Backpacking in 2025 is going to be epic! With cities buzzing with events and good vibes, this guide is all about giving you ideas on where you you can check off next on your bucket list in 2025. Whether you’re chasing festivals, nature, or just an overall good time.
Backpack Kyoto, Japan
Top Event to Kyoto: Gion Matsuri (July 1–31, 2025)
Kyoto’s the perfect mix of old school Japan and modern chill. Picture stunning temples, funky markets, and mouthwatering street food. If you’re there in July, you’ve gotta hit up Gion Matsuri. It’s all about colorful parades, traditional tunes, and jaw dropping floats. Plus, you can soak in Kyoto’s beauty at spots like the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Kyoto is overall just a great destination because it truly has something for everybody.
Backpacker Tip for Kyoto: Rent a bike to explore the city like a local. Kyoto is super bike-friendly, and cycling through the bamboo groves of Arashiyama or along the Kamo River is a vibe you won’t forget.
Backpack Cartagena, Colombia
Top Event to Cartagena: Hay Festival (January 25–28, 2025)
Cartagena’s got it all from colorful streets to sunny vibes and beaches you’ll dream about forever. During the Hay Festival, the city turns into a creative hotspot with writers, musicians, and artists from all over. Perfect for meeting cool people and soaking up the culture.
Backpacker Tip for Cartagena: Stay in Getsemaní, a backpacker’s paradise full of street art, affordable hostels, and even really good food. Also, try a cooking class while you're in Getsemaní, I had a great time learning how to cook fish ceviche there.
Backpack Munich, Germany
Top Event in Munich: Oktoberfest (September 20–October 5, 2025)
Munich during Oktoberfest? Yes, please!! It’s beer, pretzels, sausages, and good vibes all day long. You could be singing in the famous Bavarian tents or enjoying all the festival games. But Munich’s not just about the party, you can also explore the stunning Bavarian Alps nearby.
Backpacker Tip for Munich: Book early! Hostels fill up fast. Camping is a wallet-friendly option and still close to all the fun. Also, if you have any German friend or contact who you can meet up with for Oktoberfest, definitely do so. There are so many German songs and traditions that you'll probably miss out on understanding if you don't speak German.
Backpack Cape Town, South Africa
Top Event in Cape Town: Cape Town Carnival (March 15, 2025)
Cape Town is a stunner. Between Table Mountain and those dreamy beaches, you’ll never want to leave. Cape Town is usually always on people's favorite backpacking destinations. The Cape Town Carnival is all about epic parades, dancing, and live music. It’s the perfect way to soak up the local culture.
Backpacker Tip for Cape Town: Hop on local mini busses for cheap rides and catch a sunrise at Lion’s Head for unforgettable views.
Backpack Sydney, Australia
Top Event in Sydney: Sydney New Year’s Eve Fireworks (December 31, 2025)
Start your year in style with Sydney’s insane New Year’s Eve fireworks. The city’s beaches, landmarks, and artsy vibes make it a must for backpackers. Free things to do? Bondi to Coogee coastal walk and chilling at the Royal Botanic Garden.
Backpacker Tip for Sydney: Look for hostels in Newtown or Glebe for cool vibes and budget-friendly stays.
Backpack Reykjavik, Iceland
Top Event in Reykjavik: Reykjavik Arts Festival (May 17–June 2, 2025)
Reykjavik is a dream—tiny city center, epic nature all around. The Reykjavik Arts Festival is your ticket to cool music, theater, and art vibes. In between, hit up waterfalls, geysers, or the Blue Lagoon for some serious nature therapy.
Backpacker Tip for Reykjavik: While you're in the city, check out the public pools that the locals go to. I really liked one called Laugardalslaug because it has an epic slide and really good hot dogs outside of it.
Backpack Buenos Aires, Argentina
Top Event in Buenos Aires: Tango Buenos Aires Festival (August 14–27, 2025)
Buenos Aires is passion central. Think street art, amazing food, and nightlife that goes till dawn. The Tango Festival is all about fiery performances and fun workshops. Don’t miss San Telmo and La Boca for that artsy, bohemian vibe.
Backpacker Tip for Buenos Aires: Grab a SUBE card for cheap rides and join free walking tours to dive into the city’s history.
Backpack Lisbon, Portugal
Top Event in Lisbon: Festa de Santo António (June 12–13, 2025)
Lisbon is a vibe. Hills, trams, epic views—this city’s got character for days. During Festa de Santo António, it’s all sardine BBQs, street parties, and live music. You’ll be partying with locals all night.
Backpacker Tip for Lisbon: Public transport is your friend. Check out free Miradouros (viewpoints) for breathtaking panoramas.
Backpack Bangkok, Thailand
Top Event in Bangkok: Songkran Festival (April 13–15, 2025)
Bangkok is a backpacker’s playground. Cheap eats, buzzing markets, and crazy nightlife. Songkran is basically the biggest water fight you’ll ever see—pure fun and laughs. Don’t miss the Grand Palace or Chatuchak Market while you’re at it.
Backpacker Tip for Bangkok: Khao San Road is backpacker HQ—great for meeting new friends and planning your next stop.
Backpack Edinburgh, Scotland
Top Event in Edinburgh: Edinburgh Festival Fringe (August 1–25, 2025)
Edinburgh is magical. Between the cobbled streets, castles, and wild Fringe Festival, there’s no better time to visit. Fringe is all about endless shows, comedy, and street performers. In between, hike up Arthur’s Seat for insane views.
Backpacker Tip for Edinburgh: Fringe can be pricey, so book early and hunt for free performances to keep your budget intact.
Bonus Destination: Backpack Tbilisi, Georgia
Top Event in Tbilisi: Tbilisi Open Air Festival (June 2025, dates TBA)
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Tbilisi should be on your radar. This underrated gem is packed with quirky cafes, stunning architecture, and an amazing food scene. The Tbilisi Open Air Festival is a must for music lovers, with local and international acts performing in a laid-back outdoor setting. It’s the perfect place to meet fellow travelers and enjoy the city’s chill vibe.
Backpacker Tip for Tbilisi: Hostels here are super affordable, and the city’s walkable—so you’ll save on transport while soaking in all the sights.
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