The allure of Central Europe for backpackers is undeniable, and it is easy to see why. The countries are compact and well-connected offering plenty of backpacking routes across iconic cities, charming towns and picturesque sceneries to suit every travel style.
Moreover, the Central European Loop from Munich-Salzburg-Ljubljana-Zagreb-Split-Budapest-Krakow combines historic cities with breathtaking mountain and coastal scenery, which makes it easy for first time backpackers.
That said, planning a Central European trip is one of the most rewarding decisions a backpacker can make. The Schengen Agreement means fewer border hassles and while train travel offers a flexible option in a single pass, off late, river hopping too has found its fair share of admirers.
Interrailing Europe
Interrailing has been a rite of passage for backpackers since the 70s as it offers the freedom of exploring this vast continent with one ticket in your pocket and at your own pace.
For many, it is the ultimate adventure as you hop between the grand capitals of Central Europe, all without having to stand in endless security queues at the airports.
If you want a fast-paced journey while ticking-off bucket-list destinations, then Interrailing gives you the flexibility to shape your own route.
The concept is simple, choose a pass suitable to the duration and style of the trip, hop on any train within the validity period and enjoy access to over 33 countries and thousands of destinations in a cost-effective way.
During the journey, you see landscapes changing by the minute, stop at charming stations in small towns and interact with fellow travelers as well as locals on the way.
The beauty of Interrailing is that you can plan your stop down to the hour or wake up each day and decide where to go for breakfast.
River hopping through Europe: A journey along its most beautiful river
The great rivers of Europe have shaped civilisations and carved some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the continent. To travel along its banks is to follow stories right from the Roman conquests to modern waterfront revival projects.
Running from the Black Forest to the Black Sea, the river Danube is considered to be Europe’s cultural artery and crosses more countries than any other major river of Europe.
Here, near the German town of Donaueschingen, two small streams, the Breg and the Brigach, meet to form the mighty Danube, which then flows across Central Europe before draining into the Black Sea.
A Danube river cruise allows you to go on an unforgettable journey through ten countries, through stunning landscapes and centuries of history, perfect for backpackers seeking the best river hopping experience.
Along the way, you get to explore grand palaces, storybook towns and many UNESCO listed landmarks as you wind your way along the magic of this European river cruise route.
River cruises along the Danube remain among the most sought after ways to explore the history and charm of Central Europe in a relaxed and comfortable manner.
Is Interrailing Europe better than a river cruise in Europe?
Europe’s rivers tell stories older than most cities, but the best way to enjoy Central Europe’s river-focused exploration journey is to begin and end with rail links between major cities.
These routes allow backpackers to hop between cultural capitals before branching out towards Central Europe’s river networks and slow and see the continent from a different perspective.
Once you combine these waterways with fast and efficient rail links, Europe suddenly becomes wonderfully interconnected and a region where cultures, histories and landscapes flow into each other with the grace shown by the river as it flows into the sea.
