Traveling through Europe doesn’t have to drain your wallet.
And honestly, some of the most memorable moments come from the free or nearly free experiences.
In this episode, I’m sharing my favorite tips for finding free and inexpensive things to do in Europe, whether you’re wandering a big city like Paris or Rome, or exploring a small village in Ireland or Slovenia.
We’ll talk about how to take advantage of free museum days, join donation-based “free” walking tours, and enjoy Europe’s beautiful parks and gardens.
I’ll also dive into the simple pleasures — like discovering street art in unexpected corners, stepping inside centuries-old churches, and hitting local trails for a scenic walk that costs absolutely nothing.
You’ll hear how to blend these low-cost activities into your travels, creating a richer, more authentic experience that connects you with local culture and daily life — without overspending.
Because the truth is, you don’t need a big budget to have a big adventure in Europe.
You just need curiosity, a good pair of walking shoes, and a few smart strategies to make the most of every day.
In this episode:
1:54: Intro
3:31: Check with tourism boards & free museum days
6:55: Free walking tours
8:33: Wander
9:02: Churches
9:44: Festivals and local events
12:20: Public parks
14:45: Historical and cultural sites
16:54: Public art
17:37: Hiking and walking
18:20: City passes
19:37: Wrapping it up
Important links:
50 Things To Do in Europe for Free
Solo Traveler - Tracey's List
Wander Your Way Adventures
Wander Your Way Resources
Wander Your Way
In this episode I chat with Monika Pronczuk, the adventurous traveler and creator of Plan Pack Explore, a go-to resource packed with Iceland travel tips and inspiration.
Originally from Poland, Monika has found her true passion in Iceland — a place that captured her heart and changed her travels forever.
She shares her top recommendations for first-time visitors, including the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Golden Circle, but also takes us off the beaten path to explore Iceland’s remote Northeast and the wild Highlands.
Expect stories, insider advice, and Monika’s contagious enthusiasm for the landscapes, culture, and spirit of this stunning island.
Whether you’re planning your first Iceland adventure or dreaming of going back, this episode will inspire you to see the astonishing side of Iceland — beyond the usual routes.
Want to chat more about Iceland, email Lynne at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com.
In this episode:
0:45: Intro
2:17: Monika's bio
5:40: Introducing Monika
7:44: Placing Iceland on the map
8:36: Falling in love with Iceland
11:18: First visit recommendations
22:21: Snæfellsjökull & Golden Circle
27:00: A week trip
33:15: Off the main tourist track
41:17: Northeast section
46:44: The Highlands
55:09: Monika’s favorites
56:20: Logistics & tips
1:06:06: Wrapping it up
Important links:
Plan Pack Explore (you'll be able to find all the places Monika talk about using her Iceland guides)
Wander Your Way Adventures
Wander Your Way
Exploring beautiful Ambleside in the Lake District, England is the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and rich history.
Tucked at the northern edge of Lake Windermere, Ambleside is a charming village that offers some of the best walks in the Lake District along with fascinating stories from its past.
In this episode, we set out on hikes like Todd Crag and Loughrigg Fell — both delivering sweeping views without an all-day climb.
We’ll also wander to Rydal Water and Grasmere — landscapes that inspired poets and still feel timeless today.
But Ambleside isn’t just about the trails.
The village is full of history, from Roman ruins to centuries-old stone buildings that give it that unmistakable Lakeland character.
Along the way, I’ll share tips on where to eat, shop and relax, plus the best times to visit so you can soak up Ambleside’s charm without the crowds.
Whether you’re here for the hiking, the history or simply the atmosphere of one of the Lake District’s most beloved spots, Ambleside is a destination that deserves a place on your travel list.
Tune in for:
Whether you come for the trails or the tales, Ambleside, England is the kind of place you carry home with you.
Want to chat more about this destination?
Send me a message at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com
In this episode:
1:11: Intro
2:28: Placing it on the map
6:09: Todd Crag and Loughrigg Fell
11:56: Rydal Waters
16:15: Grasmere
19:59: Roman Ruins
23:09: Lake Windermere
24:51: The Village of Ambleside
27:40: Food recommendations
38:17: Shops
43:20: Logistics
49:16: Wrapping it up
Important links:
Lake District National Park
Ambleside
Apple Pie
Copper Pot
Fellinis
Lucy's on a Plate
Wander Your Way Resources
Eagle Creek
Wander Your Way Adventures
Wander Your Way
Lakeland Retreats
Autumn in Europe is pure magic.
