If you are interested in solo travel, but are nervous to put your boots on the ground, you aren’t alone. Backpacking and staying in hostels may seem a bit nerve wracking. But I promise you, it is one of my favorite ways to travel to this day. And for any first timers, I highly recommend backpacking Europe.
When it comes to backpacking in Europe, there are a whole bunch of major cities that offer a great balance of safety, accessibility, and rich cultural experiences. Assuming most people reading this are traveling from the United States, these cities will also not have a language barrier.
Here are some of the best entry-level cities for backpacking Europe.
10 Great cities for backpacking Europe
1. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is known for its picturesque canals, historic homes, and vibrant social scenes. It is a classic and favorite city for anyone backpacking Europe. You can explore world-class art museums, take leisurely bike rides throughout the winding waters, and tour the historic Anne Frank house. The food scene in this city is impeccable.
Why is Amsterdam a good city for backpacking Europe?
The train from the Amsterdam airport to Amsterdam Centraal, the main train station in the city center is extremely easy to navigate. If you are traveling to Amsterdam by train or by plane, getting to the main part of the city is a breeze.
Amsterdam is a compact city that can easily be explored by bike or by foot. And the bus system is easily figured out. The city has a laid back atmosphere, and I found that locals were extremely kind and willing to help point us in the right direction.
Hostels to check out:
- St. Christopher’s at the Winston – Nightclub in the hostel. Would only recommend staying here if you are primarily looking to party and socialize during your visit.
- Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark – Near the city center, clean, and safe
- CityHub Amsterdam – Bar and cafe, near the city center, free wifi
- Loft Hostel – Bare bones amenities, but very convenient location in a cute location.
Activities to check out:
- Anne Frank House
- Van Gogh Museum
- Vondelpark
Check out my guide to Amsterdam for the best things to do in the city!
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a vibrant city that blends historical sites, beautiful beaches, and lively nightclubs. On any given day, you can wander through the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, devour tapas on a restaurant patio, and plop your butt down on one of the many beaches. In this city, you can live out your childhood Cheetah Girls dreams.
Why is this a good city for first time backpackers
It seems like everyone and their uncle has studied abroad in Barcelona (sorry, BarTHelona). As such, the city is well accommodated for the influx of tourists. You will typically be able to find people who speak the same language as you, the city is safe for travelers, and there are hundreds of hostels to choose from. Barcelona also has an extensive metro system that is easy to navigate. You can quickly get around the city!
Hostels to check out
- Onefam Ramblas by Hostel One – Meals available for a fee, free wifi, outdoor terrace, security lockers
- Fabrizzios Terrace Hostel – Free breakfast, walking distance to the city center, free internet, washer and drying in the building
- Primavera Hostel – 24 hour reception, free wifi, elevator, outdoor terrace
- Sant Jordie Hostel Gracia – Wheelchair friendly, book exchange, free city tour, 24 hour security and check in, washing machine in building
Places to check out
- Barcelona Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarters)
- La Sagrada Familia
- Museu Picasso (Picasso Museum)
3. Prague, Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is a fairytale-like city with charming cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and a bustling atmosphere. You can explore the historic Old Town Square, tour the impressive Prague Castle, and view the famous Astronomical Clock. Prague is known for its pub and beer culture and there is ample opportunity to sample some local flavors and brews across the city.
Why is Prague a good city for first time backpackers
A common theme on this list is a compact city center, which is a must for anyone backpacking Europe. You can easily get to many of the main attractions by foot, and the rest are accessible via public transportation.
Prague is also an affordable city. Given that it is a prime location for tourists and backpackers all year round, the city is well suited for visitors. There are dozens of affordable and clean hostels scattered throughout Prague. You will not have trouble finding places to stay within your budget.
Places to stay
- The Roadhouse Prague – Airport transfers for hire, free wifi, free storage, 24 hour reception, laundry in building, free wifi
- Brix Hostel – Bar in the hostel, cafe available, outdoor terrace, book exchange, large common room, free wifi
- Onefam Miru – 24 hour reception and security, elevator, laundry facilities, free wifi, security lockers
- Florenc Hostel – Free breakfast, free wifi, 24 hour reception and security, housekeeping, security lockers, slightly far from city center
Things to do
- Visit Old Town Square
- Medieval Dining Experience
- Tour the Prague Castle
4. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a city with a vibrant art scene and rich history. There are hundreds of museums, galleries, and restaurants scattered across the city. What’s more, Berlin is known for its legendary nightlife, live music venues, and great food. You will be hard pressed to find boredom here!
Why is Berlin a good city for backpacking Europe
Berlin has efficient public transportation. Extensive networks of buses, trams, and trains provide easy access to all of the different areas of the city. If you are traveling from an English speaking country, you will be able to find a lot of locals who speak English in addition to German.
