The Ultimate Backpacking Through Europe Itinerary

Backpacking through Europe is a fantastic way to see a lot of beautiful and historical cities while trying to save money. But it can be daunting to plan the ultimate trip to Europe, so here is a backpacking through Europe itinerary that can help you kick off your planning.

Which cities are a must-have on your list? Where will you stay? What kinds of currency will you need? These are all great questions and are crucial to figure out before you go on your amazing adventure.

A backpacking trip through Europe can provide the most wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. You can see the Eiffel Tower shimmer at night, island hop around the Greek islands, visit the world’s top ski destinations in Switzerland, and more! There’s no limit to your experiences on this magnificent continent.

Discover our top tips for backpacking and the ultimate backpacking through Europe itinerary!

Planning a Backpacking Trip Through Europe

The key to a successful backpacking trip is to plan, plan, plan. Of course, you don’t want to over-plan. But there are a few things you need to prepare before you leave.

For example, your travel dates and places to stay. The time you set aside to experience Europe will ultimately decide where you can go and how much you’ll be able to see.

Additionally, delays and cancellations are certainly possible and can derail even the most well-planned trips. Don’t let this rain on your parade, though.

Ensure you know how to contact airlines and train companies to find out how to get compensation and make a backup plan of things you can do instead. Remember, Europe is filled with endless beautiful places, so exciting things to see and do are always possible wherever you end up.

What to Consider Before Backpacking Europe

Backpacking through Europe should be a great time. But before you go, you should consider what you want to get out of the trip and ensure that you travel safely.

Travel Insurance

The number one consideration is to purchase travel insurance. It is important to plan for the unexpected, and while backpacking, it is helpful to feel covered.

We always use TravelInsurance.com for our travel insurance. The company offers several plan options to decide which is the most valuable to you and your travel style.

Determine the Length of Your Backpacking Trip

Another consideration is how long you want to backpack Europe. Are you fortunate enough to backpack for several months or only have a few weeks? The length of your trip determines a lot of the planning.

Pick the Most Optimal Time

Always consider the weather you want when planning your backpacking trip! If you want to backpack for winter sports, go in the winter. If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, summer is your best bet.

The best time to backpack is in the late spring or early fall. These are often referred to as “shoulder” seasons. Peak season is between June and August.

Early spring can be rainy and can get cold in most European countries. July and August in Europe are very hot, especially in southern Europe. With no AC and a giant backpack on your back, cooler weather is better.

The shoulder seasons are great because the weather in most places is still temperate, and the crowds have dissipated. For these reasons, May and September are my two favorite months to travel within Europe.

Backpacking in winter, though, has its perks. Especially if you want to save money. There is less travel generally, so you get better hotel and train ticket deals.

There are also fewer tourists, so you can enjoy museums and attractions without all the lines. Not to mention, Christmas markets offer some of the most magical experiences for those of all ages.

See Related: Spring Break Destinations For Families

How to Budget for Backpacking Europe

The best way to budget for a Europe backpacking trip is to consider what type of trip you want and where you want to spend your money. Are you a foodie?

Consider finding more affordable accommodations so you can splurge on some fancy meals. If staying in a hotel instead of a hostel is important, check out the local street food scene to save money.

Money Saving Tips

Budget travelers, listen up! These are some of our best budget-friendly tips for saving money while on a backpacking trip exploring Europe.

