There’s nothing quite like the thrill of starting a backpacking adventure through Europe. That moment when you step off the plane or train in a new country feels electrifying. I know this feeling well from my own eight-month backpacking trip across Europe. Starting in London, I trekked through snowy Sweden, enjoyed pasta in Italy, made friends in Budapest hostels, and danced the nights away in Spain.
Thinking about a Europe backpacking trip yourself? You’re in the right place! I’ll share top itineraries for both Eastern and Western Europe, safety tips, and ways to see some of the world’s most incredible sights off the beaten path.
First off, you need to decide the best time to go. This depends on your budget and the countries you want to visit. Early fall and late spring are ideal times—the weather is usually mild and you’ll avoid the summer’s high prices and crowds. Summer is peak season with warm weather and bustling streets, but expect to pay more for accommodation and flights. The off-season, from late fall to winter, offers lower costs and fewer tourists, though colder weather and shorter days might make backpacking more challenging. Trust me, each season has its perks!
Getting around Europe is famously straightforward due to its efficient transportation system. High-speed trains are a popular choice—they’re fast, punctual, and often more affordable than flights. For budget-conscious travelers, buses, particularly FlixBus and BlaBlaBus, offer cheap alternatives. For long distances, don’t overlook budget airlines like RyanAir or EasyJet. If you prefer flexibility, renting a car or even a campervan can be a fantastic way to explore at your own pace, allowing access to more remote destinations.
Western Europe dazzles with its blend of history and culture. Italy, Germany, France, Spain, and the Netherlands each have their unique charm. Italy’s historical sites, Germany’s efficient cities, France’s romantic allure, Spain’s vibrant cities, and the Netherlands’ beautiful canals make Western Europe perfect for a diverse trip. Deciding where to go can be tough, but each destination is worth exploring.
On the other hand, Eastern Europe offers stunning sights and cheaper travel costs. The Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Romania, and Hungary provide less touristy, yet equally breathtaking experiences. Prague’s gothic architecture, Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, Romania’s Transylvania, and Hungary’s mix of luxury and history in Budapest offer rich experiences for the adventurous traveler.
Planning your itinerary might feel overwhelming with so many options. Here are a few sample itineraries to spark some ideas:
For a whirlwind two-week tour of Western Europe, try:
– Days 1-3: London, UK
– Days 3-6: Amsterdam, Netherlands
– Days 6-8: Berlin, Germany
– Days 8-11: Paris, France
– Days 11-14: Barcelona, Spain
If you’re on a budget, consider this two-week Eastern Europe route:
– Days 1-3: Prague, Czech Republic
– Days 3-5: Krakow, Poland
– Days 5-7: Bratislava, Slovakia
– Days 7-10: Budapest, Hungary
– Days 10-12: Bucharest, Romania
– Days 12-14: Sofia, Bulgaria
With a month to explore, you can dive deeper:
– Days 1-3: Paris, France
– Days 3-5: Nice, France
– Days 5-8: Barcelona, Spain
– Days 8-10: Seville, Spain
– Days 10-14: Rome, Italy
– Days 14-16: Florence, Italy
– Days 16-19: Munich, Germany
– Days 19-21: Prague, Czech Republic
– Days 21-24: Budapest, Hungary
– Days 24-26: Cluj-Napoca, Romania
– Days 26-28: Bucharest, Romania
– Days 28-30: Sofia, Bulgaria
For those who prefer a slower pace:
– Days 1-4: Amsterdam, Netherlands
– Days 4-8: Berlin, Germany
– Days 8-12: Munich, Germany
– Days 12-14: Zurich, Switzerland
– Days 14-17: Milan, Italy
– Days 17-21: Barcelona, Spain
– Days 21-25: Madrid, Spain
– Days 25-28: Lisbon, Portugal
– Days 28-30: Porto, Portugal
Safety is a big concern for many, especially when traveling alone. Europe’s safety varies by location, but generally, keeping an eye on your belongings, not carrying large sums of cash, and making trustworthy friends can go a long way. It’s also wise to give your family your itinerary and invest in travel insurance.
To truly appreciate Europe, consider venturing off the beaten path. Avoiding the typical tourist trail not only provides a unique experience but also often gets you better deals and more authentic interactions with locals. Renting a car or scooter can provide even more freedom to explore hidden gems.
Outdoor adventures are numerous in Europe. Some top hikes include the Camino de Santiago in Spain, the Dolomites in Italy, the Slovenian Mountain Trail, Austria’s Eagle’s Walk, the Samaria Gorge in Greece, and Bohemian Switzerland in the Czech Republic.
In summary, no matter where you choose to go in Europe, your backpacking journey is bound to be unforgettable. Embrace new experiences, meet new people, and immerse yourself in the diverse cultures this continent has to offer. Enjoy your adventure!