Forests blaze in shades of red and gold, vineyards glow against rolling hills, and crisp air makes every walk feel like a storybook moment.
If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the best of fall foliage in Europe, this episode is for you.
I’ll take you to places where autumn truly comes alive — from the golden vineyards of Umbria, Italy, to the misty woodlands of Scotland, where every turn feels like stepping into a painting.
Along the way, I’ll share why these landscapes are so breathtaking in autumn and give you tips for planning your own seasonal escape.
Whether it’s strolling through historic towns framed by fiery hillsides, hiking trails that crunch with fallen leaves, or settling into a cozy pub after a day outdoors, Europe in the fall has a rhythm all its own.
So brew a cup of something warm, wrap yourself in a blanket, and hit play.
Let’s chase autumn together and discover some of the most spectacular places to see fall foliage in Europe. 🍁
Want to chat more about great fall destinations in Europe?
Send me a message at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com
In this episode:
3:21: Intro
4:59: Umbria Region, Italy
8:27: South Tyrol Region, Italy
12:25: Lake District, England
15:50: Pitlochry, Scotland
20:17: Connemara, Ireland
21:52: Lake Geneva, Switzerland
25:23: Other places in Europe
28:22: Wrapping it up
31:15: Listener review
Important links:
Umbria • Italy
South Tyrol Italy in Autumn
The 11 Best Things To Do in Ambleside, Lake District England
20 Reasons Why You Need to Visit the Charming Town of Pitlochry Scotland
Connemara • Ireland
Visit Scotland — Pitlochry
South Tyrol
Lake District National Park
Umbria Tourism
Connemara Tourism
Switzerland Tourism — Lake Geneva
Vuori
Wander Your Way Adventures
Wander Your Way
There’s something irresistible about Lewis & Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides — an island that feels both timeless and alive.
Here ancient history meets wild natural beauty.
And life moves to a slower, more grounding rhythm.
In this episode, I share the moments that made me fall head over hiking boots for Lewis & Harris.
Standing among the Calanais Standing Stones, I could almost feel the hum of thousands of years of history.
On the sweep of Luskentyre Beach, golden sands and turquoise waters reminded me that yes — this really is Scotland!
And when the sun finally dipped below the horizon (midges included), it was pure magic.
Of course, no visit is complete without a stop at the Isle of Harris Distillery — I might have gone twice — where island pride pours into every drop of their famous Harris gin.
Warm hospitality, beautiful botanicals, and honestly, one of the most stunning bottles you’ll ever see.
This is the gin that made me fall in love with the spirit.
I also wandered into St Clement’s Church in Rodel, a hauntingly beautiful spot with intricate stone carvings whispering stories of centuries past and walked along other amazing beaches.
Lewis & Harris isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a place that stays with you.
If you’re craving wild landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences, tune into this episode and let the Isle of Lewis and Harris capture your heart.
Plus get a few tips on getting there and getting around.
Want to chat more about this destination?
Send me a message at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com
In this episode:
1:21: Intro
2:15: Placing the Isle of Lewis & Harris on the map
3:54: Getting there
8:08: Why Lewis & Harris?
11:08: Stornaway
12:41: Calanais Standing Stones
17:01: War Memorial & More
20:14: Tarbert
21:40: Isle of Harris Distillery
25:21: Luskentyre Beach & More
30:27: St Clement's Church & More
34:19: Wrapping it up
41:10: Listener review
Important links:
Visit Scotland
Exploring the Islands of Scotland with Bo Fraser
CalMac Ferries
Why the Awesome Isle of Lewis and Harris Needs To Be on Your Scottish Itinerary
Overtourism isn’t just a travel buzzword — it’s a growing challenge that can impact the places we love most.
In this episode, I break down exactly what overtourism is and how it changes a destination — from overcrowded streets to rising prices that push out locals.
