One Month in Europe: Germany, Italy & Croatia

Arrive at any time, find a comfy spot in the hostel to relax or go out to explore before meeting fellow Roamies in the evening.

• Remember booking this trip months back? Now, you’re actually on it, in the places you hoped to experience. What a cool feeling! Soak it up on your journey by private vehicle from Amsterdam to Berlin. Because, “what’s a road trip without stops?” you'll get out and stretch those legs in Quedlinburg. This prosperous trading town since the Middle Ages will have you feeling like you stepped back in time. Seriously, you’ll wonder if you really did. Walk along the streets filled with half-timbered houses. Work up those appetites and devour a lunch of Schnitzel or Currywurst before getting back on the road.
• Teufelsmauer (known locally as the Devil’s Wall) is up next. It’s basically a cool rock formation off the side of the road that allows for some monkeying around on the way up. You’ll arrive in Berlin by evening where you can unwind in your hostel and maybe play some cards as a group. Anyone ever heard of “Pitch”?

• Let loose today, we dare you. Why? Because it will be fun, especially with your newest pals. Get your bearings with an orientation walk with your CEO around the city. Then, it's your turn to explore the tangible history and melting pot of cultures at work here. Head straight for the Berlin Wall, walk through the Brandenburg Gate, and feast those eyes on the Checkpoint Charlie Museum.
• Want to try something even cooler? Rent a bike and visit the now defunct Tempelhof Airport which doubles as a beautiful park space in the city. (A best-kept local secret if we do say so ourselves). At night lounge in the hostel or witness the vibrant nightlife Berlin is known for.

• Prague is up next, with a few treats along the way! First up on your journey is Dresden, Germany. Home to a booming art scene and arguably the most beautiful milk shop in the world, we think a visit there for a milkshake to wander around the cobblestone streets with, is a must. But it's just a suggestion!
• Lace up those boots and set out on a small hike at the Pravcicka Gate, which happens to be the largest naturally formed rock gate in all of Europe. Afterwards, hit the road and arrive in Prague by early evening. Your day doesn’t end here, gather as a group and go on a highlight walk with your cool CEO passing must-see places like, the TV Tower of Prague, the Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge, and John Lennon's Wall.

Soak up the atmosphere of Prague on a highlight walk of all the city has to offer. Afterwards, hit up the famous Charles Bridge with your friends, admire the clock tower in the main square, or sit and sip a thirst-quenching brew at a traditional Czech beer hall with a side of meat and potatoes. It’s guaranteed to be a loud, lively and marvellous time! Remember, it's all up to you.

• You're in for a day of unbeatable views! Get ready for another round of those back-in-time feelings as you stroll through the Medieval town of Cesky Krumlov on the way to Vienna. Be your own Queen (or King) of the castle as you explore 13th century ramparts with the added bonus of spectacular views. Slip into your inner explorer and see the Old Town from the top of the round bell tower, people watch from a cafe in the main square while you debate as a group where to have lunch, and then toss a coin to make the decision.
• Finish the day in Vienna where you’ll get to know the city as a group on an evening highlights walk. Pass sites like, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Rathaus, National Library, The Hofburg and much more. Later, kick back, relax, and have some laughs at your hostel.

• We’re excited for you today! The day is yours, but don’t let the freedom paralyze you. We have plenty of suggestions. You could seek out famous landmarks like, The Vienna State Opera House, Belvedere Palace, the Kunsthistorisches Museum, and Vienna City Hall.
• Remember, we all need a little downtime during our travels, so if you need a break we get it. Grab a coffee, order a slice of mouthwatering cake and settle yourself in with your pals on a café terrace as the world moves on around you. Don’t worry, you still have plenty of time to keep finding a few world-famous museums and indulge in typical Austrian desserts like strudel or Sacher Torte. Keep in mind your CEO just might know the best secret places that will really set your experience apart from the main crowd. Ask away!

• If you have a soft spot for beautiful alpine lakes that border two countries, today is going to check off all of those boxes. You’ll be able to wander around the clear waters of Konigsee, smell the fresh air, and find that inner peace that comes from being in the great outdoors.
• Salzburg is up next, so don’t forget to save some of that wanderlust energy! You’ll go with the group on an orientation walk of the city. Wander the historic squares and quaint little side streets of Salzburg Old Town. Climb Festungsberg Hill to visit Hohensalzburg Castle, or find the birthplace of Mozart and meet up to go to the museum there.

