Best Cities to Backpack in Europe: Hidden Gems You Need to Visit
February 10, 2025 | by m33559844@gmail.com

Introduction: Best Cities to Backpack in Europe
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Europe? Europe is full of history, culture, and stunning views. It’s perfect for backpackers, with places like Bosnia and Herzegovina for adventure and Graz for its culture. You’ll find both hidden gems and famous spots for an amazing trip.
Backpackers look for affordable places, and Europe has many. You can travel on a budget of €40–€70 per day. The best times to go are April to June and September to October. These months have nice weather and fewer people, making your trip even better.
Key Takeaways
- Explore hidden gems like Bosnia and Herzegovina and Pico Island for a unique backpacking experience
- Visit budget-friendly cities like Graz and Cesky Krumlov for an affordable and culturally rich experience
- Take advantage of the shoulder seasons for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
- Manage your budget with daily expenses of €40–€70 per day, depending on the destination
- Discover the best time to go backpacking, with shoulder seasons recommended for avoiding crowds and high prices
- Plan your trip according to the suggested duration for the Classic Backpacker Trail, which is at least 3 to 4 weeks
- Explore popular backpacking routes like the Western Europe Route and the Mediterranean Trail
If you’re ready to kickstart your travel journey with ease and exclusive savings, book your first trip now! Visit Trip.com using this special promotion link and register to reserve tickets, accommodation, and more. Don’t miss out on these incredible travel deals tailored for first-time travelers—start planning today!
Best Cities to Backpack in Europe: A Complete Overview
Backpacking in Europe is a dream for many, with its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. When looking to backpack europe on a budget, picking the right cities is key. Southern Europe’s summer temperatures often hit over 35°C (95°F), making it less appealing for some.
Top spots for backpackers include Barcelona, Rome, and Amsterdam. These cities mix history, culture, and fun well. But, they get crowded in peak season. That’s why many choose to visit during the shoulder season.
Planning a trip to Europe means looking at costs and the best times to visit. The cost of hostels varies by country, with eastern Europe being cheaper. By following these backpacking tips for europe, travelers can enjoy beautiful cities affordably.
Planning Your European Backpacking Adventure
When planning your European backpacking trip, think about visiting cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, and Barcelona. These cities are full of culture, history, and fun. Solo travelers might find cities with a strong backpacking vibe and lots of hostels and budget places to stay.
Look into different regions and itineraries, like the Western Europe loop or the Eastern Europe trail. You could also explore the Mediterranean coastline or the Nordic route. These paths mix city life with natural wonders. It’s key to plan your trip well.
Some top spots for backpackers in Europe include:
- Paris, known for its art, fashion, and cuisine
- Rome, famous for its history, architecture, and food
- Barcelona, a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene
These cities are great for backpackers and offer lots of activities for all kinds of travelers.

If you’re ready to kickstart your travel journey with ease and exclusive savings, book your first trip now! Visit Trip.com using this special promotion link and register to reserve tickets, accommodation, and more. Don’t miss out on these incredible travel deals tailored for first-time travelers—start planning today!
Plan ahead, do your research, and book your places to stay and travel early. With good planning, your European backpacking trip will be unforgettable.
Destination | Must-see attractions | Best time to visit |
---|---|---|
Paris | Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum | Spring, Autumn |
Rome | Colosseum, Vatican City | Spring, Autumn |
Barcelona | La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell | Summer, Autumn |
Eastern European Budget-Friendly Destinations
Eastern Europe is full of cheap places to visit. Countries like Bulgaria, Romania, and Ukraine have history, culture, and beauty at low prices. For example, spending 46 days in these countries costs about $1,876.50 USD.
Places like Prague, Budapest, and Krakow are great for backpackers. They have cheap places to stay, tasty food, and fun things to do. For instance, a 0.5l beer in Krakow costs around 7 Złoty (1.63 euro / 1.91 USD).
