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Top 10 things you MUST do in Europe for under 30’s!

By Kach Umandap July 4th, 2022 Posted in Europe Travel Blog, Honeymoon Guides, Travel Blog, Travel Guides 13 Comments

Europe is a rite of passage for all young men and women of the world, be it a road trip, hitchhiking, public transportation or even a bit of city-hopping by budget airline, there are a number of things that you must do in Europe, even if it means sacrificing a few of the other items on your bucket list.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Top 10 things you MUST do in Europe for under 30’s!
Photo by Hernán PiñeraCC BY-SA 2.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With such a vast range of climates, landscapes, societies, and cultures, Europe is a continent that will stun and intrigue you all the way from the rolling hills of the United Kingdom in the West to the mystic ruins of ancient civilizations to the East. Whether you’re planning a trip to Europe, or if you’re just wondering what all the fuss is about, then check out this list of things you must do in Europe.

1. Go Sailing in Greece

The ancient and historical civilization of Greece is home to some of the world’s most beautiful islands. These islands, also known as the Cyclades, are a group of islands in the Aegean Sea which form a circle the sacred island of Delos and are now one of the most popular tourist destinations for holidaymakers searching for perfect weather, clear-blue waters, white-sand beaches, amazing food, and historic architecture. One of the most enjoyable ways to travel the Aegean Sea is by traditional Greek wooden ship, like the eight days YOLO (you only live once) cruises from Sail in Greece, which take you to 5 or 6 islands, with tours, adventures, water sports and Greece’s world-famous parties throughout!

These days the classic sailing vessels have been upgraded with air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and even Wi-Fi for a bit of extra comfort as you cruise, explore, and party with fellow friends and travelers, mostly around 18 to 35. A cruise through paradise, infused with the history and mystery of one of the greatest civilizations which ever existed is a must-do in Europe and the perfect way to explore this stunning part of the world.

Suggested Tour: Morning or Sunset Cruise with Food & Drinks

2. Travel Europe by train – Eurail, and Interrail

Travel trend 2020 The rise of the 'Micro cation'

Europe is one of the quintessential travel experiences for explorers of all ages and almost a rite of passage for fresh-out-of-school youngsters hungry for adventure and discovery. There are many interesting and affordable ways to travel the European continent – buses; cheap flights; a road trip with friends; even hitchhiking is showing a resurgence in popularity – but one of the oldest and greatest methods of transportation is still high on the list among the great romantics – the train. Unfortunately, the cost of rail travel has increased substantially, making the cost of individual tickets an unfeasible option for the budget traveler. Luckily, however, there is still a way for rail travel to be viable for all – Eurail and Interrail.

The Eurail Group provides rail passes for travel all over Europe, for one, two, four, or twenty-eight countries, at a much lower cost than buying individual tickets. It’s the classic, romantic image we hold in our minds of cruising smoothly through the constantly-evolving countryside, chatting with passengers from all over the world between one beautiful city and the next, that makes train travel a must-do in Europe. Have breakfast in London, dinner in Paris, and wake up the next day in Amsterdam, or even Switzerland!

3. Surf in the south of France

15 Best Things To Do in Biarritz, France
Photo by mauro paillex on Unsplash

Many of us have watched surfers from the beach as they glide down the face of a wave before pulling into a steep turn to face the giant, chasing the sweet spot while being pursued by the breaking water behind them. We’ve all sat there and thought, ‘I wish I could do that!’

The south of France has always been one of the world’s greatest surf destinations, with beautiful locations like Biarritz, Capbreton, and most notably, Hossegor all in easy reach. There’s a very good reason that many international surf competitions are held in this region; it offers some of the best surf in the world. On top of that, unlike many other surf breaks, you have all the benefits of first-world facilities, amazing food, fine wine, great nightlife, and plenty of alternative activities for days when the waves forget to show up. There’s no shortage of other water sports options, but if you want a break from the salt, head for one of the local vineyards for a bit of education and culture. There’s no shortage of cheap hostels, and the party scene is full and flowing in the peak season.

4. Explore Rome

Top 10 things you MUST do in Europe for under 30’s!
Shane Mariz Geraldez Milan
Photo by cattan2011CC BY 2.0

 

Rome is an enchanting place with countless nooks and crannies to check out, aside from the hundreds of churches, monuments, and historical artifacts.

This ancient Roman city was once the center of a great empire that has since fallen, like so many others before and since. Aside from being amazed by architectural marvels like The Colosseum, exploring the secrets of the Vatican, and crawling through the Catacombs, don’t forget to sit back with a cappuccino and soak up the Italian life and culture. It’s certainly not cheap here, so plan your budget carefully and spend some time researching the more affordable areas of the city for hostels with kitchens to help you save a little. There are plenty of free things to do as well, like exploring the city’s old industrial center, Mattatoio, the skull of Saint Valentine, a cat sanctuary squatting amongst ancient ruins where Julius Caesar was assassinated, treasure hunting in Monti’s vintage market, and numerous free art galleries and museums. A must-do in Europe for culture junkies!

