Learning in Europe is an amazing experience. Students often arrange weekend trips to the most famous cities such as Paris, Rome, or Amsterdam. While these cities are amazing, the real adventure lies off the beaten track. Europe is awash with hidden towns, stunning coastlines, and historical gems that many travelers completely overlook. A visit to these lesser-known places gives an authentic taste of local culture without the long lines and costly prices.
Balancing your travel goals with the demands of your university schedule can be a challenge. When the workload is piling up and deadlines are looming, you can feel trapped in front of your laptop. In order to win your free time back for a weekend getaway, you can hire a professional writing service like DoMyEssay while you pack your bags. This approach will keep your academic load manageable and provide you with free time to explore these eleven awesome locations.
1. Graz, Austria
Graz is a secret delight for foodies and design lovers. The city is a perfect blend of historic Renaissance courtyards and modern architectural designs, such as the luminous Kunsthaus art gallery. A funicular train takes passengers to the top of Schlossberg hill to get a glimpse of the iconic clock tower as well as the red-tiled rooftops. It’s a serene and vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage that shows Central Europe has endless surprises.
2. Bergamo, Italy
Get away from the chaos of Milan and take a brief train journey north to Bergamo. This breathtaking northern Italian beauty is divided into two distinct sections: the modern lower city and the stunning Città Alta (upper city). The upper city is a medieval paradise completely surrounded by huge Venetian walls, which are ideal for a stroll in the evening. Awash with old plazas as well as charming trattorias offering local casoncelli pasta, it is one of the most beautiful destinations to explore while studying abroad in Europe.
3. Olomouc, Czech Republic
If you are a fan of the Gothic design of Prague but don’t like the huge crowds of tourists, Olomouc is the perfect alternative. Located in the eastern region of the country, this bustling university city is great for visiting and is also among the best cities to study abroad in Europe, especially if you want a unique experience. The main square is home to the stunning Holy Trinity Column and a unique astronomical clock. Since it’s a vibrant student town, the bars and cafes are very accessible and affordable.
4. Coimbra, Portugal
Perched atop a hill with a view of the Mondego River, Coimbra houses the oldest university in Portugal. It is regarded as one of the best places to study in Europe and also to visit because of its rich history and long-standing academic traditions. The old streets are filled with the sounds of Fado, a style of music that is deeply connected to local student life. Make sure to visit the magnificent Joanina Library, a stunning baroque work of art filled with old books.
5. Dinant, Belgium
Tucked away tightly between a dramatic mountain face and the Meuse River, Dinant looks like a place straight from the pages of a fairytale. Dinant is the home of Adolphe Sax, who was the creator of the saxophone. Colorful instrument sculptures grace the main bridge. You can ascend to the old Citadel to enjoy sweeping views of the valley, or try a traditional Couque de Dinant, which is a delicious, locally made honey biscuit. It’s easily one of the best places to visit while studying abroad in Europe for a short weekend getaway.
6. Plovdiv, Bulgaria
As one of the most ancient continuously inhabited cities in the world, Plovdiv blends ancient history with the latest modern trends. Plovdiv is situated on six hills (the seventh was destroyed in the 20th century) and has an impressively preserved Roman amphitheater, which is still used for live shows today. Its Kapana District is a lively array of galleries, boutiques, and trendy cafes. It’s also a great illustration of how Eastern Europe offers some of the cool places to study abroad.
7. Ronda, Spain
Ronda is a magnificent city on a mountaintop, split into two by the mighty El Tajo gorge. The famous Puente Nuevo stone bridge spans the huge drop, linking the ancient Moorish town with the modern areas of the city. The paths along the cliffs provide breathtaking panoramic views over the Andalusian countryside. If you are a student looking for an unforgettable and historical Spanish getaway, this is a must-see.
8. Lund, Sweden
Lund is a lovely medieval town, dominated by a massive cathedral dating to the 12th century as well as cobblestone roads. It deserves a spot on your travel bucket list, especially since the surrounding region is widely considered the best place to study abroad in Europe for those who want a cozy, bicycle-friendly Scandinavian lifestyle. The university campus infuses the town’s history with an energetic, forward-looking energy. The season of spring is particularly beautiful here when students take part in traditional festivals outside.
9. Gjirokastër, Albania
Also known as the “Stone City,” Gjirokastër is a beautifully preserved Ottoman town hidden in the southern mountains of Albania. The steep streets of cobblestone take you to a gigantic fortress that overlooks the entire valley. The fortified tower houses create a distinct historical feel. As a country, Albania is extremely affordable. It makes it one of the best places to study abroad for students looking to travel further on a budget.
10. Utrecht, Netherlands
While most people are drawn towards Amsterdam, Utrecht offers a more laid-back and genuine Dutch experience. The city has unique double-level canals, where lively cafés and restaurant terraces sit near the edge of the water. The iconic Dom Tower gives you panoramic views of the stunning historical center. It is regarded as one of the best places to visit while studying abroad in Europe due to its youthful enthusiasm and easy train connections.
11. Toruń, Poland
Toruń is a fantastic medieval town located along the Vistula River that completely escaped the destruction of World War II. It is known for being the home of the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus as well as for its long-standing tradition of baking gingerbread. The old town has stunning Gothic architecture made of red brick, as well as a leaning tower that is comparable to Pisa. The city is affordable with a vibrant student population, proving that Poland is one of the best places to visit while studying abroad in Europe.
Conclusion
The time you spend as an international student will pass quickly. Going to these unique, lesser-known destinations will leave you with memories that the standard tourist routes can’t even compete with. From the historical student roads that run through Portugal to the secluded fortified cities in Italy and Poland, these gems can be an ideal break from your studies. Get away from the crowds, discover the undiscovered, and be sure to add these fantastic destinations to your European vacation bucket list before the semester comes to an end.
