Wander Your Way: Europe Travel Your Way

Lynne Nieman
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Places & Travel
  • Every two weeks

Ready to skip the cookie-cutter itinerary and experience Europe travel your way? Hosted by Lynne Nieman, Wander Your Way: Europe Travel Your Way is the podcast for independent travelers who crave off-the-beaten-path destinations, authentic local connections, and thoughtfully planned European adventures. Each episode is filled with practical Europe travel tips, destination inspiration, and insider advice to help you design a personalized Europe itinerary. Discover hidden gems in Scotland, Ireland, Italy, France, Switzerland, and beyond — along with guidance on accommodations, transportation, cultural experiences, and how to travel deeper, not faster. Some shows feature Lynne’s firsthand stories from years of exploring Europe; others include expert guests sharing regional knowledge, travel strategies, and unique experiences you won’t find in a typical guidebook. If you’re looking for meaningful, independent Europe travel — with scenic landscapes, charming villages, incredible food, and immersive experiences — this podcast will help you plan with confidence. Subscribe now and start creating your next Europe adventure. Find more Europe travel resources at wanderyourway.com.

  1. 15 hr ago

    Delving Deeper into Amazing Germany with Cate Brubaker of My Germany Vacation

    Germany is so much more than Bavaria, beer gardens and castles. In this episode of the Wander Your Way podcast, I’m joined by Germany travel expert Cate Brubaker of My Germany Vacation to dig a little deeper into this fascinating and diverse country. Cate has been traveling to and living in Germany since she spent her senior year of high school there.  She went on to earn bachelor's, master's and PhD degrees in German and has spent decades exploring the country.  So when it comes to Germany, she has a lot of knowledge to share! We talk about some of Cate's favorite places, including history-filled Berlin, the lively university city of Freiburg and the beautiful Black Forest, and the maritime city of Hamburg in northern Germany. But we venture even farther beyond the usual stops as Cate introduces us to Germany's northern islands, including Sylt, Rügen and the car-free island of Hiddensee, where you'll find beaches, hiking trails and landscapes that might completely change the way you picture Germany. Along the way, Cate shares practical advice about traveling by train versus renting a car, getting around without speaking German and why your travel style should help determine how you move around the country. And, of course, we couldn't talk about Germany without talking about Christmas markets!  Cate shares some of her favorites and explains why smaller neighborhood markets can sometimes offer an even more memorable experience than the famous ones. If you've only thought of Germany as Munich, Bavaria and the Alps, this conversation just might inspire you to dig a little deeper. Want to chat more about Germany? Send me a message at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com. In this episode:1:58: Intro 4:08: Getting to know Cate 13:46: Cate’s top 3 destinations 16:40: Berlin: The Wall 25:51: Freiburg: The Black Forest 39:54: Hamburg: Harbors, Canals, Lakes 48:15: Honorable Mention: The Islands 52:12: Logistics & Tips 55:45: Christmas Markets 1:06:06: Final thoughts 1:08:18: Wrapping it up Important links: My Germany Vacation Germany Travel Planning PodcastWander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources REI ★ Support this podcast ★

