Hitting the Road: Popular Backpacking Routes
The Classic Western Europe Route
This route is perfect for first-time backpackers who wish to visit the most iconic European destinations. It covers:
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France (Paris)
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Belgium (Bruges)
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Netherlands (Amsterdam)
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Germany (Berlin)
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Czech Republic (Prague)
|
Country
|
City
|
Must-See Attractions
|
Budget Tips
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
France
|
Paris
|
Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum
|
Use public transport, eat at local bakeries
|
|
Belgium
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Bruges
|
Belfry of Bruges, Canal Boat Tour
|
Visit free attractions, buy snacks from markets
|
|
Netherlands
|
Amsterdam
|
Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House
|
Rent a bike, buy museum passes
|
|
Germany
|
Berlin
|
Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall
|
Take free walking tours, stay in hostels
|
|
Czech Republic
|
Prague
|
Prague Castle, Charles Bridge
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Enjoy street food, use public transport
|
The Sun and Sand Southern Europe Route
Ideal for those who crave sunshine and beaches, this route takes you through:
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Spain (Barcelona)
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Italy (Rome)
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Greece (Athens)
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Portugal (Lisbon)
|
Country
|
City
|
Must-See Attractions
|
Budget Tips
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Spain
|
Barcelona
|
Sagrada Familia, Park Güell
|
Use public beaches, eat tapas at local bars
|
|
Italy
|
Rome
|
Colosseum, Vatican Museums
|
Visit free sights, use public fountains for water
|
|
Greece
|
Athens
|
Acropolis, Parthenon
|
Stay in hostels, eat at local tavernas
|
|
Portugal
|
Lisbon
|
Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery
|
Use trams, enjoy free viewpoints
|
The Untouched Eastern Europe Route
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider exploring:
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Poland (Krakow)
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Hungary (Budapest)
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Romania (Bucharest)
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Croatia (Dubrovnik)
|
Country
|
City
|
Must-See Attractions
|
Budget Tips
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Poland
|
Krakow
|
Wawel Castle, Auschwitz Memorial
|
Use public transport, eat pierogies
|
|
Hungary
|
Budapest
|
Buda Castle, Thermal Baths
|
Buy thermal bath passes, enjoy street food
|
|
Romania
|
Bucharest
|
Palace of Parliament, Old Town
|
Stay in hostels, use free walking tours
|
|
Croatia
|
Dubrovnik
|
Old Town, City Walls
|
Visit beaches, eat at local konobas
|
Saving Money: Essential Tips for Budget Travelers
Accommodation Hacks
Finding affordable places to stay is crucial. Consider these options:
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Hostels: Great for meeting fellow travelers and saving money.
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Airbnb: Sometimes cheaper than hotels, especially for longer stays.
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Couchsurfing: A fantastic way to stay for free and meet locals.
Transportation Tips
Getting around Europe on a budget is possible with some planning:
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Eurail Pass: Offers flexible travel across multiple countries.
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Budget Airlines: Airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offer cheap flights.
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Public Transport: Buses and trams are often cheaper than taxis.
Eating on a Budget
Enjoying local cuisine doesn't have to be expensive:
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Street Food: Often delicious and much cheaper than restaurants.
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Local Markets: Buy fresh produce and local specialties to prepare your meals.
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Daily Specials: Many restaurants offer lunch specials at a lower price.
Sightseeing for Less
Many cities offer affordable or free ways to see the sights:
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Free Walking Tours: A great way to learn about the city and its history.
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Museum Passes: Often provide access to multiple attractions at a discounted rate.
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Discount Cards: Many cities have tourist cards that offer discounts on attractions and transport.
Packing Smart
Packing the right items can save you money and hassle:
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Reusable Water Bottle: Many cities have public water fountains.
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Portable Charger: Avoid expensive charges for using outlets in cafes.
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Comfortable Shoes: Essential for walking and exploring without pain.
Traveler's Table: Sample Budget Breakdown
|
Expense Type
|
Estimated Cost Per Day (in USD)
|
|---|---|
|
Accommodation
|
$20 -$50
|
|
Food
|
$10 -$30
|
|
Transportation
|
$5 -$20
|
|
Sightseeing
|
$10 -$30
|
|
Miscellaneous
|
$5 -$15
|
|
Total
|
$50 -$145
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time of year to backpack through Europe?
A: The best time to backpack through Europe is during the shoulder seasons (April to June and September to October). The weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists, which means lower prices on accommodations and attractions.
Q: How can I stay safe while backpacking in Europe?
A: Stay aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, and avoid unsafe areas, especially at night. Use travel insurance to cover unexpected incidents.
Q: Are there any countries in Europe that are particularly budget-friendly?
A: Yes, Eastern European countries like Poland, Hungary, and Romania are known for being more affordable while still offering rich cultural experiences and beautiful sights.
Q: Can I use my mobile phone while traveling in Europe?
A: Yes, most modern smartphones will work in Europe, but check with your carrier about international plans. Alternatively, you can buy a local SIM card for cheaper rates.
Q: Do I need a visa to travel through Europe?
A: It depends on your nationality. Citizens of many countries, including the US, can enter the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days. Check the specific visa requirements for each country you plan to visit.