Suggested Tour: Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour

5. Truffle Hunting in Istria, Croatia

Top 10 things you MUST do in Europe
Photo by Arnie Papp CC BY 2.0

One of the most culturally diverse regions in Europe, the Istria peninsula of southern Croatia has been ruled and inhabited over the centuries by ancient Venetians, Italians, Austrians, and Germans, all of which contribute to the distinctly rich flavors, textures, and personalities found in this small corner of Mediterranean Europe.

Istria has so much to offer regarding history, culture, architecture, and of course, cuisine, although it’s often overlooked in favor of its bigger European cousins, like Italy and Spain. Tourism here is extremely developed in all areas, with the varied landscapes, from lush, cool mountains and forests dotted with medieval stone villages, to fine wine vineyards and the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean where small fishing towns thrive as social and tourist hot spots. One of Istria’s greatest accolades is its gourmet cuisine and is the source of some of the best truffles in Europe. A truffle is an underground mushroom, which was revered by the Romans as a gift from the gods and is traditionally found using specially trained dogs to detect them underground. The world’s largest truffle was discovered here in the forests of Motovun, weighing in at over 1.3 Kg. With truffle hunting tours led by experienced guides, you can have a go at beating the record for yourself! This is a must-do in Europe for the more refined traveler with a palette for fine food and wine.

Suggested Tour: Flavors of Istria Tour to Hum, Grožnjan, & Motovun

6. See the best of England

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Top 10 things you MUST do in Europe for under 30’s!
Photo by
barnyz
CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

 

England, the home of the Kings and Queens of Britain, rich in history and beautiful countryside and home to Fish and Chips, pubs and rainy weather!

London is the capital city and has enough to keep you busy for a whole week with iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, and Tower Bridge. But there’s more to England than London; the ancient mystery of Stonehenge, pints, and pies in traditional pubs and stunning countryside like the Lake District in the north – This old country has so much to offer, and there are so many great places to visit. One of the best ways to travel to England and its neighboring UK countries is by train, watching the landscapes change and unfold around you. If you into hiking and walking, the country’s seemingly endless mountain and coastal paths are enough to keep your boots busy for several years! If you have extra time available, cross the open borders into Scotland and Wales, for a deeper look into the culture and history of the British Isles. Don’t underestimate how much time you’ll need to get into this ‘must do in Europe’ destination.

Suggested Tour: 4-Hour Private Walking Sightseeing Tour

7. See Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain

10 Remarkable Destinations of Spain

With everything you could want from a Mediterranean city – healthy food, sunshine, a relaxing lifestyle, and a blend of historical and modern culture and design that rivals almost any other city in the world, a few days in Barcelona can change how you feel about cities forever. In fact, we could have filled this whole must do in Europe list with things to do in Barcelona!

Barcelona, the capital city of the autonomous region of Catalonia in Spain, is the second-most populous city in Spain and one of the most important cultural centers in Europe, is home to 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites, seven of which fall under the ‘Works of Antoni Gaudi.’ The most famous of these is the Sagrada Familia, the final and unfinished work of Barcelona’s most renowned architect, Antoni Gaudi, who worked on the project for 43 years until his death at the age of 74. Since then some architects and engineers have continued design and construction, with a design committee now fully committed to finally completing the great Basilica in 2026. A visit to the Sagrada Familia is not just for the religious or for history and architecture fanatics – even if you think you don’t like churches, the spaces, shapes, light, and feelings inside will inspire and amaze you! Other inspiring works by Gaudi include the Casa Calvet, the Casa Batlló, and the Casa Milà, all of which redefined the meaning of architecture and design.

Suggested Tour: Barcelona & Sagrada Familia Half-Day Tour with Hotel Pickup

8. Ski in the French Alps

Top 10 things you MUST do in Europe
Photo by Sam Bark on Unsplash

If you’re looking for a true example of a European winter activity, this is it. There is nothing more European than gliding through snowy slopes on a set of skis, stopping for a cappuccino and a cognac in the winter sun, before doing it all over again! The French Alps are the top destination in Europe, albeit, sometimes the most expensive as well. With more than 2000km of high-quality pistes for all levels and abilities, you can choose between the more party focused resorts, such as Val d’Isere and Tignes, or the more expensive and more upmarket resorts of Chamonix. There’s no need to buy your expensive gear as it can all be rented quite affordable and there are always ski schools to get you started if it’s your first time.

