backpacking tour europe

The Backpacker Network

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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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

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank You and Happy Gallivanting!

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

Subscribe for my Full Packing List Free Download

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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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Backpacking Europe: Itinerary Advice From an Expert

Backpacking Europe can be life-changing experience. Check out this guide to learn how to plan the perfect trip and see a sample itinerary.

Backpacking Europe can be a life-changing experience. The diversity of languages, architecture, and cuisine is enough to keep culture vultures happy for months while history buffs will swoon every time they turn a corner! Traveling through Europe as a form of enlightenment and self-discovery has been popular since the 17th century when the well-heeled would travel to places like France, Germany, Greece, and Italy to become more cultured and learn more about history and art (and according to historical records, engage in some pretty risqué behavior!). 

Not much has changed since then except that we’ve traded steamer trunks for backpacks, and boats and carriages for airplanes and trains. Traveling through Europe has also become much more accessible to people around the world thanks to budget airlines like RyanAir and EasyJet.

Discover the world with Let’s Roam .

Here at Let’s Roam, we believe travel is one of the best forms of education! That’s why our team of travel experts has written destination guides, must-see lists, and travel articles to help you plan your trip. We’ve also got hundreds of app-based scavenger hunts that will introduce you to destinations all around the world!

How to Plan the Ultimate European Backpacking Trip

Below you’ll find itinerary advice for your European adventure. This will take you to some of the most famous places in Europe as well as some off-the-beaten-path destinations!

Important Things to Ask Yourself

Before you start planning your European itinerary, there are a few questions that you should ask yourself.

What is your budget?

This is probably the most important thing to figure out before you start planning your trip. It often dictates how long you can travel and where you can go. There are some parts of Western Europe such as Switzerland, Sweden, and Norway that are painfully expensive. Meanwhile, some places in Central and Eastern Europe still offer great value for your money.  

If this is your first time traveling, you may want to stick with some of the Western European countries as they are generally easier to navigate your way through. If you’re traveling on a tight budget, this means that you may have to have a relatively short trip. However, if you are a more experienced traveler, going to places like Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia can help your money stretch longer. 

It’s all about finding a balance between how much money you have to play with and the destinations that you can go to. While it sounds a bit complicated to figure out, don’t worry. It’s actually easier than it sounds and we are here to help guide you through it!

How fast do you want to travel?

The next question you need to ask yourself is how fast you want to travel. Everyone travels in different ways. Some people only have two weeks and want to see as much as they can. Others want to take it a bit more slowly and only visit a handful of locations. For anyone lucky enough to have more time to travel, you can always mix it up a bit and travel quickly for a few days as you hop from place to place, and then slow it down and stay in the same destination for a week. 

When you’re considering your travel speed, you should really keep in mind what your endurance is. It is much easier to go hard out for a few days than doing it for a few weeks. Like anything in life, if you try to do too much for too long, you’re likely to burn out. 

What type of travel experience do you want to have?

This question ties in quite closely with the two above but with a slight differentiation. This is where you want to start thinking about what you want to get out of the trip. Do you want to visit as many museums as possible? Do you prefer to have your own culinary adventure where you focus on eating at different restaurants, taking cooking classes, or simply trying new foods? 

How much cultural interaction do you want to have? Do you want to have plenty of time to spend hanging out in bars or cafes with locals? Do you want to attend local Meetup or Couchsurfing events? These types of activities are just as important as sightseeing, but they do take time and should be scheduled accordingly.  

For example, if you plan on going out to a famous bar or having a night out on the town, don’t schedule an 8:00 a.m. city tour. While it’s possible to do it, trust me. You don’t want to! 

Let the Planning Begin

Love it or hate it, planning is one of the most important aspects of having a fantastic adventure! Backpacking Europe can be very expensive if you aren’t careful. Having a plan in place can help you save a lot of money. It can also keep you from having to backtrack frequently to go back to things you may have missed.

Before you do any of the steps below, check the expiration date on your passport. Keep in mind that most countries won’t let you in unless your passport is valid for at least six months after your arrival date. This is extremely important. If your passport is not valid, you will need to get a new one before leaving.

Expert tip: If you see your passport is getting close to expiring, you may want to consider renewing it at an American embassy or consulate in one of the European cities you plan on visiting. It often takes as little as two weeks to get a new one compared to the atrocious waiting times if you apply in the United States. You simply need to drop off your application and pick up your passport when it’s ready. They let you keep your existing passport in the meantime so you can still travel on it until you get the replacement. 

Step 1: Do plenty of research.

Have you ever gone somewhere and only realized that there were some really fun things to do there once it was too late? It’s pretty disappointing, right? Now imagine having that feeling over and over again. This is why it is so important to do research before you get to a destination.

Some of you may be rolling your eyes as you read this knowing that you want to play it by ear rather than having an itinerary packed full of sightseeing. That is perfectly okay! That is how I tend to travel. However, this doesn’t mean you can skip out on the research step. Trust me, I know this firsthand!  

If you’re the type of traveler who wants to see some of the more off-beat places in a city, then head over to Atlas Obscura. This fantastic website lists the eclectic or kooky attractions in a destination that most other travel guides tend to ignore. This is what many hard-core travelers use when they want to see something unique or interesting. Also, please, please, please don’t rely solely on social media to research a location. Instagram photos posted by influencers are almost always heavily edited. The attractions rarely look like they do in the photos and you are bound to be a bit disappointed. 

Are there any day trips that look interesting?

When you’re researching a destination, make sure to not only look at what there is to do in the destination itself but also whether there are any day trips that you would like to do from there. Most of the major tourist areas of Europe will have organized day trips to other touristy areas or you may be able to get there on your own via public transport. 

For example, many people who visit Krakow also want to go to Auschwitz. Many tour companies offer expensive day tours to get there. However, there are also public buses that will take you there. The two experiences are very different and will suit different types of travelers. 

What are prices like in a destination around the time you want to go?

When you’re doing your initial research, don’t forget to take a quick peek at accommodation websites like Booking.com, HostelWorld, or Airbnb to see how much the hotels or hostels are around the time you want to go. This can have a major impact on how much time you end up spending in a city.  

For example, you may want to use Munich as a base to explore Bavaria and are thinking about taking a train there from Milan. Accommodation in Munich is normally quite pricey even in the off-season and can be extremely expensive during the summer and Oktoberfest. In this case, you may want to take an overnight train between the two cities to save on accommodation costs. This means you either have to cross your fingers so you hit the ground running or you schedule a pretty easy first day there.

Step 2: Create a rough itinerary.

Hopefully, your research has given you a list of destinations that you want to see. At this point, it’s really helpful to save these on Google Maps as a way to see the geographical layout of your desired destinations. If there are any major outliers that would be nice to see but aren’t that important, you may want to cross them off your list early on. This will likely save you some logistics-related headaches later.  

On the contrary, if there are any destinations that are pretty far away from everywhere else that you are desperate to see, this is the time to do more research to see what lies between that and the closest destination. You may find that there are a few interesting things to check out on the way. This usually helps make the side trip feel a bit more worthwhile. If you are traveling long distances to get there, it also is a good way to break up those distances a bit. And who knows, you may end up finding some wonderful new places!

Expert tip: When you’re putting together your itinerary, make sure to leave yourself enough time to enjoy yourself! I know, I know. This is easier said than done when there are so many great things to see and do. When I was a novice backpacker working my way through Europe in the early 2000s, I used the Lonely Planet as a checklist and would visit every single attraction that they wrote about. This was extremely ambitious and exhausting, but on the plus side, I learned just how cool botanical gardens are!  

Looking back, this marathon sightseeing has largely been forgotten. What I remember are the moments that I spent hanging out with new friends in the hostel, interacting with locals, and the overwhelming feeling that the world is opening up around me. If you move too fast, you may miss out on these experiences, which quite frankly, are just as important as seeing the sights. 

Step 3: Start booking tickets and hotels.

