11 Best Places To Backpack In Europe In Winter 2025
Looking for the best places to backpack in Europe in winter? That’s a great idea!
I’ve backpacked almost every country in Europe and spent practically every winter here too.
European winter is not just the December Christmas Market season. There are fantastic places to visit in Europe in January, February and early March too!
The weather can be unpredictable and winter events vary, so you’ll want to tailor your European winter itinerary to include different destinations depending on the month of your visit.
Here are the best places to visit in Europe in winter!
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Best Places to Backpack in Europe: Winter Edition
| Destination | Why Visit In Winter |
|---|---|
| 🇭🇷 Croatia | For history and winter sun |
| 🇵🇹 Portugal | For culture and stunning landscapes |
| 🇵🇱 Poland | For first-time solo backpackers |
| 🇧🇪 Belgium | For Christmas Markets and sightseeing |
| 🇷🇴 Romania | For skiing and castles |
| 🇪🇸 Andalucia, Spain | For culture and winter sun |
| 🇭🇺 Budapest, Hungary | For lively nightlife |
| 🇨🇿 Prague, Czech Republic | For fairytale Old Town |
| 🇩🇪 Berlin, Germany | For vibrant city life |
| 🇬🇷 Athens, Greece | For ancient ruins and sunny weather |
| 🇳🇱 Amsterdam, Netherlands | For a laid-back atmosphere |
Best countries to backpack in Europe in winter
The easiest way to keep the cost of a trip to Europe low is to travel in the low season.
Luckly for you, winter is the low season for most places in Europe!
Some of the most popular winter European destinations, like Switzerland or Norway, will be exepensive no matter when you visit.
However, prices in countries like Croatia, Spain, and Greece are less than half of what they are during the summer, and the weather is often quite pleasant!
These are the best countries to backpack in Europe in winter.
1. Croatia – for culture and winter sun
- 🌡️Temperature: 0-5℃ in central Croatia, 5-15℃ coastline
- ❄️Crowds: Low Season!
- 💲Budget: €40-60 per day
Croatia is still one of the most underrated backpacking destinations in Europe.
While it is certainly a well-known summer holiday destination, somehow, it flew under the radar among backpackers.
It is partially due to high prices during the summer, motivating backpackers to discover Montenegro or Albania instead.
So, why visit Croatia in winter?
Because once the summer season is over, Croatia becomes a budget-friendly paradise and a safe destination for backpackers and solo travelers.
Start your backpacking trip in Croatia from Dubrovnik and make your way up north.
Dubrovnik is probably the best-known city in Croatia. This walled medieval town attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Between holidaymakers and cruise ship tourists, it is nearly impossible to visit Dubrovnik on a budget during the summer months.
As the days get colder and cruise ships leave Dubrovnik’s ports, it becomes a fabulous and relaxing travel destination.
Other Croatian coastal towns follow the same pattern!
Spend a day in Zadar, discover the ancient monuments in Split, admire the Roman amphitheater in Pula, or stroll the romantic cobblestone streets of Rovinj.
Why should you visit Croatia in winter?
Croatia is a popular holiday destination, and due to its popularity, it is gradually left out of the “cheap summer destinations in Europe” list.
However, as the summer season ends, Croatia becomes a budget travelers’ paradise. The prices drop significantly, and you can explore ancient cities full of history and culture without crowds.
The off-season is the best time to visit Croatia – trust me, that is coming from a local!
2. Portugal – for winter sun and stunning landscapes
- 🌡️Temperature: 8-16℃, rainy in the north
- ❄️Crowds: Low Season!
- 💲Budget: 40-60€ per day
If you are looking for a winter sun destination, Portugal should be at the top of your list!
Portugal is a country of stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, so your Portugal itinerary will have a variety of activities.
The most common Portugal backpacking route takes you from north to the south, or the other way around.
The North of Portugal tends to get rainy in winter and autumn, so you’ll want to spend more time in the south for the winter sun.