I share a personal story from my own life about how it affected a place I once called home.
And we’ll look at the ways governments are trying to tackle the problem.
Most importantly, I’ll give you practical, doable tips for being a responsible traveler — so you can still enjoy incredible destinations while helping to protect them for future generations.
Whether you’re planning your next trip or just curious about how tourism shapes the world, this episode will inspire you to travel a little smarter and a lot more thoughtfully.
Want to chat more about overtourism?
Send me a message at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com
In this episode:
1:55: Intro
2:52: What is overtourism?
11:38: Pricing out locals
14:51: Government measures
19:55: What YOU can do
24:26: Wrapping it up
Important links:
Responsible Tourism Partnership
Here Not There with Andrew Nelson
My 10 Favorite Wonderful Underrated Destinations in Europe
Sustainable Travel International
In this episode, we’re heading north to explore the magic of Finland with Tarja Koivisto of Visit Finland.
From the stylish streets of Helsinki to the peaceful beauty of the archipelago, the sparkling waters of the Lakelands, and the snow-covered wonderland of Lapland, we’re covering all the highlights.
And we'll talk about a few hidden gems that make Finland such a unique and unforgettable destination.
Tarja shares her insider perspective on what makes Finland special.
Think saunas, forests, design, delicious Finnish cuisine and a deep connection to nature.
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy winter escape or a summertime lake retreat, this episode will inspire you to add Finland to your travel list.
Want to chat more about Finland?
Send me a message at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com.
In this episode:
1:12: Intro
2:13: Introducing Tarja Koivisto of Visit Finland (bio)
4:40: Meeting Tarja
5:31: Placing Finland on the Map
5:54: Geography of Finland
7:56: Highlights
9:53: Food
18:01: Sauna Culture
22:53: Helsinki
25:39: Lakeland Area
30:32: Western Finland & Islands
33:40: Golf in Finland
35:05: Making Your Way North
36:17: Lapland
41:18: Seasons
44:10: Sami Culture
45:25: Travel Considerations + Finnish Happiness
47:48: Finnish Traditions
51:24: Off The Main Tourist Track and Tarja's Favorites
54:20: Practical Information
1:00:16: Wrapping it up with Tarja
1:02:45: Wrapping it up + Final Thoughts
1:06:27: Listener Review
Important links:
Travel Bucket List Revisited 2025
My Ultimate Europe Wish List — Category By Category
Wander Your Way Resources
Wander Your Way
Wander Your Way Adventures
Looking for travel inspiration that goes way beyond the typical bucket list?
In this episode, I’m sharing my favorite sites in Europe.
12 unforgettable places that have wowed me, moved me and stuck with me long after the trip was over.
From Neolithic stone circles in Ireland to ancient Greek ruins, from jaw-dropping cathedrals to iconic art, this list spans the continent and covers thousands of years of human creativity, culture and mystery.
You’ll hear about:
These are the places I return to in my mind again and again.
And I think you’ll want to visit these and create those memories too.
So whether you’re trip-planning or just dreaming, come wander with me through my favorite sites in Europe and some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring cultural treasures.
Want to chat more about one or a few of these sites?
Send me an email at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com
In this episode:
2:30: Intro
4:08: Newgrange
7:58: Loughcrew Cairns
10:52: Notre Dame
13:16: Strasbourg Cathedral
16:30: Michelangelo’s David
19:29: Salisbury Cathedral & Magna Carta
23:36: Culloden Battlefield
27:53: Beltany Stone Circle
32:45: Doune Castle
36:28: Hohenschwangau
38:43: Archaeological Site of Olympia
43:01: Ephesus
47:31: Recap
48:58: Wrapping it up
Important links:
County Meath • Ireland
Heritage Ireland Brú na Bóinne
Notre Dame Paris
The Best Things To Do in Paris in 4 Days
9 Things You Need To Do on a Day Trip to Beautiful Strasbourg France
Cathédrale Notre Dame Strasbourg
Salisbury • England
Salisbury Cathedral
Culloden Battlefield: One of the Most Important Sites in Scotland
The Ancient Mystery of Beltany Stone Circle
Stirling and Doune Castles • Scotland
Doune Castle — Historic Environment Scotland
Visiting Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles • Germany
The Ancient Site of Olympia • Greece
Lynne's Favorite UNESCO Sites in Europe
Wander Your Way Resources
Wander Your Way Adventures
Wander Your Way
Want to go deeper than guidebooks and monuments?
