Exploring Italy and the Balkans: The Ultimate Backpacking Itinerary

Planning to backpack through the captivating regions of Italy and the Balkans in 2022? This article aims to provide you with the ultimate itinerary and advice to make your journey unforgettable. Explore the colorful cities, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural history of these regions while adhering to budget-friendly accommodation options like hostels.

Your Rough Itinerary Plan - Evaluating the Feasibility

Your itinerary includes a mix of mainland destinations and some Greek islands, which is a solid plan. However, you may want to consider the practical aspects, such as transportation costs and travel time. Let's evaluate your rough plan and discuss adjustments if necessary.

Starting in Greece: Athens and the Greek Islands

Your itinerary starts in Athens, which is a wonderful decision. Begin your adventure in the heart of ancient history. From there, you can explore Greek islands such as Santorini and Mykonos, which are known for their stunning beaches and picturesque villages. Taking an Interrail pass will be handy for navigating the extensive Greek railway system, but ferry travel to the islands can be pricey. Trips to Santorini and Mykonos might take a day or two each, so you can enjoy the beauty of these islands without stretching your budget too far.

Exploring Montenegro and Croatia

Next, travel to Montenegro, focusing on the port city of Kotor, renowned for its old town. Kotor’s historic charm and scenic beauty will leave you enchanted. Follow the journey to Croatia, where you can visit the iconic city of Dubrovnik, known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic.' Each destination will require approximately 3-4 days, which will allow you to experience its cultural and historical depth.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Hungary

Your itinerary then moves to Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the city of Mostar is a must-visit. The famous Stari Most (Old Bridge) and the vibrant city life make it an unforgettable experience. Head to Hungary and visit Budapest, which is not only the largest city in the region but also one of the most beautiful. You can also extend your trip to Vienna and Prague if you have some extra time. Budapest and potentially Vienna might take 4-5 days each, while Prague can be covered in 2-3 days.

Exploring Slovenia and Italy

Continue your adventure to Slovenia, starting in Ljubljana, the capital, and then head to the picturesque Lake Bled. These locations are ideal for exploring the lush landscapes and vibrant cities. Finally, finish your trip in Italy, visiting Venice, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Florence, and the beautiful Saturnia hot springs. Rome is a must, and you can spend around 5-7 days at each of these locations.

Should You Visit Greek Islands?

If you are planning to backpack to Italy and Croatia, you might consider visiting the Greek Islands for longer days, especially if you have the time and budget. However, remember that ferry travel can be more expensive. Alternatively, you can opt to visit Santorini or Mykonos briefly, adding a couple of days to your total trip to ensure a well-rounded European backpacking experience.

Final Thoughts: Adapting Your Route for Maximum Enjoyment

The itinerary you've planned is well-thought-out, but you might want to consider the following adjustments:

Stay Longer in Popular Destinations: Dwell in popular destinations like Venice, Florence, and Rome for 5-7 days to ensure you can explore and experience the cities fully. Quick Jumps Between Smaller Cities: For cities like Kotor, Mostar, and Budapest, a 3-4 day stay should suffice. Include Nature and Water Activities: Consider including activities like hiking, kayaking, or swimming in stunning locations like the Amalfi Coast, Lake Bled, and the Saturnia hot springs. Transportation Strategy: Utilize train passes and local public transport to save on costs. Ferries to the Greek Islands can be expensive, so plan accordingly.

By carefully planning and adjusting your itinerary, you will ensure a memorable and budget-friendly backpacking experience through Italy and the Balkans in 2022.

Conclusion

Traveling through the diverse landscapes of Italy and the Balkans can be a truly enriching experience. With careful planning and adjustment, your itinerary can be optimized for an unforgettable adventure. If you have any further questions or need more detailed advice, feel free to ask.