So, you've caught the travel bug and can't wait to explore the wonders of Europe? Look no further than Hostelmatch, your go-to platform for discovering the best hostels worldwide.
With over 50 countries connected by excellent public transportation, Europe offers a diverse and compact continent for you to explore. Whether you're planning a two-week adventure or a year-long escapade, navigating through so many accessible cities and countries can be overwhelming for a beginner.
Plan your trip
At Hostelmatch, we understand the excitement and the challenges of planning your first trip to Europe. To make it easier for you, consider breaking down Europe into different regions, each offering its unique charm and attractions:
Western Europe (e.g. France, Benelux, Switzerland, UK, Ireland)
Northern Europe (e.g. Iceland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland)
Southern Europe (e.g. Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece)
Central Europe (e.g. Germany, Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary)
Eastern Europe (e.g. Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova) and the Baltics (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania)
Southeastern Europe (e.g. the Western Balkans, Romania, Bulgaria)
For a smoother trip planning experience, focus on one or two regions for your first Euro trip. Concentrating on specific regions allows you to group destinations together, minimize travel time, and get a better sense of what to expect in terms of costs and infrastructure.
If you're a first-time traveler to Europe, Western and Northern Europe are considered more "beginner-friendly." These countries are generally safe, boast excellent infrastructure, and have widespread English-speaking communities. However, do note that they can be pricier compared to other regions.
Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe, on the other hand, have become increasingly popular among budget-conscious backpackers. While these regions offer fantastic experiences, be prepared for some challenges, such as language barriers and less developed infrastructure in certain areas.
Itinerary Suggestions
When crafting your itinerary, don't feel pressured to tick off all the "must-see" destinations. Europe has so much more to offer beyond the well-trodden path. Consider exploring lesser-known sights and smaller cities to truly immerse yourself in the local culture.
One common mistake among first-time travellers is trying to cram too many cities or countries into a short itinerary. Remember, Europe may be small, but it's not that small! Keep your itinerary modest and leave time for rest and exploration. Traveling between capitals every day can be exhausting and counterproductive to your journey.
Deciding how much time to spend in each location depends on your interests, but a rough estimate could be:
3-5 days for major capitals and large cities
2-3 days for medium-sized cities
1-2 days for small cities/towns and day-trip destinations
If you're still unsure where to start, Hostelhop has got you covered! You can search for suggested Eurotrip itineraries and adapt them to your preferences. Hostelmatch's discovery platform helps you pick the most social hostels across Europe so you enjoy this Euro trip to the fullest.
Transportation Across Europe
When it comes to getting around Europe, you have several options. Europe's public transportation system is generally excellent, making trains, buses, and budget airlines viable choices for intercity travel.
Trains
Trains are a classic and popular choice for traveling between cities. They offer comfort, spacious seating, and easy city center-to-city center connections. High-speed trains are available, but be mindful of dynamic pricing and potential seat reservation requirements. Regional trains are usually more budget-friendly and suitable for shorter distances.
Busses
Buses have become increasingly popular due to budget-friendly fares, especially with companies like Flixbus, Eurolines, and the Student Agency. In some regions, like the Baltics and the Balkans, buses are the primary mode of transportation.
Flights
Budget airlines, like Ryanair, Easyjet, and Wizz Air, are perfect for snagging cheap intercity flights. Just be cautious of additional fees for baggage and other extras.
Ride Sharing
Hitchhiking is not as common as it used to be, but ride-sharing platforms like Blablacar provide a cost-effective and social way to travel between cities.
Car
If you're feeling adventurous, renting a car can be a great option, especially for exploring rural or less touristy areas. Just be aware of country-specific driving rules and restrictions.
Accommodation Across Europe
When it comes to accommodations, hostels are the preferred choices for budget travelers. Hostels offer a vibrant atmosphere, social events, and a chance to meet fellow travellers. Through Hostelmatch, you can discover the best hostels that match your preferences based on what you are looking for.
Get access to discounts across hostels in Europe with Hostelmatch. Average discounts on hostels vary between 10% - 20%.
Expenses
Budgeting for your Euro trip can be a challenge, as costs vary depending on the region and your travel style. Generally, Northern Europe tends to be more expensive, while Eastern Europe and the Balkans are more budget-friendly. Hostelmatch recommends budgeting wisely and leaving room for emergencies or unexpected expenses.
Safety
In terms of safety, Europe is generally safe for travellers, with low rates of violent crime. However, pickpocketing and tourist scams are common in popular destinations. Stay vigilant, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious of strangers approaching you. Familiarize yourself with common scams in your destination to avoid falling victim.
E-Sim
E-Sims are great to get connectivity during your travels without having to worry about local sims and connections. E-sims are much cheaper, easy to activate and do not create a dent in your wallet.
Get the best E-SIm for your next trip with Airalo.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is one of the most important requirements as a traveller. Medical bills, Lost Baggage or cancelled trips are costly and you don't want to be stuck with a huge bill from your travels. Always be prepared with travel insurance and make sure to have one that covers you well.
Safetywing is one of the best travel insurance providers for Digital Nomads and Solo travellers.
Schengen Visa
Lastly, be aware of the Schengen visa rules if you plan to stay in Schengen for more than 90 days. The Schengen Area allows visa-free travel for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you wish to stay longer, explore other options like alternating between Schengen and non-Schengen countries.
So, if you're ready to embark on an unforgettable Eurotrip, let Hostelmatch be your guide. Explore the regions, embrace the culture, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Europe. Your adventure awaits!
Related Article: Best places to travel in Europe as a Solo traveller
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