This two-month Interrail itinerary through Central and Eastern Europe covers Berlin, Poland, Prague, Vienna, Ljubljana, Romania, and Budapest through the eyes of a solo female traveler. From hostel friendships and night trains to hidden cafés, art classes, raves, and UNESCO towns, this guide shares the realities of backpacking Europe with a DiscoverEU pass.

From beginner wheel throwing and glazing to handmade mugs and ceramics classes at UC San Diego, this post follows my journey learning pottery after years of wanting to try it seriously. A reflection on creativity, clay, art studios, and why making things with your hands feels so grounding in a fast-moving world.