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My Step-By-Step Guide to Backpacking Europe

Backpacking Europe is one of my favorite things to do as a traveler. There isn’t a year I don’t criss-cross the continent (except 2020 when no one was crossing Europe).

During the summer, hostels burst with life, the Mediterranean sparkles, streets fill with people drinking wine and enjoying the day, and the late night setting sun leads to long wonderous days. Winter brings Christmas markets, skiing, fewer crowds, and lower prices! And Spring and Fall bring the right mix of people, temperatures, and prices that make these two my favorite seasons to travel Europe.

Since starting this website in 2008, I’ve written a lot of posts on Europe. I visit Europe multiple times a year, have been all over the continent, lived there on multiple occasions, and I have even run tours there.

With so much content on the blog, I wanted to create a resource page that will help you plan your backpacking trip to Europe with ease. That way you don’t miss anything! In this post, you’ll find all my best resources on planning a backpacking or budget trip to Europe, including destination guides, transportation tips, accommodation information, ways to meet people, and so much more!

So, without further ado, here’s everything you could ever want to know about backpacking Europe:

Table of Contents

Step 1: Plan Your Backpacking Europe Trip

Step 2: get your gear for backpacking europe, step 3: how to get amazing accommodation in europe, step 4: get around europe on the cheap, step 5: save money while backpacking europe, step 6: find out what to see and do in europe, get your in-depth budget guide to europe.

How Not to Feel Overwhelmed While Planning – Planning the perfect trip to Europe can be daunting and overwhelming. I’ve been there and I understand, but I can tell you from years of experience that the more you plan your trip, the more anxiety you will face.

How to Save for Your Trip – Is money stopping you from taking the trip of your dreams? Here are 22 easy ways to cut down on your daily expenses so you can save money to backpack Europe.

How to Find a Cheap Flight – Getting to Europe can be half the challenge. Luckily, there are a ton of flight deals to the continent now if you know when and how to look for them. This article will show you how to always get a cheap flight to Europe.

How to Earn Points for Free Flights and Hotel Stays – Free travel is my favorite kind of travel! This post shows you eight strategies I use to get over a million frequent flier points. These will get you out of your house faster, cheaper, and in comfort!

How to (Legally) Stay in Europe for More Than 90 Days – Every year, thousands of travelers wonder how they can stay in Europe for more than 90 days, which is the limit in the Schengen Zone. The good news is that there are a few different ways to stay. In this post, I share what you can do to stay legally beyond 90 days and on the continent in general.

How to Avoid Paying ATM Fees – You should never have to pay any bank fees while you are accessing your money in Europe! Here is my advice on how to avoid bank fees as your backpacking Europe.

Is Europe Safe to Visit? – Here is how to ensure you stay safe while traveling across the continent.  

What to Pack for Your Trip – What should you pack on your trip? Well, there is no one right answer, but this list will give you a good place to start. It’s what I take on my trips with me (though you’ll need to make some seasonal variations, I’m sure!).

The Ultimate Packing List for Female Travelers – In this post, Kristin Addis shares her packing insights for women, so that you can travel just about anywhere without spending a fortune on gear.

How to Buy Good Travel Insurance – Travel insurance is one of the most important things you’ll need for your trip. You wouldn’t have a car without car insurance or a home without home insurance, and you can’t have a trip without travel insurance!

The Best Travel Cameras – Wondering what kind of camera you should get for your trip? This post will show you exactly what you need — no matter your budget!  

How to Find a Good Hostel – This article features my best tips on how to find an affordable, clean, and fun hostel where you can meet a lot of amazing people.

The Best Hostels in Europe – This is a list of European hostels that I would definitely use again if I have the chance. Hope this helps with your next European backpacking adventure!

How to Become a House Sitter – This is a how-to guide to house-sitting, a wonderful opportunity that allows you to stay in a location rent free in exchange for watching someone’s house.

For more budget accommodation suggestions, check out my hostel hub page . It has all my favorite hostels around Europe!

If you’d rather stay in hotels, this page has all my favorite hotels in Europe .

And to find out where to stay in each city, visit my list of the best neighborhoods in Europe!  

The Ultimate Guide to Saving Money with Eurail Passes – Everyone traveling to Europe wonders if they will save money by buying a rail pass or if it’s cheaper to buy tickets as they go. This detailed post outlines everything you need to know about buying a rail pass!

Europe is also an amazing destination for road trips. Countries like Iceland , Scotland, Ireland, Portugal, and Norway are all amazing places to explore by vehicle.

If you’re planning to drive around Europe, use Discover Cars to find the best rental prices. They search rental companies big and small to find you the best deals.

You can use the widget below to get a quote. It’s fast and free:

How to Save Money on Food – While traveling Europe, food often becomes a major expense. Here are some tips for saving money on food so you still can afford a nice meal out every now and then.

How to Use the Sharing Economy to Save Money – The rise of the sharing economy has made backpacking Europe so much easier and cheaper. This post lists all my favorite ridesharing, house sharing, local meeting websites so you can get off the tourist trail and experience day-to-day life with locals!

61 Tips to Make You the Savviest Traveler – These 61 travel tips will help you become an expert traveler who gets around Europe cheaper, better, longer, and smarter!

14 Major Travel Scams to Avoid – Losing money to a preventable travel scam sucks. Learn what scams to look out for in Europe and save yourself a potential headache!

How to Crush it on Couchsurfing – While Couchsurfing isn’t as popular as it once was, it’s still an option for intrepid backpackers. This post can introduce you to the basics and help you find hosts around Europe.

How to Become a House Sitter & Get Free Accommodation – Pet sitting is a great way to get free accommodation when traveling Europe. It’s easy to get started too! This post will show you everything you need to know.  

Additionally, here are a few of my favorite companies in Europe. These are the comoanies I use when I’m looking for things to do, food tours, walking tours, and more!

Walks – Walks offers in-depth history, food, and cultural tours in cities around the world (especially Europe). Its small-group tours offer exclusive behind-the-scenes access other companies can’t get and use really incredible and knowledgeable guides. I can’t recommend them enough.

Devour – Devour has all kinds of amazing food tours around Europe. If you’re a foodie who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, these tours are the best on the continent. I take them every chance I get.

GetYourGuide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. The site has tons of tour options in cities all around the world, including cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more! It’s a good resource to search for specific tours in any destination.

And for a complete overview of Europe in one easy-to-read post, you can check out this free guide . It covers all the basics, including ways to save money, things to see and do, when to go, and more!

This massive resource list will help you plan your trip to Europe in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step pattern so you won’t get lost, overspend, or stress out about your upcoming dream trip. Europe is one of my favorite regions of the world (which is why I spend so much time there). There’s so much variety in food, culture, and language, as well as so much history. I love the continent and hope you use these tips to plan your ultimate backpacking adventure in Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Europe: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For suggestions on where to stay during your trip, here are my favorite hostels in Europe !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Europe? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Europe for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

Backpacking Europe | Our Epic Step-by-Step Travel Planning Guide

An easy guide to budget travel in Europe.

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I created this step-by-step travel guide to prove that planning budget travel doesn’t have to be daunting — whether you’re backpacking through Europe or just a budget-minded independent traveler.

This guide is broken down into different phases of the planning process:

• Initial Trip Planning
• Budgeting and Money
• Packing Lists and Advice
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Travel Gear and Travel Services Recommendations
• More Helpful Travel Tips

Under each phase, you will find links to our most important travel articles — I suggest reading through each one. If you follow these steps you’ll be prepared to have an amazing trip to Europe.

Note: You can find even more information on this website’s the top menu.

PHASE ONE: Initial Trip Planning

These are the first steps to take when planning your trip to backpack Europe. Here you’ll start planning what cities and countries to visit, create a travel itinerary, estimate your travel costs, book your flight, and a range of other things.

You’ll probably spend a large amount of time on this phase  — especially the itinerary planning.

Europe Itinerary Planning and Travel Logistics  

How To Create a Europe Travel Itinerary that fits your travel style, travel goals, and budget.

I’ve also put together some sample itineraries to help give some ideas of places you might want to visit:

• Best Of Europe Mega Trip Itinerary (Travel Time: 8-10+ weeks)
• Eastern Europe MegaTrip Itinerary (Travel Time: 6-10 Weeks)
• Gateway to Eastern Europe Travel Itinerary (Travel Time: 2-4 Weeks)
• Our Most Important Tip for First-Time Travelers: Slow Down
• The Most Visited Cities in Europe

Choosing Travel Insurance

I recommend buying travel insurance for your trip to protect against any unforeseen travel mishaps. Here are some Tips For Choosing Travel Insurance .

