Interrailing Routes 3 Weeks: FOUR Routes You’ll Love!

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Planning on interrailing Europe this summer? Yay! I’ve outlined 3 different routes and itineraries for your interrailing trip to make planning your trip easy peasy. 

With a quick Google search, you’ll see that there are many three week interrailing routes. This is because three weeks is an ideal amount of time to interrail Europe. If we were to interrail Europe again, it would be for three weeks, as this gives you enough time to relax, adventure and explore different countries in Europe.

In this post, I have outlined four interrailing routes, all three weeks long. These routes are planned with a budget-mid-range traveller in mind, with prices being kept to a minimum. 

These interrailing routes can be adjusted and changed to suit your itinerary, but they’re all very different areas of Europe to suit the need of every type of traveller.

So, let’s get started!

🚝 Need to buy your interrailing pass? I recommend checking this website for the best discounts and deals!

Other interrailing and Europe posts:

• 21 Interrail Tips for First-Timers: Interrailing Europe
• What To Pack Interrailing Europe: Packing List Essentials
• Backpacking Europe: A Beginners Step-by-Step Guide
• Interrailing Switzerland: Route, Itinerary and Guide

Interrailing Routes 3 Weeks: A Summary

What is interrailing?

Interrailing is a great way to see Europe on a budget. Interrail passes are available for people of all ages, and they allow you to travel on any day of the week. You can also travel on multiple trains per day, making it easy to explore different countries and cities all in one single trip.

Interrail passes are valid for a certain number of days, so you can tailor your trip to your own needs. Plus, if you’re under 27 years old or under, you can get a special Youth Interrail pass that’s even cheaper!

Global passes for interrailing are the best way to see Europe – and they’re not as complicated or expensive as you might think. With a global pass, you can hop on a train and explore up to 33 different countries in Europe. There are different types of global passes to choose from, so you can tailor your trip to exactly what you want.

Whether you’re looking to backpack Europe for a week or a month, interrailing is a great option. Just be sure to check the rules and regulations before you go so that you can make the most of your trip.

Not sure whether the interrailing pass is worth it? Check out my detailed guide on interrailing passes here.

Best hostels whilst interrailing Europe

One of my best interrail tips is to at least book your first hostel in advance. During the summer months, hostels in Europe will be fully booked. It will be tough finding a good hostel last minute.

Use Hostelworld to pre-book any hostels. They have excellent cancellation policies and you can usually get your money back right up until 24 hours before staying, so if you have any last-minute changes, you have that flexibility.

Whilst I can’t list every single hostel in Europe, these are some of the best, well-known hostels to stay in whilst interrailing. Simply click the link to check prices and availability!

• 🇫🇷 Paris: Generator Paris or The People
• 🇭🇺 Budapest: Maverick City Lodge
• 🇳🇱 Amsterdam: Ecomama
• 🇩🇪 Berlin: The Circus Hostel
• 🇵🇹 Lisbon: Home Lisbon
• 🇦🇹 Vienna: Hostel Ruthensteiner
• 🇪🇸 Madrid: Sungate One
• 🇮🇪 Dublin: Gardiner House

➡ Check out other European hostels here.

Summaries of the 3-week interrailing routes

☀️ Interrailing Route 1: The Sunshine Route

🌎 Three countries in Western Europe: Spain, Italy and France

Valencia – Barcelona – Montpellier – Marcelle – Monaco – Milan – Bologna – Venice

🌃 Interrailing Route 2: Central European City Hopper

🌎 Five countries in Eastern Europe: Poland, Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Hungary

Krakow – Warsaw – Wroclaw – Prague – Berlin – Munich – Vienna – Budapest 

🌆 Interrailing Route 3: Big City Tour

🌎 Five countries in Europe: Scotland, England, France, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands

Edinburgh – London – Paris – Brussels – Cologne – Berlin – Amsterdam

Interrailing Route 4: The Slow Italian

🌎 One country in Europe: Italy

Naples – Rome – Florence – Bologna – Milan – Venice

Interrailing Route 1: The Sunshine Route Highlights

Valencia – Barcelona – Montpellier – Marcelle – Monaco – Milan – Bologna – Venice

The first three-week interrailing route I’ve listed is one that hops from one sunshine town to the next. With highlights including Milan, Venice, Valencia and even Monaco, it’s one for those who love a sunnier side of life.

I know it may look like they’re all pretty expensive places, but they can all be done on a budget. Yes, even Monaco! For this route, I would recommend around 2-3 nights in each location. If you would rather a bit longer in one than the other, adjust the time accordingly.

➡ View the best Europe hostels here.

➡ Prefer hotels and apartments? Check out the best Europe stays here.

Valencia, Spain

If you’re starting your 3-week interrailing route in Valencia, you’re off to a great start. Flying direct from London to Valencia takes under two and a half hours, and can cost as low as £24! So what does Valencia have to offer on your 3-week interrailing trip?