    Delving Deeper into Amazing Germany with Cate Brubaker of My Germany Vacation

  2. 4 Aug

    10 Helpful Things I Wish More Travelers Knew About Europe

    Planning a trip to Europe? Before you book your flights or start mapping out your itinerary, there are a few things I wish more travelers knew before they go. In this episode, I share 10 helpful insights I've learned through years of traveling throughout Europe and helping clients plan their adventures. We talk about why Europe's famous cities are only part of the story, why distances can be deceiving, and why trains aren't always the best transportation option. I also explain why you don't need to see every famous attraction to have an incredible trip. You'll learn how Europe's national parks differ from those in North America, why walking is a part of everyday life, and why leaving room for spontaneity often leads to the most memorable travel experiences. Whether you're planning your first trip to Europe or your tenth, I hope these tips help you create a journey that's less rushed, more meaningful, and truly your own. Want to chat more about this topic? Email me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com In this episode:1:01: Intro 3:39: More than big cities 6:35: Natural destinations are amazing 8:21: National parks are different 10:27: Trains aren’t always best option 13:16: Europe doesn't have to be expensive 17:27: Distances can be deceiving 20:14: Walking is a way of life 23:14: Each country is unique 24:33: You don't have to see it all 27:21: You don't have to have it all planned 29:38: Recap and final thoughts 32:34: Wrapping it up Important links: 6 Tips to Help You Travel Cheaper to Europe Tips for Train Travel in Europe Discover Soft Adventure: Easy Ways to Explore Europe's Outdoors Slow Travel 3 Quick Tips for Planning Your Trip to Europe: Making the Plan 20 Essential Travel Tips You Need To Know Before Visiting Europe Wander Your WayWander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way ResourcesPatagonia ★ Support this podcast ★

    10 Helpful Things I Wish More Travelers Knew About Europe

  3. 21 Jul

    6 Awesome Tips For How To Find Hidden Feeling Places in Europe

    Despite what some people may believe, Europe isn't too crowded. Sure, some places certainly are. But there are still a plethora of destinations where you can escape the crowds and feel like you've discovered something special. One of the questions I get asked all the time is, "How do you find these places?" especially when people see me in a destination they've never even heard of. In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the process I use to uncover those "hidden feeling" places in Europe that are just a little off the main tourist track. These aren't secret destinations. They're simply places that are often overshadowed by their more famous neighbors and don't usually show up at the top of a Google search. I'll share the 6 tips I use when researching my own travels — as well as the custom itineraries I create for my travel clients — from exploring maps in a different way to asking locals the right questions. Whether you love researching every detail yourself or would rather leave the planning to someone else (like me!), these ideas will help you find destinations that feel less busy and more connected to the landscape, history, local people, and culture. If you've ever wondered how to discover places that feel like your own special find, this episode is for you. Want to chat more about this topic? Email me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com In this episode: 1:48: Intro + background 6:43: Explore the map 8:57: Follow travelers who travel like you 10:37: Search by interest 14:00: Beyond famous places 17:57: Stay longer in fewer places 22:26: Talk to the locals 24:43: Recap 26:42: Final thoughts 29:20: Wrapping it up 32:55: Listener reviews Important links: 12 Destinations in Europe That Deserve More Love Slow Travel Tips for Traveling Off the Main Tourist Track 6 Tips For Planning an Amazing Trip to Europe Slow Travel Europe Wander Your Way Wander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way Resources TASC Performance ★ Support this podcast ★

    6 Awesome Tips For How To Find Hidden Feeling Places in Europe

  4. 7 Jul

    Why You Need to Visit Beautiful Chatsworth House England

    Chatsworth House is one of England's most spectacular stately homes. And in this episode, I'm taking you inside one of the Peak District's most iconic landmarks. You'll learn about its fascinating history, explore the grand rooms and beautiful gardens, discover filming locations from Pride & Prejudice and other productions, and get plenty of practical tips to help you plan your own visit. I’ll also share why I think Chatsworth is worth visiting even though it’s one of the busier sights in the Peak District. From avoiding the busiest times to making the most of the gardens, estate walks, farm shop, and nearby trails, this episode will help you experience Chatsworth House at a slower, more enjoyable pace. Want to chat more about Chatsworth House? Contact me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com In this episode:1:56: Intro 2:44: Placing Chatworth House on the map 3:30: History 6:22: Rooms you can visit 11:29: Logistics & advice 13:38: The Garden 18:27: Nearby trails & parking 20:04: Additional planning considerations 26:22: Wrapping it up Important links:Chatsworth House Discovering the Diverse and Beautiful Peak District England Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way ResourcesEagle Creek ★ Support this podcast ★