The Savvy Backpacker’s City Travel Guides

Discover practical travel information, must-see sights, where to eat, how much to budget, public transportation tips, where to stay, and more about more than 20 of Europe’s Most Iconic Cities :

• Amsterdam Travel Guide
• Barcelona Travel Guide
• Berlin Travel Guide
• Florence Travel Guide
• London Travel Guide
• Paris Travel Guide
• Rome Travel Guide
• Seville Travel Guide
• SEE TRAVEL GUIDES FOR MULTIPLE OTHER CITIES

Related:  The Best Party Cities in Europe

Finding Cheap Airfare to Europe

Your plane ticket to Europe is one of your greatest expenses. Here’s our Guide To Finding Cheap Flights To Europe .

Best Travel Guidebooks and Online Resources

From Lonely Planet and Rick Steves’ guidebooks to Wikitravel and TripAdvisor, there is a wealth of information to help you choose what to do and see. I review My Favorite Online Travel Resources .

Choosing Travel Seasons

The summer might be the busiest travel season but Europe is a great place to visit year-round. We’ve listed the positives and negatives of traveling during each season .

Pre-Departure Travel Advice

Before you head off to Europe be sure to check out this Pre-Departure Travel Checklist  so you don’t overlook any small, but important, details.

Get an Affordable High-Speed Mobile Data Plan For Your Phone

Having fast and reliable mobile data for your smartphone is a requirement these days. Check out my guide on  how to use your phone in Europe  and our guide to  the best SIM Cards and Data Plans for Europe .

If you have a newer phone, check out our guide to the best Prepaid eSIM Data Plans for Europe .

Frequently Asked Travel Questions

I get sent a lot of questions about traveling in Europe that don’t warrant their own article — so I made a Mega-List Of Random Travel Questions .

Phase Two: Budgeting and Money

Let’s dive into the million-dollar question… how much does it cost to travel through Europe? Below are some helpful articles to help you estimate how much money you’ll need to backpack Europe on a budget.

I also cover various topics like using ATMs and credit cards, exchanging currency, and other money-related issues.

Estimating Your Travel Costs

Here’s a high-level guide to estimating How Much It Costs To Backpack Europe on a budget. I break down the average cost of food, alcohol, accommodation, sightseeing, transportation, pre-trip travel expenses, and other common expenses.

City Price Guides

I’ve created In-Depth City Price Guides that cover travel costs for 30+ cities in Europe. Each city guide includes average prices for food, accommodation, sightseeing, and more.

Using Your Money in Europe

Everything you need to know about exchange rates, using ATMs, using debit/credit cards, avoiding/minimizing foreign transaction fees, and more. Check out our Guide To Using Money While Traveling In Europe and our Guide To Using Credit Cards and Debit Cards in Europe .

Daily Money-Saving Strategies

Here are some Simple Money-Saving Europe Travel Tips you can do every day to save money while traveling. Here’s our  Guide To Eating On A Budget While Traveling Europe for more money-saving tips.

Phase Three: Packing Advice & Travel Gear

Packing for travel in Europe can be confusing and frustrating — especially if you’re backpacking across Europe or just trying to pack light. These guides will help you choose what clothes and travel accessories to pack and have advice on packing light.

Europe Travel Packing Lists

I’ve written numerous packing lists for multiple travel styles. Each article covers functional and fashionable clothes for traveling through Europe, helpful travel accessories, toiletries, electronics, and what items you should leave behind.  Check them out!

• Backpacking Europe Packing List (for Men)
• Backpacking Europe Packing List (for Women)
• Europe Packing List (general packing list that’s not solely “backpacking” focused)
• Ultralight Travel Packing List  (taking traveling light to the next level)
• Winter Europe Packing List
• Skincare, Makeup, and Beauty Essentials For Travel

The Best Travel Backpacks

I love travel backpacks and we’ve personally tested well over a dozen of the most popular backpacks. Here’s a list of the Best Travel Backpacks (Updated For 2022). Be sure to check out our Best Travel Backpacks for Women as well.

I’ve also compiled a list of the Best Carry-On Backpacks if you’re traveling light (which is highly recommended).

Related Article: Things to look for when buying a travel backpack & best travel backpacks for Europe (slightly old but still solid information).

Travel Gear Buyers Guides

I’ve reviewed a lot of travel products over the years. Here are a few of our most popular travel gear guides:

Travel Footwear

• Best Travel Shoes For Women
• Best Travel Shoes for Men
• Waterproof Boots for Women
• Waterproof Boots for Men

Travel Clothing

• Best Travel Underwear
• Best Travel Socks
• Guide To Finding Fashionable Travel Clothes

Travel Electronics

• Using Prepaid Data Plans and Smart Phones in Europe
• How To Buy A SIM Card In Europe
• Guide to Using Your Electronics in Europe
• The Best Travel Apps

Travel Aids

• Best Daypacks for Travel
• Best Packing Cubes

How To Not Look Like A Tourist

It’s not always easy to stay fashionable while also living out of a backpack or suitcase. Here are some tips for not looking like a tourist.

• Female Travel Fashion Advice
• Male Travel Fashion Advice

Travel Packing and Organization Strategies

Living out of a suitcase or backpack does pose a few challenges. Here are some Travel Packing Strategies to help you efficiently organize your travel gear and prevent wrinkles in your clothing.

Related: Tips for using Packing Cubes .

Backpack Vs Suitcase

Do you need a backpack for traveling around Europe? Of course not. Plenty of people use suitcases. Here are some Tips For Determining Your Luggage Style .

Winter Travel Packing Tips

Winter travel is great but you need to know how to dress properly for the cold. Check out our Guide To Dressing For Winter In Europe for tips on dressing in layers to keep you warm and dry without wearing a lot of bulky clothes. Also, see our Winter Europe Packing List  for some of our favorite winter gear.

Phase Four: Hostels, Hotels, Rental Apartments & Other Accommodation

Accommodation is one of your biggest expenses. In this section, I’ll focus on hostels, rental apartments, and Couchsurfing.

Guide to European Hostels

Curious about staying in hostels while traveling in Europe? Check out our Guide To Hostels In Europe — it covers everything you’ve ever wanted to know about staying in hostels and how to pick the perfect hostel for your travel style.

Also, check out this handy Guide To Hostel Etiquette .

Europe’s Best Hostels

Europe has a ton of amazing hostels. We’ve listed a few of the best hostels in Europe’s most popular cities.

• Amsterdam’s Best Hostels
• Barcelona’s Best Hostels
• Berlin’s Best Hostels
• Budapest’s Best Hostels
• Dublin’s Best Hostels
• Edinburgh’s Best Hostels
• Florence’s Best Hostels
• London’s Best Hostels
• Madrid’s Best Hostels
• Milan’s Best Hostels
• Paris’ Best Hostels
• Prague’s Best Hostels
• Rome’s Best Hostels

See The Full List Of Europe’s Best Hostels By City

Couchsurfing in Europe

Couchsurfing is a super popular way to experience Europe, save money on accommodation, and meet friendly locals. Here’s our Guide to Couchsurfing in Europe .

Short-Term Apartment Rentals & Airbnb

Short-term apartment rentals — especially Airbnb — have exploded in Europe and it’s one of my favorite ways to experience Europe’s cities. But picking the perfect apartment can be a little tricky. Here’s my Guide To Renting Airbnb & Vacation Apartments In Europe .

Related: Airbnb Review: Why It’s Our Top Choice for Rental Apartments

Phase Five: Trains, Flights, and Other Transportation in Europe

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles!

Europe has a great transportation network, making it incredibly easy to zip from city to city and country to country. The hardest part is choosing which method is right for your travel style and budget.

In this section, I cover each major transportation option system and give tips on finding the best deals.

Complete Guide to Train Travel in Europe

Traveling by train is the best way to get around Europe. Check out my Guide To Train Travel in Europe  to learn the ins and outs of European rail travel.

We’ve also written in-depth guides about country-specific train travel and how to score the cheapest tickets:

• Belgium  Train Guide
• England  Train Guide
• France  Train Guide
• Germany  Train Guide
• Italy  Train Guide
• Netherlands  Train Guide
• Portugal  Train Guide
• Spain  Train Guide
• Switzerland  Train Guide

How To Purchase Train Tickets

There are a number of ways to purchase train tickets — from at the station to online. Read our Guide to Buying European Train Tickets to learn about the different kinds of train tickets and ways to get the best price.

Eurail Pass Explained

Many travelers purchase a Eurail Pass to explore Europe. However, with so many different passes available it can be tough to decide which, if any, rail pass is worth the price. Read my Guide To Eurail Passes to see if a rail pass is right for you.

Budget Air Travel in Europe

Europe is home to multiple budget airlines so it’s not uncommon to find flights within Europe for less than $50. My Guide To Budget Air Travel In Europe will cover how to find the cheapest tickets and help you decide if air travel is right for your trip.

Related: Our Ryanair Survival Guide will help you navigate one of Europe’s most notorious ultra-low-budget air carriers.

Traveling Europe by Car

Exploring Europe by car is a great way to discover smaller towns and villages, but it is a nightmare if you plan on only visiting large cities. My Guide To Traveling Europe By Car  will cover what to look for when renting a car and tips for navigating Europe’s roads.