Other places like Sofia, Bulgaria, and Tallinn, Estonia, are also good choices. They have history, culture, and beauty without the crowds of Western Europe. Eastern Europe is perfect for those looking for cheap travel and a unique experience.

Mediterranean Hidden Gems for Backpackers
The Mediterranean is a top spot for a european backpacking itinerary. It’s filled with history, culture, and stunning views. You can explore Greece’s beaches, Croatia’s historic cities, and Spain’s vibrant culture. It’s perfect for solo backpacking in europe with its lively backpacking scene and affordable places to stay, like the best hostels in europe for backpackers.
Croatia is famous for its coastline and cities like Dubrovnik and Split. Greece boasts beautiful islands and cities like Athens and Mykonos. Spain is known for its history, beaches, and cities like Barcelona and Madrid. There are many best hostels in europe for backpackers to pick from, with various amenities and prices.
Here are some top spots for backpackers in the Mediterranean:
- Croatia – known for its stunning coastline and historic cities
- Greece – famous for its beautiful islands and vibrant cities
- Spain – rich in history, with beautiful beaches and vibrant cities
- Italy – home to the Amalfi Coast, Rome, or Florence, with the european backpacking itinerary including these destinations

If you’re ready to kickstart your travel journey with ease and exclusive savings, book your first trip now! Visit Trip.com using this special promotion link and register to reserve tickets, accommodation, and more. Don’t miss out on these incredible travel deals tailored for first-time travelers—start planning today!
For a full european backpacking itinerary, check out these places and stay at the best hostels in europe for backpackers. They’re great for meeting others and diving into local culture. The Mediterranean is ideal for solo backpacking in europe with its mix of history, culture, and nature.
Western Europe’s Must-Visit Backpacker Cities
Planning a backpacking travel guide europe means picking the best cities. Western Europe is full of culture, history, and fun. It’s perfect for backpackers. With a good european backpacking itinerary, you can see many cities and enjoy the area’s variety.
Top spots for backpackers in Western Europe are Berlin, Amsterdam, and Porto. These places have cheap places to stay, like hostels and Airbnb. They’re also easy to get to by train or bus. Hostel dorms in busy cities cost about $70 a night on average.
Here are some tips for your trip:
- Plan your trip ahead to see each city well.
- Book your stay and travel early to save cash.
- Try free walking tours and cheap activities to get to know the local vibe.
Follow these tips and make a solid european backpacking itinerary. You’ll have a great and affordable trip in Western Europe. You’ll see the top backpacking cities and enjoy everything the area has to offer.
Getting Around: Transportation Tips and Tricks
Transportation is key when backpacking Europe. There are many choices, making it hard to pick the right one. For backpackers, backpacking europe transportation can be pricey. But, with smart tips, it can be more budget-friendly.
One top choice is the Interrail Global pass or Eurail pass. They let you travel across most of Europe by train. This makes train travel a great option for backpackers.
Traveling by overnight train is another smart move. It can cut down on accommodation costs for the night. For those watching their budget, budget travel europe is essential. Booking flights early can get them as low as €20 ($22).
Rail passes also offer savings. They charge by the day, which is cheaper than buying tickets for each trip.
Some top transportation picks for backpackers are:
- Trains: a convenient and relatively affordable option
- Flights: a good option for longer distances, but can be more expensive
- Buses: a budget-friendly option, but can be slower
By thinking about these options and planning, backpackers can enjoy a great trip. They’ll make the most of theireuropean backpacking tips.
Where to Stay: Top Hostels and Budget Accommodations
Looking for backpacking europe on a budget? Finding affordable and comfy places to stay is key. Europe’s best hostels offer a variety, from lively city spots to cozy small-town guesthouses. Prices for dorms range from €9 to €21, based on the hostel and where it’s located.
Some hostels, like Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel, give free extras like pasta, breakfast, and dinner. This makes them a great pick for those watching their budget. Others, like City Backpackers in Stockholm, have perks for digital nomads, like fast internet and a free sauna. Remember, plan your stay’s budget to be about $300 per person per week.
