you can stop in to see the Lovrijenac fortress which offers panoramic views of the city and sweeping coastline, as well as the Rector’s Palace , the Dubrovnik Cable Car , the Franciscan Church and Monastery , and the city’s main street of Stradun which offers great shops, bars, and restaurants!

There are endless possibilities for visiting Dubrovnik, so be sure to leave some of your energy for the end of your trip… we’ve left one of the best destinations for last !

Book your Blue Cave Small-Group Boat Tour from Dubrovnik Here

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Dubrovnik , $71/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Villa Katarina Dubrovnik , $92/night

Day 14: Dubrovnik and Return Home

As far as backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks go, this one is a popular favorite! Finish up this incredible journey in Dubrovnik before returning home.

Be sure to stuff as much local seafood in before leaving, as possible – I suggest trying the Black Risotto (made with squid ink)!

2 Week Backpacking Europe Route #4: Switzerland, Austria, and Czech Republic

There couldn’t be a more luxurious combination for a backpacking trip! From the iconic pedestrian bridge in Lucerne to the halls of Mozart in Salzburg and the Old Town Square of Prague, there is hardly a more sophisticated route across Europe!

Since you’ll be following this 2 week backpacking Europe route from west to east, it’s best to start in Geneva. However, you can also start the itinerary in Czechia, but don’t begin in Austria as you’ll need to backtrack across the country twice if you do.

$ Keep in mind that if you’re trying to backpack Europe on a budget, this itinerary may be difficult for you. Switzerland and Austria are quite expensive, so be sure to do some research on accommodations and train travel prices before setting your trip in stone!

Day 1: Geneva

Geneva is gratifying to say the least! From its exotic location on Lake Geneva (also known as Lac Léman) to its dramatic water fountain and a plethora of sophisticated museums , Geneva is a backpackers heaven!

Owing to the region’s vast beauty and endless, beautiful streets, backpackers can enjoy roaming here for days one end. However, even the hostels here can sometimes start around 80 USD per night for a single traveler, so I suggest spending only a night or two here if you’re on a budget.

Book your Chocolate Flavours Tours Geneva: 3-hour Chocolate Tasting and Old Town Visit Here

Best budget accommodation: Ibis Geneve Centre Lac , $115/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Bernina , $154/night

Day 2: Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Once you’ve had time to settle in in Geneva, it’s time for the first leg of your journey: visiting the Swiss Alps town of Zermatt which offers exceptional views of the Matterhorn !

The town is world-renowned for its winter sports and exceptional hiking trails up some of the tallest mountains in the Alps ! A trip here is high on most travelers’ bucket lists so whatever you do – don’t skip a trip to Zermatt!

Book your Tandem Paragliding Tour in Zermatt, Switzerland Here

Best budget accommodation: Youth Hostel Zermatt , $97/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Adonis , $149/night

Day 3: Lucerne

Next, we’re off to Lucerne . In just under 4 hours via train, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning Lake Lucerne , the iconic Chapel Bridge , and the Spreuer Bridge .

The region is known for its exceptional beauty coming from the surrounding mountains and crystal clear lake, making it the perfect place to sit back and rest your feet during your long journey.

Book your Lucerne Walking and Boat Tour: The Best Swiss Experience Here

Day 4: Zurich

The city of Zurich is known for its exclusive business and finance districts, the 12 th -century Grossmünster cathedral , top-of-the-line shopping on Bahnhofstrasse , and all of the water sports found on Lake Zurich !

If you can’t tell by now, many of the major destinations in Switzerland are situated on their own lake and surrounded by snow-capped mountains ; there is truly nothing more beautiful and elegant!

Book your Day Trip to Swiss Villages (Interlaken-Grindelwald) with a Local from Zurich Here

Best budget accommodation: Astor Museum Hostel, $53/night Best mid-range accommodation:  Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo, $116/night

Day 5: Fly from Zurich to Salzburg, Austria

Time to move onto Austria! Salzburg was the birthplace of the famed musical artist, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , so attending a musical event here is practically required.

After a show, take a hike up to the 11 th -century Fortress Hohensalzburg before exploring the famed Schloss Hellbrunn and picking out a souvenir on Getreidegasse (this is also where you can see Mozart’s birthplace!)

