So, you want to see Europe in all of its glory and take in sights that are a bit off the beaten backpacker path? The new Roamies Ultimate Europe: Berlin, Tuscany & Greek Temples tour is chock full of all that and more. In 34 days, you’ll explore twenty different cities with some unexpected but wonderful stops in between and hang out in the coolest hostels. Want to hear more? Of course you do! To get you started, here’s a few insider tips and what you can expect on the first five days after having made my way through the full month-long journey.
Day 1: Amsterdam
You’ve arrived in Amsterdam for the first leg of an extraordinary adventure where no two days are the same across one of the most varied continents in the world. What a trip! Get yourself settled in at your hostel, Generator Amsterdam near Oosterpark, where you’ll meet travellers taking this journey with you.
Once you’ve dropped your bags, head out and see the town. Amsterdam is a wonderful city to walk through and Generator is located close to the canal, ideal for a stroll or chilling with a Dutch beer. I recommend taking a 10-minute walk to Bakhuys coffee shop on Sarphatistraat for a fresh pastry and coffee. You’ll meet up with your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) later in the day before your first group meal together near the hostel. Maybe afterwards you can opt for another walk with your group to see the city lit up at night or relax in Generator’s chill-out lounge and bar, a former lecture hall that has since been converted.
Day 2: Amsterdam – Berlin
Up and at ‘em! You’re on your way to Berlin but get ready for a couple of incredible stops en route. First up is the charming town of Quedlinburg, which looks like it's straight off the cover of a chocolate box. Take a wander through the gorgeous medieval cobblestones streets and maybe grab a doner kebab with your new travel buddies – fun fact, doner kebabs were invented in Germany.
Next up before you hit the big city is a quick pit stop to see the beautiful rock formation of Teufelsmauer or Devil’s Wall in central Germany. Take a cherry tree lined walkway up to the site for stunning views and photo ops. In the evening, check into St Christopher’s Inn in Alexanderplatz, Berlin which is likely already hopping with great tunes in the bar/reception area. Head out to Zur Gerichtslaube for a hearty, traditional Berlin dinner and grab a pint of their Schöffenbier. Trust me, it’s good.
Day 3: Berlin
This is going to be a remarkable day and, let’s be honest, I’m excited for you! It kicks off with a guided walking tour of Berlin to see its unique mix of architecture and arts districts, and hear a bit of the city’s history.
You’ll get to look up at the Berlin TV Tower, of course, built in 1969 and a signature of the skyline. And you’ll marvel at the Karl Friedrich Schinkel's Altes Museum, Bode Museum and the Humboldt Forum – where you’ll find the Empty Library. It’s a really stark public memorial in remembrance of the Nazi book burnings that took place in the Bebelplatz in Berlin in 1933 when over 20,000 books written by mainly Jewish authors were destroyed.
It’s a lot to take in and you’ll need sustenance. For lunch, head to the Hackescher Markt where there's a buzzy vibe to enjoy before you explore more of the city. At the Brandenburger Tor, Berlin Wall remnants, and Checkpoint Charlie you can learn about the region’s complex history. If you have the weather for it, reflect on your day at Café am Neuen See Biergarten in Lichtensteinallee for Bavarian grub and beer with lakeside views.
Day 4: Berlin – Prague
Before you know it, you’re on your way to the heart of Europe, with a few stops along the way to Prague. In Dresden, the traditional capital of Saxony, you’ll find a city steeped in history with some mind-blowing architecture. Grab a bite here as you’ll need fuel for a hike at your next stop, the Bohemian Switzerland National Park in north-western Czech Republic. You’ll don hiking boots for an hour and a half climb to Pravcicka Gate, a stunning rock formation dubbed the highest rock bridge in Europe. Get ready to take a bundle of snaps as you bliss out on endless forest views.
In the evening, you'll check into the aptly named, Czech Inn in Prague. It’s perfectly located for adventures around this charming city when you wake up to greet Day 5.
Day 5: Prague
Take advantage of the 24-hour public transport ticket given out by your CEO, and hop on a metro or tram to the city centre. It’s a free day in Prague, so if there’s something you really want to see or do, this is your day to make it happen. My suggestion? Spend your morning heading to Charles Bridge, a beautifully adorned stone arch spanning the Vltava River. Once you cross over, grab a yummy trdelnik pastry treat filled with cream, berries and chocolate then walk to Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral.
Take in amazing views over the city before heading to Old Town Square for goulash or schnitzel. If you and your crew are up for a night out on the town, I highly recommend checking out the riverside bars, about a 20-minute walk from your hostel.
Next stop: Vienna! Salzburg! Munich and more!
Getting there
Eager to explore iconic destinations and stay in some of the best hostels ever like Claire on her Ultimate Europe: Berlin, Tuscany & Greek Temples journey? Our Roamies by Hostelworld & G Adventures trips are just the ticket. And the price (especially for younger travellers on a budget) is just right too!