Now that you have a pretty decent idea of the places that you want to visit and the amount of time that you need in each place, it’s time to start making a few bookings. This doesn’t mean you need to plan every step of your journey. In fact, we recommend that you don’t actually do that. However, it’s time to book the “big ticket” things. This includes stuff like your flights from your home country to Europe, flights between European destinations, and accommodation in places that are very likely to sell out in advance. Try to book accommodation with free cancelation policies in case your plans change, even if it means paying a little bit more. This way, you have a guaranteed place to stay but still have some flexibility if needed. 

Expert tip: When you’re booking your flights, always double-check what airports you are flying in and out of. Some European airports are very far from the cities that they serve which can eat up a lot of time and cost a lot in ground transport getting to the city center.  

Expert tip #2: Before you book a bunch of train tickets, which generally isn’t necessary anyways, get an idea of how much your expected train tickets will cost. Compare this to the price of a Eurail Pass to see if it ends up being cheaper. Eurail Passes cost a set price and allow you to use the European train network for a set period. You can get them for certain European countries or regions and if you plan on traveling quickly across large distances, they may save you a lot of money.

Expert tip #3 : If you’re planning to travel through Germany, check what train passes they have available. Deutsche Bahn, the national train network, offers regional passes that allow you to travel on the local trains for a ridiculously low price. These rail passes don’t include the InterCity trains, but they are perfect for anyone wanting to move slowly through the country as they can be used almost like a hop-on-hop-off train ticket. 

Step 4: Prepare your packing list.

As the departure day for your big backpacking trip through Europe comes closer, it’s time to prepare your packing list. Try as hard as you possibly can to pack lightly with just a carry-on. Ideally, this will be a backpack. There are a few reasons for this. First off, wheeled suitcases do not do well on cobblestones. Secondly, it is much easier to get on and off trains, buses, airplanes, and other forms of public transportation with a carry-on backpack than a big suitcase. Third, it will save you a ton of money in baggage fees.

While this idea may be painful to some people, it’s worth it. Unless you’re a famous influencer making millions off of your Tik Tok account, you simply don’t need to have a bunch of flashy outfits with you. Instead, bring a few timeless items such as black jeans or leggings, a few dresses, and some nice shirts or tank tops. 

Find different ways to layer your clothes so that it looks like you’re carrying more clothes with you than you are. And, whatever you do, don’t forget to bring a brightly colored sarong with you. That handy piece of cloth can be used as a scarf, blanket, towel, beach cover-up, or even a dress if you’re creative. 

Try and leave a little extra space in your carry-on bag in case you see anything that you love during your travels and want to take home with you. If you can’t figure out how to fit it all in with room to spare, watch a few YouTube videos to see how other people pack for a backpacking trip. You can also invest in some packing cubes to see if they help. You can normally buy them on Amazon, at home goods stores, or anywhere where you normally buy luggage.

Step 5: Head off for your European backpacking extravaganza!

Woo-hoo! The big day has finally come and it’s time to hit the road! Before you head to the airport for your flight, do one last check to make sure you have your passport that is valid for at least six months, your wallet, backup credit cards and ATM cards, a reusable water bottle, and U.S. dollars for emergencies. 

This is also the perfect time to download the Let’s Roam app . This app gives you access to all of our fun-filled scavenger hunts which are a great, budget-friendly way to learn more about a destination! 

The 21st Century Grand Tour

Okay, now that we’ve covered all of the logistics of backpacking through Europe, now is the fun part! Below we’ve included a sample itinerary that you can use as a pseudo-Europe travel guide for planning your backpacking trip. 

Rather than breaking down what you should do each day, we’ll leave that up to you! Instead, we have focused on the logistics of getting from one place to another. We have also created itineraries that allow you to easily connect Western Europe, Central Europe, and Eastern Europe if you’re lucky enough to travel for months on end and want to see as much as possible! 

Expert advice: If you’re traveling for longer periods, pay attention to where you will be at certain times of the year. Most experienced travelers will avoid Western Europe during the summer which is their peak tourist season. On top of that, much of Italy effectively shuts down in August when everyone goes on their summer breaks to the seaside. 

As mentioned, if this is your first Europe trip, we highly recommend sticking to Western Europe. One of the cheapest and best-connected airports to fly into Western Europe from the United States is Amsterdam, so we’ll start the journey there! Most of the itinerary is expected to be done by train travel, but there are a few times when you have to take a bus between destinations.

Countries included:  Netherlands, Belgium, France, Andorra, Spain, Portugal, Italy , San Marino, Austria, Czech Republic, and Germany

Stop 1: The beautiful city of Amsterdam is the perfect place to spend a few days getting over jetlag and preparing for your big backpacking trip. Nearly everyone in this canal-laden Dutch city speaks English which makes it very easy to get your bearings, especially if you’re a first-time traveler to Europe. 

Stop 2: From Amsterdam, you can take a train to Antwerp in northern Belgium. Known as the Diamond Capital of the World, Antwerp boasts striking Flemish Renaissance architecture. Your sightseeing starts as soon as you pull into the breathtaking Antwerp Central Train Station. From there, you can wander around the cobblestone streets, grab your first Belgian beer in Belgium, and check out the interesting, and very historic, Diamond District.

Stop 3: The next stop is Bruges. This charming little city is famous for its canals, cobblestone streets, and medieval architecture. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site so this is something you don’t want to miss. It is a very touristy town though so you may find it hard to escape the crowds.

Stop 4: From Bruges, it’s an easy train ride down to the iconic city of Paris . With sights like the Eiffel Tower, the Champs Elysees, the Louvre, and the Seine River, Paris certainly doesn’t need an introduction. Nearby, the glittering palace of Versailles stands as a testament to the ostentatious wealth and power of the French monarchy before the French Revolution. 

Stop 5: After exploring Paris, it’s time to grab a train to Bordeaux , France’s wine capital! This is where you can try some of the best wines in the world straight from the source. The gorgeous walled city of Bordeaux offers the perfect place to base yourself while you explore the nearby vineyards. 

Stop 6:  Once you’ve had your fill of wine and medieval buildings, it’s time to visit a new country! Andorra is a teeny-tiny country squished between France and Spain. It’s a popular skiing and hiking destination. There isn’t a huge amount to do here otherwise, but it would be a shame to miss another country when you are so close! 

Stop 7: From Andorra, you can get a bus to Barcelona . Home of the fantastical Gaudi architecture, a beautiful coastline, and vibrant nightlife, this is another place where you will probably want to spend a few extra days to give yourself enough time to eat, drink, and be merry!

Stop 8: As the capital of Spain, Madrid boasts some of the country’s most impressive buildings, great museums, and fantastic shopping. It is a city of grand boulevards and manicured plazas, which makes it feel very different than Barcelona. Spend a few days exploring the city and then plan on hitting the road again.

Stop 9: Porto is a gorgeous city located in northern Portugal. Well-known for being the birthplace of Porto wine, the city is home to gorgeous architecture, narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses, and a robust culinary scene. This is one of the least expensive touristy hotspots in Western Europe, so this is also a great opportunity to splurge! The best way to get from Madrid to Porto is by bus which should take around 6-7 hours. 

Stop 10: Lying just a few hours by train south of Porto, the capital city of Lisbon is a photographer’s dream come true. The hilly streets and iconic street cars provide the perfect props and backdrop for some amazing photos. Meanwhile, the vivacious nightlife will leave you dancing until the early morning! Don’t party too hard though as this is a great place to do a free walking tour of the city. 

Stop 11: After you’ve enjoyed all that Lisbon has to offer, you can make your way south to the Algarve coast. Here, you’ll find a handful of historic towns and a long sweep of beautiful beaches. The biggest city in the region is Faro and this is likely to be your first stop before you head to one of the nearby beaches. 