• Get a Eurail Pass and buy tickets early. The earlier you buy your train tickets, the less expensive they are. Do not make the mistake of trying to buy day-of on popular routes like Amsterdam to Paris. You can end up paying over 300 euros for something that should be included in your pass for under 100! Train costs can increase, so the Eurail Pass can help make things more affordable.
• Minimize transportation costs by taking public transportation. Most European cities feature robust and affordable public transportation options such as buses, metros, and local trains that can get you anywhere you need.
• Buy city passes. Popular destinations like Paris, London, and Prague offer city passes that include public transportation and several museums. The city pass is usually more affordable than purchasing individual tickets.
• Eat street food. It’s cheap, good, and authentic! Grab-and-go sandwich shops are unmatched here. You can usually get a very good Caprese sandwich for just a few euros.
• Find free walking tours. Most cities have them; tip the tour guide one or two euros instead of paying $40 for the same tour.
• Research free museum days. Some countries and cities offer free admission for people under 26. Otherwise, check museum websites to see if they have free days. For example, the Colosseum and the Roman Forum in Rome are free to visit on the first Sunday of each month.
• Start accumulating credit card points that can be redeemed for airline tickets or hotels. This is how my husband and I can afford to travel to so many different countries. Find a card that suits you best, or check out ViaTravelers’ Best Travel Credit Cards for our top recommendations.
• Be flexible. I know this isn’t possible for everyone, but be flexible with your travel days. You can find cheap flights using Skyscanner or Going.com (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

How to Get Around

There are several ways to get around Europe, but the best and most popular ways are by train and air.

Europe is known for its cheap flights, which are also incredibly safe. Budget airlines like RyanAir and EasyJet have been around for a while and are great options for budget travelers. Make sure to watch for baggage fees and to pay any in advance.

If you only plan to travel with a carry-on, ensure that your bag fits the carry-on requirements of your particular airline. Additionally, some carriers only allow you a personal item, such as a purse, for free, so check which fare you booked before arriving at the airport.

Train travel is also a great way to backpack around Europe. Trains are efficient, clean, and usually cheaper than a flight.

When booked in advance, train travel is usually the most cost-efficient way to travel throughout the continent. It is also nice because you don’t have to deal with airport security, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery on the way to your destination.

See Related: Best Apps & Websites to Book Hotels in Europe

What to Pack When Backpacking Europe

Although it depends on the time of year, packing for Europe is easier than you think. You’ll want to be comfortable since you’ll be traveling from place to place.

Also, layering is key. European countries vary in climate, so you’ll want to pack versatile items that can be easily packed away or put on if the weather turns.

First, You’ll need an excellent, durable backpack that won’t rip. You can’t go wrong with an Osprey backpack like this one. Osprey makes backpacks of various sizes for men and women, so choose one with the right amount of storage.

Here are some other essentials that should be on your packing list:

• Packing cubes (essential for when you’re moving around a lot)
• Medications (pro tip: I also keep a copy of my prescriptions on my phone, just in case)
• Contact lenses, glasses, and sunglasses
• Packable down jacket or a packable rain jacket
• 1 pair of walking shoes (I swear by these Adidas Qt Racer Running Shoes)
• 1-3 swimsuits, depending on the time of year
• lightweight pajamas (men/women)
• DSLR camera, GoPro, etc.
• Charging cords for electronics
• European travel plug adapter
• Skincare, dental care, deodorant, and makeup
• Mini first-aid kit (bandages, pain relievers, motion sickness pills, etc.)
• Laundry bag

Remember to bring plain clothes that wash and breathe well. Logos get old, and you’ll want to be comfortable while sightseeing and moving around.

Depending on the time of year, you may want to bring a comfortable pair of sandals for warmer months or thermal underwear for colder months. Don’t fret if you forget some essentials; you can almost always find what you’re looking for in the country you’re visiting.

See Related: Interesting Spanish Curse Words | Swears to Know

Best Countries for Backpackers

Europe is known for its easy train travel, and most European countries are great for backpackers.

Western Europe

Germany is one of the best Western European countries for backpackers because of its low transportation costs and inexpensive meals. It is easy and efficient to get around, and there is a lot of history to see.

France is another great country for backpackers because of its ease of travel. Outside of Paris, it is relatively inexpensive, and the food quality is superb.

Another country I recommend for backpackers who want to travel Europe, particularly those who love warm weather, is Portugal. It’s warm, the people are friendly, and it is much more affordable than most Western Europe.

Eastern Europe

Many Eastern European countries are great for backpackers looking to save money. There are usually fewer tourists, and it is less expensive. If you want to head to Eastern Europe, put Czechia on your list. Prague is a great place for backpackers because it is affordable and stunning.

Southern Europe

My favorite hidden gem in all of Europe is Montenegro. The weather is mild, the people are so helpful and wonderful, and the food is cheap and delicious.

