Last year I was lucky enough to win a free Interrail pass through the European Union's DiscoverEU programme, which offers tens of thousands of free Interrail tickets to 18 year olds, so they have the chance to explore everything Europe has to offer. After months of planning and replanning multiple times, I finally began my trip!

This was only my second trip abroad without my family and my first ever trip travelling solo. I spent three weeks travelling around Europe alone and it was honestly the most rewarding experience of my life! I met so many amazing people and definitely gained more confidence in myself. I would, hands down, repeat this experience without a second thought if given the chance.

I began my trip in August from Poland after visiting family; my first stop being the home of Mozart himself - Salzburg, Austria. I spent two days exploring this city and definitely wish I'd had more time to explore the mountains and lakes nearby!

The view from Makartsteg Bridge in Salzburg, looking towards the Old Town and Fortress Hohensalzburg.

Next, I hopped onto a train, which took me through the rugged mountains of Austria, Germany and Switzerland to the gateway of the Swiss Alps - Interlaken. I had an incredible time here and spent most of it hiking through mountains and lakes. I also went skydiving for the first time which was incredible! Switzerland is definitely worth visiting for its beauty despite its high prices!

Admiring the view at Lake Oeschinen, Switzerland.

After visiting Switzerland I headed to Italy where I visited Rome, Naples and Verona. To be honest, I found Rome and Naples a bit disappointing (but I did love the ancient Roman architecture in Rome and Pompeii) but I fell in love with Verona as it was much more scenic than the other Italian cities I visited in my opinion.

Sunset views from San Pietro Castle, Verona.

The next country I visited was Slovenia, which I fell in love with and was, without a doubt, my favourite country that I visited on my entire trip. Whilst I was in Slovenia I explored Bled, Bohinj and Ljubljana, all of which I loved. The Julian Alps were easy to explore on day hikes and I even went stand-up paddleboarding for the first time. I only wish I had more time to explore other parts of this beautiful country!

Bled Castle and Bled Island surrounded by the Julian Alps at sunset.

Finally, after leaving Ljubljana I took an overnight train to Croatia. First I stopped in Split, where I had fun exploring the Old Town, sea kayaking and snorkelling in the Adriatic Sea, as well as visiting Plitvice National Park. After spending a few days in Split, I boarded a ferry to Dubrovnik, my final destination. Here I explored the Old Town and Lokrum Island.

Dubrovnik Old Town and Walls viewed from St. Lawrence Fortress.

Unfortunately, it was time to head home after this incredible three weeks of travelling. But there was still one treat yet to come. On the flight from Dubrovnik to London we were blessed with an incredible view of the Swiss Alps from above - a memory I will never forget.

The Swiss Alps from above whilst flying back home to the UK.

Before I finish I just want to say a huge thank you to DiscoverEU for giving me this interrail ticket! This experience honestly changed my life and made me fall in love with travel as well as making me realise that Europe has just as much to offer in terms of beauty as the rest of the world! Thank you!

Next time... Exploring Salzburg on the Cheap

[Disclaimer: All opinions and photos are my own. All links in this post are non-affiliated.]