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Backpacking Through Europe: Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Greece, and Prague on a Budget

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Day 1: Exploring Brussels

Brussels, Belgium

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café des Spores

Start the day with a budget-friendly breakfast of local pastries and strong Belgian coffee to fuel your adventures.
Located near Parc du Cinquantenaire, a 15-minute tram ride from the city center.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Grand Place

Marvel at the stunning architecture of Brussels' central square and take a few photos.
A 10-minute walk from Café des Spores.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Maison Antoine

Grab some delicious frites (fries) with a variety of dips as a budget meal.
Only a 12-minute walk from Grand Place.
EUR6, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Atomium

A unique structure offering panoramic views of the city; a must-see in Brussels.
Take the metro (line 6) from the city center to Heysel, around 30 minutes.
EUR16, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Magritte Museum

Discover the captivating works of René Magritte housed in this stunning museum.
Return via metro to Parc Royal, around 30 minutes.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Delirium Café

End the day with a budget-friendly meal and a plethora of Belgian beers.
A 15-minute walk from the museum.
EUR15, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Brussels

Day 2: Amsterdam Awaits

Amsterdam, Netherlands

8:00AM

Breakfast at Broads&Butter

Enjoy a fresh, homemade bagel and coffee before heading out to explore the city.
Catch an early bus from Brussels to Amsterdam (around 3 hours).
EUR12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Anne Frank House

Experience a profound part of history at this famous museum.
A 20-minute tram ride from the breakfast café.
EUR12.50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Foodhallen

Sample various Dutch cuisines at this indoor food market with multiple vendors.
A 30-minute walk from the Anne Frank House.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Van Gogh Museum

Delve into the captivating world of Vincent Van Gogh's art in this dedicated museum.
Tram ride from Foodhallen to Museumplein, around 20 minutes.
EUR19, 2 hours

4:30PM

Wander Vondelpark

Relax and take a leisurely walk in Amsterdam's most famous park.
A 15-minute walk from the Van Gogh Museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at De Kas

Experience dining in a greenhouse with seasonal dishes made from fresh ingredients.
Take a bus from Vondelpark to the restaurant, around 20 minutes.
EUR20, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Amsterdam

Day 3: Amsterdam's Canals

Amsterdam, Netherlands

8:00AM

Breakfast at Stach

Grab a quick coffee and a delicious pastry to start the day right.
Walk or bike to the nearby café.
EUR7, 1 hour

9:30AM

Canal Tour

Explore the beautiful canals of Amsterdam on a budget boat tour.
Canal tours depart from near central stations regularly.
EUR15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Rijksmuseum

Immerse yourself in Dutch art and history at this iconic museum.
A 15-minute walk from the canal tour dock.
EUR20, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Broads&Butter

Return for a tasty sandwich at a popular local spot.
A 20-minutes walk from the Rijksmuseum.
EUR10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Discover Jordaan District

Wander through this charming neighborhood, filled with shops and galleries.
A 25-minute walk from Broads&Butter.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Waiting Room

Enjoy a casual meal at this cozy restaurant known for its burgers.
A 20-minute walk back to central Amsterdam.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: From Amsterdam to Cologne

Cologne, Germany

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local café

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for your travel day.
Quickly grab breakfast at a nearby café.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Cologne

Take a morning train or bus to Cologne, enjoying the scenic view.
Train ride to Cologne takes around 2.5 hours.
EUR20, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cologne Triangle

Grab a quick meal nearby, enjoying views of the iconic Cologne Cathedral.
Walk toward the Cathedral area, around 10 minutes.
EUR12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Cologne Cathedral

Explore this magnificent Gothic structure, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Just a 5-minute walk from the lunch spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stroll along the Rhine River

Take a peaceful walk along the river adorned with lovely views.
A 5-minute walk from the cathedral.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Clostermann's

Enjoy German cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere with reasonable prices.
A 15-minute walk along the Rhine.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Cologne

Day 5: Berlin's Rich History

Berlin, Germany

8:00AM

Breakfast at House of Small Wonders

Start your day with fresh, healthy breakfast options in a cozy atmosphere.
Catch a morning train to Berlin (around 4 hours).
EUR12, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Markthalle Neun

Enjoy a local food market experience with a variety of affordable meal options.
Take a tram to the market, approximately 30 minutes.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Brandenburg Gate

Explore this iconic symbol of Berlin, rich in history and culture.
Take the U-Bahn to Brandenburger Tor station.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Berlin Wall Memorial

Learn about the city's divided past at this poignant site.
A 20-minute walk from the Brandenburg Gate.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mustafa's Gemüse Kebap

Savor a delicious and affordable Döner kebab from this popular food stand.
Head to Kreuzberg, a 30-minute ride on public transport.
EUR3, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Berlin

Day 6: Berlin's Cultural Gems

Berlin, Germany

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kaffeeküche

Enjoy quality coffee and light pastries at this local favorite.
Easily accessible via public transportation.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Museum Island

Spend the morning exploring world-class museums grouped on this UNESCO site.
A short tram ride from the café.
EUR18, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Neni Berlin

Indulge in affordable Middle Eastern food with stunning views of the city.
A 20-minute public transport ride from Museum Island.
EUR14, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore East Side Gallery