Try connecting with a place through your taste buds.
In this episode, I chat with Angelo Carotenuto, founder of LivTours, about how to connect with Europe through food — one bite, one story, one unforgettable experience at a time.
Angelo shares how food is more than just fuel when you travel.
It’s a sensory gateway into culture, history and daily life — whether you're sipping wine at an outdoor cafe in Paris or rolling pasta in a local Tuscan kitchen.
What we dish up in this episode:
You’ll also get a peek into LivTours' new cooking school and the delightfully personal cooking class set in Angelo’s mom’s Roman kitchen (yes, for real — it’s the dream).
If you’re craving a more authentic way to experience Europe, this conversation will inspire you to explore it one plate at a time.
🎧 Hit play and get ready to connect with Europe through food — the most delicious way to travel.
In this episode:
1:29: Introducing Angelo Carotenuto of LivTours
3:34: Meeting Angelo and Hearing His Story
7:37: Becoming a Tour Guide and Starting LivTours
14:08: Food & Culture
24:03: Tips for Good Food Tours
39:25: Meaningful Travel
44:25: Wrapping Up with Angelo
45:05: Final Thoughts & Wrapping It Up
Important links:
Surprising Countries for Good Food in Europe
Planning a trip to Europe?
Don’t let these common travel mistakes derail your adventure.
In this episode, I’m breaking down the top travel mistakes I see some travelers make.
And I'm going to offer up some tips on how you can avoid them.
From overpacking and rushing through your itinerary to arriving at the wrong airport (yep, it happens!), these slip-ups can cost you time, money and a lot of stress.
We'll cover topics such as packing, ensuring you arrive at the correct airport or train station, money and credit card mistakes and visiting sites.
And we'll talk about tips for best planning your itinerary to make the most of your time without needing a vacation from your vacation.
If you want a smoother, more enjoyable trip, this episode will help you steer clear of the most common travel mistakes — and travel like a pro.
In this episode:
2:08: Intro
3:10: Pre-Planning Mistakes
10:57: Traveling Mistakes
20:55: Paperwork & Money Mistakes
29:53: Other Considerations
35:29: Tech Mistakes
38:33: Insurance
39:27: Recap
40:50: Wrapping it up
Important links:
Safety Wing
Tips for Managing Technology in Europe
Tips on Handling Money in Europe
6 Tips For Planning an Amazing Trip to Europe
3 Quick Tips for Planning Your Trip to Europe: The Packing Dilemma
In this fun and wanderlust-fueled episode, I'm unveiling My Ultimate Europe Wish List—a curated collection of the top places I most want to visit in Europe, organized by category.
From dreamy castles to vibrant cities, secluded islands to breathtaking mountain ranges, this list is packed with destinations that stir the soul and spark the imagination.
You’ll hear why I’m drawn to the soaring peaks of the Swiss Alps, the café culture of Vienna and the sun-drenched charm of Provence.
I’ll also share the pull of Finland’s forests and saunas, plus some hidden small towns, spiritual sites and nature parks that make me want to ditch my laptop and wander.
🧳 Whether you're planning your own European adventure or just love to dream about travel, this episode will give you serious inspiration—and maybe a few surprises!
💡 Your Turn!
Create your own “Europe by Category” wish list!
Use the categories I did — like Beach, City, Country, Island, Mountains, Castle.
Or invent your own (hello, Best Place for Wine or Most Likely to Run Into a Sheep).
Tag me on Instagram or share your picks in your favorite travel group.
Let's turn daydreams into itineraries!