What’s Cheaper? Comparing Train vs Plane vs Car

I did a little comparison to find the cheapest way to travel around Europe — check out my findings . By the way, this isn’t a perfect comparison but it’s a good overview.

Bus/Coach Travel in Europe

One of the cheapest methods of travel is via long-distance coach service but it’s also the slowest. Check out our Guide To Long-Distance Coach Travel In Europe to learn more about this option for cash-strapped travelers.

Phase Six: Travel Service Reviews

There are many amazing travel products and services that will make traveling more enjoyable and less stressful — but the choices can be overwhelming. In this section read our reviews on everything from our favorite socks and underwear to backpacks and other travel services.

Airbnb Rental Strategies

Want to live like a local? Try Airbnb. Read our Airbnb Review to see why Airbnb is one of our top choices for finding great places to stay and see our top tips for finding the perfect rental.

Contiki Tour Review

Contiki tours are a popular travel option that thousands of people take each year. Read my Contiki Tour Review to see the good and bad of Contiki Tours and determine if this is a good option for you.

Hostelworld Review

See why Hostelworld is my top choice for finding and booking hostels in Europe. Read my Hostelworld Review and learn the strategies I use to find the best hostels.

Phase Seven: More Helpful Advice For Traveling Europe On A Budget

This section features general travel tips for everything from spotting tourist scams and fashion advice to solo travel pointers and group travel tips.

Avoiding Tourist Scams and Pickpockets

Don’t be one of the many tourists who get ripped off while traveling through Europe. Read our Guide To Pickpockets in Europe and our Guide to Avoiding Common Tourist Scams .

How To Use Data Plans and Smartphones in Europe

Using your smartphone and data plan in Europe can be costly. Read our Guide To Using Smartphones and Data Plans in Europe , How To Buy A SIM Card in Europe , and Guide to the Best eSIMs for Europe to make sure you don’t rack up a huge phone bill.

Solo and Group Travel in Europe

How are you going to travel around Europe — with friends, with your significant other, or maybe you want to travel solo? Check out these articles to help you make the most of your travels.

• How To Travel Solo in Europe
• Advice for Solo Female Travel
• How To Travel Europe with Friends (And Survive)

Using Electronics Abroad

Worried about using your electronics in Europe? Read our Guide To Using Your Electronics in Europe to see what kinds of electronics you can (and can’t) use in Europe.

Travel Styles and Sightseeing Strategies

Here are a few helpful articles to help you get the most out of your day-to-day travels.

• Day-To-Day Sightseeing Strategies
• Simple Money-Saving Tips While Traveling in Europe
• Avoiding Common Travel Mistakes That Are Super Easy To Make
• Why Slow Travel Is The Best Travel

Our Favorite Online Travel Resources

The websites I use to book and plan our travels .

Start Your Own Travel Blog (And How To Make Money)

Learn How To Start A Travel Blog  — My 100% free guide to making your own travel blog and tips for making money to help fund your travels.

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Home » Gear » What is The Best Backpack For Travel in Europe? EPIC Round Up (2024)

What is The Best Backpack For Travel in Europe? EPIC Round Up (2024)

Europe is a great destination for a burgeoning backpacker. Most European countries are accustomed to accommodating broke backpackers carrying their lives on their shoulders, and the continent sports some of the world’s best public transport networks, allowing travelers to roam freely without needing a car.

There are so many great stops and sights to see on any Eurotrip, but you won’t make it very far without the right backpack. Any old nylon duffel will get you through a week’s trip, but the best backpack for Europe will help keep you on the road for months at a time, all the while pushing you past the big cities of the continent into the heart of exploration.

If you want to see it all, you’ll have to manage the diverse landscapes and different weather patterns that make Europe so interesting to visit. The best bag for the endless summer of the Mediterranean coast might not stand against the changing weather of the Irish plains.

The good news is, modern backpackers can take advantage of Europe’s decades-old travel infrastructure with more great backpack choices than ever. With so many great backpacks on the market, it might be hard to narrow things down to the best bag for you. That’s where we step in.

Things have changed a lot since foreigners first started cutting costs and roaming through Western Europe, but one thing hasn’t: The best way to see this continent and get a feel for the rich range of cultures present is with your home on your back.

These Are The BEST Travel Bags for Europe

Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

• Capacity (L) > 46
• Weight (G) > 1559
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 46x40x31
• Price ($) > 195

Tortuga Travel Pack 30L

• Capacity (L) > 30L
• Weight (G) > 1.8KG
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 20.5×12.2×7.5
• Price ($) > 325

Osprey Aether

• Capacity (L) > 65
• Weight (G) > 2267
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 81x40x28
• Price ($) > 315

Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

• Capacity (L) > 30
• Weight (G) > 1500
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 23x48x33
• Price ($) > 268

Farpoint 55

• Capacity (L) > 55
• Weight (G) > 1700
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 60x33x30
• Price ($) > 170

Nomatic Navigator 32

• Capacity (L) > 37-44
• Weight (G) > 2358
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 56x36x23
• Price ($) > 391

TropicFeel Shell

• Capacity (L) > 22-42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 50x30x19
• Price ($) > 290

Osprey UNLTD

• Capacity (L) > 68
• Weight (G) > 2812
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 81x40x38
• Price ($) > 700

WANDRD PRVKE

• Capacity (L) > 31
• Weight (G) > 1300
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 48x30x17
• Price ($) > 216

Osprey Sojourn

• Capacity (L) > 45
• Weight (G) > 4000
• Price ($) > 375

Monarc Settra

• Capacity (L) > 40
• Weight (G) > 2041
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 28x60x33
• Price ($) > 150

Stubble & Co Adventure Bag

• Capacity (L) > 42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD) > 55 x 38 x 24
• Price ($) > 300

Choosing The Right Bag For European Travel

How and where we tested to find the best backpack for europe, final thoughts on the best bag for europe.

European Travel takes on all sorts of forms. Unless you plan on renting a car, your bag will need to deftly navigate buses, trains, crowded sidewalks, and long walks to the hostel, all while storing everything you need for your trip. 

At the minimum, your bag will need to fit in a luggage rack and pack a week’s worth of clothes. The good thing about traveling through Europe is you’ll never be too far away from the nearest laundry machine, even in the alps, so unless you plan on doing some serious backcountry exploring you probably won’t need to haul around a 70 Liter monstrosity. 

Most passionate minimalists and one-bag travel experts like to set the bar around 35-40 Liters for their bag, which generally provides the maximum amount of storage while still fitting easily in overhead compartments and luggage racks. 

The storage capacity is just the first piece of the puzzle. Any European adventure will likely have a lot of stops. There’s just too many cities to see and cheeses to try. Unless you’ve got a year budgeted out for roaming and romping, you’ll be living out of your bag and packing it up quite a bit. 

I take ease of access incredibly seriously when considering any new backpack. Ideally, I’d like a bag that lets me live for 24 hours without ever having to open the main compartment. 

Anytime I’m settling down for more than a night or two I’ll unpack, but if I can find a backpack with enough easy access points to get to my toothbrush, a change of clothes, some snacks, and my electronics without having to dig around through the muck and mire of the main drag, I’ll take it.

Finally, a backpack for European Travel should consider safety. Backpackers are easy targets for scammers and thieves, and there’s no such thing as a modern city without a few ne’er do wells lurking near the bus stations.

Nobody wants to travel around with a giant target on their back, but a bright red backpack is the closest thing to wearing a sign that says ‘Hello criminals, I am slightly out of my comfort zone AND everything I own is right here in this bag.’ 

Some backpack makers are catching on and offering jet-black looks that reduce down and don’t give off the wrong impressions, while others are coming up with high-tech solutions like locking compartments and RFID-blocking pockets. There is no backpack that can completely reduce the risk of turning down the wrong corner at the wrong time, but a great European travel bag will keep everything close to the chest and out of access for any potential pickpockets. 

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Best Overall Travel Bag for Europe – Osprey Sojourn Porter 46

• Capacity (L): 46
• Weight (G): 1559
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 46x40x31
• Price ($): 195

At the Broke Backpacker we’re a bit more accustomed to bus rides than bellhops, but it can never hurt to bring your own personal porter on your next adventure. It serves as its own bagman and it just might be the most organized bag Osprey has ever made. 

They didn’t simply pump the dang thing full of pockets, but instead added clutch access points like a full U-zippered main compartment, a protected laptop sleeve, and stow-able hip belt and harness. These perks allow the bag to perform well in all sorts of use cases. 

Unfortunately, there is no bag that is perfect for everyone, and there are a few zones where the Osprey Porter falls short. You might want to look elsewhere if you need a bag to break ultralight records or long-haul walks in the woods. Instead, this bag serves as a perfect companion for anyone planning on spending the next few months wandering through the European Continent. 