• A whistle blows in the distance as a conductor shouts, “All Aboard!” You rush to the platform, jumping on with just moments to spare. While this may not be exactly what happens today, it will pretty much be along those lines when you hop on a train from Salzburg to Munich. A city with a big heart, as charming as it is laid back, and as buzzing as it is calm will be waiting for you upon arrival.
• Spend time in Marienplatz, home to the Old and New Town Halls. Find the famous glockenspiel, or one of the many great beer halls, or the green dome-crested towers of the iconic Church of Our Lady. The vibe is totally up to you, have a pint, or two, or three!

Set your inner detective on the loose in search of the best experiences in Munich. Visit museums, art galleries, lush gardens, and main squares. Learn about the history and culture and shop, eat, drink, and walk until you drop. If you need time to recuperate, opt to stay in the hostel and relax in the common areas before the group welcomes new travellers in the evening.

• Get this adventure started and road trip from Munich to Innsbruck. Bonus experience of today is a stop in the quaint Bavarian town of Oberammergau. Your CEO will regale you with facts and information on a guided walking tour. Learn about their centuries-long tradition of woodcarving, get lost in a fairytale as you wander amidst elaborately painted buildings. Search for scenes like Hansel and Gretel and Little Red Riding Hood. Furthermore, what’s a proper trip without spoiling yourself? Grab a sweet treat from any one of the local bakeries and savour it on the rest of the drive to Austria.
• Once in Innsbruck, spend free time becoming familiar with your hostel and surroundings. And remember, the fun doesn’t ever have to stop!

• Pile onto the bus again and head into the epic scenery of the Dolomites. Think filling your feed with crystal clear mountain lakes and snow-capped peaks. Take a hiatus from the road and stroll around Lake Misurina in the province of Belluno. Known as the “Pearl of Cadore”, you won’t be disappointed with what you find here. The mirror-like reflection of the mountains in the lake makes it seem as if you are walking in a dream.
• But don’t forget, Venice is the real end goal of today, so try not to get too attached to Belluno, we bet you already did. Tonight, after becoming acquainted with Venice on a quick highlights walk, join your CEO for a nice cold beverage and see where the night takes you.

• “Oh what a night, what a beautiful night…” This tends to be the song stuck in our heads whenever a visit to Venice is on the table. Can’t you just hear that accordion? The day is yours, no judgments here on what you decide to do. From canals to gondola rides, and inspiring architecture, what’s not to love?
• The main city is small enough that you can walk it in several hours with the added bonus of getting those steps in. Explore the canals, relax in the small squares, and go cafe-hopping for coffee, pastries, wine, or all three, because why not? See Venice from the water on a gondola ride through the canals, run through the pigeons or people watch in St. Mark’s Square, take an elevator ride up to the top of the Campanile Di San Marco for panoramic views of the city below. Your only real job today is to have a blast!

• We promise your tastebuds will thank you and rejoice with what’s on the menu for today’s adventure. All aboard the train from Venice to Florence. Being one of Italy’s most sought after food capitals, make sure you stuff your face while here. Eat the city’s signature pasta and venture out of those comfort zones to sample any specialty dishes you may stumble upon.
• This evening happens to be perfect if you are looking to relax, eat some more (if you can), or recover from those food comas in your hostel before a quick highlight tour of the city.

Live your best life on this free day in Florence! Grab some pals, lace up those walking shoes, and let the good times roll. Take in famous works of art hung in the Uffizi and Galleria dell’Accademia. “Oh and ah” at the grand architectural masterpieces of the Duomo and the Palazzo Pitti, and smell the flowers in Boboli Gardens. Looking for more chill vibes? We got you covered. Walk along the Arno and over the Ponte Vecchio before eating your way through the Firenze’s many cafes, ristorantes, and gelato shops.

• Leave Florence behind and catch the train to Rome. Upon arrival grab your travel tribe and let your appetites run wild on an included food tour; cue those Italian fantasies. Sample pasta, gelato, tiramisu, and much more as you learn about the heart and soul behind Italian cooking.
• Then with full stomachs get your bearings of Rome on a quick CEO led orientation walk before the night is yours. Did someone say dance party?