Suggested Tour: Chamonix Full-Day Ski Trip

9. Drink real beer at Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany

Top 10 things you MUST do in Europe2
Photo by Chandramohan Sudar on Unsplash

Officially the world’s largest funfair, Oktoberfest is a 16-day folk festival held annually in Munich, Bavarian Germany, with more than 6 million international attendees annually. Nowadays, Oktoberfest is best known for the huge quantities of beer consumed throughout the event (and before…and after!), but there are loads of other attractions and things to keep you entertained in between beverages – amusement rides; traditional side stalls, and games, plus loads of traditional food. So if you’re more into your food than your beer, then you can still have an awesome time eating your way through German delicacies like Hendl (roast chicken), Schweinebraten (roast pork), Schweinshaxe (grilled ham hock), Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick), Würstl (sausages) along with Brezen (pretzel), Knödel (potato or bread dumplings), Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), Reiberdatschi (potato pancakes), Sauerkraut or Rotkohl/Blaukraut (red cabbage) along with such Bavarian delicacies as Obatzda (a spiced cheese-butter spread) and Weisswurst (a white sausage). German food is known for being quite heavy, so bring elasticated trousers!

Suggested Tour: An Evening of Bavarian Beer and Food Culture

10. See Norway’s biggest fjord

Top 10 things you MUST do in Europe
Photo by Dong Zhang on Unsplash

Everyone who has ever heard anything about Norway knows that the country is synonymous with great fjords, narrow inlets in the coast where saltwater flows inland surrounded by great walls of rock and cliffs. The greatest fjord of them all, the Sognefjord, is 204 km long and 1038 km deep, giving it the title, ‘King of Fjords!’ Of course, there are many other fjords too, like Geirangerfjord with its magnificent waterfalls and cliffs. When you’re all fjord’s out, check out the country’s other attractions like North Cape, Old Bryggen Wharf in Bergen, and the Snow Hotel in Kirkenes. Norway is a very expensive country, but as always, there are plenty of free things to do if you know where to find them, like the changing of the royal guard, the parks of Oslo, great beaches, and even free ice skating in winter!

Suggested Tour: Trolltunga Winter Snowshoe Hike

 

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13 thoughts on “Top 10 things you MUST do in Europe for under 30’s!

  1. 1. The most wanted thing to do for me in Europe is to see the
    northern lights in Norway. The sky amazes me, how vast and mysterious it
    is and just watching the lights dance in the sky would be pure bliss.

    2.
    Why will I pick Europe for my next dream destination? The list of the
    countries to see in Europe just goes on and on. Nature, cuisine,
    culture, people are just one of the reasons to visit Europe. I have
    always wanted to see this beauty, and I already have picked it. I have
    applied for a residence permit in Norway as an Au Pair, it will be my
    starting point to do what you do, and see what you see in every place
    you step on.

    You both inspire so much that anyone can do it, go out and go to places you have never been. So I will go out and see the world!

  2. I would love to ski on the French Alps. One, because my boyfriend promised to teach me how to (in exchange for my surfing lessons. Hehe!). Two, a year of studying French in college made me crave to experience the culture of France. It’s been years since I last used the romantic language, and i think my français have become a little rusty. So, i think it may be a good time to practice it there..

    European countries has been deemed to have a very romantic atmosphere, probably due to the art, culture, and nature that they have. I have always wanted to experience that. There are so many things to do! It’s a dream destination for adventurers, nature lovers, art afficionados, food lovers, honeymooners, soul searchers, etc. There’s always something for everyone!

  3. Europe.. hmmmnn where all the castles ignites the princes and princesses in us, where the once upon a time and happily endings are..or should I say there’s such a thing called forever..ehe.. in Europe…It’s what actually goes into my mind when speaking of such beautiful place.

    Its where half of my bucket list are, which I started writing eversince I became a member of two monkeys travel. And the first thing on my list is to see the northern lights of Norway, because it’s like near to Gods place, where the real magic is.

    I love trekking, mountain climbing and just sitting on top of the mountain or rocks watching the sunsets and sunrises. Just being in the nature. So yes I’ll be so happy frolicking Norway when He’s time allows.

  4. Its rare that some blog will give away a voucher for a trip in Europe, and for that, thank you! It ignites the little dream of each traveller to hear this.

    Choosing one from the list is hard, as Europe is known for it all but the best one for me would be, travelling by Eurail and Interail. Why? Because places listed above are known for tourists and for sure, they’re gonna be a lot of people that wants to have fun, eat and party. As for me? I would rather go on the train and here’s why. First, to meet people who love to spend quiet time while savoring the magnificent view of Europe and those who only been first time to travelling. Second, the adrenaline it gives you for not being sure where the train will stop next and what time. third is practicality because train is the cheapest way to travel and last, this is how Europe started.

    I’ve always dream of seeing myself in a train, a book on my hand and eyes all hungry, these are what Europe will bring me.