The list would be a whole lot shorter if we talked about where we didn’t test it. This bag has seen the Tour de France, the Running of the Bulls , the Cooper Hill Cheese roll, Oktoberfest, and the Battle of the Oranges. Without a fuss, the Porter has fit on all sorts of crowded buses and managed draconian baggage policies to get us there with our gear. 

Best Carry on Backpack For Europe – Tortuga Travel Pack 30L

• Capacity (L):  30
• Weight (G):  1.8kg
• Dims (CM, HxWxD):  20.5×12.2×7.5
• Price ($): 325

The Tortuga Travel Pack is a serious piece of equipment. The revamped 30L version of the Travel Pack has been custom designed to be accepted for carry on all over the world.

As well as being globally carry-on ready, it’s also got a phenomenal design, great organization, and it has HUGE amounts of space. Tortuga might be the company that best knows how to create space within their bags so you can pack the compartments to your heart’s content.

Note that there isa 40L version available but in order to spare you all the wrath of European airlines like Ryanair, we suggest using the smaller 30L version.

I loved taking this pack around Europe as it was accessible, comfy to carry and fit all my gear. One thing I noticed about this pack is how durable and strong the zippers feel.

Best Backpack For Backpacking Europe – Osprey Aether

• Capacity (L): 65
• Weight (G): 2267
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 81x40x28
• Price ($): 315

This heavy-duty option is a great choice for packing everything you own on your shoulders. The Aether is one of Osprey’s more technically advanced backpacks, built for the backcountry and just as suitable for winding cobblestone streets.

Some of this backpack’s models come with a detachable daypack that works great for quick stops, carry-on, and city tours. This is one of the biggest game changers in the backpacking industry and instantly elevated this pack to a must-have in my own closet. You can bring everything you need for a month’s vacation in Europe , all the while storing it in the room with ease, while you take only the essentials with you on your next day trek.

Fully kitted up, Osprey’s flexible shoulder pads and air mesh backing help lighten your load. Although there is no such thing as a bag that makes 70 Liters feel lighter than air, the Aether might be the closest thing to it.

The Aether has been my go-to bag for trips where I plan to be on my feet for more than a kilometer or two. Every time the train station ended up being a few kilometers away from the hostel, or I missed the early bus and had to get walking, I tested the limits of this bag and it passed with flying colors.

Best Bag For Budget Flights In Europe – Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

• Capacity (L): 30
• Weight (G): 1500
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 23x48x33
• Price ($): 268

Anyone who has ever shown up to a Ryanair flight without a printed ticket knows those budget flights can be a trap. The initial tickets are a steal, but the charges can quickly add up. One way budget airlines look to make a bit of extra cash is by reducing the amount of luggage you can take with you.

If you want to take advantage of the cheapest rates out there, this Nomatic travel bag is the best bet to get it done no matter the airline. The travel bag fits regulations and allows you to store more than any other carry-on bag on the market, thanks to Nomatic’s wealth of curious pockets and space-saving maneuvers.

Not only is the bag a high-tech beast, but Nomatic rounded out the edges, protecting your gear in a fully waterproof shell and adding on a few anti-theft perks that make the travel bag pack well above its nimble weight. With a slightly smug grin of satisfaction, we slipped our fully loaded Nomatic Travel bag in between the bars at the airline check-in counter that proved indeed it fits, it flies, and it’s got a full week’s gear inside.

Best Bag For Interrail – Farpoint 55

• Capacity (L): 55
• Weight (G): 1700
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 60x33x30
• Price ($): 170

Europe is best seen by train . There’s a certain romance to zipping past the dry Portuguese countryside without your hands on the wheel. Our favorite train-friendly travel is an iconic travel backpack. The Farpoint series is one of the best one-bag travel choices in the world, combining a bit of trail magic with some convenient storage features to make an extraordinary kit.

Train travel means more lenient luggage regulations, that is unless you’re trying to travel with a surfboard on Renfre. That means you can opt for a slightly larger backpack and store it all. The Farpoint makes it easy to pack a month’s worth of gear with a nice U-shaped zippered opening and large hip belt pockets that will fit a few snacks and train tickets. What makes this bag unique is its versatility.

Osprey pumps plenty of hiking knowledge into all of their packs, so even backpacks made for urban wandering come with clutch comfort features, great rain protection, and the adjustability to fit on any set of shoulders.

Looking for a same sized bag with a few different features? Have a look at the Rei Flash 55 Backpack then!

Best Backpack For European Cities – Nomatic Navigator 32

• Capacity (L): 32-41
• Weight (G): 2358
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 56x36x23
• Price ($): 399

You don’t want to have to stop back off at the hostel multiple times during a grand day out in the city. That means ideally, your backpack will carry everything you need for the day, rain or shine, without being too uncomfortable. That’s the Nomatic Navigator’s specialty. 

This bag can expand and contract from 32 to 41 Liters so you can pack exactly what you need for the day without leaving a bunch of empty space. Even if you start the day with a full bag, the expansion helps you sneak in that op-shop find. We also love the laid-back look of the navigator for city travel. 

Anyone can spot a backpacker a mile away with most of the usual suspects. Bright-colored hiking bags loaded to the brim may have the locals treating you slightly different, or help you stick out in the crowd. The navigator stays lowkey while sneakily storing a whole lot of the good stuff to help you check out new cities like one of the gang. 

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Best Backpack For Hosteling Europe – TropicFeel Shell

• Capacity (L): 22-42
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 50x30x19
• Price ($): 290

Your dorm room probably doesn’t include a walk-in closet, but this backpack will make any pod feel like a target for the bling ring. The TropicFeel Shell is trying to completely change up the game, and while there are still some kinks to be worked out, this is a fantastic option for certain travelers.

Anyone who likes to have a perfect place for everything in their gear kit will literally giggle at the number of options the TropicFeel provides .

Between a wardrobe system, detachable toiletry kit, kangaroo pouch, and optional camera cube, you’ll be more organized than ever. Each one of these organizational points is detachable, which means once you arrive at the hostel you can hang your wardrobe, send the toiletry kit to the sink, slip the camera cube into your locker, and hit the town with an incredibly light day bag.

The bag is not the best choice for people heading far off from paved roads, as all the extra detachment points don’t make an incredibly lightweight pack. For anyone whose wandering goals are to make new friends and see new places, this backpack is an easy choice for life going from hostel to hostel in Europe.

Best Backpack For Hiking in Europe – Osprey UNLTD

• Capacity (L): 68
• Weight (G): 2812
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 81x40x38
• Price ($): 700

From the Camino Del Santiago through the Tour du Mont Blanc, hiking in Europe can take you across epic mountains and bounce you along wild surf. There are a lot of bags out there that can get you through a controlled day hike, but the best backpack for pushing things up a notch is the Osprey UNLTD. 

This bag is the culmination of Osprey’s decades of industry dominance. Its starting point is a combination of features that make other Osprey bags great, like a detachable daypack, superior Airscape breathability, and loads of straps and external tool attachments. The UNLTD then takes things to the next level with 3D-printed foam back panels and a carbon frame. 

This immense Antigravity system is the brainchild of Osprey founder Mike Pfotenhauer, who threw it all into this pack. The pack lifts its weight a bit off your shoulders and spreads the load evenly around your body to stay comfortable when long-distance trekking. 

Best Bag For Photographing Europe – WANDRD PRVKE

• Capacity (L): 31
• Weight (G): 1300
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 48x30x17
• Price ($): 216

This tarpaulin terror is one of our favorite up-and-coming backpacks. WANDRD is a Kickstarter darling that has spent the last decade proving that backpacks can be more than large black holes with shoulder straps. 

The PRVKE is the model that finally pushed them over the top and into our hearts thanks to the combination of performance, protection, and cheeky special features. The 31 Liter bag spreads storage across 8 convenient pockets and a main compartment. WANDRD also sells a camera carry case that helps compartmentalize things even further. 

Pockets, protection, and aesthetics combine to create a photography bag that can do a whole lot more. The bag is a perfect carry-on size and has enough quality materials on the outside to keep your gear dry from a few surprise showers. The rolltop wide opening is the cherry on top, allowing you to condense and expand this bag to exactly the size you need. 

Best Wheeled Backpack For Europe – Osprey Sojourn

• Capacity (L): 45
• Weight (G): 4000
• Price ($): 375.00

Europe’s cobbled streets and winding corners are a real challenge for wheeled backpacks. You can’t expect to run any old bag through the Rua da Bica and get out unscathed. If you don’t feel like carrying your gear on your shoulders, you should absolutely splurge for a top-quality roller like the Sojourn. 

This bag does include shoulder carrying straps, but it’s a bit bulky to lift up off its wheels for more than a few meters. It blends the line between backpack and suitcase, providing an ultra-durable set of wheels with a high chassis that helps take this roller off-road. 

You can choose between 45, 60, and 80 Liters to make sure no matter what kind of journey you’re embarking on, you’ll always have some space for souvenirs. 