Stop 12:  The southern Spanish city of Seville is located less than a three-hour bus ride from Faro. Seville is the largest city in the region of Andalusia, which was once occupied by the Islamic Moors. Here, you’ll find a fascinating mix of Moorish, Christian, and Jewish architecture which gives you an in-depth look at Spain’s long, and very diverse, history. This was also where flamenco got its start, making it a good place to catch a dance show. 

Stop 13: From Seville, you can either travel by train, bus, or plane to Marseille , France. There are many cheap flights running between the two countries so this is likely to be the most budget-friendly option. Marseille is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe and is now one of the most multicultural cities in the country. This is the perfect opportunity to try food from all over the world before hopping back on the train to travel further along France’s Mediterranean coastline. 

Stop 14: While there are plenty of lovely towns and cities to visit in southern France, one destination that you shouldn’t miss is Monaco. Famous for its casinos, glitz, and grandeur, the itty-bitty country of Monaco is one of the wealthiest places in Europe. A stop there gives you a taste of how the other half live. 

Stop 15: From Monaco, you can head over to Nice. Located at the foot of the French Alps, this is a large city that somehow feels small. The old town is charming and the Mediterranean Sea waterfront can easily compete with some of the most popular beach cities around the world. It was once a summer refuge for the well-heeled in the 19th century. Today, it’s a popular beach destination and a lovely spot to get your feet a little wet!

Stop 16: Time to head to your next country—Italy! The journey from Nice to Cinque Terre National Park is a little complicated and will probably require one or two train transfers. However, once you see the colorful villages perched high on the hills of the Mediterranean Sea, it will feel like it was all worthwhile! The best way to travel between the villages is by hiking along the ancient goat trails that have been used for centuries.

Stop 17:  Once you arrive in Pisa , one of the first things you should do is head straight to the famous Leaning Tower to get some Instagram-worthy pics. You can then either spend the night in Pisa or hop right back on the train for the short ride to Florence. 

Stop 18: As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, Florence packs a lot into a relatively small place. During the Renaissance, this was the home of some of the world’s biggest artists, architects, intellectuals, and scientists. The love of art and culture still lives on today, and this is the ideal place for all the art history buffs out there! Florence also serves as a good base to explore some of the towns of Tuscany, so make sure to allocate some extra time here!

Stop 19: The ancient city of Rome holds some of the world’s most important architectural wonders including the Coliseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum as well as “modern” gems like the Trevi Fountains and the Spanish Steps. This is another destination where you may want to hang out a bit, getting your fill of wine, pizza, and pasta!

Stop 20: From Rome, it’s just a couple of hours by train down to Naples. The city itself feels a bit rough and ready so you probably don’t want to spend a huge amount of time there. However, it does serve as an ideal base to visit the ruins of the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. These cities were destroyed in 79 A.D. when Mount Vesuvius erupted. They now serve as a haunting reminder of what Mother Nature is capable of. Pompeii and Herculaneum can be reached via a local train from Naples. 

Stop 21: As you make your way back north from Naples, it’s time to add another new country to your list—San Marino. Another teeny-tiny place, San Marino is completely encompassed by Italy and is an interesting town to wander around for a few hours or even spend a few days in. You can get to San Marino by bus from the cute beach city of Rimini. 

Stop 22: From Rimini, you can continue north to Venice . This breathtaking city is unlike any other in the world thanks to its series of interconnected canals that turn the city into a series of islands. Venice has been used as the backdrop for countless movies, books, and TV shows, and there are even replicas of it in Las Vegas and Macao. However, nothing quite beats seeing it in real life!

From Venice, you can either continue east along the coast to Slovenia to start heading south towards Croatia and the amazing Balkan region or head north towards Switzerland and Austria. 

Stop 23: Heading north from Italy, Innsbruck is the first major Austrian city you will reach. This is another great destination for hiking if you’re craving some outdoor activities. There are even free walking tours of the Alps if you want to tackle a small hike without having to figure out the logistics yourself.

Stop 24: From Innsbruck, take the train for a few hours to Salzburg . Famous for being the birthplace of Mozart and the filming location of the Sound of Music , this gorgeous city is surrounded by mountains and has amazing Baroque architecture. While you can see most of it in a day or two, it’s a good idea to allow yourself a bit more time, especially if you want to join one of the day tours to the Sound of Music sights! 

Stop 25: Just a few hours from Salzburg, you can reach Munich . It’s the capital of Bavaria and home to some of Germany’s best lager. Its historical center boasts Neo-Gothic architecture and the Hoffbrauhaus as well as many interesting museums including the Deutsches Museum which is the largest museum of science and technology in the world. 

Stop 26: From Munich, you can easily catch a train to Prague , the capital of the Czech Republic. This is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe thanks to its impressive collection of Baroque and Gothic architecture. Although it’s nowhere near as cheap as it used to be, Prague still offers pretty decent value for money compared to France, Spain, or Germany, so this is another chance to splurge a bit on food and beer! 

Extension option #1 : If you want to continue heading east, Budapest, Hungary, is a relatively short train ride away and is well worth the detour! You can even stop in Bratislava, Slovakia, on the way. From there, you can head to Romania and further into the Balkans.

Extension option #2: You can also head into Poland from Prague. Some of the highlights of the country include Wroclaw, Krakow, and Warsaw.

Stop 27: If you don’t have the time, money, or energy to do one of the extension options, the next stop is Berlin . Germany’s capital city is renowned for its museums and edgy culture. This is a city where anything can happen! While you’re there, make sure to visit Checkpoint Charlie and view the remains of the Berlin Wall. These stand as an important reminder of the division of Germany between East and West and how far they have come.

Stop 28: When you’ve gotten your fill of Berlin, it’s time to start making your way toward Frankfurt . This is one of the country’s biggest and most important cities, and it serves as an airline hub for flights back to the U.S. There isn’t a huge amount to see in Frankfurt, but you can continue your journey from there.

So, are you ready to roam?

We hope this guide has given you a good start on planning your European backpacking trip! As always, we would love to hear your feedback, and please let us know if there are any tips, tricks, or destinations we may have missed. 

If you want to read more great information about any of these destinations, make sure to check out the Let’s Roam Explorer blog . This blog features hundreds of destination guides, must-see lists, and travel articles that can help you plan the perfect adventure. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Some of the things that you need to think about when backpacking Europe are the season that you are going in, what accommodation options there are, and what your budget is.

It’s definitely worth backpacking in Europe! The beautiful architecture, amazing museums, sprawling parks, and charming cobblestone streets have been drawing people to Europe for centuries.

You can backpack Europe on the cheap by staying in hostels, doing app-based scavenger hunts, traveling during the off-season, and taking buses or local trains instead of the faster inner-city trains.

Some of the best places to backpack in Europe include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. If you’re an experienced traveler, you may also want to consider the Balkans or Eastern Europe.

The amount of money you spend while backpacking Europe depends on how you like to travel. You can stay in hotels, hostels, or by Couchsurfing or take planes and buses which all have very different costs.

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Backpacking Europe Packing List & Pre-Trip Checklist

Last Updated on December 11, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Your flight is booked, you’ve secured your first few night’s accommodation, and you’ve had “going away drinks” with friends. You’re nearly ready to embark upon your European adventure, but you still haven’t packed your bag! Figuring out the perfect Backpacking Europe packing list can be a daunting task, but luckily I have been there before and can offer sage words of advice to guide you through this stressful time!

Table of Contents

Checklist Before You Start Packing

Before you start thinking about what items to include on your packing list, it’s worth taking time to make sure you’ve got all the crucial components of your trip organised. It’s worth taking care of these items at least 1-2 months before you depart to ensure you have everything organised in time!

Have a Rough Route & Budget

It’s worth picking out a few must-sees for your trip and then determining a rough route around those destinations. There’s no need to over-plan your route as you’ll undoubtedly want some flexibility when you finally arrive in Europe.

However, if you want to visit a popular festival or city that is known for getting a lot of tourists in high season then it’s worth planning that well in advance.

Once you have a rough route in mind, this will help determine what daily budget you need. An average daily budget for backpacking Europe is around €42 – 105/day.