    Why You Need to Visit Beautiful Chatsworth House England

  5. 23 Jun

    12 Destinations in Europe That Deserve More Love

    Looking for destinations in Europe that deserve more love? In this episode, I'm sharing 12 places across Europe that I think deserve a spot on more travelers' wish lists. These aren't unknown destinations.  Because, let's face it, there are very few truly undiscovered places.  Instead I'd describe them as places that often get overshadowed by more famous neighbors. From wild Irish coastlines and peaceful English countryside to mountain landscapes in Slovenia, Scotland, Austria, and Italy, these destinations offer a variety of experiences.  Along the way, you'll find charming villages, fascinating history, outstanding food and wine, and plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors.  All are places I believe deserve more attention from curious travelers. Some are easy additions to a European itinerary, while others require a bit more patience and a sense of adventure.  And of course, all of them are places I've personally visited and would (and have) happily return to. Join me as I share why places like the Yorkshire Dales, Lake Bohinj, the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, Piedmont, the Hochkönig region, and the Mani Peninsula deserve more attention from travelers looking to venture beyond Europe's usual stops. Whether you're actively planning a trip or simply dreaming about future travels, I hope this episode inspires you to discover a few destinations in Europe that deserve more love. Want to chat more about these destinations or this topic? Email me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com. In this episode: 2:45: Intro 6:18: County Donegal, Ireland 10:30: Normandy, France 14:28: Yorkshire Dales, England 19:19: Lake Bohinj, Slovenia 23:09: Ardnamurchan, Scotland 30:17: Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland 37:22: Scottish Borders 41:08: Isle of Mull, Scotland 46:37: Piedmont, Italy 51:20: Val di Fassa, Italy 54:28: Hochkönig region, Austria 58:05: Mani Peninsula, Greece 1:03:04: Recap 1:03:54: Wrapping it up Important links: County Donegal • IrelandExploring Beautiful Normandy, France: Going Beyond the D-Day Beaches Amazing Things To Do in the Yorkshire Dales England Lake Bohinj • SloveniaDumfries & Galloway • ScotlandExploring the Scottish BordersIsle of Mull • ScotlandPiedmont • Italy6 Reasons to Visit the Beautiful Val di Fassa Italy Discovering the Stunning and Beautiful Hochkönig Region of Austria Stoupa • GreeceWander Your WayWander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way ResourcesNord VPN ★ Support this podcast ★

    12 Destinations in Europe That Deserve More Love

  6. 9 Jun

    Fascinating Portugal Beyond the Tourist Trail with Julie Fox

    Portugal is a fascinating country, but there is so much more to discover beyond Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. In this episode, I'm joined by Portugal travel expert Julie Fox of Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal, who has called Portugal home for nearly 20 years.  Julie shares how she ended up moving from the UK to Portugal, why the country immediately felt like home, and what has kept her there ever since. Together we explore some of Portugal's lesser-known destination — from charming riverside towns and medieval villages to beautiful natural areas filled with walking trails and stunning scenery.  Along the way, Julie introduces us to places such as Ponte de Lima, Buçaco National Forest, Marvão, Alcobaça, Monchique, Penha Garcia, and several coastal communities that offer a quieter and more authentic experience of Portugal. We also discuss Portugal's only national park — Peneda-Gerês National Park, scenic hiking trails (Julie is a keen hiker), and practical tips for travelers who want to venture beyond the country's biggest cities.  Julie shares advice on the best time to visit, whether a rental car is worth it, and how to make the most of Portugal's incredible mix of history, culture, nature, and outdoor adventure. If you enjoy slower travel, spending time outdoors, discovering charming small towns, and getting beyond the usual stops, this episode will inspire you to explore a different side of fascinating Portugal. Want to chat more about Portugal? Send me an email at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com. In this episode: 1:32: Introducing Julie Fox 4:24: Julie's travel story 10:21: Lisbon & Porto 16:27: North Portugal: Ponte de Lima 20:09: Peneda-Gerês National Park 23:45: Central Portugal: Buçaco National Forest 28:36: Eastern Border: Penha Garcia 32:39: Central: Alcobaça 38:09: Moving South: Alentejo Region 49:10: Algarve Region: Monchique & Alvor 57:12: Additional hiking 1:02:21: Travel tips plus a few more spots 1:13:13: Wrapping it up Important links:Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal Visit Portugal Wander Your Way Wander Your Way AdventuresWander Your Way Resources Vuori ★ Support this podcast ★

