What about backpacking in Europe by bus or train?
Transport
Trains will probably be quickest as I have done a bus tour before and we spent most of our time on the bus which meant less site seeing, but it is definitely cheaper, so that's the trade off (time versus money).
There are many tour companies that plan everything for you, but know that some optiionals will require you to spend more money.
I much prefer travelling independently and find that you have much more freedom.
Accommodation
You may be organising accommodation in advance or walking in when you reach your destination. The latter can be time consuming but can possibly save you money. But the internet has made the former much easier and possibly means that there is little price differential between the two. If you've not done hostels before, bring earplugs!
Food
Eastern Europe is cheap. In countries like France, you can survive on loaves of gorgeous fresh bread and save heaps. Tip - buy a loaf of pain au chocolat instead of the rolls and large bottles of water from the supermarket. Ask for tap water, as drinks for example in Paris on average cost 5 Euro (soft drinks and juices are the same price as wine!)
Supermarkets are great to buy food, drinks and snacks. Your hostel or hotel can direct you to the closest ones.
If you are taking the bus, you might stop at autogrills for toilet stops. In Austria the goulash soup is great and you can have it as a cheap meal essentially.
If you can splurge, Pierre Hermes macarons in Paris are amazing if you have a sweet tooth.
There are many tour companies that plan everything for you, but know that some optiionals will require you to spend more money.
I much prefer travelling independently and find that you have much more freedom.
Accommodation
You may be organising accommodation in advance or walking in when you reach your destination. The latter can be time consuming but can possibly save you money. But the internet has made the former much easier and possibly means that there is little price differential between the two. If you've not done hostels before, bring earplugs!
Food
Eastern Europe is cheap. In countries like France, you can survive on loaves of gorgeous fresh bread and save heaps. Tip - buy a loaf of pain au chocolat instead of the rolls and large bottles of water from the supermarket. Ask for tap water, as drinks for example in Paris on average cost 5 Euro (soft drinks and juices are the same price as wine!)
Supermarkets are great to buy food, drinks and snacks. Your hostel or hotel can direct you to the closest ones.
If you are taking the bus, you might stop at autogrills for toilet stops. In Austria the goulash soup is great and you can have it as a cheap meal essentially.
If you can splurge, Pierre Hermes macarons in Paris are amazing if you have a sweet tooth.
Key attractions
See a few key attractions eg. Anne Frank's house in Amsterdam. Walking around experiencing the culture, history and seeing the people is truly worth doing. Walking tours are also a great way to see a city, especially in East Germany.
Language
Knowing a few phrases in each language is also helpful as English is not always spoken by locals.
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Dangers
Becareful of pickpockets as they are very prolific, especially around the churches. Wear a money belt beneath your clothes and keep your passport, a credit card and some money there. Be wary of who is watching you. Also, you might want to google safety tips for travelling in Europe and also areas to avoid for cities eg Pigalle is not very nice in Paris.
Other Tips
In hostels and hotels, speak to other tourists as they can share plenty of tips.
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