Book your Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg Tour Here

Day 6: Hallstatt

The alpine village of Hallstatt rests directly over the Hallstätter See in a most enchanting cliffside. Nestled between mountains on all sides, Hallstatt is by far one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe!

Take some time to explore the Salzwelten Salt Mine or do some hiking on one of the hundreds of trails ranging from beginner to advanced. If you’re looking to include some time in nature on your 2 week Europe backpacking route, then be sure to include Hallstatt on your trip!

Book your Guided e-bike Tour of the Alpine Pastures in the Salzkammergut Here

Best budget accommodation: Pension Bergfried , $110/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Heritage Hotel Hallstatt , $180/night

Day 7: Vienna

In just under 4 hours via train, you’ll arrive in Austria’s capital of Vienna ! Wander the Stephansplatz Square , St. Stephen’s Cathedral , and the Schönbrunn Palace , or choose to relax at one of the dozens of streetside cafes and do some people watching.

Vienna is packed full of culture and immaculate architecture , so take some time to slow down and enjoy this stunning city!

Book your Vienna Classical Concert at St. Peter’s Church Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: Ibis Wien Mariahilf , $61/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Hotel Mercure Wien Westbahnhof , $75/night

Day 8: Fly from Vienna to Brno, Czechia

Next, you’re onto the last leg of your backpacking journey – the Czech Republic (also known as Czechia)!

Recognized for its arched stone bridges , Špilberk Castle , Old Town Hall , and Moravian Museum , Brno is full of history and medieval charm .

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Amphone , $40/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Jacob Brno , $56/night

Day 9: Český Krumlov

Next on the list is the magical Český Krumlov ! We decided to include two days in this exceptional, fairytale town owing to its enchanting envelopment along the Vltava River .

The town has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional Castle , cathedrals , and unique design within the southwest regions of Czechia.

Best budget accommodation: Hotel Ebersbach , $79/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Monastery Garden , $107/night

Day 10: Český Krumlov

If you plan on taking part in this particular backpacking Europe route for 2 weeks, we suggest spending the second day of your time in Český Krumlov walking along the river, enjoying the local food, chatting with the hospitable locals, and taking in all of the astounding scenery that will surround you!

Day 11: Pilsen

Made famous to tourists by the original Pilsner Urquell Brewery , Pilsen is a great place to enjoy a pint or two!

The town is also home to the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew and the Great Synagogue – it’s the second largest in Europe! Spend some time wandering the Old Town before prepping for your trip to Karlovy Vary.

Book your Pilsen Highlights Small-Group Tour and Pilsner Brewery Tour including Lunch and Beer Tasting Tour Here

Day 12: Karlovy Vary

Recognized as one of the most special spa towns in all of Europe, Karlovy Vary is the ultimate place to unwind.

The Western Bohemian town is famous for its striking colonnades and endless thermal springs bringing relaxation and rejuvenation to visitors.

On any backpacking journey through the Czech Republic, a trip to Karlovy Vary is surely in order!

Best budget accommodation: Dvorak Hotel and Spa , $93/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Grandhotel Pupp , $148/night

Day 13: Prague

Finally, we’re off to Prague ! Czechia’s capital is the queen of fairytale, medieval towns in Europe!

Captivating its visitors with its breathtaking Old Town Square , Charles Bridge , Lesser Town , Prague Castle , St. Vitus Cathedral , bustling Wenceslas Square , and 600-year-old functional Astronomical Clock , there is no other town in Europe that compares to the gothic charm of Prague!

Be sure to spend some time enjoying the local cuisine – especially that of Trdelník , a slow-roasted dough that’s been rolled in cinnamon sugar and oftentimes filled with hazelnut chocolate!

Book your Best of 2 Countries in 1 Day: Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland from Prague Tour Here

Best budget accommodation: K+K Hotel Central , $104/night Best mid-range accommodation:   Grandium Hotel Prague , $116/night

Day 14: Return Home from Prague

If possible, try to take an evening flight so you have another whole day to enjoy Prague’s sights, attractions, and charming Old Town!

How to Get Around for 2 Weeks in Europe

You might be thinking, “if I’m backpacking, won’t I be walking most of the time?” and the answer to that question is yes – but within reason!