Here’s a table of some top hostels in Europe:
Hostel | Location | Price |
---|---|---|
Hostel Mostel | Bulgaria | €8-€18 |
City Backpackers | Sweden | €23-€68 |
Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel | Poland | €20-€40 |
Choosing the right budget accommodations in Europe can help you save. This way, you can spend more on food and fun. With some research, you’ll find the ideal spot for your budget-friendly backpacking adventure.
Best Cities to Backpack in Europe : Safety Tips and Cultural Considerations
Backpacking in Europe requires careful planning for safety and cultural awareness. It’s vital to research your destinations and understand local customs. This way, you avoid offending locals and enjoy your trip fully. For example, knowing the dress codes and public behavior shows respect for the culture, which is key to backpacking europe safety.
Being aware of cultural norms is also important. In some places, a handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common. In others, it’s more formal. Being sensitive to these differences helps you connect with locals and have a real experience. Also, solo travelers should prioritize their safety, with many resources available for help.
Here are some key safety tips and cultural considerations to keep in mind:
- Research your destinations and stay informed about local customs and traditions
- Be mindful of dress codes and public behavior
- Stay safe while traveling alone by following safety guidelines and having emergency contact information
- Be respectful of local culture and traditions
By following these tips and being culturally aware, you can have a great time backpacking in Europe. Always put your safety first and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed. With the right mindset and preparation, you’ll have an amazing time exploring Europe, making the most of your backpacking europe safety and european backpacking tips.
Country | Safety Tips | Cultural Considerations |
---|---|---|
France | Be aware of pickpocketing in tourist areas | Learn basic French phrases and respect local customs |
Germany | Be mindful of bike lanes and traffic rules | Respect local beer culture and traditions |
Italy | Be aware of scams and tourist traps | Respect local food culture and traditions |
Conclusion: Making Your European Backpacking Dreams a Reality
Europe is full of backpacking adventures just waiting for you. From Eastern Europe’s cities to the Mediterranean’s beaches, it’s a traveler’s dream. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a long one, remember to keep it simple and flexible.
With the right backpack and an open mind, you can explore Europe’s beauty. You’ll dive into new cultures and make memories that last a lifetime. Every new place you visit will bring new experiences and personal growth.
Backpacking Tips for Europe: How to Travel on a Budget . So, what are you waiting for? Begin planning your European backpacking trip now. With this guide, you have all you need to make your dreams come true. Get ready for an adventure that will capture your heart, one step at a time.The COMPLETE Backpacking Europe Travel Guide | 2025 .
FAQ : Best Cities to Backpack in Europe
What are the best cities to backpack in Europe?
Top spots for backpacking in Europe include Berlin, Amsterdam, and Prague. Also, Budapest, Krakow, and cities like Athens, Barcelona, and Dubrovnik in the Mediterranean are great.
How can I find budget-friendly cities for backpacking in Europe?
Look at Eastern European cities like Prague, Budapest, and Krakow for affordable stays. The Mediterranean, including Greece, Croatia, and Spain, also offers cheap options.
What makes a city backpacker-friendly?
Cities good for backpackers have cheap places to stay, like hostels. They also have a lively social scene and easy ways to get around and see sights.
When is the best time to visit Europe for backpacking?
Summer is the busiest time in Europe. But, spring, fall, and winter can be cheaper and less crowded.
What are some must-visit backpacking cities in Europe?
Don’t miss Paris, Rome, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Barcelona. Each city offers history, culture, and a lively vibe.
How can I travel around Europe on a budget as a backpacker?
Use budget airlines, rail passes, and local transport to save money. Plan your trips ahead to get the best deals.
Where can I find the best hostels and budget accommodations in Europe?
Europe has many affordable hostels and guesthouses, mainly in popular spots. Use Hostelworld and Booking.com to find the best places for your budget.
What safety precautions should I take when backpacking in Europe?
Learn about solo traveler safety, cultural norms, and emergency contacts. This will help you have a safe and fun trip Best Cities to Backpack in Europe.
RELATED POSTS
View all