Studying abroad is not only a chance to get a good international education, but also a great opportunity to travel and get acquainted with the culture of different countries. However, travel can often be a significant expense for students, so most expats prefer budget destinations. Find out where in Europe a student can travel without spending a fortune

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Many people dream of traveling around Europe, but they think it’s too expensive, especially for students. However, the region is vast and there are quite a few places to go for an affordable and safe trip.

A list of budget travel destinations in Europe for students is further down in this article.

Top places to travel in Europe for students in 2025

Brasov, Romania

- What to see? The city is home to over 150 fortresses, many of which date back to the 13th century, and Bran Castle is a must-see for literature lovers.

The top travel destination for international students is Brasov in Romania. Also known as the “Gateway to Transylvania,” the city has an average total cost of a 7-day trip here of just €193. In particular, Brasov offers very affordable accommodation: one night in a budget hotel costs €9.21.

Visiting a museum or sightseeing won’t be expensive either, with daily activities in Brasov costing an average of just €4.03.

Solo travelers looking to explore Brasov will also be happy to know that the city is considered relatively safe, with a crime rate of 19.85 out of 100.

Considering that Romania will become a full member of the Schengen area on January 1, 2025, traveling here will become even easier.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

- What to see? Tivoli Park is a popular place to relax and the perfect place to spend a warm day – without spending a penny.

Ljubljana is another relatively safe city, with a crime rate of 11.61 out of 100. Young travelers will feel right at home here, as the city already has 50,000 students.

Spending a week in Ljubljana is a bit more expensive, at an average of €334. Budget hotels will set you back €23.47, but eating out (€12.11) and entertainment (€6.22) are even cheaper here than in many other European cities.

Sofia, Bulgaria

- What to see? The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a must-see, and there are plenty of free walking tours to help you learn more about the city.

Bulgaria is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, making it ideal for students looking to explore Eastern Europe on a budget. The country’s capital, Sofia, is steeped in history, with beautiful churches, parks and squares. If you have some free time, take a day trip to the Rila Monastery, one of the most beautiful places in the country.

Another advantage is that the prices for food, drinks and accommodation in Bulgaria are among the lowest in Europe.

Krakow, Poland

- What to see? Krakow is one of the hidden gems of Europe, offering students the opportunity to explore medieval castles, wander beautiful squares and immerse themselves in a rich history – all for a small price.

A week-long city break costs around €216, while a night in a budget hotel will cost €15.26, with an average meal costing €9.26. We recommend trying local Polish dishes here, such as pierogi (dumplings) – authentic and inexpensive food.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines and the Auschwitz-Birkenau Historical Memorial are places to visit in Krakow and on day trips.

Zagreb, Croatia

- What to see? Visit the unusual Museum of Broken Relationships, stroll through Maksimir Park and enjoy the vibrant street art.

Croatian coastal cities like Dubrovnik and Split may seem expensive for students, but they are still much cheaper than most resorts in Spain or France.

An affordable Croatian alternative is Zagreb, which offers a rich cultural scene and beautiful architecture. Zagreb’s public transport system is budget-friendly, and many hostels offer student discounts, while Croatian national dishes like čevapi (grilled sausages) are affordable and delicious. So a trip here won’t be a big hit on your wallet.

Tallinn, Estonia

- What to see? Tallinn is a medieval old town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The capital of Estonia, Tallinn is an underrated but charming place where you can wander the cobblestone streets for hours without spending a cent. Tallinn is also much cheaper than other cities in Northern Europe, making it a great choice for students.

Tallinn offers free public transport for residents, and visitors can enjoy affordable buses and trams. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a ferry to nearby Helsinki, Finland, for a day trip.

Lisbon, Portugal

- What to see? Stroll the cobblestone streets of Lisbon, visit one of the local museums, or relax by the ocean.

Stunning Lisbon is rightfully considered one of the most affordable capitals in Western Europe. From wandering the colorful streets of Alfama to the views from Miradouro de Santa Catarina, Lisbon offers plenty of free and cheap things to do.

To save money, use the local tram, or for budget accommodation, book a private apartment or hostel. Also, don’t leave the city without trying Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts).

Prague, Czech Republic

- What to see? You can stroll through the old town, see the famous Charles Bridge and explore Prague Castle.

Prague is a real favorite among students, as it is a truly stunning place, rich in history and, most importantly, incredibly affordable. Food and accommodation are also quite affordable for students, with plenty of hostels and street food options. Don’t forget to try Trdelník, a delicious hearty pie that can be found on every corner.

Take intercity buses or trains and book free walking tours to explore the city at an affordable price.

How can a student save money while traveling? Useful tips for tourists.

1. Use budget airlines.

Europe is home to many budget airlines, and if you book your tickets in advance, you can get the best deals.

2. Take the bus or train.

In addition to flying, you can also use ground transportation. Many companies offer extremely affordable trips around Europe. Trains, especially with student discounts, can be quite budget-friendly.

3. Stay in hostels.

Hostels are a great option for student accommodation. Use online platforms to find cheap accommodation

4. Book free walking tours.

Many European cities offer free walking tours. This is a great way to learn about the city and meet other travelers without spending a lot of money.

5. Take advantage of student discounts.

Always carry your student ID with you to take advantage of discounts on everything from museum tickets to public transport.

We wish you a pleasant journey and many vivid impressions!

Let us remind you! New Year is one of the most beloved and fun holidays celebrated by people in different parts of the world. We have already told you where to go to celebrate the New Year to recharge your batteries, have a good rest and get new impressions.

Are you planning to travel or move abroad? An important component of a successful trip is a travel insurance policy, because it guarantees the provision of high-quality medical care in any corner of the world and is able to protect you from unnecessary expenses during the trip. You can buy insurance from verified agents on the Visit World portal.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.

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