It wouldn’t be possible to follow one of the above backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks if you actually tried to walk everywhere. In fact, you probably wouldn’t make it out of a single country.

While walking will be your primary method of transportation in both rural and urban areas, you will need other modes of transportation to get between cities and countries.

✔️ Unless you get lucky and find a spectacular deal on a car rental where the company also lets you cross several international borders, don’t rent a car .

This purchase typically blows most budgets out of the water and often leads to headaches and frustration in the end.

Europe is known for its busy city streets and heavy pedestrian traffic, so trying to find a parking spot outside of the Eiffel Tower is just going to waste your time.

✔️ Bus, train, and budget airline travel is going to become your new best friend!

If the countries you have chosen for your backpacking trip aren’t sharing a border, check to see what flights would cost. On occasion, you can save a lot of money by flying versus taking the train.

In contrast to this, however, the Eurail is often times the most efficient and affordable method of transportation in Europe. This railway connects thousands and thousands of destinations across the continent and provides everything from economy to first-class tickets.

If you aren’t going to be crossing international borders for a specific leg of your journey (i.e. Annecy to Paris), then compare the local bus and train pricing. Often, you can book these journies online up to 90 days in advance and save up to 15% on pricing for booking early!

✔️ Try to avoid taking taxis altogether

This is by far the worst deal you can get on transportation in Europe since many major cities have highly developed metro and bus systems.

If you really need a ride, order an Uber. Most European cities are equipped with Uber and Lyft, and this is a much more affordable and safe travel method.

Important Tips for Backpacking Europe for 2 Weeks

So, you’ve decided to take on one of my backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks (or another route that you have skillfully designed) – how exciting!

Backpacking across 4 countries in 9 days was one of the greatest experiences of my life and it led me on to start designing dozens of more trips just like it. I hope you find your backpacking experience to be a happy one and it motivates you to continue your travels across Europe and the world!

But, before you run off to the airport, make note of these few tips below first.

✔️ While visiting more countries can oftentimes save you money in the long run, don’t try to squeeze too much into your two-week European itinerary . Try to be reasonable when planning your trip!

For example : backpacking from the south of Spain up to Amsterdam in two weeks: reasonable! Trying to include Paris, the Algarves, Italy, Croatia, and the Greek Islands in a two-week trip: not reasonable!

✔️ Don’t stay in one place for too long.

If you’re trying to use a backpacking journey as a method of seeing a lot of places in a short amount of time, don’t spend more than two days in each place. This is usually plenty of time for most major cities, but it won’t be nearly enough for places such as the Greek Islands or the European Alps.

Unfortunately, if you only have 2 weeks for traveling, you’re going to be limited on where you can go and how much you can see.

So, instead of choosing a lot of destinations and only visiting them for a day or so, pick two or three countries and see the best spots in all of them!

✔️ We’ll touch on this more below, but remember that whatever you pack you have to carry on your back!

So, leave the heels, hairdryer, and 9 different dresses at home!

✔️ I have said it before and I’ll say it again, travel to Europe in the shoulder seasons.

This will save you money, significantly reduce your wait times at attractions and restaurants, and you’ll get to experience each destination with far fewer tourists.

✔️ Invest in a good backpack.

This one is absolutely essential…

If you take a quick peek at the packing list below, you’ll notice that I have included a link to the 50-liter Osprey backpack . Yes, it typically costs around $250.

Even if you’re going to try to stay on a budget for your backpacking trip across Europe, don’t skimp on the backpack you use. It is the single most important item on your packing list and it will make or break your trip .

For a good backpacking experience, you need a high-quality backpack with a lifetime guarantee. It’s not going to be cheap, so plan to budget some money for it well in advance of your trip!

✔️ Lastly, decide if you want to go backpacking solo in Europe or with a friend or loved one.

This one is tough because while many of us would love to have our friends and family join us on a vacation, a backpacking trip can be a little bit more – tiring.

Keep in mind that walking several miles each day, moving between accommodations, and endless train travel can strain any relationship.

So, just be mentally prepared for the bumps in the road and consider traveling solo if this doesn’t seem like a good fit for your travel style .