You may be surprised to know that one of Europe’s top tourist destinations is actually pretty affordable and great for backpackers. The Greek islands are both stunning and affordable compared to the rest of Europe. S

kip Santorini and Mykonos and opt for lesser-known islands like Milos and Corfu for cheaper prices on local cuisine and accommodations.

See Related: Best Places to Get Married in Europe

The Ultimate Backpacking through Europe Itinerary

Let’s get into the ultimate backpacking through Europe itinerary! For this article, I’ll outline a five-week trip to Europe during shoulder season, showing you the best and most diverse parts of Europe. Other destinations should be added if you have time, depending on the time of year.

Feel free to customize this itinerary based on how much time you’ll have for your trip. You may also find that you’re drawn to a specific place or city and may want to extend your time there on a whim. That’s certainly possible and is one of the most fun and spontaneous parts about visiting a new place!

Without further ado, let’s get into this awesome trip through Europe!

London – 3 days

Start your trip in London, where you can enjoy all the attractions of this marvelous capital city, such as Big Ben, the London Eye, and Bond Street. Flying into major hubs like London, Dublin, Amsterdam, and Lisbon often offers travelers the best deals regarding air travel between Europe and the United States.

In London, you must do a London city tour, and don’t forget to indulge in some afternoon tea! If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you can’t miss this Harry Potter studio tour and get your chance to walk down Diagon Alley.

I also highly recommend taking a day trip up to Scotland. The high-speed train from King’s Cross Station in London to Edinburgh takes under 4.5 hours. Scotland is beautiful any time of year, and the people are warm and inviting.

If you’re looking for an affordable hotel in London, check out the Moxy London Stratford. It’s just a few minutes from the Stratford tube and train stations, keeping you well-connected to the lively city.

Paris – 4 days

Paris is best enjoyed at a slower pace. It is a relatively expensive city, but you can keep travel costs down by opting for accommodation like this one with a small kitchen where you can prepare your food to stick to your daily budget.

One of my favorite things to do in Paris is a 1-hour River Seine cruise. It allows you to sit back and relax while taking in some of Paris’ most iconic sites, including the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame Cathedral.

For an even cheaper alternative, pop into a grocery store and buy a cheap bottle of wine, some saucisson sec (dry sausage), and your favorite cheese, and go into the park right under the Eiffel Tower. The tower lights up after sunset each night and sparkles for five minutes every hour on the hour. It’s romantic and a great way to save money in one of Europe’s most expensive cities.

At least one of these days should be reserved for a day trip outside of Paris. In the shoulder season, head out to Loire Valley to visit a medieval castle or two (hundreds can be found in the region!) or go to Bordeaux to enjoy some of the country’s best wines.

If you visit in the winter, take the train to Strasbourg to experience one of Europe’s largest and most popular Christmas markets! It’ll make you want to plan a European trip to experience Christmas markets’ magic (and amazing food) in every country.

See Related: Where to Stay in Paris: Best Areas & Neighborhoods

Nice – 3 days

The train from Paris to Nice is a scenic 6-hour journey through the picturesque French countryside. Once you arrive in the French Riviera, you’ll be greeted by the bright turquoise Mediterranean Sea and colorful buildings.

The Nice city center is an excellent option to stay in, as it’s easily walkable, and the local train connects the city to the main oceanside towns of the Riviera. Nice is gorgeous, so you’ll want to explore the old town, try local food like socca and pan bagnat, and spend a few hours on the beach.

The train can connect you to some of the most popular Riviera cities, including Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton, Cannes, and Antibes. You could even visit a completely different country, Monaco, which is less than 20 minutes by train from Nice.

If you plan to rent a car, you can even reach the glitzy town of St. Tropez in just under two hours. The region is known for its perfume production, so creating your own signature scent at a perfume workshop should definitely be on your list of must-do things here.

Cinque Terre – 2 days

Cinque Terre is four hours away from the French Riviera but completely transports you to a different world. These five incredibly picturesque seaside villages on the Italian Riviera seem to stand still in time. Two days is the absolute minimum that I would recommend staying in Cinque Terre, but you can definitely see each small town in that amount of time.

