15 Student Friendly Holiday Destinations In Europe

Travelling as a student is complicated. On one hand, you’ve got months of holiday and so much time to explore the world, alongside free entrance or reduced prices to attractions and experiences, but on the other hand – you’re probably broke. However, if you do a little research and a lot of budgeting, it is completely possible to plan a a fun holiday – whether it be a day trip and a few days away. I did it, and I believe you can too! So, I am going to share with you a list of 15 student friendly holiday destinations for students in England, but you can totally be inspired even if you are not a student!

When I first thought about writing a post like this (nearly two years ago), I genuinely thought the list would be a lot longer, and I would have had a lot more travel experience than I do. But the universe had different plans and that’s ok. 

Hopefully these are still enough destinations to wake up your bucket list!

Happy travelling!

Student Friendly Holiday Destinations In England

Dover, Kent (1 night)

Famous for enchanting writers and artists for centuries with its magnificent White Cliffs, Dover is a must-see location for anyone who wants to be mesmerised by fantastic hiking trails, scenic coastal views, and a laidback atmosphere. 

Total Cost: £200

Click here to find out more about Dover

Liverpool, Merseyside (day trip)

Total Cost: £100

Being the birthplace of the Beetles should probably be enough to convince someone to visit this lively port city that overflows with grand architecture, vibrant culture, and impeccable music scene. And that scouse accent is… unique. 

Click here to find out more about Liverpool

Oxford, Oxfordshire (day trip)

Oxford revolves around the university and is one of the most stunning places in England. Walking through the cobblestoned streets within the main city centre feels like stepping back in time, and the general atmosphere is very student friendly, allowing you to blend right in. 

Total Cost: £65

Click here to find out more about Oxford

Manchester, Greater Manchester (day trip)

Whether you’re seeking culture, nightlife, footballing history, or just a vibrant day out, Manchester has it all and more. There are plenty of things to do at affordable prices, and it is also a decent travel hub so, it’s pretty easy to get to.

Total Cost: £100

Click here to find out more about Manchester

Stratford-upon Avon, Warwickshire (day trip)

Shakespeare’s home is a sight for sore eyes. I don’t know who could make a visit to Stratford-upon Avon and not fall in love with the beautiful surroundings, fascinating sites, literary extravagance and few quirky, non-Shakespeare related spots. 

Total Cost: £90

Click here to find out more about Stratford-upon Avon

Warwick, Warwickshire (day trip)

In a world dominated by glass buildings and skyscrapers, walking through Warwick feels like stepping back into Medieval England. Historic charm and old brick buildings blend perfectly with the stunning natural surroundings, making the town a great place to explore.

Total Cost: £80

Click here to find out more about Warwick

Student Friendly Holiday Destinations In Europe

Athens, Greece (3 days) 

Notably one of the oldest cities in the world, Athens has a history that spans over 3400 years and is rich with culture, architecture, artists and painters, and the most delicious food. Its incredible heritage allows tourists to be immersed in the local lifestyle, as well as gain a lens into humanity’s past. It is a shame that much of the city is covered in graffiti, but this hasn’t caused the city to lose its charm.

Total Cost: £450

Click here to find out more about Athens 

Berlin, Germany (3 days)

Berlin is one of the most exciting and historical places in Europe. In spite of its tragic past, the country bursting with fun, family and food. The German Christmas Markets, in particular, are something every traveller should experience once and be absorbed by its vibrant atmosphere during the freezing months. 

Total Cost: £300

Click here to find out more about Berlin

Budapest, Hungary (4 days)

Budapest is definitely one of the most popular destinations to explore in Europe because it is one of the most affordable, so no matter the time of year be ready to dive into an energetic environment filled with activities and attractions. The one thing you should not miss are the picturesque Rudas Baths – they will melt all that student stress away.

Total Cost: £300

Click here to find out more about Budapest

Lisbon, Portugal (3 days) 

A colourful city that effortlessly fuses traditional heritage with striking modernism, Lisbon is the perfect destination. It is fun, inexpensive (in fact, it’s Europe’s cheapest capital city) and offers so much to see and do, from beautiful beaches to magnificent castles. 

Total Cost: £330

Click here to find out more about Lisbon 

Rhodes, Greece (3 days)

I love this place. The harmonious mix of the old with the new and the lively with the relaxing is so satisfying. Rhodes is where you go to experience authentic Greek life and be a tourist without feeling like a tourist. 

Total Cost: £400

Click here to find out more about Rhodes

Rome, Italy (3 days)

Immersed in legends and mythology, Rome is a majestic city that influences the world through its art, fashion and food – a field of expanding culture, history, and beauty. Today, you can enjoy the modernity of the city still surrounded by its ancient charms.

Total Cost: £450

Click here to find out more about Rome

Sorrento, Italy (3 days)

Sorrento is a town of sunsets and splendour. It boasts a landscape so varied, that you find a pastel-coloured townscape and fabulous coastline alongside volcanoes and ancient ruins, so it is not the least bit shocking that the destination is in the top three of my list. 

Total Cost: £400

Click here to find out more about Sorrento 

Santorini, Greece (3 days)

Santorini was a bit of a let-down for me. Having high expectations for the place due to all its hype was definitely why, but this does not mean that I did not thoroughly enjoy my trip. The popular Greek island is stunning – with panoramic views, iconic architecture and, of course, delightful cuisine that no one can turn down. Best of all, every tourist site I visited was free with my student ID!

Total Cost: £900

Click here to find out more about Santorini

Vienna, Austria (3 days)

I genuinely struggled about whether or not to place Vienna at the top of the list because it is currently the best place I have visited so far. I loved Rhodes, but I fell in love with Vienna. Beauty and elegance encompass the city, and every moment I spent there felt like a dream. But the reality is that it is expensive – not more so than places like Santorini, but definitely, a lot more compared to Lisbon. 

Total Cost: £365

Click here to find out more about Vienna

Honourable Mentions: The French Riviera – I really wanted to add this to the list because Southern France is such a young and fun part of Europe, however it’s not always the most affordable place for holiday. Definitely add it to your bucket list if you find great deals though!

So, where do you think you’ll be travelling to next?