Budget Travel Itineraries for Backpacking in Europe

Explore these 3 diverse budget travel itineraries for an unforgettable backpacking adventure across Europe.
By Taylor

Backpacking through Europe can be one of the most rewarding experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich histories—all while keeping your wallet happy! Here are three practical examples of budget travel itineraries for backpacking through Europe, designed to help you explore without breaking the bank.

Example 1: The Classic Western Europe Loop

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Perfect for first-time backpackers, this itinerary covers iconic cities in Western Europe while minimizing travel costs and maximizing experiences.

You’ll start in London, make your way through Paris and Amsterdam, then finish in Brussels—all while enjoying affordable accommodations and local food.

  1. Day 1-3: London, England

    • Accommodation: Hostels (around $30/night)
    • Activities: Free walking tours, visit the British Museum (free entry), explore Hyde Park.
    • Meals: Grab a meal from local markets or try fish and chips at a pub (approx. $10).

  2. Day 4-6: Paris, France

    • Travel: Eurostar train (book in advance, around $50)
    • Accommodation: Budget hostels (around $35/night)
    • Activities: Visit the Louvre (free on the first Sunday of the month), stroll along the Seine, and enjoy street crepes (approx. $5).

  3. Day 7-9: Amsterdam, Netherlands

    • Travel: Train from Paris (around $40)
    • Accommodation: Hostel or budget hotel (around $30/night)
    • Activities: Free walking tours, visit the Anne Frank House (entry \(12), and bike rentals (around \)10/day).

  4. Day 10-11: Brussels, Belgium

    • Travel: Train from Amsterdam (around $25)
    • Accommodation: Budget hostels (around $30/night)
    • Activities: Visit the Grand Place, enjoy Belgian waffles (approx. \(3), and explore the Atomium (entry \)15).

Notes

  • Consider getting a Eurail Pass if you plan to travel extensively by train.
  • Always check for free museum days in each city to save money.

Example 2: The Balkans Adventure

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For those looking to explore off the beaten path, this itinerary takes you through the beautiful and budget-friendly Balkans region, showcasing stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures.

  1. Day 1-3: Dubrovnik, Croatia

    • Accommodation: Hostels (around $25/night)
    • Activities: Walk the city walls (entry $30), swim at the beach, and explore Old Town.

  2. Day 4-5: Kotor, Montenegro

    • Travel: Bus from Dubrovnik (around $15)
    • Accommodation: Budget guesthouses (around $20/night)
    • Activities: Hike to the fortress for panoramic views, enjoy local seafood (approx. $10).

  3. Day 6-8: Tirana, Albania

    • Travel: Bus from Kotor (around $20)
    • Accommodation: Hostels (around $15/night)
    • Activities: Visit Skanderbeg Square, explore the Bunk’Art museum (entry \(5), and try local dishes (approx. \)8).

  4. Day 9-11: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

    • Travel: Bus from Tirana (around $25)
    • Accommodation: Budget hostels (around $20/night)
    • Activities: Free walking tours, visit the Tunnel Museum (entry \(5), and try cevapi (approx. \)6).

Notes

  • The Balkans are known for being budget-friendly, so take advantage of local markets for meals.
  • Always check bus schedules ahead of time, as they can vary.

Example 3: The Northern European Journey

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Ideal for lovers of nature and history, this itinerary takes you through Scandinavia and the Baltic region, offering breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience.

  1. Day 1-3: Stockholm, Sweden

    • Accommodation: Hostels (around $35/night)
    • Activities: Visit Gamla Stan (free), take a ferry to Djurgården (around \(10), and enjoy a picnic in the park with local groceries (approx. \)15).

  2. Day 4-5: Helsinki, Finland

    • Travel: Ferry from Stockholm (around $30)
    • Accommodation: Hostels (around $30/night)
    • Activities: Explore Suomenlinna Fortress (entry \(8), visit the Market Square, and have a meal at a local cafe (approx. \)12).

  3. Day 6-8: Tallinn, Estonia

    • Travel: Ferry from Helsinki (around $20)
    • Accommodation: Budget hostels (around $25/night)
    • Activities: Visit the medieval Old Town (free), check out the Kumu Art Museum (entry \(6), and try local pastries (approx. \)4).

  4. Day 9-11: Riga, Latvia

    • Travel: Bus from Tallinn (around $15)
    • Accommodation: Budget hostels (around $20/night)
    • Activities: Explore the Art Nouveau district, visit the Central Market, and enjoy traditional Latvian food (approx. $10).

Notes

  • Look for multi-city ferry passes that can save you money if you’re traveling between these cities.
  • Utilize public transport in each city to save on travel costs.

With these examples of budget travel itineraries for backpacking through Europe, you can embark on an adventure that is fulfilling, exciting, and easy on your wallet. Happy travels!