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A Student's Guide To Europe Abroad

A play-by-play of the best European cities that don't break the bank.

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A Student's Guide To Europe Abroad
Study Abroad Portal

Studying in Europe opens a whole new world of travel to the average American college student. For one, the culture of each country is so rich and diverse that every new day inspires a new adventure. Besides that though, traveling abroad cheaply is a concept non-existent in the States, and with 15 pound flights available, who can say no to weekend getaway almost every weekend? Before shelling out the dough, though, here are a few destinations worth considering, ordered by overall cost and experience.

Cheap!!!

Prague

The currency here is Czech crowns, and I swear it's got as much value as Monopoly money. Seriously, the beer is cheaper than water. The city itself is absolutely stunning, and there is a ton to see, from the Astronomical Clock to the castle. Stay at the Hostel One Home (not to be confused with its sister hostel Hostel One). The staff is incredibly nice and accommodating, and it's by far the best hostel I've ever stayed at.

Budapest

Monopoly money part two, and the baths are wicked fun. And if you're into nightlife, Budapest has a great club scene. Rent an AirBnB here, as they're cheap and usually really nice apartments.

Not crazy expensive but not cheap:

Anywhere in Ireland

With blood as Irish as it gets, I'm a little biased when I say that Ireland is not to be missed. In fairness, though, the country has some breathtaking sights Galway, Wexford, Killarney, The Cliffs of Moher and Giant's Causeway are all fantastic places to visit. The classic Dublin city is a tourist trap, but still worth the visit to take a stroll through St. Stephen's Green and grab a pint of Guinness at the Storehouse.

Amsterdam

This city, in every meaning of the word, is wild. The party scene is good, and if you're into the "coffee shop" scene, it's the place to be, but the historical sights of Amsterdam are what make it a city for everyone. The Van Gogh Museum is a formative artistic experience for any fan of Impressionism, and the Anne Frank House will move you to tears.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a cultural hearth for Scottish history buffs and Potterheads alike. Sights include Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyrood, and St. Arthur's Seat, as well as the grave of Tom Marvolo Riddle, and the Balmoral, where J.K. Rowling finished the last Harry Potter book. All in all, it's stunning, (but even more worth it if you sneak off into the Highlands for a day or two).

Munich

I went into this city expecting nothing at all, just a stopover for the Neuschwanstein Castle, and loved it. Such a great city with lots of history (and the beer halls are really fun too).

Granada

This small city in the south of Spain is touristy enough that people help you out but not touristy enough to be a total tourist trap. And that best of both worlds feeling is what makes it a wonderful place to visit. Hit the markets while you're there, and make sure to eat dinner with a view of the sun setting over the Alhambra.

EXPENSIVE but worth it:

Copenhagen

This capital of Denmark boasts a lively culture with so much to do, but take advantage of free walking tours and free museums on Tuesdays because everything costs a lot. Stockholm and Oslo are the same in terms of experience so honestly, choose one with sights that most interest you.

Vienna

Vienna radiates opulence from the moment you step foot within its borders. Best known for its extensive art scene, the best way to spend one's time in the art museums and at the Opera. If you stand in line 90 minutes before a show they sell tickets for around €8.

London

I'm a liiiittle biased cause I live here, but I adore London because of the endless opportunities the city presents. From art to history to music to food, you ask, and London delivers. I'd suggest making it an occasion, like maybe come for a concert at the O2, though, to make it worth the plane ticket.

Paris

If you love great food and breathtaking art and architecture, Paris is the obvious splurge to make. I currently have friends studying there who constantly rave about the French cuisine and the hundreds of fabulous things to do right outside their door. However, go into this trip with a game plan because you'll want to do so much when you get there. Versailles is also worth the train ticket there, as the palace and the gardens are nothing short of spectacular. Also, sunset on the Eiffel Tower is overrated, choose L'Arc de Triomphe or Le Centre Pompidou for a better vantage point.

Barcelona

The city of Gaudi is truly as fun and funky as his excentric buildings. The nightlife is unlike any other city, and days are filled with delicious Spanish cuisine and a world of ways to spend one's day. One can see a vast collection of Picasso's work in the morning, sunbathe on the beach in the afternoon, and attend Mass at the Sagrada Familia in the evening. As far as fun weekend getaways are concerned, Barcelona is the place to be.

Anywhere in Italy

Though it is hard to group Italy as one, seeing as each city offers a completely different experience, the country guarantees a wonderful experience no matter where you are. Whether it's Tuscany for wine, Rome for history, or Venice for a gondola ride, one thing is certain--the food will without a doubt be the best food you will ever eat.
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