Hey there, fellow wanderers! It’s David from Roamio Travel, and I’ve been dying to share my backpacking Europe adventures with you. After three unforgettable months zigzagging across the continent with just my trusty backpack (and maybe one too many pairs of shoes—I never learn!), I’m finally ready to spill all my hard-earned travel wisdom.
Backpacking Europe changed me in ways I never expected. From dancing until sunrise at a beach party in Barcelona to getting hopelessly lost in Venice’s labyrinthine streets (where Google Maps is basically useless, btw), these experiences shaped not just my trip but who I am. So grab a coffee, get comfy, and let me walk you through everything you need to know before embarking on your own European adventure!
Why Backpacking Europe Should Be Your Next Adventure
There’s something magical about Europe that no other continent quite captures. Where else can you have breakfast in Amsterdam, lunch in Brussels, and dinner in Paris—all in a single day? The beauty of backpacking Europe lies in this incredible diversity packed into a relatively small area.
My first morning waking up in a tiny hostel in Lisbon, watching the sunrise over terracotta rooftops while sipping €1 espresso, I thought to myself, “This is what freedom feels like.” Two weeks later, I was hiking through the Swiss Alps, completely awestruck by landscapes that seem almost unreal in their beauty.
Europe is perfect for first-time backpackers because:
- The transportation network is extensive and (mostly) reliable
- English is widely spoken in most countries
- The hostel culture is vibrant and social
- You can experience drastically different cultures within short distances
Tip: If you’re backpacking Europe for the first time, start in Western Europe where travel infrastructure is more developed, then venture east as you gain confidence!
Planning Your Backpacking Europe Adventure
When to Go & How Long to Stay
Timing can make or break your backpacking Europe experience. I learned this the hard way when I showed up in Santorini in August—holy crowds, Batman!
Summer (June-August) means perfect weather but peak tourists and prices. I personally prefer shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) when you can still enjoy decent weather without the crushing crowds. Winter has its own magic too, especially if you’re into Christmas markets and cozy vibes, but pack layers—European buildings can be surprisingly chilly!
As for duration, I’d recommend at least 3 weeks if you can swing it. My 3-month trip felt rushed (if you can believe it!), and I still missed so much. But even a 2-week trip focusing on 2-3 countries can be amazing if you plan smart.
Crafting the Perfect Backpacking Europe Itinerary
Planning a backpacking Europe itinerary feels like being a kid in a candy store—too many amazing options! Here’s my biggest piece of advice: don’t try to see everything.
My first mistake was trying to visit 15 countries in 90 days. I quickly realized I was spending more time on trains and checking in/out of hostels than actually experiencing places. By week three, I slowed down and fell in love with the “three-night minimum” rule.
Some sample itineraries for backpacking Europe:
Classic Western Europe (2 weeks):
London → Paris → Amsterdam → Berlin → Prague
Mediterranean Magic (3 weeks):
Barcelona → French Riviera → Cinque Terre → Rome → Amalfi Coast → Greek Islands
Eastern Europe Explorer (2 weeks):
Prague → Krakow → Vienna → Budapest → Zagreb
Remember, the joy of backpacking Europe often comes from the unexpected detours. Some of my favorite memories are from places I hadn’t even planned to visit—like when that Dutch guy at my hostel convinced me to check out Rotterdam instead of taking another day trip from Amsterdam.
Getting Around While Backpacking Europe
Transportation in Europe is both a joy and occasionally a headache. The continent has one of the most developed transportation networks in the world, which makes backpacking Europe relatively straightforward.
Trains: The Classic Backpacker’s Choice
Nothing feels more quintessentially “backpacking Europe” than watching the countryside roll by from a train window. European trains range from high-speed marvels to charming regional lines that stop at every tiny village.
I splurged on a 2-month Eurail Pass (about €500), which was a lifesaver in Western Europe but less valuable in Eastern Europe where individual tickets are already cheap. The pass gave me the freedom to hop on most trains without advance booking, which perfectly suited my “let’s see how I feel tomorrow” travel style.
My favorite train journey? The stunning route from Innsbruck to Verona through the Alps. I was literally pressing my face against the window like an excited puppy the entire time!
Budget Airlines: The Backpacker’s Secret Weapon
When time is tight or distances are long, Europe’s budget airlines can be lifesavers. I snagged a €19 flight from Berlin to Barcelona that saved me a 24-hour train journey.
Tip: When flying budget airlines like Ryanair or EasyJet, remember that their baggage restrictions are STRICT. I once had to wear three layers of clothes and stuff my pockets after my backpack was deemed too large!
Busses: Your Wallet’s Best Friend
For the most budget-friendly option while backpacking Europe, long-distance buses are your best bet. Companies like FlixBus connect most major European cities for a fraction of train prices. Yes, a 9-hour bus ride from Prague to Berlin isn’t glamorous, but paying €29 instead of €120 meant more money for experiences (and, let’s be honest, German beer).
Where to Stay When Backpacking Europe
Accommodation will likely be your biggest expense when backpacking Europe, but there’s something for every budget.
Hostels: The Heart of Backpacking Europe
I’ll never forget checking into my first European hostel in Amsterdam. I was nervous about sharing a room with strangers, but by that evening, I was sharing travel stories and beers with my new friends from Australia, Japan, and Brazil.