Berlin is also known for its safety. There is a low-crime rate here and the streets are well-lit, making it a comfortable environment for first-time backpackers. Given that Berlin is a large tourist hub, you will also likely be able to find other backpackers or travelers at your accommodations.
Places to stay
- Lekkerurlaub Hostel – Luggage storage, free wifi, hot showers, outdoor terrace
- Backpacker Berlin – Mini supermarket, free wifi, laundry facilities, luggage storage
- Meininger Berlin Mitte Humboldthaus – Late checkout, bar, free wifi, 24 hour reception, wheelchair friendly
Things to do
- Berlin Wall
- Pergamonmuseum
- Tiergarten
5. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of the more laid-back cities on this list, with a welcoming and calm atmosphere. You can spend your days here wandering the narrow streets of the historic Alfama district, taking a dip in the sea, or indulging in some of the delicious food the city has to offer.
Why is Lisbon a good city for backpacking Europe?
Lisbon has a walkable city center and tends to be more affordable than other cities in Europe. You can easily find a clean hostel for under $25 USD per night. Lisbon also offers a TON of free activities – from swimming at the beach, to exploring monasteries, to free museum days, to popping into bookshops and local stores. You’ll be able to see much of what this city has to offer without breaking the bank.
Places to stay
- Lisbon Calling – Free breakfast, free wifi, free cancellations, laundry facilities, kitchen facilities
- Goodmorning Solo Traveler Hostel – Free meals (if purchasing at the ‘breakfast included, rate), free wifi, free city walking tours, free sangria, kitchen facilities, bar
- We Hate F Tourists – Gym space available, kitchen facilities, bar, meals available for purchase, free wifi, housekeeping, airport transfer available, outdoor terrace
- We Love F Tourists – Meeting rooms, restaurant, bar, 24 hour reception, tour/travel agent available, airport transfer available, housekeeping, late check out
Things to do
- Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT)
- Sao Jorge Castle
- Santa Justa Lift
6. Rome, Italy
Rome is one of my favorite cities in the entire world. The food, the history, the people?? Just incredible. I lived in Rome for 3 months, and would easily go back for another long-term stay. It is one of the few cities in the world where ancient buildings, like the Pantheon, are across the street from a Medieval heritage site, and a McDonald’s. But that is entirely part of the charm! I highly recommend any first time backpackers to spend a good deal of time exploring Rome.
Why is is Rome a good city for first time backpackers
Rome is incredibly walkable, which is great news for anyone traveling with just their feet and a pack. If you head to Rome, be prepared to walk… a lot. Although Rome can be pretty expensive, the city has so many free and cheap activities to check out. You can easily explore the city without breaking the bank. Rome receives thousands of visitors from every inch of the world, which means that the city is accommodated for tourists – extra signage, lots of hostels, etc. Plus, the locals here are all wonderful!
Places to stay
- RomeHello Hostel – Wheelchair friendly, airport transfers available, internet cafe, late check-out, restaurant, bar, free wifi, game room, 24 hour reception and security
- Ostello Bello Roma Colosseo – Free city tour, free wifi, wheelchair friendly, laundry facilities, postal service, 24 hour reception and security, bar, cafe, game room, security lockers
- Comics Guesthouse – Great neighborhood, tour/travel agent desk, free wifi, cafe, game room, elevator, housekeeping, security lockers
Things to do
- Colosseum
- Vatican City
- Pantheon
Check out my guide to Rome and my Vatican City guide for more inspiration!
7. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a magnificent city divided by the Danube River. You can visit Buda Castel and Fisherman’s Bastion on the hilly Buda side of the city, or explore the Parliament building and vibrant nightlife on the Pest side of the city. Of course, no backpacking trip to Budapest is complete without a soak in one of the many thermal baths, like Széchenyi or Gellért,
Why is Budapest a good spot for backpackers
Like many of the other cities on this list, Budapest offers excellent value for money with affordable accommodations, attractions, and dining. Budapest also has an excellent public transportation system, making it an easy city to navigate by train, bus, and tram.
Places to stay
- The Loft Hostel Budapest – 24 hour security, housekeeping, luggage storage, free wifi, kitchen facilities, tour/travel agent desk, laundry facilities
- Das Nest – Free wifi, 24 hour security and reception, housekeeping, late check out, cafe, meeting rooms, hot shower
- MENINIGER Budapest Great Market Hall – Free wifi, bar, 24 hour reception, laundry facilities, parking, hot showers, security locker, outdoor terrace
- Shantee House – Far from the city center but SO cozy, free parking, bicycle hire, bar, cafe, kitchen facilities, laundry facilities, security lockers, free internet
Things to do
- Free city walking tour
- Széchenyi Baths
- Budapest Parliment Building
- Fisherman’s Bastion
8. Krakow, Poland
Krakow, Poland is a picturesque city with a vibrant history, well-preserved medieval architecture, and amazing culture. The city is a hot-spot for backpackers due to its proximity to other major cities, and its large offering of nearby day trips. Within the city, you can explore the Royal Castle, stroll through Market Square, or explore the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz.