What to Pack for 2 Weeks in Europe

There is a little saying that Sean and I use when we go backpacking, camping, etc…

“ Ounces equal pounds and pounds equal pain “

This means that when you pack something just because it is only a few ounces, those ounces are going to add up – fast! The more ounces you have, the more pounds you’re carrying, and the more pounds you carry… well, the more you’re likely to be in pain.

So, when beginning to pack for one of the above backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, be sure to only pack the items that you know you will use, wear, and actually need. This is essential for a successful backpacking trip to Europe!

In my experience, if you can try to budget for one accommodation with a washer and dryer, you’ll save yourself from carrying a lot of weight in extra clothes.

✔️ The packing list below has been designed for visiting Europe in the shoulder seasons and having at least one accommodation with the means of doing your laundry.

Packing List for Backpacking Europe for 2 Weeks

Since this is a lot to look at, let’s go over it a little bit…

Layers are going to be your best friend in Europe . The weather can change in a matter of hours from a balmy 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) to a chilly 50 degrees (10 degrees Celsius) after the sun goes down.

You’ll be happy when you have a sweater and a warm coat right there in your bag or when the skies decide to open up and your rain jacket is a quick unzip away!

Next, try to book an accommodation with a washer and dryer about halfway through your trip. This will allow you to wear a variety of outfits then restart the lineup during the second week.

This way, you won’t have the same clothes on in all of your pictures across different countries and you won’t need to carry as many clothes with you.

Also, good walking shoes are essential to a happy trip ! Comfortable, supportive shoes that prevent blisters and early fatigue will make or break you along your travels. Opt to break in any new shoes before departing to prevent the wearing and tearing of your feet.

If you are planning on doing a few of these backpacking trips, do yourself a favor and purchase some TSA-approved travel bottles and a TSA-approved clear bag . This set here combines the two, making it simple to keep all of your lotions and liquids together without the mess!

Next, if you aren’t sure what Dramamine is, it’s a motion sickness relief tablet. These have saved my life on numerous bus, train, flight, and ferry rides, and I highly recommend them if you are prone to motion sickness.

Since you’ll be on the road rather frequently, charging outlets can sometimes be difficult to find (unless you want to sit in a McDonald’s for a few hours). I never travel without my backup battery pack since I use my phone as my only camera which can kill my battery rather quickly.

The backup battery pack is perfect for on the go and it fits perfectly inside my Himawari Day Ba ckpack! It comes with its very own USB charging port, a large pouch for my laptop and extra layers, and plenty of inner zippers to hold my important documents.

It’s perfect for when you want to leave your 50-liter pack back at your accommodation and walk around with a lot less weight on you.

I personally bring this backpack everywhere with me including in Europe, so if you’re looking for a good backpack to explore some European cities with, this is the best one I have found!

For a more in-depth look at everything I pack when I travel to Europe, check out my Europe Travel Essentials List !

How Much Money Do You Need to Travel Europe for 2 Weeks?

Since this is going to vary greatly depending on which countries you visit, how long you spend in each country, the activities you do, what you eat, where you stay, and so on, I’m going to give you a list of the average cost of the most popular expenses you’ll have while backpacking Europe.

Keep in mind, that if you’re already in Europe, you can save a considerable amount of money on flights and train travel, whereas if you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll likely need to book a flight to get there.

Use the averages below to add up how much money you will be spending per day. The lower end of the averages are for more affordable countries such as Portugal and the higher end of the averages are for expensive countries such as Switzerland.

If your addition comes outside of your budget, consider off-season travel or one of the less expensive backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks.

Transportation

Travel prices rise and fall with the seasons and major holidays in Europe, just like most places in the world. In the summers and around the winter holidays, you’ll see flights and train tickets skyrocket.

✔️ In the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, you can usually score a great deal on nearly half-priced airfare and train travel.

✔️ Taxis will be expensive regardless of when you visit and you’ll have a higher likelihood of getting scammed year-round by using them (always make sure the taxi is with a reputable company).

✔️ You can occasionally get a good deal on car rentals in the shoulder season , but keep in mind that the chance of poor driving conditions increases outside of the summer months in most European destinations.

In the peak season summer months, car rentals will be expensive (with limited kilometers – extra money for unlimited) and can book up almost a year in advance on some occasions!