Personally, I’d recommend staying in Valencia for around 3 nights. Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city and has so much to offer (especially if you’re visiting for the first time). 

From the sandy Spanish beaches to the old town cathedrals and museums, Valencia is a perfect first stop on your interrailing route.

Valencia highlights:

1. Valencia beach and beach clubs
2. Valencia Cathedral
3. Jardin Del Turia
4. Walking tour of Valencia
5. Valencia sunset

Top tip: Buy a Valencia Tourist Card before you arrive. This will save you money on transport, discounts on food in restaurants and entry to museums and attractions. You can buy your ticket here!

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. If you’re interrailing for three weeks, Barcelona should definitely be on your list! 

Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. The city is home to plenty of historical and cultural attractions, from the iconic La Sagrada Familia to the stunning Park Guel (which is one of my favourites).

Barcelona is also renowned for its fun nightlife, with bars and clubs to keep you entertained into the early hours.

And of course, no trip to Barcelona would be complete without sampling the city’s famous Tapas dishes (which are unbelievable). 

Barcelona Highlights:

1. Visit La Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudi’s world-famous church. 
2. Stroll down Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s main pedestrian street, lined with markets, cafes, and buskers. 
3. Soak up the sun at one of Barcelona’s many beaches, such as Barceloneta Beach or Nova Icaria Beach. 
4. Explore Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, with its medieval buildings and narrow streets.

Montpellier, France

Montpellier, France is the perfect destination for a budget-friendly interrailing trip and can be easily squeezed into your three-week route. 

This beautiful city has everything you need for a fun and relaxed stay. From the stunning architecture to the delicious food, Montpellier has something for everyone! And, best of all, it’s very easy to get around.

Whether you’re interrailing for the first time or a seasoned traveller, Montpellier is the perfect place to explore. 

Montpellier Highlights:

1. Wander the narrow streets of the historic city centre. Montpellier is compact and easy to explore on foot, and its medieval old town is full of character. Get lost among the maze of streets and alleyways and see where they take you!

2. Take a ride on the Montpellier Tramway, which runs right through the city

3. Visit the Cathedral of St. Pierre, a magnificent 13th-century Gothic cathedral.

4. Sample the local cuisine. Montpellier is famous for its food!

Marcelle, France

Marcelle is a beautiful city in the south of France that is often overlooked by tourists or ‘interrailers’. But there are plenty of things to do in Marcelle on your interrailing trip.

From exploring the historic city centre to taking a casual stroll along the river, it’s one I’d highly recommend blocking out some time for on your three-week interrailing route. Montpellier is only a short train ride away, and if you’re visiting Marcelle for the first time, be sure to budget for plenty of baguettes and wine! 

The city has a lively nightlife scene, and there are plenty of bars and clubs to meet locals or other backpackers!

Monaco, France

Monaco might be tiny, but it’s jam-packed with things to do. If you’re interrailing and this is your first time in Monaco, you might be wondering how to make the most of your time (and your budget), so I’ve rounded up a few ideas to get you started.

Take a walk around the old town – it’s full of narrow streets and atmospheric alleyways. And the best thing about walking? It’s free! But, if you want to get a sense of how the other half live, make sure to check out Monte Carlo. Here you’ll find luxury cars, designer shops and casinos. 

Of course, if gambling is your thing, you can try your luck in one of Monaco’s many casinos (but if you’re a regular backpacker like me, I doubt it will be!)

If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, there are plenty of parks and gardens to explore. Or, if you’re feeling active, you can hike up to the Prince’s Palace or take a swim in the Mediterranean Sea. Like I said, it can be done on a backpacker’s budget, and there are plenty of things to do here.

Milan, Italy

If you’re planning a trip to Italy during your three-week interrailing trip, make sure you stop off in Milan. When I spent three weeks interrailing around Europe and Italy, Milan was one of my favourite stops. 

One of the most popular things to do in Milan is to visit the Duomo cathedral. This beautiful building is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city and it’s definitely worth a visit. 

If you don’t mind spending a bit of money, you can even go up to the roof for some stunning views. Trust me, it’s worth it! If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper, there are plenty of free attractions in Milan too. 

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a beautiful shopping centre that’s perfect for people-watching, and it’s also home to some great restaurants and cafes. Another great option is the Parco Sempione, a large park that’s perfect for a picnic or walks on a sunny day. 

Milan is a great city to walk around and explore on a backpacker’s budget.

Bologna, Italy

Bologna is a beautiful city in Italy that is often overlooked by tourists. I made the mistake of not visiting this amazing city on my first trip and I regret it to this day. Here are some of the best things to do in Bologna without spending a lot of money:

1. Walk around the historic centre – it’s one of the largest in Europe and it’s full of beautiful Renaissance architecture.

2. Visit the leaning towers of Pisa – they’re only a short train ride away and they’re definitely worth seeing!

3. Eat as much Italian food as possible – Bologna is known for its delicious cuisine, so make sure to try some local specialities like tortellini and ragù.

