While high school comes with many time-consuming and mundane responsibilities and stressors, even the busiest of students should consider travelling to recapture their vibrance, learn more about themselves, and explore first-hand the beautiful world we inhabit.
With that being said, if you’re a student who is ready to start exploring more of the world (namely, Europe) but aren’t exactly sure about where in the continent to fly to, we’re here to help!
Let’s get into five of the absolute best student-friendly and culturally-awe-inspiring destinations to travel in Europe (all offered through our student travel programs):
1. Florence, Italy
Encompassed by vineyard-ridden hills and valleys, Florence is home to some extravagant art pieces, beautiful sights, and some of the most truly remarkable cuisine.
Spend your days exploring Florence’s top-notch museums; take in the breathtaking architecture; savour a mouthwateringly authentic Italian slice; and cap off your charming getaway with a refreshingly sweet gelato dessert. Now that’s amore!
Florence is also replete with students and universities, making it a fantastic place to make friends with like-minded international visitors while enriching your cultural experience together. What’s more, Italy’s stunning art capital is just a train ride away from other incredible cities like Bologna, Rome, Milan, and Naples.
2. Santorini, Greece
The awe-inspiringly gorgeous and glamorous island of Santorini offers so much more than the perfect photo op from any angle. As a student travelling this iconic island brimming with white buildings and blue rooftops, there is much to discover.
You’ll get to explore all of the pathways, side streets, and distinctive shops during a walking tour of Santorini’s extremely picturesque capital, Fira.
You’ll even have the option of taking a tour to explore the exciting and unique volcanoes as an immersive introduction to Santorini’s rich volcanic history (and believe us when we say this is not a tour you want to miss).
And to catch the most spectacular sunset that will live on in your memory forever, Santorini’s village of Oia is the spot you’ll want to be.
3. Lisbon, Portugal
Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets of Portugal’s coastal capital, Lisbon, and you’ll see just why this city is known for its character. International students appreciate
Lisbon’s comparatively attractive cost of living and reliable transit, combined with the city’s delightful weather, beaches, and laid-back vibe, make it a truly ideal location to study abroad, as well as meet new people to form potentially life-long friendships.
Despite being a small enough city to travel by foot, the contemporarily cultured Lisbon boasts endless sights, sounds, and tastes to experience around every corner.
Take to the city’s vivacious centre to revel in the eye-catching street art and colourfully tiled buildings. Immerse yourself in Portugal’s culture and dance to the traditional Fado music that fills the streets. Explore the ancient ruins, and take in the magnificent hilltop views from the Pena Palace.
While you’re hungry in Lisbon, be sure to sample some fresh codfish or Piri Piri chicken. And when you’re in the mood for something sweet, the Portuguese staple dessert pastéis de nata (custard tart) will be sure to make your visit even sweeter.
4. Barcelona, Spain
The beautiful city of Barcelona is a perfect location for students wanting to embark on a culturally inspiring experience without breaking the bank, as it’s replete with some of the most astonishing sights and experiences that Spain has to offer.
Student travellers will appreciate the flawless architecture seen in Antoni Gaudí’s work, including the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. The cobblestone lanes of the city’s Gothic Quarter offer visions of intricate buildings and mouth-watering tastes of tapas, while the lovely Catalan language fills the air.
Soak in the sun on Barcelona’s beautiful beaches, and take a walk down the café-lined streets. Also, don’t forget to ride the Montjuic Cable Car for the most spectacular views of the entire city.
5. Paris, France
As one of the world’s most picturesque and indulgent cities, it’s no wonder Paris tops the travel list of many students and tourists alike.
While this ridiculously fashionable and art-rich city may be one of France’s most expensive, students need not fear, as there are many ways to spend less while still getting to enjoy an authentic Parisian experience.
France’s capital city is massive in size, and if one thing’s for certain, it’s that you’ll never possibly run out of things to do. Take a walking tour of the Louvre and delight in the views of the iconic Eiffel Tower. Explore Paris’s fascinating landmarks, such as the Sacré-Coeur Basilica Notre-Dame and Arc de Triomphe.
Take in Paris’s incredible history with a journey to the Palace of Versailles or a trip to Vimy Ridge.
And, of course, don’t hold back when it comes to indulging in the famous Parisian delicacies that your heart (and stomach) has always longed for outside of the city.
Paris is also yet another fantastic place to meet other international students from all across the continent and beyond. It’s impossible to deny that this enchanting city is one of the most socially and academically enriching destinations out there.
Travel Enriches Our Lives
If you can spare a couple of weeks to take a break from your old routine, Europe is the perfect place to gather unforgettable new experiences—and right now is the perfect time to start capturing those special moments in time.
Let’s face it: no matter how scenic or beautiful the two-dimensional Instagram photo on your phone screen may appear, nothing will ever come close to replicating the real, immersive, and lived experience of travelling abroad.
For more information on our 2023 student travel programs, call Global Summers Academy at 1-844-357-2621 or contact us here.
