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Lisbon, Portugal
Explore the historic Alfama district and São Jorge Castle for great history and views. Grab a pastel de nata in Belém and ride Tram 28 through the hilly streets. Very budget-friendly city with a huge young backpacker scene.
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Lagos, Portugal
One of Portugal's most stunning coastal spots with dramatic golden cliffs and crystal-clear swimming coves like Praia Dona Ana. Hike the Ponta da Piedade headland for jaw-dropping views and sea caves. Super popular with young travellers and very affordable.
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Seville, Spain
Visit the stunning Alcázar palace and the massive Seville Cathedral for a serious history fix. The Santa Cruz neighbourhood is perfect for wandering and cheap tapas bars are everywhere. Hot in summer but an incredible vibrant city loved by young travellers.
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Barcelona, Spain
Gaudí's Sagrada Família and Park Güell are unmissable landmarks with incredible architecture and views. Barceloneta Beach is right in the city for swimming and the Gothic Quarter is perfect for cheap eats and nightlife. A brilliant base city for young people with amazing energy.
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Ibiza, Balearic Islands
Beyond the famous clubs, Ibiza Town's Dalt Vila is a UNESCO-listed walled old town with great history and harbour views. Cala Comte and Cala Bassa are stunning beaches perfect for swimming with clear turquoise water. Book accommodation well in advance as it fills up fast in summer.
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Interlaken, Switzerland
Switzerland's adventure capital sitting between two lakes with the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks as your backdrop — views are insane. Hike the Harder Kulm trail for panoramic views over the valley or take the train up to Jungfraujoch. Switzerland is pricey but Interlaken has budget hostels and cooking your own food helps massively.
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Brussels, Belgium
The Grand Place is one of Europe's most beautiful historic squares and completely free to visit. Stock up on cheap, incredible Belgian waffles, fries and chocolate as you wander around. A good central stop that's easy to reach by train and more affordable than you'd expect.
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Rome, Italy
The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Trevi Fountain pack more history into one city than almost anywhere on Earth. Trastevere neighbourhood is the best spot for cheap, authentic pasta and a great young social scene at night. Book major attractions ahead online to skip queues and save money with a youth discount.
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Cinque Terre, Italy
Five dramatically colourful cliffside villages connected by famous coastal hiking trails with breathtaking Mediterranean views. Swimming directly off the rocks in the little harbours is completely free and the water is gorgeous. Get the Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train and trail access — stay in La Spezia to save money on accommodation.
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Split, Croatia
Diocletian's Palace is one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the world and people literally live inside it — unreal history. Swim at Bačvice beach right near the centre and hike up Marjan Hill for epic views over the Adriatic. Croatia is very popular with young travellers and Split is the perfect party and beach hub.
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Dubrovnik, Croatia
Walk the full Old City Walls for unbeatable views over the terracotta rooftops and crystal-clear Adriatic — one of Europe's most stunning sights. Take the cable car up Mount Srđ for sunset panoramas over the whole city and islands. It's pricier than other Croatian cities but worth every cent — stay in Lapad for cheaper options.
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Athens, Greece
The Acropolis and Parthenon are bucket-list history at its finest — go at opening time to beat crowds and heat. Monastiraki neighbourhood is brilliant for cheap street food, markets and rooftop bars with Acropolis views. Athens is one of Europe's most affordable capitals and a great gateway to the islands.
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Santorini, Greece
Oia village delivers the most iconic sunsets in Europe with those famous white-washed blue-domed buildings and caldera views. Hike the classic trail from Fira to Oia along the volcanic cliffs for incredible scenery. Red Beach and Perissa black sand beach are unique swimming spots unlike anything else on this trip.