While you can hit the road at any age, travelling in your twenties is practically a rite of passage. Chances are you’ve probably finished studying, aren’t tied down to a high-pressured job and don’t have to worry about a mortgage. So, what are you waiting for?!
Get that hard-earned cash together and start ticking off these 20 things to do in Europe in your 20s.
1. Celebrate Hogmanay in Edinburgh
Take in the spectacular firework display with Edinburgh Castle as your backdrop and dance the night away at the epic street party. This is a New Year’s Eve you won’t be forgetting in a hurry.
2. Eat gelato in Italy
Ready to live the sweet life? Take your pick from the countless flavours of gelato as you travel through Italy. How many can you tick off?
3. Cruise along the canals in Amsterdam
Life moves a little more slowly in Amsterdam. Explore the historic canals by foot, bike or boat, and soak up the culture in this truly unique city.
4. Take to the seas and sail Croatia’s coastline
Think crystal clear water and unspoilt swim spots all to yourself. The best way to see Croatia is by boat. Ready to sail Croatia? Ahoy there!
5. Chase the Northern Lights in Iceland
Nature’s greatest spectacle – this magical light show in Iceland should be at the top of your Europe bucket list.
6. Feel like you’re in Game of Thrones in Dubrovnik
Stroll along Dubrovnik‘s Old City Walls and we can guarantee that you’ll have the theme tune stuck in your head all day.
7. Raise a Stein at Oktoberfest in Munich
Grab your mates and wear traditional Bavarian dress – the world’s largest folk festival is like Disneyland for adults. Get amongst the beer tents, go on the rides and feast on some delicious food (don’t miss the roasted pork knuckle). Prost!
Check out our Oktoberfest Guide for First-Timers.
8. Take a dip in a thermal bath in Budapest
There are a few thermal baths in Budapest to try. Head on down to the Gellért Thermal Bath or the Széchenyi Thermal Bath. They’re even better after a night out in Budapest’s renowned ruin bars. Trust us.
9. Have a picnic by the Eiffel Tower in Paris
Few European landmarks are as iconic as the Eiffel Tower. What better way to take it all in than by sitting in the park and eating brie cheese with a baguette? Sign us up!
10. Make your mark on the John Lennon Wall in Prague
Wind your way through Prague’s cobblestone streets from the enchanting Prague Castle to the John Lennon Wall. A symbol of love and peace, the Wall is a must-see when in Prague.
11. Feel like a gladiator in Rome
Walking through Rome is like taking a step back in time. Marvel at the Colosseum, explore the Roman Forum and make a wish at the Trevi Fountain. All the big names are here.
12. Get messy at La Tomatina
Live out your childhood dreams with this epic food fight. Go on, you know you wanna 😉
Don’t miss our Guide to La Tomatina.
13. Go searching for the Loch Ness Monster in Scotland
Take a cruise out on the Loch Ness and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive monster. You’ll go down in history if you get a sighting!
14. Experience the Berlin nightlife
Nightclub in a former power plant? Classic Berlin. Come and find out what all of the fuss is about and why Berlin is one of the coolest cities in Europe.
15. Explore the Christmas markets in Bruges
Ice skate under the twinkling Christmas lights then warm up with mulled wine. Yep, Christmas in Bruges is a must. Get into the festive spirit in the fairytale-like Christmas markets and be sure to leave room in your suitcase for some of that famous Belgian chocolate.
16. Island hop your way around Greece
Sunset chasing in Santorini to lazy beach days in Mykonos and late-night partying in Ios – your trip to the Greek Islands can be as chill or as busy as you want. Let’s do this!
17. Get your music fill at Sziget festival
A European summer is synonymous with music festivals and Sziget (in Hungary) is one you absolutely cannot miss.
18. Be amazed at the landscape in the Swiss Alps
Beautiful landscape is around every corner in the Swiss Alps. Why not get up close to the mountains with a helicopter ride, skydive or trip up the Jungfrau railway?
19. Swim in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
Geysers, glaciers, fjords and waterfalls. There’s nowhere else in the world like Iceland. Top it all off with a dip in the Blue Lagoon and you’ll feel like you’re on another planet.
20. Be wowed at the Sagrada Família in Barcelona
When you go to Barcelona, you’ll become familiar with the name Antoni Gaudí. Check out his masterpiece and prepare to get a little emotional. The Sagrada Família really is stunning. Don’t forget to visit inside for the full experience 😍
Have we persuaded you to travel Europe? 👀
Browse through Topdeck Europe trips and get ready to hit the road.