In this episode:
1:41: Intro
5:12: Beach
8:36: Mountains
10:15: City
12:15: Historical
15:43: Castle
18:16: Spiritual
22:14: Small Town
25:20: Island
27:31: Nature Park
29:16: Region
30:41: Country
32:49: Recap
35:34: Listener review
37:31: Wrapping it up
Important links:
Why the Awesome Isle of Lewis and Harris Needs To Be on Your Scottish Itinerary
12 of My Favorite Amazing European Cities
My Favorite 11 Beautiful and Unexpected Beaches in Scotland
My 15 Favorite Amazing Historical Sites in Ireland
Why You Need To Visit the Beautiful Churches on Your Travels to Europe
Wander Your Way Adventures
Wander Your Way Resources
Patagonia
Ever wonder how Wander Your Way came to be?
In this candid (and sometimes hilarious) episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing my full travel origin story.
Yep.
It's finally time you heard Lynne’s Story — how I fell head over heels for travel, became obsessed with Europe and ended up building a life as a Europe travel advisor, blogger and podcaster.
From my early wanderlust as a kid in Ohio, to solo travel adventures and the life-changing trips that led me to launch Wander Your Way, this episode is packed with personal stories, a few surprises and a whole lot of passion for independent European travel.
In this episode, you’ll hear the story of the very first trip that sparked my travel bug and how Europe quickly stole my heart — and never gave it back.
I’ll walk you through the highs, lows and hard-won lessons of launching my travel business.
And I'll share what truly drives me to help you experience Europe in a way that’s personal, meaningful and completely your own.
If you're curious about the woman behind the mic — and behind the custom travel itineraries — this one’s for you.
Grab a coffee (or a glass of wine 🍷), get comfy and press play.
P.S. Lynne's Story is definitely a little more personal, a little less itinerary — but I hope it gives you a better idea of the travel-loving fool behind the mic.
In this episode:
1:29: Intro
2:13: Way Back When
7:29: First International Trip
15:52: Europe Travel & Planning
21:42: An Idea Takes Hold
37:33: Ebbs and Flows of Business
41:12: Wrapping It Up
Important links:
Itinerary Planning
Customized Travel Planning
Eagle Creek
Ireland may not be very big, but it has some amazing places to go.
Cities, towns, historical sites as well as some gorgeous landscapes.
And, to me, some of the best destinations to visit are the National Parks in Ireland.
There are actually 2 that have been added recently (at the time of this recording) which is why I created this episode.
I'll give a few facts about each of the National Parks in Ireland and then talk about some of the unique features — and why you should visit, including a few tips.
The best thing about these parks?
You don't have to be an avid outdoors person to appreciate the beautiful landscapes.
Want to chat more about the National Parks in Ireland?
Send me an email at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com.
In this episode:
3:55: Intro
7:10: Killarney National Park
12:14: Connemara National Park
18:54: Glenveagh National Park
27:32: Burren National Park
33:16: Wicklow Mountains National Park
38:08: Wild Nephin National Park
43:06: Dowth
46:03: Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara
50:05: Recap
50:38: Wrapping it up
Important links:
7 Best Things To Do in Killarney National Park Ireland
6 Excellent Tips for Hiking the Stunning Diamond Hill in Ireland
Glenveagh National Park: The Jewel of Donegal
Why the Burren is Ireland’s Most Fascinating Landscape
★ Support this podcast ★Soaring peaks? Check.
Gorgeous valleys? Check.
Charming towns and villages? Check.
Stunning lakes? Check.
Delicious food? Check.
Travel to Switzerland is on many of our bucket lists.
And it is as magnificent in person as it is in the photos.
So let's learn more about this amazing country from Switzerland enthusiast, Carolyn Schönafinger.
Carolyn is the founder of Holidays to Switzerland, a website that has loads of information for those wanting to plan a trip to this beautiful country.
And she has a fabulous podcast — also called Holidays to Switzerland — where dishes up more excellent tips for travel to Switzerland.
So if you are intrigued by this mountain-filled country, then you'll want to tune into this information-packed episode.
Want to chat about travel to Switzerland?
Send me an email at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com.
In this episode:
1:10: Intro & Carolyn's bio
4:10: Carolyn's story
9:14: First trip recommendations
14:36: Off the tourist track
22:38: Basel
25:32: Lake Geneva
26:42: Lavaux Vineyards / Chexbres
30:26: Carolyn’s Favorites: Lauterbrunnen, Lucerne & Zermatt
34:13: Transportation
40:39: Time of Year to Visit
45:12: Budgeting
49:35: Wrapping it up with Carolyn
53:25: Wrapping it up
Important links:
Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast
Holidays to Switzerland
Exploring Switzerland
Safety Wing
Switzerland Tourism
Wander Your Way
Wander Your Way Adventures
There are so many amazing destinations in Europe.