Best Hybrid Bag For Europe – Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack

• Capacity (L): 40
• Weight (G): 2041
• Dims (CM, HxWxD): 28x60x33
• Price ($): 150

Young European travelers have forged ahead on a path of sustainable exploration. There is no bag better to confidently explore the European continent than one made out of recycled materials, like this Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack made from 50 recycled bottles. The Travel Duffel Backpack proves that sustainable materials can do anything polyester can, all without the carbon footprint. 

The pack walks the line between a duffel bag and an old-fashioned backpack, allowing you to easily maneuver your bag through crowded train terminals and throw it over your shoulder for longer walks. It’s one of the only duffel bags in the business with adjustable sternum and waist straps as well as a full-sized laptop compartment to truly toe the line. 

At 40 Liters, the Monarc Travel Duffel Backpack sits just on the edge of carry-on eligibility, but you shouldn’t have any trouble getting it into an overhead compartment and skipping baggage claim on your way to your next adventure. 

Best Overall Travel Bag for Carry-On Travel – Stubble & Co Adventure Bag

• Capacity (L): 42
• Weight (G): 1.7kg
• Dims (CM, HxWxD):  55 x 38 x 24 cm
• Price (£): 195

The Adventure Bag from Stubble & Co is possibly the most perfectly designed travel bag on the market right now. For those wanting to spend a few months backpacking around Europe, the size and features of this bag really work well.

The bag opens up in a clamshell fashion like a suitcase meaning you no longer have to root around a top-loading bag for a specific item. To go one further in terms of organisation, each half of the bag is divided up into several zippered compartments deep enough to store inside things like packing cubes and other gear. This really makes it easy when you’re moving from place to place every few days as it’s easy to live out of the bag.

In terms of capacity, when combined with its superior organisational features, it offers the perfect size for backpacking around Europe. Bear in mind that in most European cities you’ll be getting around on public transport, so the smaller size of this bag as well as features like the hidden passport pocket make it perfect.

Want more Stubble & Co options? Check out our rundown of the best Stubble & Co. bags .

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

To test these packs, we laid our mits on each of them and took them out for a test spin Over a period of time, various members of our team took these different packs on various trips to put them well and truly through their paces.

Packability

A backpack is designed to carry stuff and as such, top points are awarded for how packable one is. Any decent carry in needs to make sure it maximises the space it does have and facilitates effective packing and we tested this out by packing, and unpacking. Simple right? 

Equally though, we also paid attention to how easy the pack was to unpack – being able to retrieve items quickly and easily bags a bag, bags of bonus points!

Weight and Comfort of Carrying

If a pack is overly heavy or awkward to carry then taking it along on trips becomes uncomfortable. Believe me on this, I have had more than my fair share of backpacks that just weighed an ounce or two, too much or perhaps had crappy straps that dug into my shoulders. 

As such we awarded full marks for packs that minimise weight and maximum carry-comfort.

Functionality

In order to test out how well a pack fulfilled its primary purpose we used it for this purpose. For example, if it’s a carry-on pack then we took it along as carry-on and made sure it actually oasses the Ryanait test and fits into the ever shrinking over-head cabins. For cycle backpacks we strapped them on and got on our bikes. You get the idea right? 

Some people say that travel gear doesn’t need to look good as long as it functions. Well those people are fools because good gear can be both practical and cool. As such we also awarded points for how sexy a pack looks. 

Durability and Weatherproofing

Ideally, in order to really test out how durable a backpack is we would drop it from a plane and then run over it. Unfortunately though that is not entirely feasible so instead, we simply inspected the materials used and the build quality of the packs paying attention to things like the seam sewing, the traction of the zips and other pressure points that tend to break. 

Of course, testing out how waterproof a pack is simply a case of pouring a litre of water over it – any packs caught leaking, were promptly banned entirely from inclusion in our round-ups.

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What are you waiting for!? Plane tickets aren’t getting any cheaper. Now that you know the best bags for Europe, all that’s left to do is map out a plan for exploration and then throw it out the window. 

Your trip to Europe will be full of surprises, missed trains, foul weather cancellations, and hidden gems that make you stay a few extra days. Half the fun of a backpacking adventure is the wild places you end up when what you thought was going to happen falls through.

The wrong backpack will make winding up at the wrong bus station and finding out you have to walk another two kilometers sound like a death sentence. But the right choice will have you to saying yes and embracing the journey with open arms.

No matter which backpack you choose, rambling through Europe without a care in the world is a rite of passage for any broke backpacker, and as long as you choose a bag from this list, your exploration will be the beginning of a life on the road. 

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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Backpacking Europe Routes: 4 Epic Itineraries!

If you’re planning the Euro backpacking trip of your dreams but don’t know where to start, fear not! We’ve put together four Europe backpacking routes that appeal to different interests and types of travelers – the ‘Grand Tour’ of most commonly-visited places; a history buff’s guide to Southern Europe, a budget guide to Eastern Europe and for those of you who just can’t stop traveling, an epic around the continent route at the end!

These handpicked Europe itineraries will suit all kinds of travelers, from those on a blow-out gap year to backpackers who want to get the most adventure for their buck. Sit back and grab a cuppa as we’re about to take you on a whirlwind tour of Europe. 

Related: (opens in new tab)

• How Much Does it Cost to Backpack Europe?
• A Guide to Visas for Europe
• Amazing Hostels in Europe for Backpackers

Top Europe Backpacking Trips: 4 Travel Itineraries

While you may associate backpacking through Europe with train travel and dormitory-style hostels, it’s been a rite of passage since the 18th century, when young people (mostly men) would spend a few years traveling around ‘The Continent’ prior to fully joining society. This was seen as a capstone educational experience – both in terms of seeing classical antiquity up close and interacting with new and different situations, people, and challenges.

This is still the case today too. While Europe’s countless museums , cuisines, and cultural contributions make it a premier travel destination, long-haul travel is also a fantastic way to learn about yourself. 

There are countless combinations of countries, sights, and transit options for a backpacking trip in Europe, and it can be easy to get overwhelmed. The itineraries we’ve mapped out below are very customizable for this very reason. You can add more destinations, or stop a route partway through depending on how much time you have. 

We recommend not squeezing in too much as things will start to blur together and you may find yourself getting fatigued. If you’re limited on time (say, you only have a month or so), pick your favorite neighboring countries to explore in-depth. That way, you’ll still get a bit of the backpacking experience, but you won’t run yourself ragged.

As you plan your Europe backpacking route, consider the best time to visit each place . Southern Europe in particular gets very hot and very busy in the summertime but is very comfortable in the winter. The Low Countries are very gray and rainy in the fall and winter but have mild and lovely summers. 

Relatedly, countries like Austria and Switzerland, as well as the Scandinavian region, are typically not considered budget-friendly destinations. Depending on your funds, you may want to plan to spend a bit less time in these countries or forgo them entirely if you’re sticking to shoestring style travel. Off-season travel can also be a way to save if you can be flexible with dates!

If you’re travelling solo and are nervous about the safety aspect of your trip, we urge you not to worry. There are a number of really safe European countries with excellent tourist infrastructure in place. This means that you can backpack worry-free!

1. Western Europe Backpacking Route: The ‘Grand Tour’

This tour starts in London because Heathrow is a great international hub for incoming flights, but we encourage you to shop around a bit and see if another city (like Paris, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam) is a cheaper place for you to start. 

London is one of the world’s premier cities. It’s absolutely massive and would take months to explore in full. As such, it’s good to prioritize based on your budget and interests. First-time visitors usually hit the following sites: 

• Westminster Abbey
• Buckingham Palace (the residence of the Queen) and its changing of the guard ceremony for royal enthusiasts
• The Houses of Parliament
• Number 10 Downing Street
• The Churchill War Rooms for fans of politics
• Big Ben clock tower
• The (free!) British Museum
• The Victoria and Albert Museum
• The Tower of London (home to the Crown Jewels)
• The National Gallery
• Covent Garden and Neal’s Yard 
• Piccadilly Circus
• Notting Hill for its Portobello Road Market

If you’d like to stay in England a bit longer, consider some cozy cottage time in the Cotswolds , a football match and a few pints in Liverpool or Manchester , or some seaside charm in Brighton . You can also visit famed educational institutions at Oxford and Cambridge , as well as Roman-era baths in Bath . 

Glasgow has great art galleries, like the notable Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. It’s the largest city in Scotland, particularly known for an architecture style that mixes Art Nouveau and Victorian styles. 

Edinburgh , Scotland’s capital, is a great student city, with all sorts of things to do. Trek up Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill, visit the Edinburgh Castle and don’t forget to check out both the Old Town and New Town.

See more: Edinburgh itineraries.

Other great places to backpack in Scotland include Inverness , Dundee , and of course, Loch Ness where you can go monster hunting! The Cairngorms and Glencoe have beautiful mountains for hiking, and fans of critters will love the puffins, ponies, and otters on the Shetland Islands . 

