As a student, the idea of exploring new destinations and immersing ourselves in different cultures can be both exhilarating and daunting, especially when our wallets are stretched thin. So, if you’re a student looking to book a holiday this summer, we’ve got you covered.
We have curated a list of cheap holiday destinations for students so you can plan the trip of a lifetime on a budget you can afford so that you can uncover some of the best budget-friendly holiday destinations that cater to the wanderlust of students like us.
What are the best holiday destinations for students?
Let’s start our journey to finding budget friendly travel destinations for students by travelling internationally. In this list we’re going to help uncover various trips you can book with a price tag you can afford.
From sunshine destinations to city breaks, there are so many cheap places to visit as a college student.
1. Bali, Indonesia
Top of the list of being one of the best cheap travel destinations for students is Bali - a paradise for budget-conscious travellers, offering a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty, unique cultural experiences and affordability.
One reason we’ve listed Bali as a cheap travel destination for students is the affordable accommodation options - whether that’s purse friendly hostels or cosy guest houses for your group - leaving you able to stretch your spending money further to enjoy all the attractions that Bali has to offer.
Attractions & Activities:
- Visit the mesmerising rice terraces of Ubud
- Surf-up on the beaches of Canggu
- Explore the Sacred Monkey Forrest
- Snorkel the reefs
- Climb Mount Batur for sunrise
2. Marrakech, Morocco
One of the best holiday destinations for students is Marrakech, with tons of affordable accommodation options, such as riads (the traditional Moroccan houses). Marrakech brings with it a load of fun for the students who travel here - from the vivid colours and enchanting city lifestyle
Marrakech also offers some of the best and most affordable package holidays for students. So if you are looking to bundle your flights and hotel into one deal, or go all-inclusive, then Marrakech may be the best travel destination for you.
Attractions & Activities:
- Wander through the maze-like streets of the Medina.
- Haggle for souvenirs in the bustling markets.
- Explore the nearby Atlas Mountains.
- Visit the stunning Sahara Desert.
3. Chiang Mai, Thailand
You’ll likely have seen that Thailand is widely travelled by students and it’s no wonder why it’s one of the best holiday destinations for students.
Chiang Mai, the cultural hub of northern Thailand, is a budget traveller's paradise. Again, the pull for Thailand making it one of our cheap holiday destinations for students is the accommodation - you can stay in cheaper guesthouses and hostels which allow you to stretch your budget further.
Attractions and Activities:
- Explore ancient temples.
- Sample the mouth watering street food.
- Visit the ethical Elephant Nature Park
- Take a cooking class and learn the art of Thai cuisine.
- Embark on a trekking adventure.
- Explore the Bua Tong Sticky Waterfalls.
- Indulge in the city's vibey nightlife scene.
4. Cusco, Peru
If you’re looking for cheap holiday destinations for students that cater for natural wonders with a side of history, Cusco is the trip for you – all at a price point that caters to the budget-conscious student.
With low cost transport options for getting around, inexpensive meal choices and great value for money, Cusco allows you the trip of a lifetime on a budget you can afford.
Attractions and Activities:
- Explore the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuamán and Qorikancha.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the San Pedro Market.
- Trek to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Visit the stunning Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city.
- Indulge in the local cuisine.
5. Havana, Cuba
Havana, the captivating capital of Cuba, is one of the best holiday destinations that offers everything you could want from cheap holiday destinations for students.
Its buzzing nightlife comes at a price point that caters to any budget-conscious traveller. Whilst, in the daytime, you get a unique snapshot into the culture of the country - allowing you to have it all.
Attractions and Activities:
- Wander through the streets of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore the iconic Revolution Square.
- Make the most of the vibrant nightlife scene, where salsa clubs, live music venues, and rum-infused cocktails await.
- Take a day trip to the picturesque Viñales Valley.
- Sample traditional Cuban delicacies, like ropa vieja, moros y cristianos, and, of course, refreshing mojitos.
6. Hanoi, Vietnam
Vietnam is an excellent destination for student travellers on a budget, offering a perfect blend of South East asian culture, affordable living, and incredibly unique experiences.
In Hanoi, visitors can deep dive into the bustling atmosphere while enjoying incredibly affordable accommodations, with hostel dorms starting from as low as £5-7 per night.
Attractions and Activities:
- Exploring the maze-like streets of the Old Quarter
- Enjoying local street food.
- Visiting the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake
- Experiencing the unique Water Puppet Theater
- Sampling Vietnamese coffee in numerous hipster cafes.
- Taking free walking tours to discover the city's history and culture
- Enjoying 50-cent beers at local bia hoi stalls.
What are the best holiday destinations for students in Europe?
When you’ve got a budget to work within, travelling in Europe helps to keep the cost down. With short-haul flights being less costly and allowing for shorter trips (aka saving overall costs on accommodation), you can save yourself a fortune whilst still soaking up the much needed sunshine.
1. Krakow, Poland
Krakow, the cultural capital of Poland, is a budget-friendly gem that offers history, architecture, and a unique nightlife. Affordable accommodation options, such as hostels and budget hotels, make Krakow an accessible destination for students seeking a mix of something new as well as history and entertainment.