While the Algarve is not one of the cheapest beach destinations in Europe in the summer, it is quite affordable in the off-season.
You won’t be able to swim on the sandy beaches of the Algarve but you will have the beaches and stunning cliffs all for yourself.
Backpacking Algarve in winter gives you a different perspective of this popular holiday destination.
- Read next: Algarve without a car: 7-day itinerary
Why should you visit Portugal in winter?
Portugal is a hugely popular holiday destination. As soon as days get warmer and longer, it gets overrun by tourists and backpackers looking to spend days soaking in the sun on a beach.
That, unfortunately, means that the prices of accommodation, rental cars and tours increase significantly in summer.
Luckily, we are talking about winter backpacking in Europe in this article!
Winter is the cheapest season to visit Portugal and avoid crowds.
3. Poland – for first-time solo travelers
- 🌡️Temperature: 0-5℃, gets warmer in March
- ❄️Crowds: Low Season for cities, ski season in Tatra Mountains
- 💲Budget: 30-50€ per day
This central European country is one of my favorite European countries to backpack.
Poland is located in the heart of Europe, it is a perfect blend of Western and Eastern European cultures.
Poland is a great backpacking destination for anyone interested in learning more about European history, culture, and traditions.
It is especially intriguing for anyone who wants to know more about the Second World War and Jewish history.
Spend 2 days in Krakow, the most popular backpacker destination in Poland. This medieval city is well-known for its lively nightlife.
Polish capital Warsaw is one of the most underrated capitals in Europe with its charming walled Old Town and fascinating history.
- Check out my backpacking Poland itinerary for the best backpacking route through Poland.
Why should you visit Poland in winter?
Most tourist activities in Poland are not weather-specific. Therefore, it is possible to visit any time of the year, including winter.
Poland has some of the best Christmas Markets in Europe, so you should consider visiting in December.
January and February are ski seasons in the Tatra Mountains.
4. Belgium – for Christmas Markets and Sightseeing
- 🌡️Temperature: 1-6℃, but often rainy
- ❄️Crowds: Low Season besides Christmas Markets
- 💲Budget: 50-70€ per day
Belgium is the perfect country to visit for your first solo backpacking trip.
The country is small and well-connected, many hostels are available for backpackers and English is widely spoken.
That makes it one of the best places to backpack in Europe – winter or summer!
The Belgian capital of Brussels is the perfect place to start your trip. Two days in Brussels is enough time to see the main attractions and get the feel of the city.
Thanks to the fantastic public transport, you don’t need a car to take the best day trips from Brussels. Visit the University town of Leuven or explore the ruins of Villers La Ville Abbey.
The picturesque towns of Bruges and Ghent are a must-visit on your backpacking Belgium itinerary.
Why should you visit Belgium in winter?
Most tourist attractions in Belgium are not weather-specific, so it is possible to visit any time of the year and have a good time!
Visiting Belgium in December means you can explore Belgium’s magical Christmas Markets. Christmas Market in Bruges is one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe!
Medieval Belgian towns with cobblestone streets, charming canals, and picturesque historic houses are equally as stunning in winter.
5. Romania – for skiing and castles
- 🌡️Temperature: -4-4℃ and it snows
- ❄️Crowds: Low Season
- 💲Budget: 30-50€ per day
Romania is one of the best places for budget travelers to backpack in Europe.
If you are traveling on a tight budget, Romania is the best destination for you on this list. This Eastern European country is the cheapest EU country, along with Bulgaria.
Romania is well-known for its spooky vampire legends, and misty, cold days make for a perfect ambiance to explore old, mysterious castles.
Start your backpacking trip in Romania from the capital of Bucharest and make your way up north to Cluj Napoca. Discover numerous Romanian castles along the way. Bran and Peles Castle are a must-visit!
Unfortunately, the world-famous Transfăgărășan road is partially closed during the winter due to the danger of avalanches.
Why should you visit Romania in winter?
