Europe is a backpacker’s dream—packed with history, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring major cities like London or Berlin, or venturing off-grid, there’s something for every long-term traveller or weekend explorer. If you're craving adventure beyond the usual tourist trails, here are 16 epic activities to add to your backpacking trip.
Glide along the River Cam’s serene waters in a traditional punt, passing iconic colleges and beautiful sceneries. It’s the perfect way to unwind after visiting Buckingham Palace or hopping between European cities via high-speed train.
Whether you try your hand at steering (watch out for those low bridges!) or relax while a guide does the work, it’s the perfect way to see Cambridge’s iconic colleges from a unique perspective. Ensure to pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery as you go punting down the River Cam.
For thrill-seekers, standing on the edge of Norway’s famous "Troll’s Tongue" is a must. This 12-mile round-trip hike rewards you with jaw-dropping views over Lake Ringedalsvatnet. Pro backpacking tip: Start early and pack snacks. Western Europe’s trails are stunning but demanding!
Portugal’s west coast is a surfer’s paradise. Peniche’s consistent waves cater to all levels, and nearby cheap hostels make it ideal for backpacking budgets. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, the consistent swells and surf camps make it an ideal place to ride the Atlantic.
Explore Amsterdam by renting a bike. Pedal along picturesque canals, through vibrant neighborhoods, and past hidden gems most tourists miss. Just remember—bikes rule the road here, so keep up with the flow!
Leap into crystal-clear pools, rappel down waterfalls, and slide through natural rock slides in Switzerland’s breathtaking gorges. Interlaken is the hub for canyoning adventures that’ll get your adrenaline pumping.
Skip the expensive cruises and hop on a budget-friendly sailing trip around the Cyclades or Ionian islands. Swim in secluded coves, explore whitewashed villages, and party under the stars—pure island magic.
Slovenia’s Postojna Cave system is like stepping into another world. Ride an underground train through massive stalactites and stalagmites and keep an eye out for the mysterious olm (a rare aquatic salamander).
You don’t need to break the bank to hit the slopes. Resorts like Chamonix offer affordable hostels and ski passes for backpackers. Après-ski parties? Just as legendary as the runs. For cheaper lift tickets, look for midweek deals or multi-day passes, and pack layers.
Rent a car (or join a group tour) and drive along Ireland’s rugged west coast. From the Cliffs of Moher to remote Gaelic villages, this route is all about dramatic landscapes and warm pub welcomes.
Swap hostels for a night in a cozy treehouse deep in Sweden’s woods. Listen to the sounds of nature, maybe spot some wildlife, and unwind in total serenity. For the best experience, visit during the summer months when the midnight sun adds a magical glow to the forest. Just don’t forget bug spray!
Hike UNESCO-listed trails or tackle Via Ferrata climbs. The Dolomites deliver beautiful sceneries at every turn. It is known for its jagged limestone peaks, alpine meadows, and turquoise lakes await. The Via Ferrata routes (protected climbing paths) offer thrilling climbs with breathtaking views, which is perfect for adventurous backpackers.
Paddle through the serene, glacier-carved fjords of Norway, like Geirangerfjord, where waterfalls cascade down towering cliffs. Camp on remote shores and soak in the untouched beauty of Scandinavia.
Swap snow for sand and try sandboarding down the massive dunes of Maspalomas in Gran Canaria. It’s like snowboarding but with sunshine, warm breezes, and a desert-like landscape right next to the ocean. For the best ride, wax your board lightly to help it glide smoothly, and aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the scorching midday sand!
Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye. These magical blue pools beneath the Cuillin Mountains are fed by waterfalls—ideal for a brave cold-water plunge or a scenic hike.
Soar like a bird above the stunning Austrian Alps with a tandem paragliding flight in Innsbruck or Zell am See. Feel the rush of wind as you glide over snow-capped peaks, emerald valleys, and mirror-like lakes. It is an unforgettable way to see the mountains from a whole new perspective.
Explore the Arctic wilderness of Finnish Lapland, where you can pitch a tent or erect a tent and witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis dance across the sky. By day, try husky sledding, ice fishing, or snowshoeing through pristine winter landscapes.
From punting in Cambridge to paragliding in Austria, Europe’s adventures are endless. With cheap flights, flight deals, and budget flights, your Backpacking Europe journey starts now. Pack light, book the coolest hostels, and dive in. Where will you go first?