✔️ So, overall, the most cost-efficient method of getting around in popular travel destinations is to walk, take the metro, or rent a bicycle !

Bicycles can often be rented for as little as €10 per 24 hours, and can also often be rented for up to a week at a time for good deals, as well. By combining walking and biking around major cities, you’ll save a lot of money.

✔️ 3 Km Taxi Ride: €4.50-24 ✔️ Single Metro Ride: €1.50-2.75 ✔️ 24 Hour Bike Rental: €14 ✔️ One Week Car Rental in France: $155-700+

Accommodation

If you’re trying to stick to a budget but also want to avoid hostels, you’re in luck. Europe is covered in budget-friendly hotels and there are usually at least a few in every country you visit.

These accommodations have been priced to show the difference between the shoulder season (low end) and peak season (high end).

Budget Hostel: €33-55 (per night of single occupancy) Mid-Range Hotel: €83-130 (per night of double occupancy) Luxury Hotel: €240-550+ (per night of double occupancy)

If you choose one of the above backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, chances are you’ll likely be eating most of your meals out of food carts and the supermarket, with few meals being saved for sit-down restaurants.

Lunch and dinner are by far the most expensive meals to eat at a sit-down restaurant, so if you’re going to splurge on anything, go for a local breakfast or brunch.

Hot Coffee: €1-3.50 Sandwich and Pastry: €4-6 Meal from a Food Truck: €5-12 Meal at Typical Restaurant for One: €15-25 Dinner for Two at a Nice Restaurant: €40-70

For the most part, outside of museums, ticket prices are similar for many major attractions year-round. So, if you’re trying to stick to a budget, make a list of all of the major attractions in each place your visiting, and choose in advance which ones you want to pay to see.

When I was backpacking through France, I went and saw the Eiffel Tower, but I decided to skip going up it. I really wanted to go paragliding in the French Alps, so I decided to do that instead of going inside all of the sights and museums in Paris.

Choose what means the most to you, then budget for it and book tickets online in advance to save money!

Eiffel Tower (stairs vs. lift and 1st vs. 3rd floor), Paris, France: €10-26 Park Güell in Barcelona, Spain: €10 Sintra Castle in Sintra, Portugal: €10 Belfry Tower in Bruges, Belgium: €12 Casemates du Bock in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg: €6

Other Expenses

Unfortunately, things happen when traveling. Take into account that pickpocketing, scams, petty theft, and losing items are all possible when taking part in any of the above backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks.

Budget for upwards of €200 in losses over the course of a 2-week trip. Keep in mind that you may not have anything happen, but if your phone gets stolen or you miss your flight, you’ll be happy you at the very least budgeted for the loss.

To help reduce your risk of needing to use this budget, avoid:

Street Games Exchanging Currency on the Street Using Streetside ATMs Taking Taxis Leaving Your Belongings Unattended Walking Home Alone (especially at night) Flashing Your Valuables in Public Spaces (wallet, jewelry, etc.)

How to Backpack Europe for 2 Weeks on a Budget

The first time I backpacked across 4 countries in Europe I was only 20 years old and in college… so, I know what you mean by being on a budget!

From my experiences, I have a few really great tips for following my backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks on a budget.

✔️ First, you’re going to have to eat food from supermarkets, street carts, and food stands .

Sit-down restaurants can cost you upwards of 25 euros per person or more in Europe, so instead just enjoy the delicious food being whipped up right outside.

✔️ Also, bring your own reusable water bottle .

Beer and wine are far cheaper than bottled water in Europe, so when it’s time to hydrate, you’ll be spending nearly 3-4 euros per small bottle.

I always use my LifeStraw Bottle since it has a 2-step filtering process and I’ve used it all over the world and have never had any issues drinking tap and even stream water.

✔️ Look for budget accommodations .

Airbnb’s, budget hotels, or even hostels can be great options. Just be sure to do some research first and ensure you pick a safe hostel in a safe part of town if that’s the route you choose to go.

✔️ Walking, bike rentals, and the metro will be your new best friend.

Taxis and cabs are super expensive (and dangerous at times), so opt to take a more eco-friendly approach to get around. It’s cheap and it’s better for you and our planet!