Hostels are the beating heart of backpacking Europe culture. They typically range from €15-40 per night depending on the city and season. I usually use Hostelworld or Trip.com for bookings, and always read the reviews carefully—the difference between a good and bad hostel can make or break your experience in a city.
Some hostels I absolutely loved:
- Sant Jordi Hostel in Lisbon—converted factory with the best rooftop bar
- Generator in Berlin—more like a boutique hotel than a hostel
- Greg & Tom’s in Krakow—the free dinners were a game-changer for my budget
Beyond Hostels: Alternative Accommodation
When I needed a break from dorm life (everyone does eventually), I found some great alternatives:
- Airbnb private rooms: These offered privacy without the full apartment price tag.
- Couchsurfing: I stayed with the loveliest family in Lyon who cooked me authentic French meals.
- Budget hotels: In Eastern Europe, sometimes private hotel rooms cost the same as hostel dorms in Western Europe.
There were even times I splurged on my own private hostel room when I desperately needed a good night’s sleep. Those €15 upgrades saved my sanity more than once!
Eating Your Way Through Europe on a Budget
Food was one of my biggest joys while backpacking Europe, but it could have quickly blown my budget if I wasn’t careful.
My strategy was to alternate between three approaches:
- Hostel cooking: Many nights involved simple pasta dishes shared with hostel-mates. These impromptu international dinner parties were some of my favorite memories!
- Street food and markets: From €1 Portuguese pastéis de nata to German currywurst, some of Europe’s best flavors come cheap from street vendors.
- Strategic restaurant visits: I’d research affordable local spots and go during lunch when prices are lower. My rule was one “nice” meal per city to really experience the local cuisine.
Tip: Most European cities have amazing local markets where you can sample fresh local foods. The Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid was my food heaven—I went three days in a row!
Unforgettable Experiences While Backpacking Europe
What makes backpacking Europe special isn’t just checking landmarks off your list—it’s the moments that surprise you. Here are some experiences that made my trip unforgettable:
Finding Hidden Gems Away from Tourist Crowds
While the Eiffel Tower and Colosseum are must-sees, my most vivid memories are from places I discovered by chance. Like the tiny family-run taverna in Crete where the owner insisted I try his homemade raki, or the secret beach in Portugal that required a treacherous climb down a cliff (worth every scrape!).
I met a local student in Prague who showed me a bar hidden in an old nuclear bunker—something I’d have never found in any guidebook. These experiences reminded me why I chose backpacking Europe over a packaged tour.
Embracing Cultural Immersion
The beauty of backpacking Europe is having time to soak in local cultures. I participated in a traditional Greek dance in a tiny island taverna, learned to make real Italian pasta from an 80-year-old nonna through a cooking class I found on GetYourGuide, and spent a fascinating afternoon learning about Dutch bike culture from a local I met at a coffee shop.
These moments of connection are what backpacking Europe is truly about—not just seeing places, but experiencing them.
Safety and Travel Insurance When Backpacking Europe
Look, I know travel insurance isn’t the sexiest topic, but it’s a crucial part of backpacking Europe responsibly. Trust me, when I slipped on those ancient (and apparently very slippery) marble steps in Greece and sprained my ankle, I was incredibly grateful for my SafetyWing Nomad travel insurance.
Europe is generally very safe for travelers, but pickpocketing in tourist areas is common (I lost my phone in Barcelona’s La Rambla—classic rookie mistake), and unexpected medical issues can happen anywhere. My insurance covered my clinic visit in Athens and even helped arrange my medication.
The peace of mind was worth every penny, especially when backpacking Europe solo as I was for part of my trip.
Practical Tips for Backpacking Europe on a Budget
After three months of backpacking Europe, I’ve collected a few pearls of wisdom that might save you some headaches:
- Get an eSIM or international plan: Staying connected is crucial, especially for navigation. I used Airalo eSIM which saved me tons compared to roaming charges.
- Pack light, then remove three more items: You’ll thank me when you’re climbing five flights of stairs to your hostel with no elevator. Everything I truly needed fit in a 40L backpack.
- Learn basic phrases in local languages: Even just “hello,” “thank you,” and “the bill, please” went a long way in building goodwill with locals.
- Take advantage of free city activities: From free walking tours (tip-based) to museum free days, I saved hundreds of euros by researching these options.
- Use bank cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees: Those 3% fees add up quickly when backpacking Europe for an extended period!
Final Thoughts on Backpacking Europe
As I sit here back home, scrolling through thousands of photos and reminiscing about my time backpacking Europe, I’m struck by how much I’ve changed. There’s something about navigating foreign train stations, ordering food in languages you don’t speak, and making friends from around the world that builds a confidence you can’t get any other way.
Yes, backpacking Europe can be challenging. There were moments of loneliness, confusion, and exhaustion. But those challenges pale in comparison to the joy, growth, and incredible memories I brought home.
Whether you’re planning a two-week sprint through the highlights or a months-long deep dive like mine, backpacking Europe will reward you with experiences that will shape your life long after you’ve returned home.
So go ahead—book that ticket, pack that backpack (lightly!), and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. Europe is waiting for you, and trust me, it’s even more magical than you’re imagining.
Happy travels,