This will cover you for most places in Central and Eastern Europe, however, you can expect to pay more in Western European countries and less in the some of the more affordable countries in the East.

This daily budget will cover you for a dorm in a hostel, cheap meals (with the occasional splurge meal), transportation and one or two activities per day.

In addition to your daily budget, you need to make sure you have enough funds to cover pre-trip expenses such as flights, gear and travel insurance.

Organise Your Transport

Hopefully, by the time you’re thinking of packing, you’ve already got flights booked to Europe. If not, it’s worth taking the time to play around on Skyscanner to find deals on flights to Europe.

You also need to consider, how you will get around Europe when you land. If you plan to make use of the extensive rail network, it can be worth booking some popular trains in advance (particularly in summer!) as you will get cheaper rates and there will be a lot more availability.

Finally, if you’re planning on using the train extensively over a short period of time, a Eurail or Interrail pass can be incredibly good value.

If you’re living outside of Europe, you can browse Eurail passes . Alternatively, if you’re based in Europe, browse Interrail passes.

Choose the Right Debit or Credit Card

What is the right debit or credit card you might ask? The ones with no foreign transaction fees!

The last thing you want to be doing on your backpacking Europe trip is giving away part of your daily budget to the banks!

Applying for a debit or credit card without foreign transaction fees will mean you won’t get charged extra each time you withdraw money which can save a lot over the course of a few months backpacking.

It’s worth making sure you do this as soon as possible as it can sometimes take a little while for banks to approve your application.

Consider Travel Insurance

For many backpacking trips, we have used World Nomads . They offer flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

An alternative option is SafetyWing which offers travel medical insurance policies.

Book a Night or Two or Accommodation

After getting off a long flight and being jetlagged, the last thing you want to be doing is walking aimlessly around a new city trying to find somewhere to stay. Book your first few nights in a hostel and have the comfort of knowing that you have somewhere to stay when you get off the plane!

Alternatively, if you prefer a bit of privacy for a couple of nights to recover from jetlag, booking a private room in an Airbnb can be a good option to start your trip to Europe.

Top Things To Consider When Packing for Backpacking Europe

Choosing a travel backpack.

One of the biggest tips I or anyone else could give when you’re assembling your packing list for backpacking Europe is to make sure you travel light.

There is nothing more uncomfortable than having to lug an outrageously heavy backpack through winding European streets, which is why I would suggest that you aim to keep the weight of your bag under 15 kilos (33 pounds), and ideally under 10 kilos (22 pounds).

It is also more convenient to have lighter luggage when you are moving between cities. Obviously, you need to be conscious of weight when you are flying as anything over 20 kilos (44 pounds) in order to avoid exorbitant extra fees.

However, though it is highly unlikely you will be financially penalised for it, it is so much easier to have lighter luggage when you are on ground transport, as well. If your bag is very heavy, you’re going to have a lot of trouble hoisting it onto luggage racks or carrying it up or down a flight of stairs.

The second thing you need to consider is the actual bag you plan to take. It can be really confusing as there are seemingly endless options.

I would suggest you try to keep the main bag under 50 litres, mainly because it both prevents overpacking and also because a smaller backpack is a lot easier to manoeuvre.

You want to look for luggage — whether you are planning of going for a backpack, wheeled backpack, or even a traditional suitcase — that is durable and can withstand a fair amount of wear and tear.

Constant packing and unpacking and lugging through city streets and on and off transport can do a considerable amount of damage to luggage and you are going to want to buy something that can withstand that for many trips to come.

Personally, I use the Osprey Farpoint 55 (also available on REI here or direct from Osprey here ). The main pack itself is 40 litres and it also comes with a 15-litre detachable daypack. It is incredibly well-made and also comes with a lifetime warranty.

It’s come with me on many a trip and I’ve yet to come up with any complaints. Michael uses the Osprey Farpoint 70 over the Farpoint 55 which is slightly bigger but essentially the same backpack. 

If you’re looking for more stylish options for your European backpack , then other options include Peak Design which can be used as carry-on luggage or the Osprey Farpoint Wheels (also available on REI here or direct from Osprey here ) which is a great choice if you’re after a wheeled backpack.

Organising Your Gear

The third thing to consider is how you actually pack your backpack. There are a number of techniques you can use in order to maximise the space in your bag, from rolling your clothes to stuffing your socks and undies in your shoes.

However, I’ve found that the best way to keep organised and to save space in my backpack is to use packing cubes.

Both Michael and I use Eagle Creek compression packing cubes (also available direct from Eagle Creek here ) and don’t have enough good things to say about them. They’re super lightweight and really durable and well-made.

Honestly, they’ll just completely change the way you pack and I don’t know what I’d do without them.

Decide Which Electronics You Need

Before you start packing, it’s worth thinking about which electronics you need with you in Europe. Unless you’re working online there’s little point lugging around a large laptop during your backpacking Europe trip and it’s best to pack light.

However, you might still be keen on having something to browse the web, upload photos or chat with friends back home. In this case, a lightweight tablet like the Amazon Fire Tablet might be a good option.

This is a good option if you plan to access WiFi on your trip, just make sure you have a subscription to reliable VPN such as ExpressVPN before you leave!

Another electronic item that I specifically bought for my travels was a Kindle Paperwhite . If you like to read while travelling but want to reduce weight in your bag then this is a must!

Finally, make sure you have a camera so you can document some of the amazing memories you will undoubtedly have.

If you’re not into photography, then the camera you have on your smartphone is likely to be sufficient. If you want to get more professional with your snaps, then I recommend the Sony A6400 .

It’s a mirrorless camera, lightweight and a good mid-range camera if you want to learn more about photography. There are also a number of fantastic travel lenses for Sony A6400 cameras available on the market.

Backpacking Europe Packing List

The packing list for Backpacking Europe below is a variation of what I brought for three months travelling through the Balkans and Eastern Europe , but could just as easily last you two weeks to six or more months. It also can be used in any season, with some variations.

The biggest tip I could give when you’re wondering what clothing to bring is to only pack versatile, neutral-coloured clothing that can be mixed and matched with most things you’ve included in your backpack. 

Basically, don’t bring anything that only goes with one other thing. You’ll regret it and, honestly, you might even end up dumping it along the way.

• Depending on the season you are travelling, I recommend taking a mix of short and long-sleeved t-shirts. Obviously, in summer you should take more short-sleeved and in winter increase the number of long-sleeved!
• These long-sleeved t-shirts ( men’s click here ) make a great base layer in the colder months and will keep you nice and toasty!
• These fleece sweaters will keep you WAY warmer than cotton and stays warm even when wet. Great to have if you’re travelling outside of summer or plan on going hiking
• I would also recommend bringing a sweater that can be dressed up, so you can look nice even when it’s chilly outside.
• They’re super warm, durable, lightweight, pack down very small and are quite affordable. I really can’t say enough good things about these jackets.
• I like this North Face jacket. It’s lightweight, durable, and keeps you dry above anything else. It’s also great for layering on top of a jacket and a sweater to keep you extra warm.
• One pair of jeans, I like darker jeans that I can easily dress up or down depending on the circumstance
• One pair for hiking/walking pants/trousers or another pair of jeans or chinos if you don’t plan to be that active
• You can browse some great options in our best travel pants in Europe guide.
• Leggings/thermal pants are great if you’re travelling in winter for an extra layer under your jeans .
• I also wear leggings when hiking and opt to bring two pairs of jeans rather than a dedicated hiking/exercise pant. Basically, leggings are super versatile and should definitely be on your list.
• For late spring, summer, and early autumn. If you’re travelling outside of these seasons, then don’t bother bringing them. It will be too chilly and they’ll just take up unnecessary space.
• For nicer restaurants/going out
• Collared shirt for men, dress/skirt/nice pants for women (or whatever is a little bit nicer than your typical backpacker wear and makes you feel comfortable)
• Bluffworks has a great range of nicer clothes that are still practical for travel – you can read more about them here.
• How many pairs you bring really depends on how often you want to do laundry!
• If travelling in winter, make sure to bring a couple of pairs of thermal underwear  ( men’s click here )
• Again, this really depends on your typical laundry habits.
• If travelling in winter, make sure to pack some thick wool socks  ( men’s click here )
• Good as a base layer in the winter or chilly autumn days, or as a top when it’s hot outside
• One regular, one sport — obviously for women
• I’ve also noticed a lot of men (Michael included) tend to wear just a comfortable shirt over underwear
• If you’re travelling in summer and planning on swimming a lot, I like to pack two just in case one hasn’t dried when I have to pack up to avoid a mildew situation
• I also tend to bring a swimsuit even if I’m travelling to a colder climate. You never know when you might need it!