You should visit Romania this winter if you are looking for an idyllic, snowy winter experience on a budget.
Skiing is one of the most popular things to do in Romania in winter, as ski resorts in Romania are much cheaper than in Western Europe.
Romanian castles covered in snow are a stunning sight!
6. Andalucia, Spain – for culture and winter sun
- 🌡️Temperature: 10-15℃, mostly sunny
- ❄️Crowds: Low Season
- 💲Budget: 40-60€ per day
Backpacking through Spain is always a good idea, and the most colorful Spanish region of Andalucia is a perfect winter backpacking destination.
Andalucia is best known as the region of flamenco, sangria, oranges, and Arabic influence on the European continent.
Start your Andalucia trip in the vibrant city of Sevilla. Find authentic flamenco bars and watch the show, try Vino de Naranja and admire Plaza d’Espagna.
Make your way through white villages to Cordoba. Admire the Cordoba UNESCO World Heritage Historic Centre and The Great Mosque of Cordoba.
Visit Granada and the UNESCO World Heritage site – Alhambra. Watch the sun go down behind Alhambra and enjoy a flamenco show from Albaycín.
Unlike other countries on this list, Spain is a large country! While backpacking through Spain would be an even bigger adventure, it will take you at least a month to discover the country.
So, I wanted to suggest a shorter – 1 week in Andalucia itinerary for everybody who doesn’t have lots of time to travel this winter.
Why should you visit Andalucia in winter?
The region of Andalucia is on the Mediterranean coast, but you will find most tourist attractions in inland cities.
Therefore, you don’t need to spend days on the beach to fully appreciate Andalucia on a budget.
Winters in Andalucia are mild, and the weather is perfect for exploring the region.
Also, you get to see the iconic Andalusian sight – bright orange fruit on the trees!
Best cities in Europe in Winter for backpackers
Next up are some of the best cities for backpackers in Europe in winter.
These cities are an excellent winter city break on a budget if you don’t have a lot of time to travel but want to explore a new destination!
Even if you’re on a longer backpacking trip you should try to include them in your winter in Europe itinerary regardless of if you are visiting the rest of the country.
7. Budapest, Hungary – For lively nightlife
- 🌡️Temperature: -2-4℃
- ❄️Crowds: Popular on the weekends
- 💲Budget: 30-50€ per day
The capital of Hungary is a backpacker’s hot spot and one of the most popular backpacking destinations in Europe, generally.
For many backpacking itineraries, Budapest is the best place to start backpacking in Europe.
Between lively nightlife and stunning monuments, it is one of those places that have it all.
Spend a day exploring the hilly Buda district, with Buda castle and fairytale-like Fisherman’s Bastion. If you wake up early enough, you can watch the Sun rise behind the Parliament Building.
Cross the famous Chain Bridge to the Pest district and wander the streets of this impressive city.
Budapest is one of the best places to party in Europe, so grab a drink in one of the unique Ruin Bars to end your day and warm up after a day of exploring!
Why should you visit Budapest in winter?
Budapest is a lively and vibrant capital at any time of the year. Despite the cold weather, the streets are full of people, and the city is living.
Fight the cold by visiting thermal baths and enjoying the hot water in outside pools. Alternatively, taste Hungarian, traditional food with warming spices perfect for cold weather.
Budapest is also one of my favorite Christmas Market destinations, and it was voted as best European Christmas Market several times!
8. Prague, Czech Republic – For the fairytale Old Town
- 🌡️Temperature: -2-3℃
- ❄️Crowds: Popular on the weekends
- 💲Budget: 40-60€ per day
Prague is another city that is a must-visit spot on every backpacking through Europe itinerary.
Located in the heart of Europe, on the Vltava river, Prague is one of the most picturesque European capitals.
Walk the cobblestone streets of Prague Castle. It is the largest coherent castle complex in the world, with an area of almost 70,000 m², according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
Cross the impressive Charles Bridge and admire the ancient statues. Stroll the Old Town Square and stop by the Astronomical clock.