✔️ When getting between countries, compare flight and train prices .

Trains are most often cheaper, but can sometimes take far longer than a plane. Compare your options and see what fits best for your itinerary.

✔️ Pro Tip : I prefer to travel on the Eurail since it’s always scenic, affordable, easy-to-use, and comfortable. I highly recommend buying a multi-country or multi-week pass if you plan on getting around primarily by train! It will save you a ton of money in comparison to buying individual tickets, especially if you’re keeping your itinerary flexible.

Unique Experiences to Have in Europe

Whether this is your first visit to Europe or your 10 th , there are seemingly endless experiences that can be had on this beautiful and diverse continent!

✔️ Hiking and Mountaineering

Everything from summer to winter hiking on the tallest mountain in the Alps (Mont Blanc), rock climbing, rappelling, cave exploring, and more is available to adventure seekers looking to hit the ground running.

✔️ Surfing and Water Sports

Surfing, snorkeling, jet-skiing, windsurfing, boating, fishing, sunbathing… you get it.

From the French Riviera to Italy’s Cinque de Terre, there is no end in sight to what you can do on the water in Europe!

✔️ Paragliding and Skydiving

We actually went paragliding on our second backpacking trip through Europe when we were in the southeast of France, and it was easily one of the best experiences of our lives!

You also have the option of going skydiving or even riding in a bush plane or taking a helicopter tour through the Alps.

✔️ Winter Sports

When it comes to winter sports, there really is no shortage in Europe. Skiing, snowboarding, ice climbing, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and hiking!

You can also opt to enjoy your time in one of the thousands of unique spa retreats scattered across the region if that’s more your style.

What to Eat in Europe

As I previously mentioned, if you’re looking to stay on somewhat of a budget you’ll need to primarily eat at street carts and food stands. This is, however, far from a bad thing!

The street food in Europe is some of the best I’ve ever had in my life. From bratwurst and French fries in Germany to homemade spaetzle and sauerkraut in Prague and delicate crepes in France, there is no end to the amazing food to try in Europe on a budget!

Or, if you’re not on much of a budget and are hoping to find the best foods in every country, these street foods should also be on your list… seriously, they’re that good!

Below is a list of some of our favorite street foods and where to try them if you plan on choosing one of our backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks!

✔️ Doner Kebab – Anywhere ✔️ Sweet or Savory Crepes – France ✔️ Curry Schnitzel Cone – Germany ✔️ Beef Stew – Budapest ✔️ Bratwurst with Mustard, Peppers, and Onions – Prague ✔️ Mulled Wine – Christmas Markets, anywhere ✔️ Pastel de Nata – Portugal ✔️ Steet Tapas – Spain ✔️ Stroopwafels and Bitterballen – Amsterdam ✔️ Chocolate and Waffles – Belgium ✔️ Trdelník – Prague ✔️ Pizza – Naples, Italy ✔️ English Yorkshire – London

Tips for Traveling Europe During COVID

Navigating the challenges of traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic can be very frustrating and overwhelming. Trust me, I’ve been there!

Each country has its own set of rules and restrictions that you’ll need to abide by if you wish to enter and have a pleasant experience, so be sure to thoroughly research current travel requirements for each country on your European backpacking itinerary.

In many cases, you’ll need to show a valid vaccine passport with the second dose being taken at least 2 weeks prior to arrival. Additionally, you will likely need to show a negative RT-PCR OR Rapid Antigen test result that was taken within a specific hourly period before your departure for Europe.

You may also need to fill out health declaration forms, quarantine without notice, have your temperature taken and symptoms checked, and even take additional COVID-19 tests after arrival.

✔️ While we try to keep this page updated as much as possible, travel requirements are changing too frequently to keep up with. Always check your government or local Embassy’s website for the most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 protocols. Requirements are changing very frequently and sometimes without notice, so you’ll need to be prepared for any changes to your itinerary. This is another big reason that having travel insurance that covers COVID-19 is extremely useful! Keep in mind that most travel insurance needs to be booked within 2 weeks of booking your trip , or it may not cover everything.

