best tour places for college students

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45 Best Places to Travel for College Students

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Welcome to college! Freedom! Time to discover the highs and lows of being on your own for the first time — that means figuring out how to save money , navigate your college campus , study with less structure, and cook your own meals. College is also one of the best times to explore the world internationally and locally since you can make your own decisions ( ooh ahh ). So whether you’re studying abroad or exploring via these 9 other ways to travel in college , these are the best places to travel for college students in the USA and internationally!

And let me tell you, I’ve traveled throughout my undergraduate and graduate college careers and these really are the best places for college students to travel. They have a great mix of adventure and relaxation because we both know how tolling finals are and best of all they are all cheap destinations for student sized budgets!

Student Travel Destinations in the USA

1. Portland, Oregon

Recommended by me! Alanna from Periodic Adventures (this site)

If you dream of a cozy, rainy getaway where you can curl up with a book that you’ve been putting off reading, while drinking some amazing local coffee, Portland, Oregon is for you! While it’s not necessarily the cheapest at first glance, it can definitely be visited on a budget as there are lots of free or cheap things to do in Portland.

Don’t miss Powell’s Bookstore , where the main location (1005 W Burnside St) has over one million books, and coffee cafes galore!

Multnomah Falls is an epic waterfall that cascades down beautifully. There are numerous hiking trails nearby as well.

OMSI is the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and should definitely be on your list of to-do’s in Portland. This science site has many interactive exhibits for all ages that cover topics like chemistry, physics, astronomy, natural history, biology, paleontology, and more! Tickets only cost $12 for adults.

Lastly, don’t miss the incredible food in Portland, an experience that’s on our West Boast bucket list ! Try the famous Voodoo Donuts (or for a local preferred donut shop try Blue Star Donuts). Coffee shops are also popular. Try Never Coffee, Coava Coffee Roasters, or Good Coffee.

You can expect to spend $80 a day in Portland, but can easily cut down on costs by sharing accommodation , cooking your own meals, and taking public transportation serviced by TriMet.

2. Los Angeles, California

I truly believe Los Angeles is one of the best cities in the USA to visit, whether you’re in college or not (I might be biased since I’m from Los Angeles… but still ). I highly recommend putting LA on your radar as there is a lot to do, see, and eat. Plus Los Angeles can be very affordable , believe it or not.

For a one day visit to Los Angeles , I recommend visiting highlights of Downtown including Grand Central Market where you can pick and choose from a bunch of vendors for the ultimate meal. Within walking distance you can also easily visit Olvera Street , an original Mexican cobblestone street from 1930 with food, vendors, and historic exhibits, and Chinatown , another culturally historic area with authentic food, shopping, and beautiful architecture. And nearby is also Angel’s Flight railway, the iconic Bradbury building , and the Last Bookstore where you can take some epic Instagram photos !

If you can visit Los Angeles for a long weekend or even spring break, this 5 day Los Angeles itinerary covers everything!

You can expect to spend $60 a day, if you stay in budget accommodation and cook some of your meals.

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

America’s sin city is one of the best party spots for college students, even if you’re under 21! There is so much to do in Vegas that you’ll easily be entertained even without access to bars or clubs.

First, lounge at the pools for a little R&R. Every hotel has a pretty incredible pool so you can’t go wrong. Try the Virgin Hotels just where they have 3 pools, a spa, and a beach club!

Don’t miss the spectacular shows in Las Vegas. There are a number of cirque du soleil shows , like Ka at the MGM Grand, O at the Bellagio, and even the Beatles LOVE show at the Mirage. Alternatively, check out the many magic shows . My favorite is Mac King, which is a comedy magic show at the Harrah’s. Tickets might seem expensive, but there are ways to save in Vegas that can reduce the cost significantly!

In addition to shows, Las Vegas hosts lots of concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year that are over the top in the best way.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to venture outside of the Strip for other fun activities like visiting Red Rock Canyon and the Seven Magic Mountains art exhibit.

Budget $60-70 per day, assuming you stay at a hotel on the Strip and assuming you share lodging with friends.

Recommended by me! Alanna from Periodic Adventures

International destinations are so appealing as a college student (and just in general), but there are incredible natural wonders at home in the USA. Arizona is full of them and makes for a great travel destination for some epic weekend getaways that will easily fit into your student schedule.