When packing for backpacking Europe, one of the most important things to do is ensure you have comfortable shoes to walk in. After all, you will probably be spending a lot of time on your feet!

The most important thing to do is to make sure you plan appropriate footwear for the activities you plan on doing and the season you are travelling in.

I’ve listed the shoes that I always recommend taking below. I have also written a detailed guide for choosing the best shoes if you want some more advice!

• For autumn and winter or if you plan to do a fair amount of hiking.
• They are also available on REI for women here or for men here
• If you’re travelling in summer and don’t plan to do any hiking or outdoor activities, then don’t bother to bring these
• Nice trainers or other comfortable & breathable shoes for traipsing city streets
• For the beach and grubby hostel showers — no one wants athlete’s foot ruining their travels!
• For spring and summer, I like Birkenstocks (also available on REI here ). I know they’re a bit geeky, but I never have sore feet even if I’ve been walking all day in them. Also, the arch support is out of this world.
• For women wanting a nicer shoe, there are a number of foldable ballet flats on the market that can make your outfit look nicer without taking up a bunch of space .
• I tend not to bring these, however, some might want a nicer shoe .

Need your gear in a hurry? Sign up to a  FREE 30-day trial with Amazon Prime  and get fast shipping for your items!

Electronics To Pack

The number and type of electronics you take with you depends on your planned usage and whether you need to do any work on the road.

As we work when travelling we tend to pack additional electronics, however, if travelling purely for the sake of travelling, then you should consider carefully what you actually need and plan on using.

• Michael is the photographer among us and he travels with a Son y A6400 . It’s a mirrorless camera that is lightweight and a good entry-level camera for budding photographers.
• Bring an extra battery and SD card for your camera. You don’t want to be short of power outlets or storage space and not be able to photograph something amazing.
• He also travels with a Joby GorillaPod Kit which is a fantastic lightweight tripod.
• I never thought I would be able to give up paper books, but I’ve found an e-reader is essential for a traveller who likes to read!
• Michael and I both love our Paperwhite Kindles – particularly the inbuilt backlights which are great for hostels without bedside lamps!
• If you’re not working online then we recommend bringing a lightweight tablet (such as the Amazon Fire Tablet ) or simply leaving the electronics at home! 
• As I work online, I travel with my Dell XPS 13 and think it’s the best lightweight laptop on the market!
• I love this adaptor as it works in all countries and contains two USB ports meaning you can charge multiple electronics overnight!
• I like in-ear, noise-cancelling headphones because they take up less space.
• For charging your electronics when there are no power outlets!
• Various electronics chargers
• For playing games with friends, you make on the road!

Travel Accessories

• Like I mentioned earlier, these are invaluable on any trip and will make your life so much easier.
• If you prefer to travel with a more stylish purse for walking around cities then I recommend purchasing an anti-theft travel purse from Pacsafe.
• Check out our detailed guide to the best purse for Europe for more tips on choosing a great travel purse
• These towels pack down small and are super light-weight and quick drying. A lot of hostels, especially in western Europe, don’t provide towels so one of these can be invaluable. 
• I recommend buying a prepaid SIM card before leaving home to ensure you have data access as soon as you arrive
• Check out our detailed guide to the best international SIM card for Europe with data for more tips!
• Because you don’t want the snorer or to impede your sleep in a hostel dorm!
• For the times when the drunk asshole leaves the lights on at 3 AM.
• Great for both securing your luggage and for a hostel locker.
• Great for locking your bag to a stationary object (i.e. your hostel bunk!)
• So you can keep exploring in the rain!
• There are plenty of water taps around Europe to fill up your bottle
• For writing a journal or your new friends’ contacts details!
• While many people opt for a swiss army knife, I personally like the Leatherman Wave . It’s an all-purpose tool that includes both a serrated and regular knife, a saw (perfect for hacking through baguettes when you’re picnicking!), a bottle opener, pliers, and screwdrivers.
• I recommend including some basic medicines such as paracetamol/Tylenol and cold & flu tablets
• A useful accessory for all seasons!
• For winter and chilly autumn evenings
• Winter and autumn

There is no need to overpack on toiletries when travelling to Europe. You can find a pharmacy almost anywhere and chances are if you’ve forgotten something, you’ll be able to find it quite easily.

• If you’re travelling for a shorter period of time or packing only for carry-on, I would recommend getting refillable shampoo bottles rather than wasting money on travel sized bottles.
• Hairbrush/Comb
• Women’s Razor/ Men’s Shaver
• Hand sanitizer
• Contact lenses
• For some reason, in a lot of places in Europe you can only purchase this in optical shops. So if you wear contact lenses, sometimes it can be hard to find solution if you forget it. 
• Because it’s better to be prepared!

While it may not seem like much, this packing list for Europe should be enough to sustain you through any long-term trip!

Obviously, there is always room for flexibility when packing for your backpacking adventure. However, I would always advise packing on the lighter side and trying to avoid letting your pack weigh over 15 kilos. This is altogether just more comfortable. 

Remember as well, that if you forget anything you are almost always able to purchase it on the road, often at a cheaper price than at home!

Checklist After Packing

Once you’ve packed your bag for Europe, make sure you have a bit of time left over to take care of these things to make your life easier once you land in Europe!

Call your bank

Remember that new debit card you got a few months ago with no foreign transaction fees? Before using it in a new country, make sure your bank knows about it! Give your bank a call and let them know what countries you’re planning on travelling to so they don’t flag any of your transactions as suspicious and cancel your card while you’re overseas!

Get some local currency

It’s worth trying to get enough local currency to last you a day or two for when your first arrive. While it is usually possible to withdraw money from an ATM in the airport, there is always the chance that the ATM doesn’t work or you have an issue with your bank card. By having a bit of local currency you can be comfortable in knowing that you have enough money to at least get to your accommodation!

Work out your airport transfer

Speaking of getting to your accommodation, take the time to research the best way to get from the airport to wherever you’re staying. Whether it’s public transport, an airport shuttle bus or an Uber – having these details sorted will mean you don’t encounter any unnecessary stress when you first arrive in a new country.

Make copies of important documents

Your passport and bank cards. If something happens and you lose these, you want to easily have their details on hand so you can cancel them. Make some copies, upload them to your e-mail and send them to a family member or friend so you can easily retrieve them.

Are you wondering what to pack for Europe? Anything that you can’t travel without? 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

I’m planning on a month long backpacking trip and was wondering if you were able to take your osprey backpack as a carry on or if you checked it then brought another bag as a carry on? Just not sure if I should check my big backpack and bring a smaller one as a carry on/purse.

Hi Joann, thanks for your comment! It depends on what size of backpack you have. The Osprey Farpoint 40 satisfies most airlines’ requirements for carry-on but none of the other models do, so they will have to be checked, unfortunately.

Hi! This is a great article! I’m trying to plan a backpacking trip for Europe soon. I was wondering if I would need to bring or am allowed to bring like, dry food and small dry snacks to help save money on some days. Thanks!

