The Top European Destinations For Backpackers On A Budget

Hilla Ofman

Traveling is an expensive hobby. Luckily, there is a solution. We introduce the best value cities in Europe for backpackers on a budget. As the saying goes, ‘travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer’. Time to start planning your next summer vacation.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges | Belgium

If history is your passion, travel to Bruges. Go back in time as you enjoy the city’s many medieval buildings. Here you can visit a local Chocolate Museum or explore colorful scenery through a canal trip. Since it is named one of the cheapest cities in Europe, the destination is ideal for travelers on a budget. Spend the night at the Snuffel Backpacker Hostel. The accommodation puts an emphasis on hospitality, offering informative staff and helpful facilities for backpackers.

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Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
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CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
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1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

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CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
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2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
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CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
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3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
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SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
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1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

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SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
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2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
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Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
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1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

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Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
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2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
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Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
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3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
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Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
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1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

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Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
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2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
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Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
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3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
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Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
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1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

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Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
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2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
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Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
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3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
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Berlin, Germany

Berlin | Germany

There is no doubt that nowadays, Berlin has become a creative hub, characterized by its young and vibrant energy. The city is a cultural hotspot offering an abundance of art galleries, museums, music venues and nightlife. It is also surprisingly cheap compared to other capitals across Western Europe. Here, a wide range of affordable hostels can be found. One recommended place is PangeaPeople hostel, which offers a good combination of price, comfort and location. To save money, go on a free city tour and learn more about Berlin’s history and culture.

Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki | Greece

Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, is a modern metropolis displaying a crossroad of diverse cultures. The destination is known for its young population and student vibe. This is because one of the largest campuses in Greece, the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, is located here. Backpackers looking to meet new people will particularly enjoy this city. Visitors can also explore the area’s ancient monuments and rich history or shop till they drop. With beautiful beaches, a thriving culture and affordable prices, Thessaloniki truly has it all.

Split, Croatia

Split | Croatia

Split is famous for hosting the Ultra Europe music festival, which attracts thousands of visitors every summer. But the town has become a hot spot for tourists all year long, as it’s fairly cheap and offers so much to see and do. For relaxation, tan at the beach. For shops, cafes, galleries, and cathedrals, walk around Diocletian’s palace. The Roman monument, located in the city center, is full of history and is considered a UNESCO world heritage site. In Split, the residents are relaxed and informal and the scenery, with mountains and light blue waters, is truly awe-inspiring.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona | Spain

An avant-garde and modern city, anyone can fall in-love with Barcelona. It’s full of life and ideal for the young, sight-seeing here is endless. Besides the beach, top tourist attractions include the impressive Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Camp Nou football stadium. The city is home to the best of modern art and architecture and is famous for displaying the works of Dali and Gaudí. And Barcelona can certainly be budget friendly. Spain is known to be cheaper than other European countries. Backpackers can save money by visiting local restaurants, avoiding tourist traps and finding cheap hostel deals.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam | Netherlands

This list would not be complete without Amsterdam, a city made for backpacking. This small European capital is like an urban village characterized by its friendly people, magical canals, and artistic heritage. It is budget friendly as well, with its range of inexpensive hostels, outdoor markets and free walking tours. Cycle through the city, order a picnic basket and dine at the park, or visit the local Van Gogh museum. For a memorable stay, reserve the famous Flying Pig hostel. Take the pub crawl tour and meet other backpackers from around the globe.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest | Hungary

Young travelers backpacking through Europe cannot miss out on Budapest. You can meet friendly locals, stroll through the lively streets, rent a bike, or relax in a hot pool in one of the city’s many thermal baths. Another element adding to the city’s unique character is the Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you’re into historical architecture, wine tasting, high quality cuisine or hot springs, you are in for a treat.

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Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

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It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

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I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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