Why should you visit Prague in winter?
Prague is a stunning destination at any time of the year, but Christmas decorations transform this city into a winter fairytale.
Prague is a lively capital, well-known for its affordable bars and nightlife that does not stop as the days get colder.
It is worth mentioning for all the foodies that the traditional Prague desert Trdelnik is a perfect snack for cold winter days.
Also, visiting in winter ensures you avoid summer crowds.
9. Berlin, Germany – For vibrant city life
- 🌡️Temperature: 0-5℃
- ❄️Crowds: Popular on the weekends
- 💲Budget: 50-70€ per day
The capital of Germany, Berlin, is a city full of culture and history. It makes for a perfect winter city break with numerous museums, memorial spots, and lively nightlife.
One of the main reasons I love Berlin is how many vegan restaurants there are! Honeslty, you could spend a month there and you wouldn’t get bored.
Berlin is more expensive than most places on this list, but there are also many free things to do in the city.
Why should you visit Berlin in winter?
Berlin is one of the most vibrant European capitals. The energy this city has makes you forget the cold.
Most tourist attractions in Berlin are not weather-specific, so you can enjoy discovering the city any time of the year.
Berlin is well-known as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world. Winter is a perfect time to try all the vegan cakes if you ask me!
10. Athens, Greece – For ancient ruins and sunny weather
- 🌡️Temperature: 6-14℃
- ❄️Crowds: Low season
- 💲Budget: 30-50€ per day
Greece is a must-visit destination for anybody interested in history, ancient monuments, culture, and, of course, food—Greek food is delicious!
While hot summer months are great for backpacking Cyclades and swimming in the crystal clear sea around the islands, the beach is not the main selling point of Athens.
Some of the best things to do in Athens are to discover the majestic Acropolis of Athens, stroll the cobblestone streets of the charming Plaka neighborhood, and many others!
Why should you visit Athens in winter?
Athens is famous for its unparalleled abundance of ancient Greek monuments.
Walking through Athens feels like walking through an open-air museum!
Athens in summer is hot and crowded, with temperatures reaching over 30℃ well into September. That makes winter a perfect time to explore this ancient capital!
Also, Athens has many hostels for those backpacking in Greece and the city is lively year-round.
11. Amsterdam, Netherlands – For a laid-back atmosphere
- 🌡️Temperature: 2-6℃
- ❄️Crowds: Busy on the weekends
- 💲Budget: 50-70€ per day
The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, is best known for its elaborate canal system, picturesque houses with intricate facades, and cycling culture.
I love Amsterdam for its picturesque houses along the canals and museums.
As the weather is often rainy, you’ll be glad to have a great selection of museums to wander and admire.
Amsterdam is especially popular among backpackers for its open-minded vibes and lively nightlife.
The city is one of the most pricey destinations to visit on this list, but winter is the cheapest time to visit and there are ways to keep the costs low.
Also, there are no age restrictions in hostels in Amsterdam, so you don’t have to worry about that.
Why should you visit Amsterdam in winter?
Amsterdam is one of the most popular places to visit in Europe. Winter is the off-season for Amsterdam, so you experience the city with fewer tourists.
At the same time, Amsterdam is a vibrant city filled with students, so it does not feel like you’re visiting in the off-season, as there are locals everywhere!
Also, the Amsterdam Lights Festival takes place in winter.
Final Thoughts: Winter Backpacking Destinations in Europe
That concludes the list of the best places to backpack in Europe in winter!
From winter sun destinations like Spain, Greece, and Croatia to winter wonderland destinations like Romania or mountains in Poland.
Sure, weather can be a big downside when visiting Europe and you should be prepared for cold and rainy days.
However, winter is the cheapest time to visit some of the most popular places in Europe and you can enjoy it without crowds!
So, do you think it is worth the compromise? Let me know!
Planning a trip to Europe this winter?
Check out my entire series on traveling Europe in winter on a budget!