First, visit Page in Northern Arizona to see Horseshoe Bend , a natural curve in the Colorado River that lies deep in a canyon, which is an extension of the Grand Canyon. If you are looking to see the Grand Canyon, but don’t want to pay the National Park entry fee of $30, Horseshoe Bend is a good free alternative!

Also in Page is Antelope Canyon , a slot canyon with beautiful sweeping curved red rocks. Antelope Canyon lies on the Navajo Reservation so tours are required and generally cost $70 per person. While not the cheapest thing to do in Arizona, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so if you can do it, then do it!

Moving South, Flagstaff, Arizona is a college town with snowy mountains in the winter, stunning fall foliage in autumn , and lovely parks in the summer. Hike Humphrey’s Peak, visit Buffalo Park for stargazing, or learn about the discovery of Pluto (which happened from Flagstaff) at Lowell Observatory.

Next, Sedona has lots of incredible hiking and spas, which make it a great destination for adventurers who also need a little relaxation. Visit Devil’s Bridge, Cathedral Rock, and Slide Rock State Park.

Last but not least, Montezuma’s Castle and Well isn’t entirely a natural wonder since they feature Native American crafted cliff dwellings. But they are a sight to see!

Arizona is very affordable, so spending only $50 a day is doable, especially if you opt for camping instead of staying in a fancy resort.

5. South Padre Island, Texas

Recommended by Ellie from Ellie’s Travel Tips

Located 2 miles off the southern tip of Texas, South Padre Island welcomes thousands of college students every year. With pristine beaches, fun resorts, and exciting attractions, South Padre Island is known as one of the most  affordable spring break spots in Texas .

South Padre Island is home to over 30 miles of sandy beaches along the warm, blue waters on the Gulf of Mexico. Hop in your favorite swimsuit and grab a towel to relax along the sandy beaches after a long and tough semester. Another great spot to relax is along the Laguna Madre Nature Trail . This boardwalk path, located on the bayside of the island, is a great place to spot the local wildlife on a peaceful stroll.

If you prefer to get on the water, rent a paddleboard to explore South Padre’s canals and Laguna Madre . Others may enjoy a scenic horseback ride along the beach—a great morning activity to start your day.

At night, head to one of the area’s popular bars like Louie’s Backyard and Wanna Wanna Beach Bar to let loose and have fun. You will find countless college students at these bars just looking to party and have a good time.

The average cost of a trip to South Padre Island for a solo traveler is around $120 per day. However, if you are traveling with your friends or family, this cost will significantly decrease with shared accommodations and group rates.

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Recommended by Jori from  The Tejana Abroad

New Orleans is a great destination for anyone, but especially college students. The city is young and lively, with endless events and great nightlife.

NOLA is filled with history, which you can see by simply walking around the French Quarter. There are many museums, such as the WWII Museum , Jazz Museum , or Museum of Art , and if you have a car or take a tour, you can also visit some old Southern Plantation Homes .

New Orleans is known for its Mardi Gras festival in the spring, where the streets are filled with people in masks and constant parades. Halloween is also an adventure in the city, as the gothic architecture provides a great backdrop for spooky activities. And of course, don’t skip the unforgettable experience of bar hopping on Bourbon Street .

Since New Orleans is home to a few universities, the town has a very friendly, young and outgoing population. The city also has one of the best hostels in the US: Auberge NOLA Hostel, which organizes all kinds of events and bar crawls for younger people. New Orleans is great for students because there’s so much to do , it’s easy to get around, and the nightlife is amazing.

New Orleans accommodation costs around $150 for a hotel room or $20 for a bed in a hostel . Food prices average at $15 per meal, and transportation costs are minimal if you stay in the downtown area (French Quarter).

7. Panama City Beach, Florida

Recommended by Dan from Layer Culture

If you’re a college student in the US and looking for the best places to visit then Panama City Beach (PCB) in Florida is a must! Are you the type of person the likes wet and wild adventures? Here you can experience some of the best spring break parties there are. With 27 miles of white sand and beaches dedicated to beach parties , what are you waiting for? There are areas where you can chill and relax, but also things like live concerts , celebrity appearances , and free giveaways to contend with.

