Europe Backpacking Tours

If you want to immerse yourself in different cultures and experience some incredible adventures along the way, a Europe backpacking tour should be at the top of your bucket list. Hop around the continent or explore a single country like Greece — either way, this style of travel delivers the perfect balance of must-see sights and once-in-a-lifetime activities!

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Backpacking Europe routes

Need some inspiration for your Europe backpacking itinerary? From the picturesque canals of Amsterdam to the dreamy beaches of Mykonos, the backpacking routes below cover some of the continent’s most iconic cities, stunning Mediterranean islands, and can’t-miss sights. Best of all, these destinations are well-connected by trains, planes, and buses, so travelling between them is a breeze.

Western Europe Highlights

Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, and the Colosseum — tick off some major bucket list items with this classic route.

Central Europe Highlights

Brimming with fascinating history and jaw-dropping architecture, these captivating cities encompass the very best of Central Europe.

Greek Island Hopping Highlights

If your perfect holiday involves sunshine, ancient ruins, and idyllic islands, this itinerary is the ideal choice.

Athens
Mykonos
Santorini
Ios

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Backpacking Northern Europe

If you want to travel slightly off the well-trodden tourist trail, Northern Europe might just be the perfect option for your European backpacking adventure. Destinations in this region — including Scandinavia, Finland, Iceland, and the Baltics — boast some of the most beautiful, diverse, and otherworldly landscapes on the planet. Discover the best of these underrated gems on the following tours:

Iceland Express
Duration: 5 days
Highlights: Explore the Golden Circle route, experience the sheer power of the Gullfoss (Golden) double waterfall, soak in the famous Blue Lagoon

Scandi Highlights
Duration: 7 days
Highlights: Explore the city of Olso, experience Stockholm by bike, see the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen

Absolute North
Duration: 12 days
Highlights: Soak up the scenery at Nyhavn in Copenhagen, marvel at the gorgeous fjord coast of Norway, explore Tallinn’s medieval centre

Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights
Duration: 6 days
Highlights: See the geothermal fields of Geysir and Strokkur, gaze at the sky in search of the Northern Lights

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Should I backpack Europe?

The thought of jetting off to Europe for the first time can be both exhilarating and daunting. Although you’ll never forget those once-in-a-lifetime moments like laying eyes on the Eiffel Tower or riding a gondola through Venice, there are so many details to think about before you take the leap and book that dream holiday. Consider these pros and cons if you’re trying to decide whether a Europe backpacking adventure is the right trip for you:

Pros:

Backpacking is a fun and affordable way to make your Europe travel dreams a reality
With efficient and reliable trains, planes, and buses galore, it’s relatively easy to travel across the continent
Staying at hostels means you’ll end up meeting new people and making lifelong friends — even if you’re travelling solo

Cons:

Carrying your belongings on your back gets tiring fast
The crowds and queues at major attractions can quickly ruin your travel experience
Certain cities, such as Barcelona and Paris, are notorious for scams and pickpockets, so you’ll need to be extra cautious when travelling to these destinations

More about Europe

Biggest Country: Russia
Most popular destination: Paris
Most popular sight: Notre Dame
Backpacking cost per day: $40 - $100 per day
Length of the railway lines: 221,000

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