Budget Travel Reveals Hidden European Towns Outside Berlin and Zurich

A Business Insider reporter embarked on a two-week backpacking trip across six European cities and four countries in October 2022, including destinations such as Berlin, Vienna, Venice, Rome, Milan, and Zurich. To manage travel expenses, the reporter strategically booked Airbnbs in smaller towns situated about an hour outside major cities, specifically Berlin and Zurich. This decision led to the discovery of unexpected "hidden gem" destinations.

The first such discovery was Neustrelitz, Germany, located outside Berlin. The reporter spent two nights in a tiny-home hotel there, costing $140. This accommodation was approximately a 20-minute walk from the local train station. Neustrelitz was described as a charming town with quiet cobblestone streets, offering a significant contrast to the bustling city environment of Berlin. The reporter noted enjoying relaxing walks and observing mostly locals alongside occasional backpackers.

Later in the trip, the reporter stayed for two nights in a tiny barrel home in Roggwil, a village in Switzerland near Zurich, at a cost of $400. Roggwil, set amidst rolling hills, was highlighted for its striking scenery. During the stay, an unplanned hike offered views of a sunset over the village, observed without other tourists present. The experience was noted as an impactful conclusion to the European journey.

Both Neustrelitz and Roggwil provided a peaceful and relaxing counterpoint to the more fast-paced major city experiences. The reporter concluded that these discoveries, which would likely have been missed otherwise, were a direct result of prioritizing budget-friendly accommodations in suburban areas. This experience has encouraged plans to seek out more small-town accommodations on future European backpacking trips to embrace a slower pace of life and continue saving money. (Source: Business Insider)