From gardens to museums and gelato to slices of pizza we’re pretty sure you’ll have your hands full (literally) on this free day in Rome. You can visit the mighty Colosseum, home to past gladiator tournaments. Walk up the 135 stairs of the Spanish steps. Meander around the Roman Forum; one of the most important Roman ruins in Italy, and stare up at the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel (knowing you could probably never paint something as grand). Whatever you decide, make sure you meet up for tiramisu, limoncello, a glass or two of wine and whatever else you crave along the way. When in Rome right?

• It’s all about those good vibes and finding that connection today. Sightsee your way around Rome and the Vatican early this morning on foot and by public transport. Check off the Rome basics like, St. Peter's Basilica, St. Peter's Square, and The Pantheon. While you're at it make a wish in the Trevi Fountain, because who knows, it could come true.
• Say “Arrivederci Rome”, as you cruise through the Tuscan countryside stopping in the UNESCO protected town of Assisi—birthplace of Saint Francis. The adventure doesn’t stop here because once we arrive in Ancona you’ll board an overnight ferry to Split, Croatia. Sleeping cabins are included and we bet you’ll have some stories to tell afterwards. We can’t wait to hear them!

• Wipe the sleep from those eyes with a quick breakfast onboard the ferry. Then, on your mark, get set, GO explore the second largest city in Croatia! Modern life and ancient history collide here ensuring there’s plenty of experiences to keep you preoccupied. The only challenge? Seeing as much as you can without rushing it.
• We’ll let you in on a secret. For the best views of the city consider climbing the bell tower of St. Domnius Cathedral, then head out with your super cool CEO on a sightseeing tour to explore Old Town and Diocletian’s Palace. But after all this we wanted to do you a favour, so we’ll give you back your evening to do as you will. Think drinks in the hostel with new friends, or heading out on the town for a night of laughter and dancing. Doesn’t sound like you could go wrong.

Take two at exploring Split? Yes, please! Stroll along the Riva Promenade with its palm trees, colourful buildings and striking views of the Adriatic Sea; a great place to get those steps in. Looking for a hike? Consider climbing Marjan Hill where a series of trails crisscross their way to the top. Or... hear us out. You could venture a bit farther to Klis Fortress for panoramic views of the Dalmatian Coast and the “Game of Thrones” filming location for Meereen, just make sure there are no dragons flying about.

• Wow, your friends and family back home will be totally jealous of you today. Set those devices to island time and hop on a Hydrofoil sailing trip to Korčula. Yes, we said Hydrofoil. Feel inspired by the views of the rugged coastline, feel the wind whip through your hair, and be in the moment.
• Once you arrive, your CEO will come in clutch with another highlight walk of the area. Meet up and see some cool places like the Old Town walls, the birthplace of Marco Polo, and St. Mark’s Cathedral. Discover the local beer scene in the evening or get classy and sip some wine while eating seafood in one of the many delicious restaurants on the island.

• Did someone say Peljesac Peninsula? No? Well anyway, you’ll be seeing this gem on your way from Korčula to Dubrovnik. Wave your goodbyes as your fleet of small boats pulls away from shore and head to a place renowned for the best red wine in Croatia. Wander the wall of Ston, from Ston to Mali. Then live your best life with your travel buds and choose to taste this renowned vino and order a dozen of the best oysters in Europe at a local restaurant.
• Finish up in Dubrovnik on a group walk through the Old Town. Play eye spy and see if you can spot Dubrovnik Cathedral, Lovrijenac Fort, and a Franciscan Monastery. Afterwards, revel in the timeless atmosphere of this port city. You might never leave and we wouldn’t blame you.

You have a whole day ahead of you to experience Dubrovnik as you please. Admire one of the most gorgeous coastlines in the world, stroll along the city’s walls, hike up to Minčeta Fortress; the highest fort in Dubrovnik only accessible from the city walls. (yes, we know it sounds cool!) Hunt down some Game of Thrones filming locations (there are plenty) and let out your inner Khaleesi! Grab a towel, find a place to swim your heart out, kayak for unique views of the city from the water, and perhaps end your day sipping a beverage and witnessing a gorgeous sunset from a cliff top bar. Sounds like a win in our book.

