10 Backpacking Routes In Europe For This Summer

Few things are as thrilling as setting out on a European backpacking adventure. It’s an amazing sensation to feel the surge of enthusiasm when getting off the train or airplane in a new European country. Backpackers often fall in love with this wonderful continent. However, as they may know, traveling around Europe in a rucksack is not cheap, but it can be.

If they are not careful about their budgets, even a hostel dorm might be expensive, especially in the most visited European cities, like Paris, Barcelona, and Amsterdam. Whatever your budget, though, backpacking across Europe is doable and will be an experience to remember for the rest of your time.

Featuring famous European destinations as well as many underrated parts of the continent, here are several backpacking routes in Europe for this summer; some take a few days to hike, while others demand months of hiking!

10 Black Forest Trail

Duration: 3 to 4 days

The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) in southwestern Germany, Baden-Württemberg, attracts backpackers with its picturesque mountainous terrain and rich cultural heritage, immortalized in the tales of the Brothers Grimm. A highlight of this backpacking journey is the Schwarzwald Hochstraße, a scenic high-altitude road stretching from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt.

This route offers stunning vistas of mountains and forests, dotted with cozy green spots perfect for resting. Explorers can wander thousands of scenic paths leading to historic hunting lodges and mineral springs, particularly renowned in Baden-Baden.

Culinary delights await, too, including world-famous ham and a coveted recipe for cherry cake. Complex European backpacking itineraries often feature the Black Forest, incorporating visits to thermal springs and various attractions.

9 High Tatras Trail

Duration: 6 days

High Tatras is a mountain range in Eastern Europe that is part of the Carpathians, forming a natural boundary between Slovakia and Poland. The mountains are shared between the two countries, with Slovakia covering about three-quarters of the range.

Lake Zelene Pleso is easily accessible from Tatranska Lomnica, while the Janosikove Diery trail, considered one of the best backpacking routes in Europe, is near the town of Terchova. Numerous national parks in the region offer breathtaking scenery and ideal conditions for summer sports.

For novice backpackers and hikers, there are plenty of conveniently signposted trails. They can enjoy easy forest strolls, visit the glacial lake Zelene Pleso, or climb the Jahňací Peak. Backpackers can eat and camp overnight near the lake.

The best times for backpacking are in June and the second half of September. The most convenient ways to reach the Tatras are by bus, rail, or airplane to Kosice. While renting a car offers more comfort, backpackers can also use the local bus or train services to reach the mountain range directly.

8 Alta Via 1

Duration: 6 to 10 days

Alta Via 1 in Italy is a classic backpacking route perfect for summer, offering an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Dolomites. This trail stretches approximately 74.5 miles, starting at Lago di Braies in South Tyrol and ending in Belluno. Renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, the Alta Via 1 weaves through rugged peaks, verdant valleys, and picturesque mountain huts, or “rifugi.”

Backpackers can expect to traverse high-altitude passes and encounter diverse landscapes, from lush meadows to rocky terrains. The trail is well-marked and suitable for hikers with moderate experience, making it accessible while still challenging. Summer is the ideal season to go on this backpacking journey, as the weather is mild, and the paths are free of snow.

Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to stay in charming Rifugi, where they can enjoy traditional Italian cuisine and hospitality. This scenic trek not only provides breathtaking views but also immerses backpackers in the rich culture and natural beauty of the Dolomites, making it a must-do for summer adventurers in Europe.

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7 Rota Vicentina

Duration: 6 to 11 days

The Rota Vicentina in Portugal is a remarkable backpacking route ideal for summer adventures. This trail stretches along the picturesque southwestern coast of Portugal, encompassing two main paths: the Historical Way and the Fishermen’s Trail.

The Historical Way takes backpackers through charming inland villages, rolling hills, and cork oak forests, while the Fishermen’s Trail hugs the rugged Atlantic coastline, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, sandy beaches, and traditional fishing communities.

Spanning over 250 miles, the Rota Vicentina showcases Portugal’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The route is well-marked and offers varying levels of difficulty, making it accessible to both novice and experienced hikers. Along the way, backpackers can enjoy local cuisine, stay in quaint guesthouses or campsites, and immerse themselves in the tranquility and beauty of Portugal’s untouched nature.

6 GR20

Duration: 9 to 14 days

Renowned for being a difficult long-distance hiking path, GR 20 stretches around 110 miles from north to south throughout Corsica. It is well-known for its striking and varied scenery, which includes glacial lakes, verdant woods, high alpine meadows, and towering granite peaks.

This European backpacking route challenges even the most seasoned hikers with its steep ascents and descents, which combine breathtaking scenery with physical demands. Backpackers can opt to run the entire trail, stay in lodges, or camp alone in tents. The trip provides a taste of the local way of life as it passes through magnificent Corsican towns.