Travel Insurance for Europe

If you have plans to follow any of the above backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks, you should definitely be buying travel insurance. While I don’t want to scare you or make you think that backpacking isn’t a safe idea, there are endless possibilities for things that could go wrong.

Pickpockets, lost luggage, travel delays and cancelations, or worse… injuries, are all possible. We always use SafetyWing since it’s ridiculously affordable (like $42 per month of travel per person…) and it covers practically everything, including COVID.

We have also heard of other travelers being happy with the service from World Nomads , but we haven’t used them so we can’t vouch for them personally.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

I can’t recommend the backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks above enough – seriously! Backpacking Europe makes up some of my favorite travel experiences to date, and I am notorious for oversharing my fond memories with practically strangers…

But, there are a few things you should know before you jump on a plane, train, or ferry over to Europe to keep you safe. Just like anywhere in the world, Europe is a very safe region but there are things you should be aware of and look out for.

✔️ For example, avoid street games at all costs.

This is a classic “local scams the tourist” scenario, so don’t give anybody on the street your money or show them your wallet.

✔️ Also, avoid using streetside ATMs !

Many of them have a plastic covering over the card reader that you won’t be able to see that will steal all of your credit card information. This is especially true in Prague. Only ever exchange or withdraw money at a local bank or at an ATM behind a locked door with cameras.

✔️ Don’t do what the girls in the photo above are doing… letting their guards down with all of their belongings on them.

Never make your way through a new city with all of your belongings unless you are en route to your accommodation.

✔️ Save all of your sightseeing until you can get your bags to safety .

When you have your bags on your person, look confident and maintain a steady pace to your hotel or dorm room. Otherwise, you become a very easy target for pickpockets and scam artists.

✔️ Furthermore, try to avoid walking alone at night.

If you are strictly traveling solo, only walk through well-lit and densely-populated areas after dark. Avoid residential neighborhoods and “shortcuts.”

✔️ If you would prefer to get a ride, have a bartender or your hotel order you a taxi .

Generally, they will be using reputable companies, but don’t get in if there is already someone inside.

✔️ If you must take a taxi on the street, always pull up the directions before getting in and show the driver. Also, ask the driver how much the ride will cost before they start driving.

Otherwise, you could get scammed out of a lot of money. A friend of mine got scammed for $100 for a couple-mile-long taxi ride in Europe, so take my advice on this!

✔️ Avoid taking any drinks from people at bars or clubs that you didn’t see get made or opened. If you leave your drink unattended for any amount of time, buy a new one.

Date rape drugs are quite common across Europe, sadly.

✔️ Lastly, pickpocketing is very common in Europe , unfortunately.

Do your best to keep your belongings zipped up and on the front of your person. Never leave any bags hanging on the back of your chair or your phone or wallet on a table, etc.

Other Helpful Resources

Check out some of these other related articles – they may have the answers to all of your burning European travel questions!

The Top 40 Hidden Gems in Europe To Visit in 2021 143 Once in a Lifetime Experiences for Your Europe Bucket List Minimalist Packing List for Females Traveling to Europe Packing List for Europe in Winter: A Full Country by Country Guide European Honeymoon Itinerary: 9 Incredible Options for 1 Week, 2 Weeks, + 1 Month 30+ Best Places to Visit in Europe in December 73 Best Places to Visit in Europe in January 2024 25 Best Places in Europe for New Years Celebrations 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in March 2024 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in April 2024 Is Azerbaijan in Europe? The Facts for 2024 Is Norway in Europe? Norway & the EEA EFTA States 11 BEST Wine Tours in Tuscany from Florence in 2024

Europe is full of everything from enchanting castles and medieval villages to white-sand beaches and snowy mountain tops as well as sophisticated cities and small, romantic towns.

With so much to do and see on one of the most diverse continents in the world, it can be challenging to decide where to go!

That’s why I have created these diverse backpacking Europe routes for 2 weeks that cover every region of Europe! Use them to help you plan your ultimate European journey with all of the sights, activities, and food of your wildest dreams.

I hope this post comes in handy when planning your next backpacking trip to Europe and you have the experience of a lifetime!

The Ultimate Guide To Traveling Europe On a Budget!

With just pennies to my name, I figured out how to travel to some of the most expensive countries in Europe!

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Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!