Backpacking Europe

Backpacking Europe truly is a unique backpacking experience. From the birthplace of modern civilisation to two-week long beer festivals, and from sun-baked beaches to beautiful gothic architecture: Europe has everything. And all within a relatively (by South American or Australian standards!) small area.

As a continent, Europe has more historical significance and has seen more changes than anywhere else on the planet, and evidence of these developments and changes can be found in all of Europe’s fifty countries – from ancient sites, such as the Colloseum, to world famous residences, such as Buckingham Palace. Aside from the sites to see, Europe is also a cultural hub - with stunning cities renowned for their galleries and museums, or just as great places to immerse yourself for a few days.

The other big plus to backpacking Europe is that you definitely won’t be alone! There is a massive backpacking scene - with hostels pretty much everywhere – and thousands of other backpackers from across the globe with the same idea as you. And, although Europe is relatively expensive (compared to, say, South East Asia ), outside of the capitals you needn’t spend a fortune (head to the southern end of the continent and the beaches). Plus – providing you have the correct visa, or are from the EU – you can pick up seasonal work easily to top up your travelling fund.

So, a destination with something to keep everyone happy, backpacking Europe truly is an experience to be savoured.

Where is it and what’s there?

The western countries of Mainland Europe, as well as the United Kingdom and Iceland, border the Atlantic Ocean, while the southern countries border the more temperate Mediterranean Sea. Several of Europe’s northern countries lie in the Baltic Sea. Russia and Turkey are considered ‘transcontinental’ countries, being part in Asia and part in Europe.

With regard to its layout, it is possible to break Europe into various peninsulas, with the two largest being mainland Europe and Scandinavia in the north, and three smaller being the Balkans, Italy and the Iberian Peninsula ( Spain and Portugal ).

It is difficult to generalise about the topography of Europe. Many countries have mountainous areas (France, Scotland and Greece for example), and many countries have beaches – and several have both! Suffice to say that if you’re backpacking around Europe for any length of time – you won’t get bored of the scenery.

Until recent times, Europe was literally and politically divided into the East and the West, with the East of Europe aligned with communist Russia. The end of this period is best signified by the reunification of Germany and the collapse of the Berlin Wall in 1989.

Countries of Europe:-

Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom and Vatican City.

The climate

One point to note if you’re looking at a world map when you’re planning your backpacking Europe trip, is that the Gulf Stream – a warm Atlantic current originating in the Gulf of Mexico – provides much of the continent with warmer air and higher temperate than other countries on a similar latitude. The prevailing westerly air currents coming in from the Atlantic keep average temperatures in Turin, for example, at 16°, whilst New York – on the same latitude - has an average annual temperature of only 12°.

The entire European continent has four distinct seasons, with summer running from June to September. Many European countries have a reputation as being wet pretty much year round. Although this reputation is not strictly deserved, many of the more central and western countries do experience extended periods of wet weather due to their proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, and seemingly never-ending periods of ‘grey’ weather are not uncommon! This greyness, however, is offset by the climate in southern Europe which – in summer – pretty much guarantees sunshine and perfect weather for the beach.

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Getting there and visas

In terms of visas, if you are a citizen of a country that is a member of the European Union (that’s not all European states) then you can travel without restriction around all other member states.

For citizens of other countries, you will need to get your head around which countries are ‘Schengen’ countries. These are countries that don’t have border control between one another, and include most central European countries, including France, Germany, Spain, Portugal and Italy. If you are travelling from outside of the EU and have the ‘right’ passport (including US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand), then you only require one Schengen visa and can travel unrestricted for up to three out of six months around all of the Schengen countries. To go to non-Schengen countries (the UK for example), you will require a separate visa.

Getting around

Flights – The number of budget airlines in Europe has increased massively over the last decade. All of Europe’s larger countries have budget airlines, and the larger airlines have generally reduced their short haul fares too, in order to compete with them. Although it can be a fairly thankless task, if you can be flexible on dates and can find the time to trawl the individual websites of budget airlines (many don’t work with the ‘portal’ websites) then you will find some very cheap fares. Although not quite as cheap a few years ago, you should be able to find fares of around €50 to fly between major European cities.

There are flights to all corners of Europe, and all corners of European countries. If you’re not working to a strict itinerary than you may also find some bargain flights to places that you’ve never heard of before – but that’s what backpacking Europe is all about hey!

Rail – Some countries have better rail networks than others. Most of the larger economic countries have excellent rail links. These can be expensive though, and you should always try to book in advance or check the fare online to avoid getting a shock. High speed rail networks can be found across the continent – with France’s TGV and Germany’s ICE amongst the quickest (with top speeds of around 180mph).

One of the most popular and best ways of backpacking Europe is through purchasing an InterRail (only available to residents of the EU), or an Eurail pass. These entitle you to unlimited travel on all trains within the region and the dates that your card covers. In terms of flexibility and freedom, they really can’t be beaten and are an understandably popular way of getting around. Even if a train can’t get you all the way to your destination (a Greek Island for example!) it will get you most of the way there. Plus you get to travel through countries and more rural area and, of course, it’s a much greener option than flying everywhere.