However many places are very popular and can get quite crowded.
So let's talk about alternative destinations in Europe.
You know, those places that you can travel to instead of one of the more popular spot.
These destinations are often just as special, beautiful and amazing as their more popular counterpart, but you'll find you won't be rubbing elbows with as many people.
In this episode I'll offer up 10 alternative destinations in Europe for you to consider for your next getaway.
And I'll even give you a wee bonus one too!
Want to chat about some this topic more?
Then send me an email at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com.
In this episode:
1:32: Intro
3:41: Instead of the Isle of Skye…
7:37: Instead of Paris…
10:01: Instead of the Bavarian Alps…
12:25: Instead of Tuscany…
15:13: Instead of the Ring of Kerry…
18:16: Instead of Stonehenge…
22:08: Instead of Lake Bled…
24:22: Instead of the Greek Islands…
26:55: Instead of the Costa del Sol…
29:06: Instead of the Mediterranean Sea…
31:52: Bonus
33:45: Recap
35:26: Wrapping it up
38:04: Listener review
Important links:
Isle of Lewis & Harris
Isle of Mull
Paris
Hochkönig
Piedmont
Piedmont Tourism
Beara Peninsula
Avebury
Lake Bohinj
Stoupa Greece
Costa de la Luz Tourism
My 10 Favorite Wonderful Underrated Destinations in Europe
Battleface Insurance
Wander Your Way Resources
Wander Your Way Adventures
Thanks to Callisa Mickle who edits the audio.
Follow Wander Your Way:
Instagram
Facebook
Pinterest
Do you know the island of Malta?
This may be a European country that you aren't familiar with.
But this Mediterranean country has a lot to offer the traveler.
From intriguing history to beautiful landscapes to delicious food, Malta will entice you — especially with its small size and warm climate.
We'll learn all about this fabulous country from Michelle Buttigieg, the North American Representative for the Malta Tourism Authority.
Michelle is a native of Malta who loves her home country, visits it often and enjoys sharing all the amazing things it has to offer.
I am betting you will be adding this incredible country to your list after you listen.
I know that Malta is now firmly on my list!
Want to chat more about Malta?
Email me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com.
In this episode:
1:25: Intro
5:30: Placing Malta on the Map
5:55: Michelle's Story
9:01: Malta History & Culture
16:00: Main Sites of Malta & Sister Islands
23:22: Hiking
25:19: Accommodations
28:43: Food & Drinks
37:29: Transportation
39:51: Off the Beaten Path + Michelle's Favorites
45:32: Wrapping it up with Michelle
50:16: Wrapping it up
Important links:
★ Support this podcast ★So, you're traveling to Europe for the first time.
But you have no idea which country to go to because you want to go everywhere.
I understand completely.
In this episode we'll talk the best countries for first time travelers to Europe.
And we'll take into consideration the type of traveler you are — more cautious or a bit more adventurous.
This list of best countries for first time travelers to Europe has something for everyone.
Even if you're not a first time traveler to Europe, you may still want to tune in to see what's on the list — and why I put it there!
Want to chat more about this episode?
Email me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com.
In this episode:
1:11: Intro
3:40: Ireland
9:41: United Kingdom
13:51: Switzerland
18:33: the Netherlands
22:54: Spain
26:45: Italy
31:08: France
37:47: Greece
43:15: Wrapping it up
49:07: Listener review
Important links:
Netherlands Tourism
Exploring Switzerland
Aragon • Spain with Meg Zirger
Umbria • Italy
15 of the Most Beautiful Towns in Italy
Cruising the Canal du Midi • France with Chris Christensen
9 Things You Need To Do on a Day Trip to Beautiful Strasbourg France
Why You Need to Visit the Amazing UNESCO Site of Mystras Greece
The Ancient Site of Olympia • Greece
Thanks to Callisa Mickle who edits the show.