Hi Chole, if you’re really travelling on a shoestring budget and want to make your money stretch as far as it can, then it could be helpful to bring those things with you. However, this isn’t something I’ve ever done (I normally just stick to shopping in local supermarkets and cooking my own meals rather than adding extra weight to my bag).

hi there. super helpful for packing wise. but I’m curious about accommodations. I will be doing my first back pack trip alone for three weeks in about a month. should I book all my hostels before I go or just book as I go along as I’m still unsure exactly my route of where I will be headed! any advice will help thanks x

Hey Carly, glad you found the packing list helpful! As for booking accommodation, if you want to be flexible and just go where the road takes you, I don’t think it’s necessary to book everything for your entire trip in advance. I, personally, like to make sure I have at least my first few nights of accommodation booked and then I tend to go from there. Especially if you’re staying in hostel dorms or going to places with ample accommodation choices, there isn’t much of a need to book more than a week out, I would say. Obviously, this depends on where you are visiting and the popularity of the destination — but this is a general rule of thumb. Hope you have a great trip!

hey! this list is super helpful thanks 🙂

whats your opinion on rainboots? tbh I hate rain and have been to EU several times, but never backpacked, so not used to the volume/wt constrictions.

Hi Priya, thanks for your comment and I’m glad you’ve found the list helpful! Personally, I’ve never found rainboots to be necessary, especially if you’re trying to pack. I always tend to bring a pair of waterproof hiking boots and that has never led me astray (I’ve actually never even owned a pair of rainboots!). Hope this helps 🙂

I just tripped on this site. My daughter left today for her first backpack trip in Europe. She did a ton of research and was delighted that you gave so much “no nonsense” advice. Thank you so much for putting your advice out there!!

Thanks for the comment, Lysa! I hope your daughter has a wonderful time backpacking in Europe and I am glad that we were able to help her plan for it 🙂 Cheers!

I am so happy to have happened upon this site.

We’re happy you found us! Hope this packing list has helped! 🙂

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Backpacker Tours

If you want to discover the world in a simple and unique way, a backpacking tour has to be in your bucket list. Travel in this way allows you to try different experiences like hiking, food classes and world-class train rides. Among the most popular destinations for vacations include Europe, Southeast Asia (Vietnam and Malaysia) and South America.

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• Buy travel insurance . Regardless of your destination or the length of your trip, travel insurance is an essential component of any trip. Make sure you know exactly what’s covered before you purchase.  
• Pack light . You may be tempted to bring your entire wardrobe, but remember: you’re going to feel the weight of every item you pack, and lugging around a 70-litre backpack jam-packed with clothes is going to be uncomfortable at the best of times.  
• Stay safe on the road.  Along with taking general safety precautions, be sure to make back-up copies of your important travel documents, protect your valuables, and research the route from the airport to your hotel or hostel before you arrive.

Backpacking trips for beginners

• Inca Trail Express (7 days) Perfect for hiking enthusiasts, this tour covers the very best of Peru, including an unforgettable trek to the country’s most renowned ancient Inca site: Machu Picchu.  
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• 7 Day - Complete Iceland (7 days) If seeing Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes is high on your bucket list, this trip is a fantastic option.  
• Broome to Perth Overland (10 days) Prefer to get off the beaten path on your first backpacking adventure? Head to Western Australia to explore some of the most diverse and dramatic natural landscapes in the country.

Backpacking in Europe

• Essential Europe Duration: 12 days Destinations: UK, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, France Highlights: See the beauty of the Alps and walk the winding canals of Venice  
• Greek Island Hopping Duration: 13 days Destinations: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Ios Highlights: Step back in time at Athens’ Acropolis and soak up the sunshine of Santorini  
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European backpacking trips for college students

• European Escape Duration: 10 days Destinations: Italy, Germany, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Belgium, England Highlights: Ride a gondola through Venice, experience Amsterdam’s infamous nightlife, and visit the iconic Berlin Wall  
• European Magic Duration: 9 days Destinations: England, Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, France Highlights: Experience Munich’s beer culture, practice your yodelling skills in the Swiss Alps, and go on a shopping spree along the Champs-Elysées  
• East Meets West Duration: 15 days Destinations: Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, Netherlands, Belgium, England Highlights: Sample traditional Czech pastries in Prague, immerse yourself in Berlin’s history, and explore Amsterdam by bike

Backpacking routes in Europe

Backpacking tours in Australia

• Reefs and Rainforests Duration: 14 days Destinations: Sydney, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Fraser Island, Whitsunday Islands, Cairns (+6 more) Highlights: Explore the Great Barrier Reef, relax on the pristine white-sand beaches of the Whitsunday Islands, and take a surf lesson in Byron Bay  
• Melbourne to Alice Springs Overland Duration: 10 days Destinations: Melbourne, Twelve Apostles, Adelaide, Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs (+ 13 more) Highlights: Take a journey along the Great Ocean Road and watch the sunrise over Uluru

Backpacking tours in India

• India’s Golden Triangle Duration: 8 days Destinations: New Delhi, Jaipur, Agra Highlights: Explore the bustling streets of India’s frenetic capital, marvel at the Taj Mahal, and immerse yourself in Rajasthan's royal history  
• North India Revealed Duration: 22 days Destinations: New Delhi, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Pushkar, Jaipur, Bharatpur, Agra, Varanasi Highlights: Ride a camel through the Thar Desert, take in the spectacular views at Savitri Temple, and experience the thrill of a walking tour through Old Delhi  

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BACKPACKING GROUP TOURS

The original euroventure group tour.

Group tours traveling by train and staying  in top-rated hostels across Europe’s most popular destinations. These trips are exclusively for 18-35 year olds so you can be sure you’ll be traveling with like-minded people! Here is what’s included:

• All train and bus tickets between cities
• Seat reservations on high-speed rail
• Accommodation in top-rated, centrally located hostels tested by us
• Great included activities, such as tours, day trips, and historic sights
• Travel Disruption Protection - Peace of mind with alternative travel included if there is a strike or similar disruption
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• Guided to and from the hostels, included activities and train stations
• The option to do additional walking tours, pub crawls and other activities

Whole of Europe Group Tour: 4 Weeks

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The Euroventure Style

We’re all about authentic and sustainable travel, tailored for adventurous 18-35-year-old backpackers. We steer clear of crowded tourist traps, opting for the real European experience with like-minded explorers. The tours have a laid back vibe and that means you can roam in and out of the group as much as you like. There is an included activity in each city, but if you fancy taking a day or two to explore on your own then go for it! We don’t jam pack you schedule, ferrying you from tourist site to tourist site – it’s just not the Euroventure way. Instead, meet people, make friends and go with the flow.

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Our Tour Leaders are travel aficionados. They are that organised friend that always makes things happen. Getting you about from city to city, navigating the way to your included activities, getting you all checked in and taking care of the admin so you don’t have to. They are there to make sure you have a great time and will be hanging out with the group every day! 

Included Activities

In pretty much every place you visit, we’ve handpicked an awesome included activity to give you a flavour of that city – whether it’s boat trips, diving, cooking classes, theme parks, or cultural shows. There’s seriously something for everyone. And if you’re eager for even more adventures, we’ve got a bunch of other cool activities and excursions to suggest. As always, with Euroventure, it’s all about the freedom to choose – so there’s never any pressure!

What better way to meet people than in hostels? Euroventure partner with the best hostels in each city that are central, clean and welcomming. Each has it’s own personality, from boutique to quirky and will have everything you expect and more! Rooms area secure with lockers and there are plenty of common spaces, often with bars, kitchens and chill-out areas.

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• Optional Rail trip to get you there and back

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12 Budget Backpacking Tips for Traveling Across Europe

Posted: March 1, 2024 | Last updated: March 1, 2024

Backpacking through Europe is a dream for many, offering a tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. However, traversing this diverse continent doesn’t have to break the bank. With smart planning and savvy travel hacks, you can explore Europe affordably, immersing yourself in its richness without exhausting your finances. This guide provides essential tips for budget backpacking in Europe, ensuring your journey is as economical as it is adventurous.