On a more somber note, Krakow is located very close to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. Today, you can visit the site to learn about the horrors and history enclosed in its perimeter.
Why is Krakow a good city for first time backpackers
Krakow is a relatively compact and walkable city. Most of the major attractions are located near one another, making it an easy city to explore by foot. Krakow is also one of the more affordable cities on this list. While it is still not ‘cheap’ by any means, you will get a lot farther with your dollars here than with some of the other cities on this list, like Paris.
Places to stay
- Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel – Free breakfast, free wifi, bar, 24 hour security and reception, tour/travel agent, housekeeping, restaurant, nightclub, gameroom
- Mundo Hostel – Free breakfast, free internet, ATM, 24 hour reception and security, bar, cafe, mini supermarket, laundry facilities, tour/travel agent
- Greg and Tom Hostel – Free breakfast, free wifi, free city tour, book exchange, security lockers, meeting rooms, 24 hour reception and security, housekeeping, shuttle bus, airport transfers, gameroom, cafe, kitchen facilities
- Greg and Tom Party Hostel – Free breakfast, free city tour, free wifi, kitchen facilities, laundry facilities, shuttle bus, 24 hour reception and security, game room, bar, cafe, mini supermarket
Places to visit
- Market Square
- Auschwitz-Birkenau
- Wieliczka Salt Mines
- Royal Castle
9. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is one of the friendliest and liveliest cities that I have ever had the experience of visiting. The city is renowned for its pub culture, gorgeous architecture, and literary heritage. Live music pours out of pubs across the city, and you can easily spend an afternoon singing with strangers.
Why is this city easy for first-time backpackers
Dublin is an easy city to visit for first time backpackers. English is the primary language spoken throughout the city, meaning there is virtually no language barrier if you are a native English speaker. Dublin also has a very compact city center, meaning that many of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other.
What’s more, everyone in Dublin is so friendly.
Hostels to check out
- Jacob’s Inn – Free wifi, security lockers, wheelchair friendly, outdoor terrace, 24 hour security and reception, housekeeping, tour/travel agent, restaurant, bar, cafe, luggage storage
- Abbey Court – Free breakfast, free wifi, free city tour, 24 hour reception and security, airport transfers, shuttle bus, tour/travel agent desk, game room, kitchen facilities, laundry facilities, luggage storage
- Garden Lane Backpackers – Free wifi, bike parking, laundry facilities, security lockers, laundry facilities, 24 hour security, limited reception, tour/travel agent, luggage storage, late checkout, housekeeping
Activities to check out
- Guinness Museum
- Trinity College
- Dubin Castel
Check out my guide to Ireland here!
10. Paris, France
Given that Paris is one of the most well-visited cities in the world, it is a great spot for first-time travelers to check out. You will basically always be flanked at the sides by other tourists if you are visiting any of the major attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre. However, there is plenty of opportunity to get off the beaten path and explore other hidden gems the city has to offer.
Why is this city easy for first time backpackers?
Paris has one of the easiest subway networks to navigate. And the Paris subway will get you pretty much anywhere you need to go in the city. This is a must for anyone traveling on a budget! Paris is also very walkable. Some of the large attractions might be a bit spread out from one another, but if you pick a neighborhood to explore for the day, you’ll never run out of things to do. There are also an endless number of hostels available.
Hostels to check out
- The People Paris Marais – Wheelchair friendly, free wifi, 24 hour security and reception, housekeeping, restaurant, bar, luggage storage, security lockers
- The People – Paris Belleville – Free wifi, hot showers, bar, restaurant, cafe, gameroom, 24 hour reception and security, airport transfers available, steam room, security lockers, luggage storage, travel/tour agent
- Caulaincourt Montmartre – Free breakfast, free wifi, hot showers, microwave, 24 hour security, limited reception hours, luggage storage
- FIAP Paris – Free breakfast, free wifi, laundry facilities, restaurant, bar, 24 hour security and reception, housekeeping, luggage storage, security lockers
Places to visit
- Louvre Museum
- Sacre Coeur
- Eiffel Tower
- Montmartre
Check out my Paris guide for more inspiration!
That’s all, folks!
Hopefully this guide gives you some inspiration for your upcoming trip. Backpacking Europe is such a fun way to explore many new cities and meet some wonderful people. I cannot recommend it enough for anyone looking to scratch their travel itch!
Have you spent time backpacking Europe? Drop a comment below with your favorite cities to visit!
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