Best places to visit when backpacking Europe

After three treks to Europe, I came home with more than just colorful stamps in my passport.

I learned to appreciation the European lifestyle, the war torn battleground of my grandparent's generation, and the opulent art that defies time and endures. In short, I can home with lessons, I came home with knowledge and there is beauty in something freely given and gladly taken.  

My personal list of favorite European destinations, is just that: personal. This list leaves out Barcelona, London, Venice, Bath, Avignon, Seville (and so many more). Places that swell my heart in memory, but felt like well worn linen.  Too popular to mention here (and I didn't have any good pictures and these vain things matter to me). Fortunately for us, better writers have already serenaded these places, so they do not run the risk of fading into obscurity in my lifetime.  

All that considered, below are my honest recommendations for people looking for a memorable and diverse backpacking trip in Europe.

Riomaggiore, Italy
A calm and vibrant coastal town that hugs the hillside and provides spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. This romantic villa is the perfect place for a romantic stroll, the Via dell'Amore (the way of love), is path that provides unmatched views of the Sea. $$$

Dubrovnik, Croatia 
Take a boat trip to nearby Lockrum Island, sunbath, walk the Old Wall, swim in the crystal clear Adriatic Sea and eat Gelado for breakfast. This sunny paradise will leave you with tanned skin and some money in your pocketbook. It gets hot in the summer, so make sure to book a room with A/C. $$

Korcula, Croatia
Okay, Croatia is so good, it makes the list twice (What? Even Mothers have their favorites). One of Croatia's many islands, Korcula is an ancient Venetian town, hosting two rare ancient Venetian winged lion sculptures, clean water and small town charm. A chic place to enjoy the sun and take it easy. $$

Simisrhamn, Sweden
Once a fisherman's village, today Simisrhamn is a popular Summer retreat. The brightly painted cottages, viking markings and views of the Baltic Sea are the perfect backdrop for a peaceful bike ride.
$$$$

Brugge, Belgium
Climb the Clock Tower, eat the best chocolate in the world, rent a bike, take a boat tour, and enjoy some beer in a pub established in 1515. This charmer will steal your heart and pocket book. $$$$ - Brugge Hostel Recommended: St. Christopher's



Amsterdam, Netherlands
A hot spot for art and culture, Amsterdam is a great place to visit. Make sure to visit the Rembrandt Museum, Van Gogh Museum, and Ann Frank House. Stroll the picturesque canals, take a boat tour, visit the Red Light District and CoffeeShops if you fancy. Amsterdam is a budget buster that is worth every penny. $$$$

Gdansk, Poland
Try to visit the town during the annual St. Dominic's Fair, held in the Summer. The streets are alive with lively performances, vendors selling a host of interesting objects and activities abound for the whole family. Take refuge in St. Mary's Church if the heat and crowds get to be too much. Almost all churches in Poland are free to the public. $$

Inverness, Scotland
This Highland gem is well situated for a verity of activities and tastes.  Take a boat ride on the Loch Ness and search for the Loch Ness Monster, tour the Clan Grant Castle, visit Culloden Battlefield and ancient Standing Stones. $$$

Northern Ireland

Take a day trip to the Northern Irish Coast, cross the bridge at Carrick Rede  and marvel at the view. Sample some whiskey at Bushmill's Distillery (the oldest distillery in the world), check out the unique rock formations on the Giant's Causeway. But, don't plan on leaving Belfast without taking an eye opening Black Taxi Tour. If you have some time, go and visit the Queen's University Botanical Gardens.  $$$ - Belfast Hostel Recommend: Vagabonds 

Dublin, Ireland
So much to do, so little time! Dublin is a lively city that knows how to have a good time. This well worn path is worth the trip. Visit the Temple Bar Region, tour the Guinness Storehouse, see the Book of Kells, and enjoy this friendly, vibrant city. $$$

Granada, Spain

The perfect mix of Spanish and Moorish culture. Enjoy the music, Hookah bars, cured meats, and of course the famous Alhambra. Oh right, and it feels like perpetual Summer...if your into that kinda thing. $$

The first time I visited Europe it was with my family, then later for a semester abroad in Spain, and finally for eight glorious weeks with my husband in 2012. God willing, I'll get the chance at round four, five and six. There is so much to do and see, there will never be enough time.

Where would you recommend? I have heard great things about Germany, Hungry, Austria. Let's spread the love - tell me where we should visit next.