Attractions and Activities:
- Visit the poignant Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial
- Indulge in the city's thriving cafe culture.
- Explore the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)
- Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Take a day trip to the picturesque Tatra Mountains.
- Soak up the nightlife scene - with underground bars, live music and traditional Polish pubs.
2. Athens, Greece
Athens is the Greek capital that has every type of visitor flocking to it, year in year out.
Offering visitors a unique journey through time where ancient ruins stand alongside lively neighbourhoods, world-class museums, and a thriving food scene - with all its offerings students can have an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.
Attractions and Activities:
- Lose yourself in the awe-inspiring ruins of the Acropolis.
- Explore the lively Monastiraki Flea Market.
- Take a day trip to the picturesque island of Hydra
- Indulge in the vibrant nightlife of the Gazi district
- Visit the stunning beaches of the Athens Riviera offer a tranquil escape
3. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a hidden gem that offers sunshine, lots of activities and some great co-working spaces – all at an incredibly affordable price point.
Lisbon brings a modern spin on breaks away, with stunning architecture, beautiful viewpoints, delicious food (hello delicious pastries!), and a welcoming atmosphere, all while remaining relatively affordable compared to other European capitals.
Attractions and Activities:
- Wander through the winding and colourful streets of the Alfama district.
- Sample the City’s culinary delights - like the famous pastéis de nata.
- Rent a car and embark on a road trip through the stunning landscapes of Madeira.
- Discover the Bairro Alto neighbourhood with lively bars and street performers.
- Visit the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the world's largest aquariums.
- Take a day trip to the picturesque town of Sintra.
4. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest attracts travellers from far and wide.This mesmerising city has it all - history and exploration, as well as an unbeatable nightlife scene – all at a price that won't break the bank.
With streets lined with cobblestones and ancient fortresses, the city’s architecture is enough to draw you there in itself. But, fret not, Budapest has lots of reasons it’s one of the best holiday destinations for students in Europe.
Attractions and Activities:
- Soak in the city's famous thermal baths (Széchenyi Thermal Bath).
- Unwind in the vibrant Jewish Quarter, where you'll find a plethora of quirky ruin bars.
- Budapest's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of traditional Hungarian flavours.
- Explore the Central Market Hall.
- Cruise along the Danube River.
- Lose yourself in the city's thriving nightlife.
5. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, is a budget-friendly destination that offers history, incredible architecture, and great nightlife.
Affordable accommodation options, such as hostels and budget hotels, make Prague an accessible choice for students seeking a culturally rich and budget-friendly European adventure.
Attractions and Activities:
- Explore the stunning Prague Castle,
- Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge
- Indulge in the city's rich beer culture.
6. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia, is another of the best holiday destinations for students in Europe - with the likes of the lively Vitosha Boulevard where you’ll find a hub of trendy cafés, boutiques, and street performers, ensuring that your evenings are filled with excitement and entertainment - all at a price point that won't break the bank.
Attractions and Activities:
- Visit the St. George Rotunda.
- Explore the National Museum of History.
- Take a day trip to the picturesque Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Indulge in the city's thriving craft beer scene by visiting one of the many local brewpubs.
- Attending a beer festival.
How to find cheap summer holidays as a student
If you’re after some help when planning your trip to keep it within budget, fear not, as there are numerous strategies and tips to help you score incredible deals and embark on unforgettable summer adventures without breaking the bank:
- Be flexible with your travel dates: Flexibility is key when it comes to finding the best deals. Consider travelling during shoulder seasons or mid-week, when prices are typically lower.
- Book early or last-minute: While it may seem counterintuitive, booking your summer holiday well in advance or at the last minute can sometimes yield the best deals.
- Consider alternative accommodations: Instead of traditional hotels, explore alternative accommodations like hostels, Airbnb rentals, or even camping. These options can significantly reduce your accommodation costs.
- Look for student discounts: Many travel companies, airlines, and attractions offer special discounts for students. Make sure to research and take advantage of these discounts by carrying your valid student ID with you.
- Travel in groups: Travelling with a group of friends can help split costs and unlock group discounts on accommodation, transportation, and even activities.
- Utilise budget airlines and ground transportation: While they may lack the frills of major airlines, budget carriers can offer significant savings on airfare.
- Seek out free or low-cost activities: Many destinations offer a plethora of free or low-cost activities. Embrace the local culture and seek out these budget-friendly experiences.
- Transportation: Explore public transportation options, such as buses, trains, or ride-sharing services. Walking or renting a bicycle can also be cost-effective.
Travelling on a shoestring budget doesn't mean sacrificing the thrill of discovery or the richness of cultural experiences. In fact, it often leads to more authentic encounters and a deeper appreciation for the places we visit.
Whether you're seeking sun-drenched beaches, vibrant cities, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, there are countless destinations that offer incredible value for money.
So, whether you’re travelling solo or as a group, utilise our tips alongside a little creativity and resourcefulness, and you can set off on unforgettable adventures without breaking the bank.
Looking for help travelling on a budget? Read our other free content
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