To save money, stay in La Spezia instead of the Cinque Terre villages. La Spezia is the closest major town to Cinque Terre and is just five minutes by train to Riomaggiore. You’ll want to look at vacation rentals like this in the area to get the most value for accommodations around here.

One thing you must do in Cinque Terre (besides visiting each town) is to eat at Nessun Dorma in Manarola. The views are tremendous, and the food is even better. Wait times for a seat at the iconic eatery can take up to two hours, so skip the line by booking a pesto-making course at the restaurant, which includes lunch.

To travel between villages, take the train – it only takes a few minutes and costs a few Euros, and they run constantly. The adventurous travelers can hike trails along the sea cliffs from village to village.

See Related: Best Places To Stay In Cinque Terre

Rome – 3 days

The next stop on your Mediterranean journey is Rome, an all-important cultural and historic city everyone should see. Frequent trains are headed here from La Spezia, taking a few hours.

The historic center of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you’ll immediately see why this is a top destination for so many when visiting Europe. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and many other ancient treasures will have even the most well-traveled visitor in awe.

Don’t forget to cross the border into Vatican City, especially on a Sunday or Holy Day – a sight to see in person.

Spending a few days in Rome can also allow you to take a day trip to Florence, one of Italy’s other amazing cities, less than 90 minutes away by high-speed train. It’s home to the massive Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the picturesque Ponte Vecchio bridge, and a ton of beautiful art and architecture.

Rome isn’t a cheap city; to save money, you must stay away from the city center. Luckily, Rome has a great network of regional trains, metros, and buses, making getting around convenient.

I usually stay at the Sheraton Parco de’ Medici, which is well outside of the city but offers great amenities, such as a pool and free breakfast for an unbeatable price.

Munich – 2 days

Once you’ve had enough pizza and pasta (unlikely to happen), it’s time to cross the Alps and get away from the Mediterranean for a while. As hard as that may be, you won’t be disappointed with a stop in Germany – the land of medieval castles, World War II history, and great beer and sausage.

Don’t be discouraged by the distance from Rome to Munich. There are many daily flights, and if you want to use your rail pass, the journey only requires one connection in Bologna or Verona.

If you’ve chosen the fall travel season, you could be lined up for a stay in Munich during its famed Oktoberfest. This beer, food, and German culture festival puts Munich on the itinerary for many European backpacking trips and is a ton of drunken fun.

Major attractions in Munich include the beautiful Marienplatz Square, the English Garden, and the BMW Museum.

See Related: Most Famous Landmarks in Munich

Prague – 1 day

Munich is a very central place to reach many other European countries after your stay, and I wouldn’t miss a chance to stop in Prague, even if it’s just for a day. From my experience, this is enough time to see this beautiful city‘s attractions. Plus, it’s a less expensive place for those on a tight budget.

Numerous trains and buses are headed to Prague from Munich and many other German cities. Once there, I’d head to Prague Castle, one of the top things to see in the city that dates back to the 9th century. Seeing the cobblestone alleyways, ancient basilicas, and amazing architecture is fascinating.

Then, head over to the Vyšehrad, the other fortified castle of the city, for more historic charm. The Old Town Square has a fascinating Astronomical Clock, and its pedestrian streets are full of quirky shops and museums.

As mentioned, Prague is one of the more popular cities for saving on your daily budget. You can find great deals at high-end hotels, like the Don Giovanni Hotel Prague – or, at least, splurge for a private room at a local hostel.

Vienna – 1 day

Vienna is easily accessible from Prague by bus, train, or car. This gorgeous city is known for its magnificent architecture and captivating history, sure to make you glad you stopped here. It’s also known for some of its famous residents, including Mozart, Beethoven, and Sigmund Freud.

If you only have time to visit one place in Vienna, I highly suggest making it the Kunsthistorisches Museum. Not only does it house an impressive amount of paintings and sculptures, but the museum should also be considered a work of art. It is the largest museum in the country and was commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph I in 1891.

