For many, the gap year represents a key milestone in life, an opportunity to gain experience and immerse oneself in new adventures. Whether it’s traveling with a backpack or exploring new cultures, it’s a period that leaves an unforgettable mark. But how do you choose the ideal destination for a gap year? We have selected eight European destinations that stand out for factors such as the cost of living, culture, nightlife, and landscapes, elements that make them particularly popular among travelers who choose to live this experience.
Spain: An Ideal Destination for Backpacking
Spain is an ideal destination for backpacking, offering a wide range of routes, from vibrant cities like Madrid and Barcelona, which are well connected and easily accessible, to quieter regions like Galicia and Sierra Nevada, perfect for those looking to visit less touristy places. One of the advantages of Spain backpacking trip is the ease of traveling between cities, thanks to the well-developed rail network and affordable buses, which help keep your travel budget under control. Spain is also known for its hospitality, with a wide range of hostels, campsites, and affordable accommodations available for all types of travelers. If you are passionate about trekking, Spain offers famous routes like the Pyrenees Mountains and the Camino de Santiago. The Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park in the Pyrenees is known for its glacial lakes and challenging trails like the Carros de Foc, a 55 km loop that crosses high peaks and mountain refuges. The Camino de Santiago, with routes such as the French Way and the Northern Way, crosses diverse landscapes and historic towns, starting from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and leading to Santiago de Compostela.
Portugal: History and Untouched Landscapes
Portugal stands out for its rich history and natural beauty. Lisbon and Porto are the main cities, full of culture and tradition, with charming corners to explore and spectacular views of the Tagus River. The Algarve coast is famous for the beauty of its beaches and its mild climate all year round, making it perfect for relaxing in the sun. In the Portuguese countryside, you can visit picturesque villages with deep-rooted traditions. The Serra da Estrela mountain range offers great trekking opportunities, ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with nature. The well-organized public transport system and the wide range of affordable accommodations, such as hostels and campsites, make Portugal an ideal destination for a backpacking trip. Portuguese cuisine, with dishes like bacalhau and pastel de nata, will further enrich your experience.
Italy: The Heart of European Culture
With iconic cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, every corner of the country tells a unique story through historical monuments, extraordinary museums, and centuries-old traditions. But Italy is not just about art and history; if you are also seeking nature, Tuscany welcomes you with its rolling hills and vineyards, while Sicily and Puglia offer a more rugged beauty, with jagged coastlines and traditional villages. The Dolomites, with their trekking trails and breathtaking views, will allow you to venture far from the crowds, as will the Amalfi Coast, where every corner will surprise you with sea views and picturesque villages. Sardinia is ideal for those looking for a mix of beaches and outdoor activities, while the Cinque Terre invites you to walk along panoramic trails connecting villages perched between the sea and the mountains. Don’t forget Elba Island, where sea and nature blend seamlessly, creating a perfect oasis for exploring on foot or by bike.
Greece: A Journey Between Myth and Nature
Greece is one of the most captivating destinations for those looking to explore ancient history and natural beauty. Athens, with the Acropolis, is the heart of Western civilization, but the Greek islands, such as Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos, are also perfect for an unforgettable travel experience. Greece is not just about the sea and islands; it’s dotted with numerous trekking routes for hiking enthusiasts, such as Mount Olympus, a symbol of Greek mythology, or the Meteora National Park, famous for its monasteries perched on rock formations. If you’re passionate about history, Greece lets you walk in the places where democracy and philosophy were born, while its landscapes, with mountains and coasts, will provide peaceful moments of contemplation.
Netherlands: Culture, Sustainability, and Innovation
The Netherlands is a perfect destination for those who love art, culture, and sustainability. Amsterdam, with its canals and world-renowned museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, is one of the most dynamic cities in Europe. Beyond the capital, Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture, while Utrecht is famous for its picturesque canals and laid-back atmosphere. The Netherlands is one of the most sustainable countries in the world, and cycling is widespread, allowing you to explore the country in an eco-friendly way. The numerous bike paths will take you through charming villages, countryside, and landscapes that seem to have come straight out of a painting.
Croatia: Nature, History, and Traditions
Croatia combines natural beauty with the charm of its historic cities. Dubrovnik, with its majestic medieval walls and crystal-clear sea, is one of the most iconic cities in the country, where every corner tells centuries of history. Beyond the city, the islands of Hvar and Korčula offer a more peaceful atmosphere, with pristine sea views and natural landscapes, ideal for a more authentic and less touristy experience. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a perfect place for nature lovers, where trails will lead you to hidden spots and offer plenty of tranquility. If you’re a fan of trekking, Croatia offers numerous routes through mountains, coastlines, and hills, such as those in the Velebit Nature Park, which provides spectacular views and a direct connection with the landscape.
France: Historic Cities and Natural Landscapes
Paris, with its world-renowned museums and iconic monuments, is the perfect starting point for a trip, but the more remote French regions offer equally unique experiences. Provence is ideal for those wanting to connect with nature, surrounded by lavender fields, small villages, and rolling hills. Normandy, with its wild coastline and historical sites related to World War II, provides a different yet equally captivating experience. If you’re seeking adventure, the French Alps are a great choice for trekking and hiking, while the French Riviera is perfect for those who prefer the sea and relaxation. Cities like Lyon, known for its culinary scene, and Strasbourg, with its architecture blending French and German styles, will give you an authentic cultural experience.
Norway: Nature and Trekking
Norway is famous for its unique natural landscapes, including fiords, mountains, and nature reserves. The cities of Oslo and Bergen provide direct access to these natural wonders, with well-developed tourist infrastructure. Norway is also a top destination for trekking, with trails leading to Trolltunga and the Norwegian Fjord Trail, allowing you to explore valleys, lakes, and mountains. If you want to witness the aurora borealis, northern regions like Tromsø are some of the best spots to experience it, especially in the winter months. Additionally, the well-developed public transport network and local hospitality make it easy to explore the country in an affordable and comfortable way.