1. Plan Your Route Wisely

Efficient route planning is a cornerstone of budget backpacking in Europe. You can minimize travel distances and costs by focusing on regions where countries are geographically close. For example, Eastern Europe is more affordable and offers rich cultural experiences with fewer crowds than more popular Western European destinations.

Consider starting your journey in cities where flights are cheaper, and then use Europe’s extensive train and bus networks to travel between countries. This approach saves money and allows you to see more within a limited time frame.

Insider’s Tip: Use apps like Rome2Rio to find the cheapest and quickest routes between destinations.

2. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Traveling during Europe’s shoulder seasons – spring and autumn – can lead to significant savings. During these times, flights and accommodations are often cheaper, and popular destinations are less crowded, offering a more authentic experience. Besides cost savings, traveling during the off-peak season means milder weather, making exploring and enjoying outdoor activities more comfortable.

Insider’s Tip: Late September to October offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making it ideal for budget travel.

3. Embrace Overnight Trains and Buses

Overnight trains and buses are not only budget-friendly but also time-efficient. Traveling at night saves on a night’s accommodation while covering significant distances. Europe’s extensive rail and bus networks connect major cities and even cross international borders, making it easy to plan your journey. Additionally, the experience of waking up in a new city is exhilarating and maximizes your daytime for exploration.

Insider’s Tip: Invest in a good travel pillow and earplugs for a more comfortable journey.

4. Stay in Hostels or Use Homestay Apps

Hostels are the go-to accommodation choice for budget backpackers, offering affordable rates and opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Many hostels provide amenities like free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and sometimes even free breakfast. For a more local and personal experience, consider using homestay apps like Couchsurfing, where you can stay with locals for free or a nominal fee, gaining unique insights into the local lifestyle.

Insider’s Tip: Look for hostels with kitchens to save money by cooking your own meals.

5. Eat Like a Local

Eating out in tourist-centric areas can quickly drain your budget. Instead, dine where the locals eat. Street food, local markets, and small family-run eateries often offer delicious and authentic food at a fraction of the price you’d pay in tourist spots. This saves you money and gives you a taste of the local cuisine and culture.

Insider’s Tip: In Mediterranean countries, look for set lunch menus, which are often great value for money.

6. Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours

Most European cities offer free walking tours, a great way to familiarize yourself with a new city. These tours, usually led by enthusiastic local guides, cover major landmarks and provide historical and cultural insights. While the tours are free, tipping your guide is customary and appreciated.

Insider’s Tip: Chat with your guide after the tour for personal recommendations on cheap eats and hidden gems in the city.

7. Use Public Transportation

Opting for public transportation over taxis or car rentals can lead to substantial savings. European cities generally boast efficient and affordable public transport systems. Look into day or multi-day passes for unlimited travel, which are often more economical than single tickets.

Insider’s Tip: Always validate your ticket to avoid fines, as many European cities have an honor-based system.

8. Limit Paid Attractions

While visiting every paid attraction is tempting, these costs can quickly add up. Prioritize which attractions are a must-see for you and look for city passes that offer access to multiple attractions at a reduced price. Many cities also offer free entry to museums and galleries on certain days or hours.

Insider’s Tip: Many museums and attractions have free entry days or hours; plan your visit accordingly.

9. Pack Light and Practical

Packing light is essential for budget backpacking. Not only does it make travel easier, but it also saves you money on luggage fees with budget airlines. Choose versatile clothing suitable for different weather conditions and comfortable walking shoes. Remember, most things can be bought locally if needed, so pack only the essentials.

Insider’s Tip: Pack a lightweight, foldable backpack for day trips and excursions.

10. Stay Connected Affordably

Staying connected is important, but international roaming charges can be exorbitant. Opt for local SIM cards for cheap data, or take advantage of free Wi-Fi in hostels, cafes, and public spaces. This keeps you connected and helps with navigation and finding information on the go.

Insider’s Tip: Apps like WhatsApp and Skype allow free calls and messages over Wi-Fi.

11. Shop at Local Markets

Shopping at local markets is budget-friendly and offers an authentic slice of local life. You can find fresh produce, regional specialties, and sometimes even unique handmade souvenirs at lower prices than in tourist-oriented shops.

Insider’s Tip: Visit markets towards the end of the day for potential discounts as vendors pack up.

12. Be Flexible and Open to New Experiences

Flexibility can lead to unexpected adventures and savings. Be open to changing your plans based on local recommendations, weather conditions, or discovering new opportunities.

Sometimes the most memorable experiences are unplanned and cost little to nothing. This flexibility might mean taking a last-minute bus to a less-visited town or joining new friends on a day trip.

Insider’s Tip: Be open to changing your plans based on local recommendations or new opportunities.

The Bottom Line

Budget backpacking in Europe is about smart planning, flexibility, and immersing yourself in local experiences. By following these tips, you can explore the rich tapestry of Europe without depleting your savings. Remember, the value of your journey isn’t measured by how much you spend but by the experiences you gain and the memories you create.

Traveling affordably allows you to see more of the world, meet diverse people, and embrace new cultures. So pack your bag, set your budget, and embark on an adventure that proves that the best things in travel don’t always come with a hefty price tag. Happy backpacking!

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The post 12 Budget Backpacking Tips for Traveling Across Europe republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Duet PandG.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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How to choose a backpack for traveling in europe.

How to find the perfect fitting travel backpack for exploring Europe.

The first thing you need to backpack through Europe is a backpack—shocking, I know.

Choosing the right backpack for Europe can be confusing and time intensive but spending a little time finding the right bag will pay off in the long run. That’s because a properly fitting backpack is comfortable and allows you to travel swiftly and easily but a poor-fitting pack is like an anchor.

This guide will explain the different styles of travel backpacks available and how to choose the perfect one for you.

Travel Backpack Styles and Options

Read about the  best travel backpacks for Europe o nce you’ve decided what style of backpack you want . 

But First… Why Travel With A Backpack?

A backpack is a great choice for many travelers because it allows you to be highly mobile while on the road.

On the other hand, traditional suitcases and duffle bags can be inconvenient because they’re difficult to carry long distances. Wheeled suitcases aren’t well suited for Europe’s crowded streets, narrow train aisles, stairs, and cobblestones.

There are two main styles of travel backpacks — top-loading and front-loading.

Top-Loading Backpacks

Top-loading backpacks have a single opening at the top that is closed by a drawstring and covered by a protective flap. These bags were originally designed for mountain/backcountry hikers, but many European travelers also use them.

Benefits of Top-Loading Backpacks

• No Zippers For Main Compartment: You can stuff a lot of stuff in your backpack without worrying about breaking a zipper.
• More Waterproof: The top closure means there is less chance of water getting into the bag.
• Lightweight: Top-loading packs tend to be lighter weight.
• Better Fit: These bags are slimmer and tend to fit better. They fit closer to the body and feel more natural.
• Good Support: The support systems are more advanced in top-loading bags because they were designed for long treks by serious backpackers. These bags are designed to be worn for hours at a time.

Negatives of Top-Loading Backpacks

• Difficult To Pack/Unpack: Since everything is loaded from the top, you basically have to take everything out of the bag to access your stuff. This can be somewhat alleviated if you pack your bag in a specific manner but it is still a hassle.
• Lots of Straps: These hiking-style backpacks have a lot of straps that can easily get caught and ripped off in the conveyor belts at the airport if you ever need to check your backpack.
• Less Secure:  The top of the pack is closed via a drawstring, so it is a bit easier to gain access than compared to the front-loading style which can have its zippers locked.
• No Laptop Compartment: Most hiking-style backpacks aren’t built to hold a laptop if you’re planning in traveling with a laptop.

My favorite top-loading backpack is the Osprey Atmos .

Front-Loading (Panel Loading) Backpacks

This style of backpack opens up like a traditional suitcase or a backpack you’d use at school. They are a cross between a suitcase and a backpack. This is the backpack style we recommend.