Booking a tour is the easiest way to see any city in a limited time, and this would be the best way to see Vienna’s biggest attractions, including Vienna’s opera house, museums, and the Danube River. You can get on and off as much as you want and explore at your leisure.

Hotels in Vienna can get expensive, so I recommend staying in a vacation rental like VRBO to save on travel costs. This modern apartment is affordable and keeps you close to all the city’s attractions. One of our top money-saving tips for any long trip is to look for accommodations that provide a washer and dryer like this one.

It’ll save money and time, so you don’t have to search for a laundromat. You can do your laundry while you’re out and about without worrying about leaving your belongings somewhere inaccessible.

See Related: Vienna vs Prague: What’s the Difference?

Budapest – 2 days

Budapest is just 2.5 hours away from Vienna and is an absolute gem of an old city. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking architecture, rich culture, and delicious food. The city is easily walkable but also features an easy-to-use metro system.

The welcoming city is known as the world’s spa capital, so you must visit one of Budapest’s thermal baths. The most popular spa is the Széchenyi Spa, located in the city center. It is the largest spa in Europe, comprising 3 grand outdoor pools and 15 indoor pools. This tour package includes your admission ticket to the spa, as well as the Pálinka Museum and tasting experience.

While in Budapest, you must try some of Hungary’s traditional dishes. My favorite is Hungarian goulash. It’s a hearty stew made of beef, potatoes, and vegetables, and the spices make it warm and comforting.

The DORMERO Hotel Budapest offers modern and clean rooms at an unbeatable price. It’s just steps from St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of Budapest’s most stunning architectural wonders.

Zadar – 3 days

Returning to the coast, you’ll want to spend a few days in Zadar. We took a train from Budapest to Zagreb (Croatia’s capital city) and then a bus down to Zadar. This quaint coastal town is the perfect spot to base yourself while visiting two of Croatia’s most beautiful national parks.

Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park should be at the top of your list of things to see while exploring Croatia. However, if you only have time for one, I recommend Plitvice.

Both are stunning, but Plitvice Lakes National Park is bigger and has more to see. You’ll definitely need a full day for each park. There are several walking trails within both parks that are suitable for all ages.

Zadar is pretty small – you can see it in just a few hours, but you’ll definitely want to stroll through the old town and down to the famous sea organ for sunset. You won’t find big hotels in Zadar, so I recommend a cute VRBO like this one.

This apartment also includes parking, which is awesome because the best option to go from Zadar to Dubrovnik is to reserve a car rental.

See Related: Best Girls Trip Destinations Around the World

Split – 1 day

Split is an awesome place to stop between Zadar and Dubrovnik on your drive. The charming old town is small but gorgeous, and you can find many amazing food and fun bars throughout its cobblestone streets.

The best way to get to know this town is by joining a walking tour. Your local guide will teach you about Split’s rich history spanning the last 1,700 years, and you’ll also get to spot the town’s main landmarks, including Diocletian’s Palace and the Golden Gate.

Split is super-affordable regarding food and accommodations, so you can’t go wrong. Even a dinner for two plus drinks with a sea view won’t cost you more than 300 Croatian Kuna ($40). Stay outside the old town (this apartment is a hidden gem!) for parking and a quieter experience.

If you rent a car during this leg of the trip, I highly recommend taking a detour on your way to Dubrovnik into Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mostar is a small but beautiful village in a country that doesn’t see too many visitors.

Dubrovnik – 2 days

After a short ride through Bosnia and Herzegovina (you’ll need to pass through a part of this country no matter how you travel), you’ll be in the tiny exclave of Croatia that contains what many travelers would call its crown jewel – Dubrovnik. Despite this itinerary having taken you through a number of old towns, you haven’t been to one quite like this.

If you feel like you’ve been transported to a scene from Game of Thrones, this is where much of it was filmed. Its ancient outer walls, inner streets, and squares have barely changed in the past centuries. It’s easy to get lost in its narrow pedestrian paths and numerous staircases and quite pleasant.

This is a place where a guided walking tour is very valuable to truly appreciate the place’s rich history. That tour also includes a trip up the famous cable car to the top of Mount Srđ for a bird’s eye view of the city that will have you in awe.

