Getting out of the country is often one of the highlights of the year for students. Getting away from the mental strain of exams and studies is something that we all need and enjoy. It’s easy to talk about going away but when it comes down to the act of actually paying for your trip, it can be a daunting task due to limitations of funds. In fact, over one third of third-level students are struggling financially. Just under half of students monthly expenditure is not provided by the student but rather by partners or guardians. This can make it very difficult for students to afford trips abroad.
If cheap European trips abroad are what you’re looking for, then this is the right blog for you. There are so many wonderful, beautiful countries and cities, full of history, amazing architecture, delicious cuisine, vibrant social scenes and rich culture! With so many options it can be hard to decide on your trip abroad, that’s why we are here to help narrow down the best destinations for students to travel to in Europe. In no particular order, here are the top 7 destinations for students to travel to for a break away from their studies:
1. PRAGUE - THE CZECH REPUBLIC
Prague is known as one of the best low budget destinations in Europe. A big reason why students choose Prague is due to the cheap food and drink but there are also many attractions to visit such as Prague castle, Charles bridge or Wenceslas square, which brings a good balance of history and partying. Prague also houses a famous, beautiful town square, surrounded by colourful buildings which is a beautiful area.
Hostel bed: €7.03
Beer (0.5 litres): €1.34
Budget breakfast: €2.92
Budget lunch: €4.14
Budget dinner: €5.84
Local transportation: €0.94
2. KRAKOW - POLAND
Poland has become a popular destination due to the cheap prices in comparison to Western countries like Germany or France. Krakow is known for its friendly locals and cheap accommodation. There are so many places to visit on a day out such as market square, Auschwitz concentration camp or St. Florian’s gate. There are plenty of international students as well as bars and events organized for students, making it a perfect location for a student trip abroad.
Hostel bed: €7.57
Beer (pint): €1.78
Budget breakfast €1.53
Budget lunch: €2.80
Budget dinner: €4.33
Local transportation: €0.88
3. BERLIN - GERMANY
Berlin is almost the perfect place for a student getaway with great nightclubs and laid back policies on drinking alcohol in public. This alone would make it an ideal city for some but with its many free museums and sights such as the remains of the Berlin Wall and Reichstag, it is really difficult to think of a reason not to travel to Berlin. Berlin also has an amazing public transport system, making it easy to check out every corner of the city.
Hostel bed: €13.19
Beer (0.5 litres): €2.75
Budget breakfast: €3.30
Budget lunch: €4.40
Budget dinner: €7.69
Local transportation: €2.80
4. AMSTERDAM - NETHERLANDS
Amsterdam is the best place in Europe to do things that you feel like you shouldn’t be doing. Whether it’s buying cannabis legally or visiting the red light district. If that isn’t your kind of thing, don’t worry, there are many other activities for students. Amsterdam is a small city, easy to walk or cycle around. With the beautiful canals and tilted buildings, Amsterdam has a lot charm. There are also iconic attractions to visit such as the Anne Frank House, Dam Square or the Vincent Van Gough museum. There is something for everyone in Amsterdam.
Hostel bed: €20.32
Beer (0.5 litres): €4.29
Budget breakfast: €3.85
Budget lunch: €4.73
Budget dinner: €8.24
Local transportation: €3.20
5. BUDAPEST - HUNGARY
For students, Budapest is becoming an increasingly popular destination due to the relatively cheap food, accommodation and transportation. The accommodation in the centre can be slightly more expensive so accommodation on the outskirts is advised. There is plenty to do from relaxing in the thermal baths to exploring the cities of Buda and Pest. Budapest is famous for its many ruin pubs that have been set up in old buildings, creating a unique atmosphere. Budapest is also home to one of the worlds most famous festivals, Sziget.
Hostel bed: €13.19
Beer (pint): €1.04
Budget breakfast: €1.71
Budget lunch: €2.40
Budget dinner: €4.79
Local transportation: €1.04
6. DUBROVNIK - CROATIA
Dubrovnik is connected well to the Croatian coastline as well as Sarajevo and Mostar, two historic Bosnian cities. Dubrovnik is home to some beautiful coastline sights such as Walls of Dubrovnik and Lokrum. Let’s not forget that parts of Game of Thrones was filmed there, which is a big attraction for fans. Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most popular city and is considered cheap in relation to other Western European countries.
Hostel bed: €16.70
Beer (0.5 litres): €4.03
Budget Breakfast: €3.23
Budget lunch: €4.03
Budget Dinner: €8.06
Local transportation: €2.00
7. LISBON - PORTUGAL
Portugal has slowly but surely risen In popularity due to its low prices. Lisbon is currently the cheapest capital city in Europe. Lisbon is of course attractive to students because of the cheap prices but the amazing weather and captivating history and culture are just a few more reasons why Lisbon is the perfect city for a student getaway.
Hostel bed: €12.95
Beer (beer): €3.00
Budget breakfast: €3.00
Budget lunch: €4.00
Budget dinner: €7.00
Local transportation: €1.50
Doing your research before going away can save you a lot of money, which is something that all students can benefit from. A break is something that we all need from time to time and we’re here to make travelling easier for you. Travelling to Europe is an amazing way to experience new culture, history and to even learn about yourself. Hopefully this list has helped you choose your next destination for your break away from your studies. Thank you for reading a Student Wanderlust blog! Don't forget to share this with your friends!
*Prices used in this blog are the lowest prices taken from priceoftravel.com https://www.priceoftravel.com and numbeo.com https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/