Traveling on a student budget doesn’t mean your experiences must be substandard or less enjoyable. With a bit of research, you can find destinations that offer something for everyone and have all the makings of a fantastic lifetime trip while still leaving change in your pocket. There’s always something for every type of student traveler, whether it be a city break for the culture vulture, a beach getaway for the sand-worshippers, or an adrenaline-filled activity for the thrill-seekers.
Check out these 11 budget-friendly, affordable destinations, making them an ideal choice for every student when planning a trip.
1. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a European pearl, an excellent spot wrapped in history, incredible architecture, and baths without a heavy price tag. The city is famous for its low-priced hostels and restaurants. You can easily visit the Buda Castle or just walk on the Danube, eating the most traditional Hungarian meals without any money left in your wallet.
2. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a fairytale city with winding streets and historic landmarks, and it’s also one of the most affordable capital cities for students. Exploring the Old Town, taking in the sights of Charles Bridge, and visiting Prague Castle won’t cost you much. Eating at local restaurants is budget-friendly, and the city’s nightlife offers plenty of options to party all night without breaking the bank.
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3. Bali, Indonesia
Often touted as the ultimate student holiday destination, this island in Indonesia, with its tropical beaches and lush jungles, is still a bargain for students looking to island-hop to an exotic destination. Cheap hostels, street food, and transport make this Indonesian island a paradise for students looking for a mix of beaches, temples, and jungles to explore. Whether you are surfing the waves, trekking, or even just lazing around at the beach, Bali offers it all on a budget.
4. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of the cheapest capitals in Europe and is a fantastic city for students who like culture, history and fun! You can visit the most beautiful streets, the most colorful buildings, and the most historical sites for almost no money at all.
Besides, food is excellent for budget travelers too: it is possible to find many inexpensive bakeries selling pastries that the Portuguese are famous for, like the pastel de nata. Transportation is also affordable, and you can take a day trip to nearby beaches without breaking the bank.
5. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City provides plenty of options for student travelers who don’t want to spend too much money. It is a busy and growing city with plenty of culture and history. The Frida Kahlo Museum, Chapultepec Park, and ancient pyramids are just some attractions. The food is also delicious and cheap. You can eat as many tacos and other Mexican foods as you like without spending too much money. Another advantage of this city is cheap public transport and low-priced accommodation.
6. Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and a relatively cheap place to visit in Southeast Asia. It is also one of the cheapest student cities in the world. Since everything is inexpensive in Hanoi, you can use your student budget to extend your trip. A bowl of pho and another of the ever-popular banh mi won’t cost more than a dollar or two, and most of the city’s attractions (including Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter) are free to visit or only cost a nominal amount. Cheap hostels and hotels are also easy to find.
7. Krakow, Poland
If you’re looking for an underrated European destination with much to offer for an affordable price, look no further than Krakow. This historic city hosts plenty of exciting cultural and architectural sites like the fantastic Old Town and the stunning Wawel Castle, as well as excellent (really cheap) food and drink.
You can also take a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial, a moving reminder of the dark history of Europe and the world, and enjoy the excellent nightlife scene. The city has a unique atmosphere, rich with history and bustling with students, and it’s a perfect place for someone who wants to travel cheaply
8. Sofia, Bulgaria
Another hidden European gem is Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Aside from being super-affordable for a European city, Bulgaria’s capital is steeped in history and museums, hosts parks and green spaces aplenty, and you can eat a local dish for a fraction of what it costs elsewhere in Europe, with accommodation costs also relatively cheap. Sofia is also close to the mountains, so getting into nature is easy without spending much money.
9. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech, a cultural hub bursting with history and ripe with adventure, is a paradise for students on a budget. Its dizzying markets, opulent palaces, and awe-inspiring Atlas Mountains are easily accessible without breaking the bank. You can stay in a traditional riad (guesthouse). Thanks to the abundance of fresh orange juice, eating out is also inexpensive. Students can haggle in the souks for souvenirs, getting them cheaply.
10. Bangkok, Thailand
As the dream destination for budget travelers, students can make the most of it because Bangkok offers a lot for not much. From noisy markets and sizzling street food stalls to golden temples and cultural monuments, the city is filled with memorable experiences that won’t necessarily break the bank. Public transport is inexpensive and efficient, accommodation is widely available in hostels and guesthouses, and the city provides a central base to explore the more expansive country.
11. Athens, Greece
For students and history lovers on a budget, Athens would be an ideal starting point for a big trip since exploring ancient treasures in the city and nearby Acropolis is highly inexpensive. Public transportation is one of the cheapest in Europe, street foods such as souvlaki and gyros can fill your stomach without breaking the bank, most of the city’s museums offer student discounts, and Athens has an exciting nightlife scene and many free outings to enjoy.
Explore the World on a Budget
Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas – if you choose your destination correctly, you can travel as a student and not go broke. You can experience the culture, taste the world’s best food, and have the ultimate life-changing experience without putting a dent in your wallet. So, pack your bags, book a low-cost flight, and discover these cheap student travel destinations.