Walk along the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall covered in vibrant murals.
Take a metro ride to Warschauer Straße, around 30 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Café Luzia

Experience a casual atmosphere with reasonable prices for delicious dishes.
A 15-minute walk from the East Side Gallery.
EUR10, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Berlin

Day 7: Journey to Switzerland

Zurich, Switzerland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sprüngli

Enjoy Swiss pastries and excellent coffee before heading to Zurich.
Take a morning train from Berlin to Zurich (approximately 8 hours).
EUR20, 1 hour

4:00PM

Lunch on the train (bring your own)

Pack a simple sandwich to save on dining while traveling.
Consumption on the train.
EUR5, Rate on the train

6:00PM

Arrival in Zurich

Explore the beautiful streets and picturesque views of the city as you settle in.
A quick tram ride to the city center.
Free, Evening

7:30PM

Dinner at Zunfthaus zur Waag

Experience Swiss cuisine with delightful ambiance at reasonable prices.
Central Zurich, easy access.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Zurich

Day 8: Exploring Lucerne

Lucerne, Switzerland

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local bakery

Fuel up with local bread and coffee before a day of exploring.
Catch an early train to Lucerne (about 1 hour).
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Chapel Bridge

Enjoy scenic views and historic charm as you cross this iconic bridge.
Short walk from the train station.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Old Town

Wander the charming streets full of shops, cafes, and colorful buildings.
Continuation of your walk from the Chapel Bridge.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Fritschi

Dine on traditional Swiss dishes in a cozy setting.
Located in the heart of Old Town.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Take a Boat Trip on Lake Lucerne

Experience the stunning scenery of the Swiss Alps from the water.
Boarding close to the Old Town area.
EUR20, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Wirtshaus Galliker

End your day with hearty Swiss food in this charming restaurant.
Return to the shore, a short walk.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Lucerne

Day 9: Head to Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Good Morning, Milano

Savor an Italian pastry and coffee as you prepare for travel.
Catch a morning train from Zurich to Milan (around 4 hours).
EUR15, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Luini

Indulge in the famous panzerotti for a delicious meal.
Short trek from the train station.
EUR7, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Duomo di Milano

Visit this iconic cathedral and enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop.
A short walk from the lunch spot.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Stroll through this beautiful shopping gallery filled with fancy shops.
Easily accessible from Duomo.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

Experience traditional Milanese cuisine at this budget-friendly spot.
A 10-minute walk from the Galleria.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Milan

Day 10: Wandering Florence

Florence, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ditta Artigianale

Enjoy quality Italian coffee and pastries to kick off your day.
Catch an early train from Milan to Florence (around 2 hours).
EUR10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Uffizi Gallery

Dive into the world of Renaissance art with iconic works from celebrated artists.
Located near the Ponte Vecchio, a 20-minute walk.
EUR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Experience the bustling food market full of various delicious options.
Just a short walk from the Uffizi.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Florence Cathedral

Climb to the dome for stunning views of the city and admire the architecture.
Near the lunch spot.
EUR18, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria All'Antico Vinaio

Delight in famous Florentine sandwiches that won't break the bank.
Located close to the cathedral.
EUR8, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Florence

Day 11: Greece/Night Market in Athens

Athens, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Bakery

Grab a quick and inexpensive fresh pastry as you start your day.
Catch a morning flight from Florence to Athens.
EUR50, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Acropolis

Explore this famous ancient site rich in history.
A convenient metro ride from the city center.
EUR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

Enjoy traditional Greek dishes in a casual setting.
Near the Acropolis, a short walk away.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Plaka Neighborhood

Wander the charming streets of this historical area filled with shops and cafes.
Just a 10-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Koutsougeras

Taste authentic Greek souvlaki at great prices.
A few steps away from Plaka.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Explore Monastiraki Square Night Market

Experience local chatter and food stalls offering an array of treats.
Head to Monastiraki, a quick metro ride.
Free, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Athens

Day 12: Island Life in Santorini

Santorini, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at Katerina's

Enjoy a classic Greek breakfast with fresh ingredients.
Catch a morning ferry from Athens to Santorini (around 5 hours).
EUR40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Taverna

Savor fresh seafood and Greek salads cooked with local produce.
Easily found in Fira town.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Oia

Wander the iconic streets and enjoy breathtaking views of the caldera.
Take a local bus from Fira to Oia, around 30 minutes.
EUR2, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sunset Ammoudi

Dine with a sunset view by the water; seafood here is a must-try.
A 15-minute walk from Oia.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Santorini

Day 13: Final stop in Prague

Prague, Czech Republic

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Louvre

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in this historic café to start the day.
Fly or take a ferry back to Athens, then a flight from Athens to Prague.
EUR70, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lokál Dlouhááá

Savor traditional Czech cuisine in this local eatery with a fun atmosphere.
Located in the city center, easily accessible.
EUR9, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Prague Castle

Explore this vast historic complex for an afternoon of discovery.
A 30-minute tram ride from Lokál.
EUR10, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at U Medvídků

Experience local Czech beers and hearty meals in a traditional setting.
A tram ride back to the city center, around 30 minutes.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Prague
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