The academic year is finally over. After nine intense months packed with exams, essays, presentations, and countless late nights, the long summer break is a much-needed reward. It’s a time to decompress, celebrate your hard work, and make unforgettable memories with the new friends you’ve made at university.
While some might crave the high-energy party scenes of classic holiday hotspots, many students are looking for something different. Imagine a trip where you can genuinely relax, soak up the sun on beautiful beaches, explore rich cultures, and enjoy incredible food—all without breaking your student budget. If you and your friends are seeking a group holiday that offers more than just clubs and bars, you’re in the right place. We’ve curated a list of top European destinations perfect for a memorable and affordable summer escape.
Sicily, Italy: Sun, Culture, and Culinary Bliss
For a truly relaxing and authentic European experience, look no further than Sicily. This stunning Italian island in the heart of the Mediterranean offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Its laid-back atmosphere is contagious, making it an ideal place to unwind after a stressful year. The island’s friendly vibe and slower pace of life will do wonders for your well-being.
One of the best ways for a group to experience Sicily is by renting a private villa. Companies like Wishsicily specialize in locally owned beachfront villas with private pools, which are perfect for larger groups. This option allows you to split the cost, cook your own meals with fresh local ingredients from the market, and enjoy your own private space to relax and socialize. Imagine morning swims in your own pool followed by a group breakfast on a sun-drenched terrace.
While Sicily may not be famous for its wild nightlife, it excels in every other area. The island is dotted with gorgeous beaches, from the golden sands of Cefalù to the striking white cliffs of Scala dei Turchi. The sun shines almost daily during the summer, and the local food is both incredible and incredibly affordable. Feast on classic dishes like arancini (fried rice balls), pasta alla Norma, and fresh cannoli for dessert. To truly explore the island’s diversity, consider splitting the cost of a rental car. You can take day trips to the ancient Greek ruins in the Valley of the Temples, hike the majestic Mount Etna, or wander through the vibrant streets of Palermo and Catania. Or, simply relax by your pool with a refreshing granita in hand—the choice is yours.
Budapest, Hungary: The Pearl of the Danube on a Dime
Budapest has rapidly become a favorite destination for students, and for good reason. This captivating city offers a rich cultural experience in a relaxed, bohemian setting, all at a price that is exceptionally student-friendly. Known as the “Pearl of the Danube,” Budapest is a unique, quirky, and breathtakingly beautiful city that offers a wealth of activities without ever feeling overwhelming.
The city’s biggest draw is its affordability. Your student loan will stretch much further here than in many other European capitals, allowing you to enjoy a wide variety of entertainment. During the summer, Budapest comes alive with open-air bars, bustling outdoor cafes, and the city’s legendary ruin pubs. Housed in formerly derelict buildings and courtyards, these eclectic bars are decorated with mismatched furniture and quirky art, attracting a diverse crowd with their unique atmosphere. Szimpla Kert is the most famous, but there are dozens to explore.
Budapest is the perfect destination for groups who want a mix of relaxation and excitement. Spend your days unwinding in one of the city’s world-famous thermal baths, such as the grand Szechenyi or the elegant Gellért Baths. In the evenings, you can enjoy the vibrant nightlife or a scenic cruise on the Danube. Be sure to explore both sides of the city—the historic, hilly Buda with its castle and Fisherman’s Bastion, and the vibrant, flat Pest with the Parliament Building and bustling Jewish Quarter. The food is hearty and delicious; don’t leave without trying goulash, lángos (deep-fried dough with toppings), and a slice of Dobos Torte.
Porto, Portugal: Coastal Charm and Architectural Wonders
For students seeking a beautiful and sunny location to relax, Porto is an unbeatable choice. As Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto delivers some of Europe’s most stunning architecture and a wonderfully relaxed coastal vibe. The city’s historic Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of colorful houses, narrow cobbled streets, and charming cafes lining the Douro River. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee, sit back, and watch the world go by.
The food in Porto is phenomenal, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how cost-effective a trip here can be, especially compared to neighboring Spanish cities. Be sure to try the city’s signature dish, the Francesinha—a hearty sandwich layered with meat, covered in melted cheese, and drenched in a rich tomato and beer sauce. As a bonus, the locals are known for being extremely friendly and welcoming.
Porto is an ideal destination for a relaxing group holiday with university friends. It offers a more laid-back pace but still has plenty of lively bars and pubs for those nights when you feel like celebrating. Spend your days exploring iconic sites like the Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, or climbing the Clérigos Tower for panoramic city views. A must-do activity is crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can tour the famous port wine cellars and enjoy a tasting with incredible views back across the river to Porto.
Croatia: The Adriatic Gem of Natural Beauty
Another destination soaring in popularity among students is Croatia. This Eastern European country boasts a long, spectacular coastline on the Adriatic Sea and is home to over a thousand islands. It offers some of the most beautiful, crystal-clear waters and unspoiled beaches in the world, with prices that are still very manageable on a tight student budget.
The combination of sun, sea, and incredible natural beauty is well worth the flight. Croatia can be the perfect laid-back holiday you and your friends are dreaming of. While tourism is growing (visitor numbers are on the rise), it still feels less crowded than more established destinations like Greece or Spain, offering a more authentic experience. You can find your own secluded cove or quiet beach to relax on.
For a truly memorable trip, go island hopping along the Dalmatian Coast. Islands like Hvar offer a glamorous mix of lively nightlife and stunning beaches, while Vis provides a more tranquil, rustic vibe. The historic cities of Split, built around the Roman Diocletian’s Palace, and Dubrovnik, famous as a filming location for Game of Thrones, are essential stops. You can spend your days kayaking, snorkeling, or exploring breathtaking national parks like Plitvice Lakes with its terraced waterfalls. Renting an apartment or staying in a hostel is a great way for groups to keep costs down while enjoying this Adriatic paradise.
Essential Travel Tips for Your Group Holiday
No matter which amazing destination you choose, a little planning can go a long way in ensuring your group trip is smooth, fun, and conflict-free. Here are some final tips to make your post-uni holiday a success.
First and foremost, manage your money wisely. Create a realistic budget before you go and try to stick to it. It’s never fun to run out of cash halfway through a trip, especially if you don’t have an income waiting for you when you return. Use apps like Splitwise to easily track and settle shared expenses, avoiding any awkward conversations about money.
To prevent disagreements, make key decisions as a group. From the destination to the accommodation, ensure everyone has a say and is willing to compromise. It’s a good idea to plan a rough itinerary in advance, including a few key activities that everyone wants to do. This ensures no one feels like they missed out. However, don’t over-schedule your days; leave room for spontaneity and relaxation.
Most importantly, remember the purpose of the trip: to enjoy yourselves, relax, and forget about the stresses of the past academic year. Cherish this time with your friends, soak in the new experiences, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!