Ireland and Northern Ireland

Dublin , Ireland’s capital, has castles, museums, cathedrals, universities, and of course, great pub culture in the Temple Bar area. St. Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park are beautiful emerald green spaces, and the Guinness headquarters is here as well. 

Galway is an easy day trip from Dublin by bus and is a great example of relaxed, charming Irish life. The home to the Claddagh ring, its Latin Quarter still has medieval city walls, and the city is quaint and adorable.  

Many visitors flock to the astounding Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, which offer 14 kilometers of sea cliffs along the Wild Atlantic Way.

If you’d like to spend more time in Ireland, the Aran Islands , or smaller cities or counties like Cork , Killarney , and Sligo are good options. Ireland also has fabulous nature to explore and ample national parks for hiking, swimming, and outdoor fun. 

Northern Ireland is also a destination to consider, famous for the gorgeous Giant’s Causeway. A quick stop at the beautiful capital of Belfast is also highly recommended.

The Netherlands

Amsterdam is perhaps best known for its tolerant attitude towards partying, prostitution, and recreational drug use, but it’s so much more than that. 

The canal area (Grachtengordel) is like stepping into the Golden Age, the museum district (home to the Rijksmuseum, van Gogh Museum, and more) is world-class, and the funkier Noord and West districts allow you more of a taste of local life. Haarlem is just 15 minutes away by train and offers much of what Amsterdam does so well (in terms of cute houses, cute canals, and cute cafes) with a lot less chaos. 

Rotterdam was bombed almost to nonexistence in World War II, so it’s one of the only cities in the Netherlands that doesn’t have the Golden Age architecture. Instead, it is modern and utterly cool, a stark departure from the rest of the country. 

If you’re visiting in the spring, don’t miss the world-famous tulips in bloom at the Keukenhof or other family-owned farms in the Lisse area. 

Other lovely day trips in the Netherlands include Giethoorn , called the ‘Venice of the Netherlands’ for its extensive canal system; the cheese market in Alkmaar ; the collection of windmills in Zaanse Schans ; Utrecht , a quaint college town with ‘double-decker’ canals; the hub of human rights in The Hague ; pottery and history in Delft ; or the North Frisian Islands on the Wadden Sea for super-cool seascapes and sand dunes, namely Texel . 

Don’t miss these Amsterdam itineraries written by our resident writer!

The capital of Belgium , Brussels has a chic and cosmopolitan vibe. You can’t miss the Grand Place with its stunning guildhalls, as well as the Town Hall. Belgians are also well-known for fries and waffles, treats to indulge in on any visit!  

History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the historic diamond district in Antwerp , as well as the Ardennes , the site of the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. For your dose of medieval charm, check out Ghent or Bruges , which aren’t too far from Brussels.

Luxembourg is a great day trip if you’re passing through en route to France or Germany. It has medieval fortifications, a cute old town called the Grund, and a fascinating interconnected tunnel network called the Bock Casemates. You can see the city from above from the Chemin de la Corniche viewpoint. 

If you’d like to stay longer, other cute cities include Clervaux , the medieval castle in Vianden , and the historic abbey at Echternach . 

Berlin has fantastic clubs and nightlife, a wide range of museums on Museum Island, and a variety of historical monuments, including the Brandenburg Gate and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. 

It has a very different vibe to other German and European cities, much grittier and more modern, and is also quite budget-friendly. Close by on the metro, visit Potsdam for your dose of royal life, with its beautiful Sanssouci Palace and park. 

Munich is a popular destination for tourists, and for good reason. Bavarian culture is perhaps what most foreigners associate with Germany , and you can have your fill of beers, pretzels, and German pub culture here. While away an afternoon at the English Garden, and don’t miss the Nymphenburg Palace and Gardens.

Frankfurt is a banking capital and financial center, as well as being the home of the European Central Bank. It also has a lot to offer tourists in terms of museums and culture. Note that this may be a good hub to fly into, as it is home to one of Europe’s largest airports.

As you can see on a map, Germany is quite large! If you like German culture or want to brush up on your German language skills, this is a great place to spend some extra time if you have it. 

Other popular cities in Germany include Hamburg , Düsseldorf, Stuttgart, Nuremberg, Heidelberg, and Hanover. Baden Baden and Freiburg in the Black Forest are beautiful as well, and there are myriad quaint small towns in the countryside to enjoy. 

Czech Republic

Prague is nicknamed ‘the City of a Hundred Spires,’ due to its baroque Old Town and surrounding Gothic churches. While a relatively small city, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations due to its quaint and compact center. Don’t miss the Astronomical Clock show and the iconic Charles Bridge, which dates back to the 1400s.

Český Krumlov is best known for its castle and mix of baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic styles. For more modernist architecture, check out Brno . If you’d like to visit the home of one of the world’s most popular beers, check out Pilsen .

Vienna is another historical heavyweight, with loads of cultural contributions and museums. It is very calm and quiet for a large city, and you’ll enjoy strolling through its parks and gardens, including the Hapsburg summer residence at Schönbrunn.

Salzburg packs quite a punch for a small town. While perhaps most famous as the setting for the iconic film The Sound of Music , it is also the birthplace of Mozart and has a fantastic medieval fortification called the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Don’t miss the great vegan food available here !

Fans of winter sports will enjoy skiing at Soelden , Saalbach , and Lech , in addition to the winter dreamland at Innsbruck . Many visitors also flock to Hallstatt for the classic view of the church reflected on the water. 

Milan is one of the world’s fashion capitals and home to the Duomo of Milan, one of the world’s most iconic churches. Nearby Lake Como is a haunt of the rich and famous during the summer months, but is lovely off-season as well (and cheaper!)

Rome is a must-stop on any European backpacking route, for fantastic cuisine, awe-inspiring history, and beautiful fountains. Don’t miss the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon for history, and the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and Spanish Steps for iconic photo opportunities. St. Peter’s Square and Basilica are iconic Catholic sites, and the Vatican Museums hold many treasures. 

Venice is a one-of-a-kind place, built exclusively on canals. The Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica (and its resident pigeons), and yearly Carnival celebrations attract a lot of visitors, and you can’t miss the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge. Keep in mind it gets very muggy (sometimes stinky) and crowded in the summertime.

Florence, San Gimignano, Lucca, Siena, and broader Tuscany are in a class all their own, with rolling countryside, Renaissance icons like Michelangelo’s David and the Duomo cathedral, and wonderful cuisine and wine. A quick pit stop in Pisa to see its iconic Leaning Tower is never a bad idea while you’re in the area.

In the south, check out Naples, Sorrento , and the Amalfi Coast for a bit of a seaside escape. Neapolitan pizza is arguably the world’s most famous and originated here. Nearby Pompeii is quite a sight to behold, totally buried under the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD. Alternatively, consider Cinque Terre for a similar vibe to the Amalfi Coast. 

There are countless things to do in Italy , and it may be best to prioritize based on what you like best – history, the outdoors, the coast, etc. as well as your budget. While cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are considered must-sees, customize the rest of your time in Italy with a mix of other things. 

Landscapes, cultural contributions, weather, and dialects vary hugely depending on where you are, and you’ll want to get a good mix in order to make the most of your trip. In general, southern Italy is much cheaper than northern Italy. 

Switzerland

Switzerland is a very pricey location, and as such, may be a country to skip unless you have your heart set on certain destinations. Geneva and Zurich are its most popular destinations, for beautiful lake views and glamorous city life. Its smaller cities, like Basel , Lucerne , and Lausanne are lovely as well, with Interlaken a hub for winter sports fans.

Paris is another of the must-sees on any Europe backpacking itinerary. Similarly to London or Rome, you could spend months in Paris easily, so it’s important to prioritize based on your budget and preferences. Don’t forget, there are plenty of free things to do in Paris too!

Alongside its most popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, don’t miss Sacre Coeur and the Moulin Rouge in the iconic Montmartre neighborhood; the Latin Quarter; shopping (or window-shopping) along the Champs-Elysées; the Luxembourg and Tuileries gardens; and its variety of other museums, like the d’Orsay, the Orangerie, and the Pompidou. 

Versailles is an easy day trip from Paris as well. If you’re spending a lot of time in museums, consider buying a museum pass. It includes a surprising wealth of museums, and if you plan accordingly it will save you a lot of money. 

To get out of the big city, consider spending some time in Provence on the Cote d’Azur or Nice on the French Riviera. Both are fairly posh locales, but possible to do on a budget with some planning. 

Wine fans can flock to Burgundy or Bordeaux , and film aficionados to Cannes . The beaches at Normandy are a sobering and reflective place, and in the intriguing Alsace-Lorraine region, don’t miss the half-timbered houses in quaint Strasbourg , Kaysersberg , or Colmar . 

Also read: Top Destinations for Wine in Europe .