4. Drink wine in a vineyard – there are plenty of vineyards located just outside of the city, so take advantage of them and enjoy some Aperol spritzes while you’re there!

5. People watch in Piazza Maggiore – it’s one of the busiest spots in the city!

Venice, Italy

Our final stop on this sunny interrailing route is Venice. The Italian city on the water is somewhere everyone has to see in their lifetime, so why not plan it into your three-week interrailing route?! The best way to see Venice is on foot – it’s a small city and it’s easy to get around. 

There are plenty of cheap places to eat and drink, and you can easily find a budget hotel or hostel. With so many things to see and do, Venice is the perfect place to finish your backpacking trip.

Interrailing Route 2: Central European City Hopper Highlights

Krakow – Warsaw – Wroclaw – Prague – Berlin – Munich – Vienna – Budapest 

This is one of the best three-week interrailing routes you’ll come across, especially if you’re a fan of cheap accommodation, alcohol and food. With highlights like Berlin, Warsaw and Budapest, you’re in for three weeks of partying and exploring the best Central Europe has to offer.

For this route, I recommend spending around 2-3 days in each city. This will give you enough time to check out the city’s culture as well as rest time to nurse that awful (yet worth it) hangover. In all of these major European cities, there are cheap backpacker hostels where you can stay the night for under £20 in a dorm room.

They’re also popular with other backpackers, so you’re bound to meet people and make friends easily (if you want to!)

➡ View the best Europe hostels here.

➡ Prefer hotels and apartments? Check out the best Europe stays here.

Krakow, Poland

Start off your three-week interrailing route in Krakow, one of the best (and cheapest) places to visit in Poland. Krakow is an incredible city – I loved it so much when I visited it the first time! 

It’s also a great place to start your three-week interrailing trip because it’s cheap to fly to from London and gets you all the way to Poland to start your route. It’s got everything you could want, and it’s super easy to get around.

If you’re visiting for the first time, I would definitely recommend doing a walking tour. You’ll learn so much about the history of the city, and you’ll get to see some of the main sights. Plus, it’s a great way to orient yourself if you’re not familiar with the city. 

In terms of budget, Krakow is affordable. There are plenty of cheap places to eat and drink, and you can easily find accommodation to suit your needs.

Warsaw, Poland

After Krakow on your three-week interrailing trip, head to Warsaw, the capital city of Poland. Warsaw is an amazing city and there’s so much to see and do, especially if you’re interrailing for the first time.

It can be a bit overwhelming trying to figure out what to do with your limited time and budget, but don’t worry – I’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best things to do in Warsaw on a budget:

1. Take a free walking tour – This is a great way to get your bearings and learn about the history of the city. Plus, it’s free!
2. Visit the Old Town – This is a must-see in Warsaw. It’s full of beautiful architecture and historical landmarks. And it’s free (yay!)!
3. Go to the Palace of Culture and Science – This is the tallest building in Warsaw and it has an amazing view from the top. It’s also home to a cinema, theatre, museum, and more.
4. Check out the Praga district – This is the coolest district in Warsaw with its hipster cafes, vintage shops, and street art.
5. Explore Wilanow Palace – This beautiful palace is located just outside of Warsaw and it’s definitely worth a visit.

Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw is up next on this three-week interrailing route, and here’s why it’s a special place to visit whilst in Poland. If you’re interrailing around Europe, add Wroclaw, Poland, into your trip.

From exploring the historic Old Town to relaxing in one of the city’s many parks, there’s something for everyone! If you’re on a budget, make sure to check out the free walking tour which covers all the main sights. Once you’ve gotten your bearings, head to one of the many parks for a picnic lunch – truthfully, there’s no shortage of picturesque places to relax in Wroclaw.

In the evening, explore the city’s nightlife – Stadion is a particularly popular spot with tourists and locals alike. If you’re looking for something a bit different, pay a visit to the Dwarfs’ Churchyard.

You’ll find hundreds of brightly coloured dwarf statues dotted around, each with its own unique personality.

Prague, Czech Republic

Ah, Prague, Prague, Prague. Without a doubt, Prague will be one of the best places on your three-week interrailing trip. It’s a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re into history, art, or just want to walk around and take in the atmosphere, Prague is the perfect place for you.

If you’re interrailing for the first time, Prague is a great choice for a stop on your trip. And, it’s budget-friendly (yay backpackers!)

• Visit Prague castle: this historic castle complex is located on top of a hill in Prague and offers stunning views of the city. It’s also home to several museums, galleries, and gardens, making it a must-see for any history buff!
• Take a walking tour: Prague is known for its beautiful architecture, and a walking tour is the best way to see it all. There are many different tours available, so you can choose one that focuses on the area of the city that interests you most.
• And my favourite thing to do in Prague? Enjoy some Czech food! No trip to Prague would be complete without trying some traditional Czech food. Some must-try dishes include goulash and svickova (beef tenderloin). Unbelievably good.