• Pull out those travel journals and cross another country off your bucket-lists today because it’s time to leave Croatia behind and give some love and attention to Montenegro. All of the boxes will be checked today, beautiful sites, quaint villages, and your first glimpse of Kotor Bay, a unique fjord of the Adriatic.
• You’ll check out the historic village of Perast. Think marvellous buildings, postcard-like churches, and a romantic waterfront that seems to feature in every painting of European sailing towns. Rest of the day you get to hang out with your super cool and fun CEO. They will take you on a highlights walk of UNESCO protected Kotor and show you places like the Old City, St. Tryphon Cathedral, and the famous Clock Tower. Don’t let the fun end here! Make a plan and keep hanging out and see if your CEO can accompany you to a few hole in the wall places that will make your time here truly unique.

• Amazing views and a magical experience are on the menu for today. It all starts as the sun rises over the land on a morning walk to the San Giovanni Fortress. Grab some fun group photos with your CEO as you stand atop the city and revel in the views.
• The rest of the day belongs to you. Explore, bop around, and experience Kotor as you wish. Even if that means laying low at the hostel with a few friends, we won’t judge, in fact, the best moments often happen when you least expect them. Cat lovers rejoice! Because Kotor has their very own Cat Museum you can visit. Not feeling an afternoon of felines? That’s ok, walk into the impressive interior of St. Nicholas’ Church, hop on a boat and visit Our Lady of the Rocks, or book an excursion to Blue Cave for a bucket-list worthy swim spot.

• Another day, another dollar. Just kidding, it’s free to make awesome memories with your friends and it’s guaranteed that you will as you travel along the Montenegrin coastline towards Tirana, Albania. Make a pit stop to St Stefan, part island, part luxury resort. It’s a great place to get out, stretch those legs and pretend you have just arrived on your private yacht like most guests do. From there you’ll get to visit Dolphin-shaped Lake Skadar on the border of Albania and Montenegro. Explore the area surrounded by steep mountains, island monasteries, and crystal-clear waters by foot.
• Finish up the day in Tirana with a CEO led highlight walk through the streets featuring Skanderbeg Square and a visit to a former Cold War bunker turned underground art and history museum. (How cool is that?)

• We’re not going to lie, today’s adventure is enough to make anyone wish they were on this trip with you. Drive along the coastal route to Saranda with several stunning beaches along the way that offer convenient spots to run right in for a quick swim. Float in the calm turquoise waters of the Adriatic – last one in is a rotten egg! Ok, let’s keep moving. Step inside the fairytale hillside town of Gjirokaster and walk around the cobblestone streets of the Old Town with your CEO. Then continue on to the Blue Eye natural spring, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning blue pigment (we bet pictures of this place will take over your feed).
• Arrive in Saranda in the early evening, get settled in your hostel and then enjoy an evening walk along Saranda’s promenade with the group.

• It’s no secret that travelling is exhausting! Build up that energy with breakfast in the hostel then take off on foot for a walking tour of Saranda, known fondly as the “Albanian Riviera”. Reflect and connect with this new place as you stroll leisurely along the Hasan Tahsini Boulevard. Pass beach access points and many cute bars and cafes begging for your attention. Not a bad place to search for some souvenirs to bring home.
• Strap those sea legs on as you catch the ferry from Saranda to the island of Corfu where once you arrive you’ll have free time to grab a drink, explore Corfu, and laugh it up with your pals at the hostel.

• Wake up in paradise and know that the choice is yours today and there’s nothing holding you back! Take a taxi and explore the UNESCO-listed town, wander by the laundry swaying in the sea breeze and search for a place to grab lunch and a cocktail or two.
• Searching for something more exciting and unique? Chill out on an olive oil tasting experience, or learn about bees and honey production in Corfu. Looking for more adventure? Visit an ancient monastery on steep cliffs overlooking the azure waters. Want to just relax? Lay out beachside working on your tan and swimming in the refreshing waters. Turns out you really can’t go wrong on this Greek island.

Say goodbye to your Roamies and depart at any time, or keep the adventure going by heading south for some good times and epic views in Greece.