Madrid is a hub of culture, from the amazing art museum El Prado to its wide boulevards and romantic Buen Retiro park. You can also check out the Royal Palace, home to Spain’s royal family, the main square in Plaza Mayor, or catch a Real Madrid game at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Don’t miss the delicious ‘Chocolate y Churros’ at the San Miguel Market. 

Barcelona , the capital of the semi-autonomous Catalonia region, is home to whimsical architecture from native sons Gaudí and Miró , like the Park Guell, Casa Batlló, and Sagrada Familia church. Another church you shouldn’t miss is the iconic Cathedral of the Sea or Maria del Mar. The famous shopping area La Rambla is home to Mercado de la Boqueria, where you can get lots of fresh juices and other goodies. 

Sevilla is a regal place, boasting the sprawling Plaza de España, a massive gothic cathedral, and Royal Alcázar palace. The former Moorish presence is quite felt here in converted architecture like La Giralda, a former minaret-turned belltower. Sevilla is also the birthplace of flamenco dancing, so be sure to catch that while you’re in town. 

Overall, the south of Spain is a particularly wonderful part of the country, with a relaxed vibe, amazing cuisine, and the bonus of being a bit more budget-friendly. 

Check out Valencia, Córdoba, Granada , Ronda, and Málaga for sunshine, citrus fruit, and stunning historical sites like the Mezquita in Córdoba and the Alhambra in Granada . 

For something different, consider spending some time in Bilbao and San Sebastián in the Basque Country, beautiful and modern cities with museums and skyscrapers. Relatedly, one of Europe’s most popular hikes is in this area: the Camino de Santiago . While formerly a religious pilgrimage, many people undertake this journey for non-religious reasons. There are places to stay each night and you can walk anywhere from a day to several weeks. 

If you’re seeking a beach-and-partying break, the beaches in the Canary Islands or the Balearics, like Ibiza, Tenerife , and Majorca . can’t be beaten. Keep in mind transport and lodging can get very pricey in the wintertime, as these boast some of the warmest temperatures in the region. 

Lisbon is a fantastic budget destination, with great weather, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back vibe. The iconic yellow streetcars are a quaint way to travel, or you can trek up the hills to the breathtaking São Jorge Castle for sweeping city views. Don’t miss the lovely azulejo tiles adorning the buildings, and the cool fortifications at Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.   

Close to Lisbon, don’t miss the unbelievable castle and gardens at Sintra . Porto has a cute, cobblestoned medieval district and (of course) fantastic port, and Faro boasts Moorish walls and a great gateway to the rest of the beautiful Algarve region. 

Athens is a vibrant ‘old-meets-new’ place, boasting ancient relics like the Acropolis complex and the Parthenon, amid a great food scene, parks, and gardens.

The Greek Islands are a really special destination suitable for all sorts of backpackers. Party animals will love Mykonos, while Santorini’s white-and-blue buildings are a common bucket-list destination. Milos and Paros are a bit more off-the-beaten-path, and Crete is quite large, perhaps giving you more bang for your buck. Keep in mind the Greek Islands are not often a budget destination, so if you’re traveling shoestring consider planning ahead and comparing transportation options.    

2. Southern Europe Backpacking Route: The ‘History Buff’

History buffs will love Southern Europe for its jaw-dropping array of ancient ruins, medieval fortifications, art, and beyond. 

Southern Spain has a wealth of historical attractions. In Andalucía alone you have the  Mezquita in Córdoba , the Alcazaba in Málaga , the Real Alcazar in Sevilla , the Alhambra in Granada , and Baños Árabes and Puente Nuevo in Ronda . Outside of Andalucía, Tarragona has a Roman Amphitheare, and Cádiz has the Castillo de Santa Ana, as well as a storied naval history.

Southern France has Roman history, Gallic history, papal history, and beyond, with innumerable sites to check out. Visit the iconic double-walled medieval fortifications in Carcassonne ; canals and chateaus in Annecy ; scenes of papal intrigue in Avignon and Orange ; the site of a 2nd-century fortified town in Uzès ; the ‘red city’ of Albi ; Roman ruins in Nîmes ; and The Calanques from the fortifications of Cassis . 

Larger cities in southern France are chock-full of history as well. Arles is one of the oldest cities in France and pre-dates the Romans. Marseilles was originally founded by the Greeks and is thought to be the oldest city in France. Toulouse changed hands from the Visigoths to the Merovingian and Carolingian Franks, originally known as Tolosa in Roman times.

Check out the Bonifacio Citadel and Citadelle de Calvi, as well as Napoleon’s birthplace in Corsica (part of France.)

Italy has a wealth of historical attractions, and not just in Rome. After you’ve seen the Colosseum, the Appian Way, the Forum, and beyond in Rome , be sure to check out some sites in the rest of the country. 

In southern Italy, check out the scene of the volcanic eruption at Pompeii and Herculaneum, lovingly-preserved Doric-style temples at Paestum; ancient cave dwellings at Matera ; and intriguing stone huts in Alberobello . For Napoleon buffs, you can also visit Elba , where he was exiled in 1814.

Sicily has a wealth of ancient sites and offers a great bang for your buck for a Euro backpacking trip. Agrigento is famous for its Valley of the Temples, and the Villa Romana del Casale outside Piazza Armerina boasts one of the most complete mosaics collections in existence today. 

Siracusa and nearby Ortigia Island also have large complexes of ruins in excellent conditions, well worth at least a day or two to explore. For other standalone sites on the island, consider the Tempio di Segesta in Trapani , the Cathedral in Palermo ; the Necropolis of Pantalica ; and Taormina’s Greek theater.

UNESCO describes Valletta, Malta as “one of the most concentrated historical areas in the world.” Established by the Knights of St. John, a Catholic order, Valletta has fabulous gardens, churches, and fortifications dating back to the 1500s. Even older than Valletta is Mdina , the capital of Malta before the arrival of the Knights. 

It goes without saying that a large draw of Greece is its historical offerings, similarly to Italy. As mentioned in the itinerary above, you can’t miss the Acropolis and Parthenon complex in Athens , and the country is littered with other ancient sites of interest. 

A small selection of your endless historical options include:

• Byzantine frescoes in Mystras
• The Oracle at Delphi
• Eastern Orthodox monasteries atop spindly rock formations in Meteora
• The site of the original Olympic Games at Olympia
• The canals at Corinth
• The world’s oldest city in Knossos , Crete
• The Ancient Theatre at the Sanctuary of Asclepius in Epidaurus
• The Mycenae archaeological site of Trojan War fame
• Delos , the birthplace of Apollo 
• The remains of the walled city of Philippi
• The site of the Battle of Thermopylae

North Macedonia

Similar to Greece, North Macedonia has much to offer the history buff. The area around Skopje offers fortresses, bridges, and a market dating back to the 12th century. There is also a Byzantine fortified town at Bargala , the ‘Jerusalem of the Baltics’ in Ohrid , the archaeological site of Tauresium in Gradište , and another fabulous fortress in Isar .

3. Eastern Europe Backpacking Route: The ‘Budget Maximizer’

Eastern Europe is known for being a budget-friendly destination, and this is definitely true. The region is also chock-full of amazing cities, nature, and things to do and explore so it’s a win-win for aspiring backpackers! 

You can start this tour in the Czech Republic, flying into Prague and following the Grand Tour itinerary for Prague, Český Krumlov, Brno , and beyond . From there, head to Slovakia! 

Slovakia has the most castles per capita in Europe, and its capital of Bratislava has a charming old town that is pedestrian-only, lined with cute shops and restaurants. In addition to its castle and castle ruins, it also has majestic churches in different styles.

Košice dates back to the 13th century, and you can still visit the medieval city walls, with the largest preserved historic city center in Slovakia. Today, it is mainly known for steel production, but its historic center is arguably the best in the country. 

For some nature, go bear-watching in the High Tatras National Park or hiking in the aptly-named Slovak Paradise National Park .

Hungary is also a great alternative in which to start this Europe backpacking route, flying into the large hub of Budapest . Budapest is an absolutely fantastic city, with a variety of attractions at a great price point. 

The city is on a geographic fault line, so you have lots of options for thermal baths: check out Instagram-hyped Szechenyi, avoid the tourists at less popular but equally gorgeous Gellert, or have a truly local experience at Lukacs. 

Don’t miss the jaw-dropping Hungarian Parliament building, stroll along the Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church, and explore both Buda and Pest via the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. Have a beer at one of Budapest’s ruin bars, filled with all sorts of oddities, and try some Hungarian goodies at the Central Market Hall. 

For a less urban experience, check out serene Lake Balaton , try some local wines in caves in the Valley of the Beautiful Women in Eger , or cycle around quaint Szentendre .

Slovenia is also a great destination for those seeking a mix of smaller, beautiful cities and lots of nature opportunities. Capital Ljubljana has a similar vibe to Prague and Budapest (with lovely castles, parks, bridges, and museums), and Piran is famous for Venetian architecture along the Adriatic coast. 