Bus – Bus travel is generally cheaper than travelling by train, but can take a lot longer. If you can find services which don’t stop when travelling longer distances then the payoff between cost and time can be worth it. You’re most likely use of the bus network will be when you’re reaching the further reaches of countries, when they’re an essential means of getting around.

Car – Europe has a comprehensive and essentially very safe road network. Some countries have toll roads, and some have different regulations around the type of driving licence that you need. In general terms, valid licences from most countries are accepted throughout Europe. If you want to be on the safe side then you could look at getting an International Driving Permit (IDP). You should also always check what evidence is required if you’re thinking of hiring a car anywhere (many companies will not hire to anybody under the age of 25, and you’ll need to check that they accept your licence).

Depending on how long you have and the places that you want to see, buying a car or van can be both economical and give you a true insight into European culture. Although not great if you’re just planning on taking in cities, if you plan to head to the coast or more off the beaten track then a car or van is a great option. If you have a van then you’re obviously saving on accommodation costs too, so your budget can stretch a lot further... A 9 month backpacking Europe (in-a-van) trip then!

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Things to see while backpacking Europe

Switzerland A small country with plenty to see. From the stunning lakes to the world famous jazz festival to the exclusive ski resorts. Ok, so not somewhere to spend week, but definitely worth hopping over the border for a few days and checking it out.

Berlin. It’s hard to believe Berlin’s background when you visit. It’s now a cosmopolitan cultural hub with plenty of museums and galleries to keep you busy in the day, and a particularly decadent nightlife to keep you amused after hours.

Croatia. Utterly perfect beaches and islands, a perfect European climate and cultural hubs and World Heritage sites like Dubrovnik. Plus it’s slightly off the beaten track and easy to find yourself somewhere to properly chill out for a few days and Croatia (away from the cities) is one of Europe’s cheapest countries.

Cote d’Azur. Or “the blue coast”. Paris may have the romance and the ‘must–see sites’, but France’s Cote d’Azur is where most Parisians decamp to for their summer breaks. Stunning beaches, beautiful people and amazing seafood.

London. Guaranteed to be one of the more expensive parts of your backpacking Europe travels, but if you come to Europe you need to check out London. Plenty of tourist sites to tick off (Buckingham Palace, Madame Tussuads and the Tower of London), but also some great markets and shopping, and a night out in London is guaranteed to be memorable. While you’re in the UK do try and get out of London too though, there’s a lot more to the UK – and you’ll find that you’re spending a lot less...

North Spain. The three northern cities of San Sebastian, Bilboa and Santander all lie on the same stretch of coast and all have a reputation for partying hard (nothing really starts before midnight), and for great food – including the ubiquitous tapas. So fill up on food and then party the night away, before picking your spot to watch the sun come up.

Amsterdam. Holland’s infamous party town has more to offer those backpacking Europe than its cafes and 24 hour part vibe. It is also a truly stunning city, with romantic canals and striking architecture. Maybe pencil in a bit longer than you thought and get under the skin of one of Europe’s most famous cities.

Football. Europe is mad about football, and it really is the meaning of life for many Europeans! The biggest leagues are Seria A (Italy) and The Premiership (England), but most countries have competitive leagues so get to a game – you’ll be guaranteed an exciting and passionate afternoon out...

Atlantic Coast. If tranquil beaches and warm water aren’t your thing, then Europe’s Atlantic coast has plenty of more lively options. With world–class surf beaches and plenty of party–mad beach towns, France, Spain and Portugal all have hundreds of miles of stunning coastline to explore.

Scandinavia. Proof that high taxes don’t equate to a bad mood! Scandinavians countries have a high standard of living, fantastic amenities and a refreshing outlook on life. Copenhagen is recommended, but there are plenty of other highlights too.

The Mediterranean. The Mediterranean Sea is responsible for southern Europe’s great climate and – at nearly 1000 miles long – there are plenty of Mediterranean beaches to choose from! During the summer you could be anywhere in the world – idyllic tranquil beaches and whitewashed houses – and during the winter it can be a generally warm and pleasant haven. From the Greek Islands through to windswept windsurfing Mecca Tarifa, there’s plenty to choose from (Although beware the ‘Costa’s’ which are a package tour hell!).

Skiing. With literally hundreds of resorts to choose from, skiing in Europe can be as cheap or expensive as you like: from St Moritz in the Swiss Alps (credit card required), through to Bansko in Bulgaria (on the cheap) there’s great skiing to be had, and of course the après ski is almost as important as your time on the slopes...

Athens. With some of the world’s most important and breathtaking historical sites, and some great museums to back them up, Athens is an essential place to stop off. As an aside, the nightlife’s not bad either!

Having a successful backpacking Europe trip requires planning. If you try and take in too many sites and too much culture then you’ll end up thinking that Buckingham Palace was in Belgium! Remember that there are 50 very different countries, and work out what you really want out of your trip and focus on that. Wherever you decide to head, there’s no doubt that you will have truly memorable and mind –expanding time backpacking Europe so: enjoy!

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