Benefits of Front-Loading Backpacks

• Easy access to all your stuff: You can simply unzip the zipper and get to whatever you need quickly. No need to totally unpack your bag when you need to get to something.
• Extra Pockets: Most bags of this style include a lot of extra pockets on the outside of the bag. This is nice because you will have easy access to the items that you use often.
• Easy to Organize: Add packing cubes to help make organizing your stuff much simpler.

Negatives of Front-Loading Backpacks

• Zippers can break: The zipper is one of the weakest points—higher-quality backpacks use heavy-duty zippers that can withstand more abuse, but zipper breakage is still a concern.
• Zippers Are Less Waterproof: Water can get in through the zipper. However, a lot of high-quality bags now come with waterproof zippers or you can buy a waterproof rain cover .
• Poorer Fit: Some people complain that these packs are too wide and less comfortable because it doesn’t hug your body as well as a hiking backpack.
• NOTE: Many higher-end backpacks now have a proper support system that is much more comfortable than older models.

Top-Loading vs Front-Loading Backacpks: Which Is Better?

Both styles work but  personally, I would choose a front-loading backpack.  I used a top-loading backpack during my first trip to Europe but loading/unloading it was a pain. These days I only use a front-loading backpack.

Our favorite front-loading backpacks are the  Osprey Farpoint ,  Osprey Porter , Tortuga Travel Backpack , and AER Travel Pack 3 . Read our guide on how to pack your travel backpack for tips on keeping all your stuff organized while traveling.

What Size Travel Backpack Should You Choose?

Important Words of Wisdom: The number one mistake new travelers make is bringing way too much stuff… and that starts with buying a huge backpack. A large bag enables you to carry more unneeded stuff. A smaller bag forces you to pack light. I’ve seen people with backpacks so large and heavy that they need help getting it on their back/standing up.

Remember, you’re going to be carrying this bag around for long periods of time. It is important that you can handle your bag by yourself. You’ll be throwing your bag up in overhead bins on planes and trains. You’ll be walking through narrow train aisles and busy streets. Your heavy bag will quickly become a huge burden and it will negatively impact your trip. You’re also bound to piss a bunch of people off when you accidentally smash them with your house-sized backpack. REMEMBER TO PACK LIGHT!

Backpack Sizes

Backpacks are measured in liters and/or cubic inches. Most bags range from about 30L (1,800 cubic inches) all the way to 100L+ (6,000+ cubic inches).

I recommend a backpack around 40L-50L. Personally, I wouldn’t go over 65L, but some people like a bigger bag. You can always go smaller, but I wouldn’t recommend anything smaller than 35L — unless you’re into minimalist travel.

The length of your trip really doesn’t make much of a difference when it comes to choosing a backpack — so don’t buy a huge backpack because you’re going on a 6-month journey. You’ll carry the same amount of stuff for a 2-week trip as you will for a 6-month trip — you’ll just wash your clothes every few weeks.

Important Note For Budget Airlines: Budget airlines tend to be sticklers when it comes to baggage size and weight restrictions because they upcharge passengers for passengers who go over the limits. That’s why I recommend sticking with a backpack that isn’t larger than 45L if you want to avoid baggage fees on Ryanair or other discount airlines.

It’s also nice to be able to skip the baggage claim. Most importantly, you never have to worry about the airlines losing your luggage — this can be absolutely disastrous on a backpacking trip.

Important Features Of A Good Travel Backpack

Here are a few things to keep in mind when evaluating a travel backpack. You can also check out The Savvy Backpacker’s guide to the best travel backpacks if you want my personal favorites.

Build Quality

A backpack is one of the things you don’t want to skimp on but you don’t want to spend a fortune on either. I recommend looking for a backpack in the $150-$250 price range.

Look for bags made by legit backpack companies like Osprey, Tortuga, Kelty, AER, Mountain Hardware, and Arc’teryx (there are a few other good brands). REI also sells their affordable “REI brand” backpacks that are good quality.

Comfortable Shoulder Straps

Nice shoulder straps will make your journey much more comfortable by distributing the pack’s weight over more of your shoulder.

Padded Hip Belts

A hip belt helps transfer the weight of your backpack from your shoulders to your hips. You want the hip belt to be comfortable and fit correctly. However, if you’re packing light then a hip belt isn’t quite as much of a concern.

Lightweight Backpack

A heavy backpack can weigh 6-10 lbs empty. Once you start adding clothes the weight of the pack climbs very quickly. I recommend looking for a lightweight pack that weighs about 3-5 lbs.

Quality Zippers

Higher-end backpacks have better zippers that can withstand more abuse than cheap zippers that might fail when stressed by overpacking. If possible, look for bags with waterproof zippers and zippers that can be locked.

Plenty of Pockets

A few outside pockets are really handy for storing stuff that you need to access quickly.

Ventilated Back

Backpacks sit right up against your back and the limited airflow causes a nice sweaty back. Some packs offer a ventilation bubble (or chimney) by using mesh to allow air circulation. This is more of a luxury than a requirement.

Color and Style

Travel backpacks come in multiple styles and colors. Personally, I prefer black or other muted colors since they’re less “flashy” than bright colors.

You won’t wear your large backpack as you’re sightseeing—that’s what the daypack is for. You use your daypack to carry around your day-to-day stuff like a small jacket, camera, snacks, etc. For more information about daypacks be sure to check out our guide to our favorite daypacks for Europe .

Read our recommended  best travel backpacks for Europe  o nce you’ve decided what style of bag you want .

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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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Hidden destination just three hours from UK is being called 'Thailand of Europe'

Lots of people have mistaken the european holiday spot for thailand.

Jess Battison

Is it just me or does it feel like everyone has been getting off to go and travel Asia this year? It seems like every other week there’s a leaving party all over social media for someone going backpacking.

And like, good for them but it’s just giving us all FOMO.

For the rest of us, our holidays are likely a little nearer by in Europe or even just within the pretty hot UK . But maybe we don’t actually need to miss out completely as we can have our own fake Asian travels by heading to the ‘Thailand of Europe’.

Yep, just like the ‘ new Ibiza ’ and ‘ Maldives of Europe ’ destinations, travellers are now comparing a ‘hidden’ destination just three hours away to Thailand.

The country in Southeast Asia is known for its stunning tropical beaches, delicious scran and famous Full Moon Parties. But it’s also known for being quite a long and pricey flight away.

Whereas this gem in Europe is much easier to get to on a budget and a little easier for those of us who ration out our annual leave.

Travel lover Aleksandra took to TikTok to share a ‘hidden gem in Europe that doesn’t feel real’. Sharing picturesque views and clips, she said the spot in Albania ‘looks like Thailand’.

And to be fair, it really does. The praised spot is Lumi I Shales and she shows crystal clear waters surrounded by luscious green mountains as tourists canoe past little beaches.

The area is a river that cuts through the Albanian Alps in northern Albania where people can do all sorts from hiking and zip lining to snorkelling and swimming or even just, you know, chilling on the beach.

Users commented to say it’s a ‘beautiful place’ as another said: “I’ve been to Albania multiple times. My favourite country of all time and I’ve travelled quite a lot.”

Some even admitted they ‘thought it was Thailand’ as others ‘can’t believe such beautiful places actually exist’.

Getting to Albania from the UK is relatively easy with plenty of airports offering direct flights at around three hours or less. But once you get to Tirana Airport, you’ve got a bit of a trek to get to Lumi I Shales.

You’ll want to either hire a car or book a coach and then take a ferry over to the viral spot. But if that video is anything to go by, it seems well worth it – plus it’s still easier than getting over to Thailand.

Topics:  Travel , Europe , TikTok

Jess is an Entertainment Journalist with a love of all things pop culture. Her main interests include keeping up with the Twitter girlies, waiting for a new series of The Traitors and losing her voice at a Beyoncé concert. She graduated with a first in Journalism from City, University of London in 2021 and has previously worked at MyLondon.

@ jessbattison_

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