    Fascinating Portugal Beyond the Tourist Trail with Julie Fox

  7. 26 May

    May 2026 Listener A&A

    In this short Listener Q&A episode, I’m tackling a thoughtful question from Miranda that more of us should probably be asking — how do you find cultural experiences that are both authentic and environmentally responsible when you travel in Europe? I share practical ways to travel more consciously — from choosing locally owned accommodations and guides to supporting small restaurants and seeking out truly local experiences. I also talk about eco-certifications — and why they don’t always tell the full story — plus a few simple ways to be a more responsible traveler without overcomplicating things. Then I shift gears and answer a second question from Miranda about traveling to Finland’s Lapland region, including why timing matters and where to start your research if it’s on your list. It’s a short episode, but one packed with ideas to help you travel more meaningfully. And maybe think a little differently about the choices you make along the way. Got a question you want answered? Head over to wanderyourway.com/podcast and fill out the form! Note: These Listener Q&A episodes don’t have a companion blog post, so you’ll only find this one in your favorite podcast app. Happy listening! Important links: How To Travel Sustainably in Europe: Inspiring Tips From Carolyn S. Boyce of Eco Wander Woman Best Sustainable Experiences in Europe ★ Support this podcast ★

    May 2026 Listener A&A

  8. 19 May

    Beautiful Loire Valley France: Some of the Best Things to Experience

    In this episode, I’m taking you to beautiful Loire Valley France — a region known for fairytale châteaux, sparkling wine, charming villages, and wonderfully relaxed countryside travel.  I share some of my favorite experiences in the Loire Valley including visits to stunning castles like Château de Chenonceau, Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, and Château de Villandry, along with wine tastings at local vineyards and easy walks through the French countryside. I also talk about wandering the lively market in Amboise, discovering quiet villages, and why slowing down in the Loire Valley made the experience even more meaningful.  Whether you’re interested in château hopping, cycling and walking trails, local wine, or simply soaking up small-town France at a gentler pace, this episode will give you plenty of inspiration for planning your own Loire Valley adventure. Want to chat more about the Loire Valley? Email me at Lynne@WanderYourWay.com In this episode: 1:22: Intro + announcements 4:42: Placing the Loire Valley on the map 9:04: Where to stay 10:54: Château de Chenonceau 15:38: Château d'Azay-le-Rideau 18:58: Château de Villandry 24:20: Vineyards 31:00: Towns & villages 41:01: Getting around 42:05: Wrapping it up Important links: Loire Valley TourismLoire Lovers Wander Your Way Wander Your Way Adventures Wander Your Way Resources Safety Wing Château de Chenonceau Château d’Azay-le-Rideau Château de Villandry Plou et Fils Alain Robert ★ Support this podcast ★

    Beautiful Loire Valley France: Some of the Best Things to Experience
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About

Ready to skip the cookie-cutter itinerary and experience Europe travel your way? Hosted by Lynne Nieman, Wander Your Way: Europe Travel Your Way is the podcast for independent travelers who crave off-the-beaten-path destinations, authentic local connections, and thoughtfully planned European adventures. Each episode is filled with practical Europe travel tips, destination inspiration, and insider advice to help you design a personalized Europe itinerary. Discover hidden gems in Scotland, Ireland, Italy, France, Switzerland, and beyond — along with guidance on accommodations, transportation, cultural experiences, and how to travel deeper, not faster. Some shows feature Lynne’s firsthand stories from years of exploring Europe; others include expert guests sharing regional knowledge, travel strategies, and unique experiences you won’t find in a typical guidebook. If you’re looking for meaningful, independent Europe travel — with scenic landscapes, charming villages, incredible food, and immersive experiences — this podcast will help you plan with confidence. Subscribe now and start creating your next Europe adventure. Find more Europe travel resources at wanderyourway.com.

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