  5. Grateful for the opportunity to win a voucher for a trip to Europe! This would be my very first time to see this continent, so fingers crossed!

    1.) Pick your most wanted thing to do in Europe from our list
    Would love to see and experience Rome because it not only has awesome architecture and history, also would like to try authentic Italian food.

    2.) Why will you pick Europe as your next dream destination?
    Would love to go on the other side of the world, and when it comes to the ultimate in culture and architecture, Europe is definitely the one. Would love to experience everything that Europe has to offer and tick this off my bucket list of places to visit.

  6. Europe has been my ultimate travel dream destination and I want to travel each country by Train. The diverse culture of Europe makes it very interesting. From La tomatina festival in Buñol, Spain to Czech Republic’s Folk dance week or could be Munich, Germany’s Ski Resorts to Norway’s Aurora Borealis. I want to explore each country and immersed myself to the local customs and traditions and one way to make that happen is when I travel by train.

  7. I’m flying to Rome, Italy on August 31,2015 to celebrate my Birthday. Rome has been one of my Dream Place to visit. I wanted to roam around the magnificent Colosseum, eat some gelato, or grab some pizza near Pantheon. This is going to amazing. I can’t wait to see rome and say Belissima Roma.

  8. One of my living principles in life is this – “i don’t wanna vanish in this planet without see the majestic creations of God, without appreciating different ways of life, without emerging myself into array of wondrous places” This would just be actualized if I TRAVEL. Travel makes us grow, socially and spiritually. Travel is an education for it exposes us to different realities.

    1. Most wanted things to do in Europe.
    Scandinavian countries are know for their unlimited places to see. I would pick Norway. why? Because there is no way other than Norway, lol. kidding aside, I think, for a person who hears about Europe, they would automatically mention the places in Central Europe like France, Italy, Spain, Germany. For me, yes, they’re also my dream destinations but it is really a blessing for me if I go to Norway to see Fjord and experience the vivacity of the country. I have heard about Oslo’s beauty but as i person who is eccentric and adventurous, the once in a lifetime opportunity to be in Norway and experience the countryside would be really really awesome.

    2. Why me?
    i think it’s a given that all of us would answer “Travel is my passion”. For me it’s the same, yeah, travel is my passion but fulfilling this journey in Norway would definitely help me know myself more. Being away from my comfort zone is my soul’s craving. Have you ever heard about the Movie “eat pray love”? yep, this is a self- actualization. I would wanna visit this scandinavian country for me to grow as a person. second is, if Norway wants to extend its message to more people that it is a great decision to visit the place, then I can help. I would be posting reviews and experiences from that journey and it to my friends and families. i am a nature lover, i would just take photos and memories with me. And I also have Norwegian friends who i could visit there. who know, I might write a good poem or essay while I am in the Beautiful Norway. Thanks so much 🙂

  9. Thanks for this giveaway, it is a privileged for us who dream to travel to EUROPE. Good luck Everyone(fingers cross).

    1. Pick your most wanted things to do in Europe from your list?
    – Explore Rome, Aside from being a Catholic which had a dream to visit the Vatican City, see where the Pope leaves and attend his mass. I also want to visit where Julius Caesar died, I did a role play of Julius Ceasar way back on my secondary school from then I started to search more about him aside from reading stories, I also want to visit where he dies (My ultimate dream and I fell in love with his story for the first time).

    2. Why ill you pick Europe as your next dream destination.
    -Europe is my Ultimate dream, there are a lot of reasons as to why I fell with that continent. Because of my love I started to learn the different language in the Europe country like French, Spanish, German and more. It is just magical from books, pictures and stories. It will be always my dream. I know I could make my dream come true. Nothing is impossible.

  10. I’d la-la-love to go sailing in Greece! I’ve always read Mythological Stories and those seas have been amazing! I love the legit wide, blue water and all the wonder it holds! Surfing in France would also be a great adventure! I’d love to get stoked getting to know the waters of Europe!

    Europe has definitely been my dream destination for the longest time! I’ve always been curious about experiencing their culture and visiting the places that has made a mark in their history! It definitely would be life-changing and would be an experience I know I’ll be sharing over and over again!

  11. Explore Rome…. Aside from its a city of Pope, each masterpieces will be more appreciated and fully understand by a Catholic believer like me.. I always dream of this and waiting for it to come true!!

  12. Great list! I’d just say that surfing is more popular, cheaper and just as great in Portugal than France! Peniche and the south coast of Portugal are amazing spots to surf and there are so many cool backpackers just travelling to Lagos to surf 🙂
    1, 2, 8, 9 and 10 are on my bucket list! Positive vibes for you <3

  13. Everything is so cool but my most favourite is number 9. Drink real beer at Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany with my special someone since I’m a certified beer lover! Everyday is beerday! haha! Cheers! X :))

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.