Arguably the most popular location in Slovenia is Lake Bled and its iconic Bled Island and church, surrounded by surreal turquoise water. The Julian Alps surround the lake and are a great, nearby location for hiking. 

Croatia has long been a favorite destination for backpackers due to low prices and few tourists. However, Game of Thrones has led to large crowds visiting very small Dubrovnik (AKA Kings’ Landing.) 

Split is also on the Adriatic Sea and is fairly similar, but a bit bigger. This can lead to more reasonable accommodation prices and a bit more breathing room. Croatia’s capital, Zagreb , is also worth a visit for very different architecture to Split and Dubrovnik in a more Austro-Hungarian style, and also boasts the beautiful Medvednica area just north of the city. 

For natural splendor, nothing beats Plitvice Lakes National Park , a series of gorgeous turquoise lakes linked quasi-vertically by waterfalls. There are also all sorts of beaches in Croatia if you’d like to take a few days to relax by the water, like Golden Horn Beach ‘ s world-famous white sand. 

Montenegro is a great destination for budget travelers and an ideal place for those seeking something a bit less touristy, but still gorgeous. The area around Kotor resembles a Scandinavian fjord, and the Stari Grad (Old Town) and city walls are fantastic to scramble around.

The capital Podgorica isn’t as exciting as other Eastern European capitals but has a cool clock tower and proximity to Lake Skadar National Park . If you want to splash out a bit, consider a visit to resort island Sveti Stefan , one of the most popular destinations in the country. 

Serbia is often overlooked in favor of Croatia and Montenegro but is absolutely worth a visit. Capital city Belgrade is lovely, with competing Roman, Ottoman, Byzantine, and Austro-Hungarian influences as well as great green spaces and cuisine. Novi Sad has the Petrovaradin Fortress and its network of tunnels, as well as very different architecture and vibes to Belgrade. 

Bulgaria is a treasure, with a long and storied history displayed in its folklore, like traditional dancing and arts and crafts. It is also said to be the birthplace of yogurt! Capital Sofia is a great place to see all of Bulgaria’s cultural attractions, or you can visit Nessebar on the Black Sea for a completely different vibe, and its world-famous Sunny Beach. For history and archaeology fans, check out Plovdiv in southern Bulgaria for Roman ruins. 

Did you know? Bulgaria is one of the cheapest countries in Europe !

Romania is perhaps most famous for its mythical Transylvania region, home to beautiful gateway cities Cluj-Napoca and Brașov , medieval fortified towns like Sighișoara, and world-famous Bran Castle , said to be where Dracula lived. 

In the Bucegi Mountains , hike to natural rock formations Babele and the Sphinx, or go underground for salt mine tours at Salina Turda . Capital Bucharest is known for its massive, Soviet-era Palace of Parliament and Old Town Lipscani district. 

Ukraine also has a variety of places of interest for budget travelers. Capital Kyiv has beautiful Eastern Orthodox-style churches, museums, and a reconstructed medieval gate. Lviv is a great place to see Polish and Austro-Hungarian culture collide, and has a world-famous opera and ballet that may be worth a splurge for tickets. 

For something a bit different, Odesa on the Black Sea is also famous for its opera and ballet, as well as the iconic stairway from The Battleship Potemkin and beautiful sea views. Intrepid travelers may be interested in visiting the nuclear disaster site Chernobyl . A tour to the exclusion zone has been determined to be safe and is possible with an official guide. 

Poland has a wealth of cities, attractions, and natural wonders to offer travelers. Similar to other countries in the region, it is a great budget destination, with fantastic food, friendly people, and enough museums and cultural contributions to entertain any tourist for years. 

Capital Warsaw suffered a lot of damage in World War II and was almost entirely rebuilt. The Soviet-style buildings aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but don’t make the mistake of skipping the city! Spend some time eating pierogi, strolling Łazienki Park, visiting the Warsaw Uprising Museum and POLIN Museum, and taking a tour of the Royal Castle as an absolute minimum. 

Cute Krakow is much more popular with tourists for its medieval Rynek Glówny quarter, as well as its proximity to underground marvel Wieliczka salt mine and concentration camp Auschwitz . Poland also has a variety of former German cities with a distinct architectural flair, like Wroclaw , Gdansk , and Gdynia , which are all highly worth a visit. 

In Lithuania, don’t miss baroque capital city Vilnius and nearby Trakai Island for its fairytale castle. At the Curonian Spit , you can see sand dunes that stretch up to 35 meters in height, and those seeking something a bit spookier can visit the sculpture garden at the Hill of Witches. A popular pilgrimage site is the Hill of Crosses , where over 100,000 crosses have been placed over the years. 

Latvia is also an often-underrated country to visit. Its capital Riga has slightly different architecture to its Eastern European contemporaries, with a lot of wood-based and art nouveau buildings at a similarly great price point for budget travelers. 

Nearby Rundāle Palace has a similar aesthetic to Versailles, and Jūrmala is a fantastic resort town that is also close to Riga.

The last stop on this Eastern European tour is in Estonia, a small country with over 1500 small islands. Its capital, Tallinn , has a cute old town with various structures dating back to the 13th century, as well as a medieval fortification tower called Kiek in de Kök. 

Seaside resort Pärnu is known for its distinctive wooden villa-style houses and the ability to mud-bathe. Bog and wetland enthusiasts will love Lahemaa National Park , the former USSR’s first national park.  

4. Around Europe Backpacking Route: The ‘Whole Shebang’

And for those of you who refuse to take your backpack off, we’ve created this final mammoth Europe itinerary. An amalgamation of the Western and Eastern routes (with a couple of tweaks for logistical reasons), this comprehensive Europe backpacking route showcases the best of what the continent has to offer, from balmy beaches, to dramatic castles and everything in between!

The adventure is limitless with this Europe itinerary, you just need to hope that your wallet is too!

Ways to Travel Around Europe

One of the best things about backpacking in Europe is the relative ease of transport between countries. As you plan out your trip, start by analyzing how you can best get between the countries you want to visit. 

A tip here is to combine trains, buses, and flights strategically. These vary widely in price, and you may be surprised at what deals you may find. 

Overall, the big advantage to buses and trains is that they usually drop you off at a more central location, sparing you transport to and from a farther-away airport. However, sometimes you may find that flights are the best fit for your budget or timeline. 

Traveling by train is often considered to be the quintessential way of getting around Europe. Companies like Eurail offer customizable train passes between 33 countries, with regional options and timing options (e.g. 15 days, 30 days, etc.) now on a mobile app. 

This ‘all-in-one’ style pass can be as simple as a hop-on-hop-off, where you show your pass to board the train of your choice. However, some places (like France and Germany) sometimes charge supplements or have a limit on how many passengers can board with a pass per train. For that reason, you may want to book tickets in advance during busy seasons, and always make sure that the journey you are taking is included in your pass! 

The associated downside to Eurail is that it is quite pricey, so you should do the math carefully to make sure you’ll actually save money with this pass. As a rule of thumb, it is largely worth it if you’re spending a lot of time in countries like Switzerland. Conversely, if you’re doing a trip mostly focused on central or eastern Europe, it’s probably cheaper to buy single tickets. 

Although train travel is the most talked-about transport for backpackers in Europe, don’t count out buses ! Companies like Flixbus and Eurolines sometimes have absolutely jaw-droppingly low fares, and charter buses are largely comfortable and reliable. 

Like trains, buses also usually drop you off in central locations, and it’s a really economical way to get from place to place. The associated downside is, of course, time. Buses get stuck in traffic and delays can be common, as well as the fact that buses are without a doubt slower than trains and planes. 

Like Asia, Europe has a variety of budget airlines that have ultra-low fares, like RyanAir, EasyJet, Wizz Air, and beyond. Be warned though, f the fares seem too good to be true, that’s because sometimes they are. 

These airlines are infamous for nickel-and-diming travelers, with add-ons for anything larger than a (small) backpack and hidden fees. However, that said, if you’re at a point in your journey where you have a longer distance to travel, or want to visit an island or somewhere logistically more challenging, you should definitely look into plane travel.

Time to Plan Your Europe Backpacking Trip!

Backpacking through Europe is definitely something that you should take advantage of. It’s totally doable to stick to a budget with some savvy planning, and you will make memories that will last a lifetime. 

We hope this article has helped to show you a few ways to put together your dream Europe backpacking trip. Of course, these routes are just a few among infinite options! 

In case nothing has tickled your fancy just yet, we’ll leave you with some more food for thought… 

• An island tour through the Canary Islands, the Azores, the Greek islands, Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Malta
• A royal jaunt through castles in the British Isles (England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland) France, Germany, Romania, and Slovenia
• An Alpine ski bum tour through Switzerland, Austria, Italy, France, and Monaco

If you have questions about specific countries not mentioned, or have another idea for cool groupings, we’d love it if you’d share it with us in the comments! Happy travels!

Tegan George & Alex McKenzie

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