Exploring Europe during a gap year—how feasible is it?

I'm really interested in traveling around Europe during my gap year. How do people typically budget for a trip like this, and are there any must-see destinations that are essential during a European gap year adventure?

One of the key considerations for any gap year is the budget. Understanding the potential costs can help you develop a feasible plan. You'll need to consider flights to and from Europe, local transportation (trains, buses, flights within Europe), accommodation (hostels, budget hotels, Airbnb, etc.), food, sightseeing, and emergency money.

1. Flights to/from Europe: Look for flights well in advance and aim to be flexible with your dates and departure city to get the best deals. A round trip flight from the U.S could cost anywhere from $500 – $1,500 depending on several factors.

2. Local Transportation: Europe has great public transportation. Inter-country travel can be easily done through budget airlines, high-speed trains, and buses. Services like the Eurail Pass can be a cost-effective way to travel by train across multiple countries. A one-month global pass can range around $400 – $1,000 depending on your age, the class of service, and the season.

3. Accommodation: This varies greatly based on the type of lodging you're comfortable with. You can find hostel beds as cheap as $10-$50 a night in many cities, whereas a budget hotel might cost $50-$100 a night.

4. Food: You can keep food cheap by eating at local markets and avoiding the touristy restaurants. Expect to spend $10-$20 per meal.

5. Sightseeing: Many cities in Europe offer free walking tours, and student discounts are common. Budget $10-$20 per day for sightseeing and entertainment.

6. Emergency Money: Always have a reserve for unexpected situations, like a trip to the urgent care or an unexpected night at a hotel because of a cancelled flight.

As for must-see destinations, Europe is quite diverse with its offerings, so your destinations may change based on your personal interests. However, some popular and enriching destinations for a European gap year could include:

- Exploring the historical sites, museums, and vibrant culture in cities like London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, and Athens.

- Enjoying nature by hiking in the Scottish Highlands, sailing in the Greek islands, cycling through the Netherlands, or skiing in the Alps.

- Engaging in a cultural exchange through local festivals, such as Oktoberfest in Munich, the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, or the Carnival in Venice.

Remember that travel insurance is essential for a gap year abroad. And consider picking up some part-time or freelance work to supplement your income during your travels. There are also numerous volunteer and work/travel programs that could provide accommodation and meals in exchange for a few hours of work each day. Planning ahead and understanding the costs involved will ensure you have an enriching and enjoyable gap year!