Exploring Europe on a Budget: Hidden Gems in the Suburbs
Traveling through Europe can be an incredible experience, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. In 2022, I embarked on a backpacking trip that took me across six cities and four countries, including Berlin and Zurich. What I didn’t expect was to discover some of the most fascinating places just outside the city centers—hidden gems that would have gone unnoticed if I had stayed within the main tourist areas.
The decision to stay in the suburbs was driven by the need to save money. By booking two Airbnbs in the outskirts of Berlin and Zurich, I managed to reduce my accommodation costs significantly. These locations were not only more affordable but also offered a different perspective on the cities I visited.
One of the biggest surprises was how vibrant and welcoming these suburban areas were. Unlike the bustling city centers, the suburbs provided a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing me to experience local life in a way that wasn’t possible when staying in the heart of the city.
In Berlin, I chose an Airbnb located about an hour away from the city center. This location gave me the perfect balance between affordability and accessibility. From there, I could easily take a train into the city for sightseeing, while still enjoying the quiet and comfort of the suburbs.
Similarly, in Zurich, I found a cozy Airbnb that was just a short train ride from the city. This allowed me to explore the city without the high cost of central accommodation. The area around the Airbnb was charming, with small shops, cafes, and local markets that added to the overall experience.
My trip included visits to several other European cities, such as Vienna, Venice, Rome, and Milan. While I stayed within city limits for most of these destinations, I made sure to book unique accommodations that reflected the local culture. For example, in Vienna, I stayed in an airstream trailer, which offered a modern and unconventional place to rest. In Rome, I chose an artsy stay that blended creativity with comfort.
Despite the variety of accommodations, the suburbs of Berlin and Zurich stood out as the most memorable parts of the trip. These areas were less crowded and more authentic, giving me a deeper connection to the regions I visited.
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or experiencing the best of a destination. In fact, it can lead to unexpected discoveries and a more meaningful travel experience. By choosing to stay in the suburbs, I was able to see a different side of Europe—one that isn’t always highlighted in guidebooks or travel blogs.
Berlin was the first stop on my two-week trip. I spent two nights in a tiny-home hotel in Neustrelitz, Germany, for $140. The hotel was a 20-minute walk from the train station.
Sure, it would have been easier to wake up in Berlin. But to my surprise, I enjoyed starting and ending each day with a relaxing walk through this place I’d never heard of, where I spotted the occasional backpacker among mostly locals.
I found the town charming, with its quiet cobblestone streets — a stark contrast to the fast-paced city vibe that dominated much of my days in Berlin. I was grateful for an unexpected experience. If I hadn’t been traveling on a budget, I probably never would have set foot in Neustrelitz.
When I left Germany, with stays in Vienna and three Italian cities ahead of me, I was already looking forward to my final accommodation in Switzerland.
Zurich was the last stop of the trip. For $400, I spent two nights in a tiny barrel home in a village called Roggwil.
Roggwil rests in the rolling hills of Switzerland. I thought it had the most striking scenes of the entire trip.
On my final night in Europe, I took an unplanned hike in the area and caught a gorgeous sunset over the village. The grass was so green it almost looked fake. The hills behind the homes changed colors as the sun lowered. Experiencing this with no other tourists in sight made it feel even more special.
It was an epic ending to my two-week adventure, and like in Neustrelitz, I couldn’t help thinking that if I hadn’t booked that specific Airbnb, I would never have seen it.
I expected nothing more than a place to sleep in these towns, so I was pleasantly surprised that they felt like hidden gems. Neustrelitz and Roggwil were relaxing counterparts to my travels in Berlin and Zurich.
Next time I backpack through Europe, I’ll find more accommodations in small towns to experience the slower pace of suburban life — and save some money along the way.
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