Backpacking is one of the best ways to experience the world’s most exciting destinations, providing flexibility, adventure, and affordability. Whether hiking through stunning landscapes or exploring vibrant cities, backpackers can embrace the freedom of the open road. On the way, you’ll find the confidence to discover exciting backpacking destinations, explore new places alone, and make lifelong friends.
1. Italy
Italy offers a variety of exciting experiences for backpackers, from exploring ancient ruins to hiking through picturesque countryside. With summer temperatures ranging between 25°C and 30°C, Italy is a great destination for those looking to mix adventure with culture while enjoying the sun.
Backpackers can enjoy affordable accommodations in cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, where hostels and guesthouses offer a budget-friendly stay. For those seeking a more scenic escape, the rolling hills of Tuscany and the rugged beauty of the Dolomites provide excellent hiking opportunities.
Beyond trekking, Italy makes a great backpacking destination to explore the many historical wonders it has to offer. From the Colosseum in Rome to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, add some of the most iconic attractions in Italy to your itinerary.
Flight time from London: Approximately 2 to 3 hours.
2. Greece
Greece is a dream destination for backpackers, especially those travelling for the first time. With average summer temperatures between 28°C and 34°C, Greece offers a mix of cultural exploration and beach relaxation. Athens has a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere with affordable hostels and budget accommodations, making it a great starting point for backpackers. From there, many head to the Greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos for their stunning views and laid-back vibe.
Island hopping is a popular choice for backpackers and Greece makes it easy with ferries connecting many islands. Whether hiking through ancient ruins, lounging on beautiful beaches, or enjoying traditional Greek cuisine, there’s no shortage of experiences at this great backpacking destination. The best time to holiday in Greece is usually any time of the year but May and September are generally quieter.
Flight time from London: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.
3. The Caribbean
While the Caribbean is often associated with luxury resorts, it’s also an appealing destination for backpackers who seek adventure in a tropical paradise. With warm temperatures ranging from 27°C to 30°C, the islands offer incredible opportunities for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
For a bit of adventure, thrill seekers have plenty to experience in Antigua where you can enjoy a mixture of adventure activities and nature. For backpackers looking to try something new, Antigua’s crystal-clear waters can be explored with stingray snorkelling or the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour provides an exciting ziplining experience.
Although most might associate the Caribbean with relaxing on a white sand beach, the region is known for some of the best hiking trails. Dark View Falls in St Vincent is a great waterfall hike with natural pools and a jungle bridge and the Waitukubuli National Trail in Dominica is a hiking adventure for those seeking a long-distance hike to try.
Dominica is a lesser-visited Caribbean island yet provides many excellent activities for adventure-seeking backpackers. Outdoor lovers can experience a full-day hike to the Boiling Lake, try canyoning, or scuba dive to explore Dominica’s coral reefs. No trip would be complete without visiting the Emerald Pool, Dominica’s most photographed and visited attraction.
Flight time from London: Approximately 8 to 9 hours.
4. Turkey
Turkey is quickly becoming a favourite backpacking destination for 2025, offering a combination of stunning coastlines, rich history, and affordable travel options. With summer temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, backpackers can enjoy everything from relaxing on the beaches of Bodrum and Antalya to exploring the vibrant city of Istanbul. Turkey’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage make it an ideal spot for those seeking adventure and exploration.
For those on a budget, Turkey’s affordable hostels and guesthouses are ideal, particularly in Istanbul’s bustling neighbourhoods or along the picturesque Turquoise Coast. Popular backpacking trails like the Lycian Way offer trekkers a chance to discover ancient ruins and breathtaking coastal scenery. Meanwhile, Cappadocia’s unique rock formations and hot air balloon rides are must-see experiences.
Backpackers on the hunt to explore different culinary delights will find a variety of exciting food options in Turkey. Street food provides quick and affordable meals to try on the go – with the likes of simit, kumpir, and of course, the beloved doner kebab widely available.
Flight time from London: Approximately 4 hours.
5. France
France remains a top backpacking destination in Europe, with its diverse landscapes, cultural landmarks, and excellent transportation links. During summer, temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C in cities like Paris, while the southern coast and regions like Provence can see warmer weather. Backpackers are drawn to France for its world-famous cities, scenic countryside, and outdoor activities.
Paris is an essential stop, offering affordable hostels and budget accommodations close to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre. Backpackers can spend days exploring the city’s artistic and historical sites before heading south to relax on the beaches of the French Riviera or hike through the lavender fields of Provence.
France is a great backpacking destination to explore as The French Alps provide an excellent opportunity for trekking with stunning mountain scenery and charming villages along the way. For those looking to take a break from the rigours of the road, France offers plenty of things to do and see and provides comfortable hotels and convenient transport links, making it easy to catch a flight or train to continue exploring Europe.
Flight time from London: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.
