The Insider's Guide to Budget Travel

Backpacking in Europe is a rite of passage for students and travelers from around the world. But it’s such a vast place that many end up hopping between the most famous cities (London, Barcelona, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, Rome – sound familiar?) and never delving deeper beneath the surface into what this continent (and particularly the Eastern fringes) really has to offer.

There’s so much to see and do in the big capitals of Europe that it’s easy to fall into this trap – and you’d still, of course, have a fantastic time! But if you’re looking for something that’s a little different and – big bonus for the backpacker - much more cost-effective, Eastern Europe is the place to go.

When you think of Eastern Europe, a long troubled history of war and hard-line Communist regimes may well be what springs to mind – what you’ll find, however, is a place of lush hills and rivers, idyllic coastlines, picturesque mountains, unique architecture and buzzing nightlife. And all perfectly accessible on a tight budget!

Getting Around in Eastern Europe

First things first; you can now fly to most capital cities in Eastern Europe with the usual budget airlines for a decent price and, once there, the best way to explore spontaneously is the get yourself a Eurail or Interrail Pass and use the excellent trains that link up the continent’s major destinations. For more information on getting the best deal on your rail travel, check out this guide to the Interrail trail in Europe.

So, with the continent opened up for exploring, here’s our pick of the best places to visit in Eastern Europe – from waterfalls and monasteries to floating techno clubs and cobbled streets, there’s a whole host of amazing discoveries to be made.

1. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is undoubtedly one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Nestled in an Alpine valley at a junction in the historic trade routes across Europe, it’s picture-perfect. The cobbled streets are filled with laid-back students and bicycles, whilst the majority of the city’s buildings were designed by a mix of famous architects over the ages – even the modern government complex stylishly compliments the historical cityscape. Enjoy art, history, markets, churches, cafes and cocktails on a budget – this might be a capital city, but it’s very cheap by European standards.

where to stay…. Although there are a number of good hostels in Ljubljana, head to Hostel Celica – nothing can beat the novelty of sleeping in a converted prison cell for the night.

2. Mostar, Bosnia

On the front line of the Croatian-Bosnia conflict during the Balkan War, Mostar was badly damaged by the fighting. It’s famous bridge (from which young men would traditionally dive on the cusp of manhood) was completely destroyed and the town’s residents were unable to cross the river for a long time, splitting up many families. Today, however, it’s back to it’s former glory – an exact replica of the bridge has been rebuilt using old photographs. The beauty of Mostar and it’s turquoise river, elegant minarets and shiny white stone is enhanced in the context of its fragility – strong reminders of a brutal past remain very visible, with bullet hole-laden walls and bombed out buildings nestled amongst the shops and cafes. Don’t miss the lush nearby waterfalls, too, which are lovely on a hot summer’s day.

where to stay… Thanks to the draw of its history, Mostar hostels are both good and easy to find. Hostel Majdas is highly recommended, with a rating of 97%.

3. Island of Korcula, Croatia

With its hundreds of small, idyllic islands dotting the sparkling Adriatic coast, Croatia is a beach-lover’s paradise. Backpackers could quite happily while away a few weeks here, island hopping in Croatia from one stunning place to the next… For travelers on a whistle-stop tour, Korcula is one of the highlights of the islands – small, secluded coves combine with an interesting heritage (Marco Polo was born here), picturesque walled town and lively cafe scene to make it the complete package.

where to stay… Plenty of choice for backpackers: hostels in Korcula start from €13pp in summer.

4. Belgrade, Serbia

It might not feature on everyone’s ’must-see’ list of European cities, but Belgrade is nonetheless a fascinating metropolis. Although it’s skyline is somewhat blighted by ugly housing blocks, the city center is full of interesting leafy squares and ancient churches – a reminder of this region’s diverse culture and religious history. The real draw of Belgrade, however, is some of the most hectic and hedonistic nightlife in the world. During the summer, clubs open up along the Danube River on barges and boats and the city comes alive to the sound of techno and ravers waving glow sticks at open-air events.

where to stay… Hostelche Hostel is the pick of Belgrade hostels, newly opened in July 2009 and a few minutes from the river.

5. Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

High up in the Alps, Slovenia is a hidden gem – and this amazing place of lakes, thundering waterfalls and snowy peaks is also affordable, unlike its richer neighbors. One of the most accessible areas (via train) from the capital are Lake Bled and Bohinj (the latter another short bus journey on from Bled).  Bled is home to a wide lake (complete with a monastery on the central island), picturesque gorge and a fairytale-like castle. Bohinj, meanwhile, has a famous high waterfall; hire a bicycle and speed your way around the flat roads of the lake, then trek up the mountainside towards the falls. It might take a while to tackle the climb, but coming back down again on two wheels is incredibly fast and exhilarating.

where to stay… You can bed down in either Bohinj or Bled, but there is much more choice for backpackers in Bled thanks to some great water-sports in the area. Check out the tiny, genuine Jakelj Backpackers, and don’t miss ‘mama’s’ traditional Slovenian evening meals, served up for just a few euros.

6. Kiev, Ukraine

Colorful Kiev is perfect for budget travelers – a shaky economy in recent years means pretty much everything is affordable, from eating out to the opera - which makes a welcome change from the inevitable pasta and cheese sandwiches consumed on the road. It’s not just the low cost of living that recommends it, however – perched high in wooded hills, this unspoiled city has plenty of culture, history and sights to keep you busy. Check out our list of cheap things to do in Kiev for more advice.

where to stay… Although it’s off the tourist trail, there are a few decent hostels in Kiev for backpackers and budget travelers, with beds from as little as €8 a night.

7. Krakow, Poland

The best-known city on this list, Krakow has become a firm favorite with the Interrail scene and it’s definitely earned it’s renown. Highlights include the atmospheric Jewish quarter of Kazimeriz, the regal Wawel Castle and excellent nightlife – the Old Town boasts more bars per square meter than anywhere else in the world.

where to stay… Hostels in Krakow are as top-notch as the rest of the city; some of Eastern Europe’s best budget accommodation can be found here, including Greg Tom Hostel with its spacious dorms and Polish themed nights.

8. Tartu, Estonia

Estonia’s ’second city’ and home to its oldest university, Tartu is considered the country’s cultural and intellectual center. A compact hub of student clubs, German architecture, museums and sculptures, it makes a great stopover in Eastern Europe. When the university term is in full swing, there’s more than a small chance of engaging a student or two in an interesting conversation about Estonia if you hit  the town when dusk approaches and enjoy a bottle of wine in one of the quaint squares.

where to stay… Located near the university, Tartu Student Villa makes a good cheap base in the center.

9. Suceava, Romania

Once the capital of Moldovia (an ancient European principality), Suceava is an intriguing place that’s experienced a recent bump of regeneration. It lies a way off the usual backpacking trail in Europe (as does much of Romania, beyond Bucharest and the Dracula tours) but it’s worth the trek for the 7 Painted Churches of Northern Moldovia located nearby. These unique, beautifully preserved monasteries are covered in frescoes and are masterpieces of Byzantine art.

where to stay… The churches are a UNESCO World Heritage Site which means adequate facilities; High Class Hostel provides a friendly bed for backpackers exploring Suceava.

10. Kotor, Montenegro

Like Romania, Montenegro is often sadly ignored by backpackers in Europe. But with its stunning scenery, friendly people and cheap local wine, you can’t go far wrong here. The idyllic Bay of Kotor and its impressive ancient port town is Montengro at its best; with its strong Venetian influences (the Republic conquered this area long ago) and unique river canyon from the Adriatic, it’s little wonder that Kotor has been named a cultural and natural World Heritage Center. The summer carnival proves a big draw, with thousands partying on the streets every year.

where to stay… Small, comfortable and central, Montenegro Hostel is the ideal cheap stay.

AW – Do you have a favorite place or a hidden gem to share in Eastern Europe? Are you planning a backpacking trip this summer? Let us know your plans, or a review your latest experience and share your tips with other travelers!