You can find plenty of vacation rentals within the city walls if you want to stay right in the center of everything, but I love the Sheraton Dubrovnik Riviera just down the road in a quieter area. It’s a resort with a beautiful pool and beach, and a frequent passenger boat service takes you directly to the old town.

See Related: Top Most Beautiful Cities in the World to Visit

Budva – 2 days

Most people who visit Europe don’t put Montenegro on their itinerary – and that’s part of what makes it so great there! I like to refer to this tiny Balkan country to the south of Croatia as the Croatia that tourists haven’t discovered yet.

There are frequent and affordable buses between Dubrovnik (as well as other points in Croatia) and Budva, Montenegro’s premier seaside resort town. If you choose to fly in, there’s an airport with many seasonal connections in Kotor. You’ll see pretty quickly what is so great about this place: incredible beaches, charming old towns, wonderfully friendly locals, and prices that will make it hard to leave.

You’ll want to spend a morning enjoying the ancient seaside village of Budva and exploring its network of narrow pedestrian streets. Reserve your afternoon for relaxing on a beach chair that won’t cost you more than a few euros, and then party the night away at one of the beach bars.

Spend another day exploring Kotor, another ancient village on Montenegro’s massive natural bay. There’s a popular hike up a huge staircase to the old church on the mountain if you’re up for some climbing. Then, consider a day cruise around Kotor Bay to see the beauty of this country from a boat, stopping at the best swimming spots.

Tirana – 1 day

The next stop on your trip down the Adriatic coast is the capital of Albania, another country that tourists haven’t yet discovered in mass numbers. While we’re only recommending a day here, as it’s a convenient route from Montenegro to Greece, this beautiful place with a unique history could certainly be made a more significant stop.

Buses run between Budva and Podgorica in Montenegro and Tirana rather frequently for those who aren’t driving. This city has unique Ottoman and Soviet architecture and mostly Islamic religion, making it slightly different from its former Yugoslav neighbors.

It’s an interesting stop for a day on your way down the coast, and the main attractions include the massive Skanderbeg Square and the Et’hem Bej Mosque. Albania is another very affordable country, and you’ll find upscale hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn Tirana at a great value.

After a night in Tirana, our itinerary has you driving or catching a bus to the southern village of Sarandë (also spelled Saranda). That’s where frequent passenger and car ferries connect the country with the Greek island of Corfu.

Corfu – 2 days

Upon getting off the boat after a short sail west, you’ll need to set your watch an hour later – you’re in Greece! The island of Corfu is well-known by European travelers but often overlooked by Americans and Canadians who head straight for Santorini and Mykonos.

Those who make it here are rewarded with some of the best scenery Greece has to offer. Towering sea cliffs, remote beaches only accessible by boat, and a Venetian-style old town are some of the most famous attractions of Corfu. Don’t forget about the amazing Greek food, either.

No matter your time, spend a day in the seaside village of Palaiokastritsa. It has one of the best sandy beaches on the island. Plus, there are numerous rental stands for small boats that don’t require a license, which you can take to the Paradise Beaches – where you may be the only people.

Evenings in Corfu town are lively, with good food and plenty of ice cream. If you have more days, I love the beaches of Kassiopi and Sidari. And if you have the budget (or the Marriott points), the Domes Miramare, A Luxury Collection Resort is potentially one of the greatest resorts in the world for poolside relaxation.

See Related: Where to Stay in Corfu: Best Areas & Places

Ending your European Backpacking Extravaganza

Congratulations! You’ve made it from the stunning city of London in Northern Europe down to the sunny Greek islands of Southern Europe. From here, the rest is up to you as you visit Europe.

You can extend your trip and island hop through Greece or end your trip here. The Athens International Airport often has great deals on flights back to America or elsewhere.

You could also continue your trip throughout Europe by flying to Spain or Portugal before heading home or extend your backpacking trip into Asia via Turkey. The possibilities are endless! Experiencing all of these wonderful cultures is truly what makes the ups and downs of travel so worth it.

Related Resources

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