It’s important to plan ahead and make sure to have the appropriate equipment for both comfort and safety, as well as for changing weather. The GR20 is an incredible backpacking journey that combines Corsica’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage with a physical challenge.

5 Tour Du Mont Blanc

Duration: 10 days

The Mont Blanc mountain range spans the French, Italian, and Graian Alps (Switzerland). Here, backpackers can simultaneously witness emerald green fields, steppe landscapes, boulders, and glaciers.

Offering breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes, valleys, and waterfalls, Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most picturesque hiking trails on the planet and among Europe’s best backpacking routes for summer. For those who relish strenuous hiking, there are more challenging routes available in Europe.

Local resorts offer hiking and backpacking opportunities throughout the summer on the Tour du Mont Blanc hike, with trams and cable cars popular for transporting visitors to elevations exceeding 2,000 meters (6561.6 feet) above sea level.

Backpackers can reach Cointrin International Airport by plane, train, or bus, then travel the final miles to Chamonix using local transport. Driving along Europe’s scenic highways is also a fantastic option for travelers exploring the region.

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4 Carpathian Mountains Trail

Duration: 10 days

The Carpathian Mountains Trail is one of the captivating backpacking routes that traverses multiple countries in Eastern Europe, namely Romania, Ukraine, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary (each home to many of the best Eastern European cities for solo travelers on their backpacking adventure!).

Spanning approximately 900 miles, the route offers a rich tapestry of landscapes ranging from dense forests to expansive alpine meadows. Hikers embarking on this journey can explore the rugged peaks of the Transylvanian Alps in Romania, characterized by dramatic ridges and deep valleys. In Slovakia and Poland, the route leads through the picturesque Tatra Mountains, renowned for their stunning vistas and challenging trails.

Ukraine’s segment of the Carpathians provides a wild and untamed wilderness experience, featuring remote valleys and pristine landscapes. Along the way, backpackers encounter charming villages steeped in history and culture and can visit historic sites that reflect the region’s diverse heritage. Cultural highlights like Budapest in Hungary add to the allure, making this route perfect for adventurers seeking both natural beauty and immersive cultural experiences in Eastern Europe.

3 Camino de Santiago

Duration: 35 days

Camino de Santiago traverses the picturesque landscapes of northern Spain, offering backpackers a historic and scenic journey. This ancient route dates back to the Middle Ages when it was used by French kings and pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela, which is the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.

The trail begins in the French Pyrenees and winds through quaint Spanish villages, lush countryside, and rolling hills. Along the way, backpackers can explore medieval towns like Pamplona, famed for its bull-running festival, and the beautiful city of Burgos with its majestic cathedral. The route is dotted with pilgrim hostels and local accommodations, making it accessible for backpackers and hikers of all levels.

Whether for spiritual fulfillment, cultural exploration, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, the Camino de Santiago promises an unforgettable backpacking experience in Europe this summer.

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2 South West Coast Path

Duration: 52 days

This backpacking route in Europe begins in Somerset at the town of Minehead and finishes in Dorset at the town of Poole, which has Europe’s biggest natural port. The South West Coast Path winds through a breathtaking coastal landscape with expansive sea views and rugged cliffs, but the route occasionally heads inland via the rivers. Sand dunes and bays are two characteristics of the surrounding area as well.

This trip is perfect for backpackers who love to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of the city, although local settlements are occasionally encountered, and not all of them will contain a store (so bringing ample supplies for the journey and stocking up when you do find a store is recommended).

Moving southwest from Minehead, the route follows the undulating coastline of Devon and Cornwall. Backpackers encounter quaint villages nestled in valleys, offering glimpses of traditional English life and occasional amenities. As the route meanders inland near rivers, it provides opportunities to explore the beautiful countryside and historic sites like ancient castles and chapels.

This bucket list European backpacking route appeals to outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and natural beauty, with stretches through sandy beaches and secluded coves perfect for relaxation and reflection. Despite its remote charm, the trail remains accessible, welcoming both seasoned backpackers and those new to long-distance hiking adventures in Europe.

1 Via Dinarica

Duration: Up to 2 months, depending on the chosen trail

This long-distance hiking trail stretches across the Dinaric Alps and the Western Balkans, passing through countries like Slovenia, Croatia, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, and Albania. Beautiful scenery, such as untamed lakes, rocky mountains, and small towns, may be seen along this trail.

The Via Dinarica, a renowned backpacking trail in Europe, is divided into three main routes: the White Trail (high-mountain path), the Blue Trail (coastal track), and the Green Trail (valleys and lower mountain areas), starting in Slovenia and ending in Albania.

Backpackers will enjoy beautiful stops along the trail, including the stunning Triglav National Park in Slovenia, the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes in Croatia, and the majestic Durmitor National Park in Montenegro. Each of these stops offers unique natural beauty and cultural experiences, making the journey truly memorable.