10 European Experiences To Have In Your 20s
There is no doubt that Europe provides plenty of amazing things to do. With about 50 countries on the continent alone, there are endless experiences to have. Here are 10 things we suggest to do in Europe while you're in your 20s.
Positano, Italy
1. Go Solo
One of the most enriching travel experiences is to…go by yourself.
Without the influence of being with other people, you get to do exactly what YOU want to do, when you want to do it!
You learn more about yourself when you’re completely immersed in another country, with just yourself to rely on.
Personally, whenever I’ve traveled solo, I’ve never been alone for too long. I’ll walk around and explore the city. but somehow always happen to meet locals or other travelers and end up having a fun time hanging out with them!
Arc de Triomphe, Paris, France
2. ...Or Go With Friends
Traveling solo isn't for everyone. Even if you do enjoy solo traveling, taking a trip with friends is an entirely different experience. You'll make memories with your friends for years to come.
Want to travel with other people but can’t rally your group to all travel at the same time? Consider joining a group tour! There are a number of group tour companies around the world, some of which cater to a younger demographic. Contiki is one of them (and you can use my referral code ALLY28 to get $50 off a booking)!
3. Go to a Music Festival
Europeans know how to party, and if you're looking to do that and listen to some live music, going to a music festival is bound to be an experience you'll never forget.
Check this website for tons of info on music festivals around Europe.
Oktoberfest Festival in Munich, Germany
4. Go to Oktoberfest
If you've been coming by this site for a while, you'll know I love Oktoberfest.
While Oktoberfest can be fun at any age, going while you're young, able to hold down a few steins of beer, and can stay up late makes for a smoother - and totally fun - time. Prost!
Interlaken, Switzerland
5. Hiking, Snowboarding, or Skiing on The Alps
Whether they're Swiss, French, Austrian, or German, the views will be amazing and the trails just as great.
To go off the tourist track (and save a few bucks), head to the Slovenian Alps, which are just as beautiful at a fraction of the cost.
Outdoor activities are aplenty any time of year, whether you prefer hiking in the warmer weather or enjoying winter spots in the colder months.
6. Take a Cooking Class in Italy
Because now's as good a time as any to lay down a foundation of cooking skills, and where better than in Italy?
In my opinion (and I know many people agree with me!) Italy rivals France as the food capital of Europe.
7. Party Sailing
Renting a yacht for a week and cruising around the Mediterranean would be an awesome way to spend summertime in Europe.
You get to travel by boat to different destinations, drink and go swimming with your boat mates, and wander around whichever city you dock at for the day.
8. Stay at The Pink Palace on Corfu Island, Greece
The Pink Palace is the #1 party hostel in the world. Plus, it's surrounded by spectacular beaches with spectacular views.
If you're headed to Europe to party and meet others with that same mindset, then you won't regret staying there (and going to the infamous pink toga parties).
The Louvre, Paris, France
9. Go to Art Galleries and Museums
If you studied history, art, art history, or anything of the like in school, then you'll have a better appreciation of seeing what you learned about in person - because not only does Europe house some of the best museums in the world, but the random notes you remember about ancient emperors will only last so long.
It's cool to know facts about what you're looking at without needing to consult a guidebook.
Even if you don’t consider yourself an art or history buff, you may be surprised by how interesting you might find European art galleries and museums.
Blarney Castle, Cork, Ireland
10. Take a Cross-Country Road Trip
Whether you rent a car or take a bus or train, crossing countries by land can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Let your mind wander as you look out the window at the passing scenery and countryside on your way into the big cities.
Book a Place to Stay in Europe
My all-time favorite booking website is the well-known Booking.com - I’ve used it for years all over the world.
It is the easiest way to search and find the best hotels (hostels too!), especially based on reviews. I always check the reviews on Booking, even if it’s a name-brand hotel. You never know!