It can get super crowded on the beach so try not to carry anything too valuable with you, a travel neck wallet or the equivalent is recommended if you want to avoid losing anything precious.

Still, the closer to the beach you are the better. You can expect to pay around $150 per night for a family room which you can share with friends. Many restaurants and party bars, such as Harpoon Harry’s are located right on the beachfront. There you can connect yourself with one of their famous seafood buckets.

Spending $100 per day is a breeze in PCB when eating in restaurants and buying drinks in the bars. However, there is a Walmart in town so you can save money by carrying drinks to the beach. Most of the hotels are equipped with kitchens so  you should be able to rustle up a few meals during your stay, which will help you save a considerable amount of money. All in all, Panama City Beach is a must-visit place if you are a student looking to get the most of your vacations.

8. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta, Georgia is an underrated city with lots of activities, amazing restaurants, fun events, and vibrant nightlife if you want it! When in Georgia , make sure you try classic Southern food at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, Buttermilk Kitchen, or the Flying Biscuit. Staples to sample are grits, biscuits, fried okra, BBQ, fried chicken, mac & cheese, fried green tomatoes, black eyed peas, or collard greens.

Ponce City Market or Krog Street Market have multiple restaurants and vendors in one place so you can take your pick. I recommend these if you only have one day in Atlanta , to save time traveling from one destination to the next.

For activities, some of the best things to do are the Georgia Aquarium , the largest in the world, the Atlanta Botanical Gardens , which feature huge topiary sculptures themed like Alice in Wonderland currently, and MLK Jr. Historic Park to learn about Atlanta’s rich history.

An iconic stay is the Marriot Marquis in downtown Atlanta , which has been featured in numerous movies. It costs $110 on average per night, so this is a good option if you’re splitting costs by sharing the room. If not, there are plenty of Airbnb’s in Atlanta that can be as cheap as $30/night for a private room in a shared house or apartment.

Typical food costs $12 on average and drinks are about the same. Hit up happy hours and cook some of your own meals to reduce this cost.

If you wanted to hit two places on this list, you could easily take a bus between Washington DC and Atlanta for only $60!

9. Savannah, Georgia

Recommended by Brittany from Travel by Brit

Savannah, Georgia, is the perfect place for college students to travel during a long weekend. There are tons of  budget-friendly things to do , and the entire city is walkable, so you won’t need to rent a car or spend any money on public transportation.

Another unique attribute of Savannah that makes the city perfect for college students is the open container policy —you can purchase a drink at one of Savannah’s excellent restaurants or bars and take it with you as you explore the city!

During a three-day weekend in Savannah, you can expect to spend $500 on accommodations , $50 on activities, and $200 on food and drinks during a long weekend in Savannah—so roughly $750 for a long weekend, plus transportation costs.

While you’re in Savannah, you can’t miss the chance to go on a spooky ghost tour or stroll through Forsyth Park (one of Savannah’s 22 historic squares!). City Market is fun to walk around, and you can stop at the Georgia Tasting Room for a $3 wine tasting. You can also take a day trip to Tybee Island for some relaxing time at the beach.

Enjoy brunch at the Collins Quarter or a liege-style waffle from Mirabelle Savannah! And don’t forget to stop by Huey’s to order some warm, delicious beignets.

Finally, the DeSoto Savannah is the perfect place to stay. It’s located just a short walking distance from everything in the city (and for the rooftop pool!). 

>> Read more: 100 Epic Things to Do in Georgia

10. asheville, north carolina.

Recommended by Julia from The Cure for Curiosity

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is the perfect destination for college students. Not only is it a college town itself – home to UNC Asheville, but it also offers plenty of adventures at a low cost. Whether you are spending one  perfect weekend in Asheville  or have all summer to get to know the area, your first visit will not be your last.

Spend your days driving the famous Blue Ridge Parkway (free) or hiking to stunning natural wonders (mostly free). There are plenty of trails ranging from beginner to long distance, like the Appalachian Trail . Some of the more popular hiking destinations are Craggy Gardens, Chimney Rock ($17), and Dupont State Forest. You’ll also find dozens of picturesque waterfalls , like Looking Glass Falls, Catawba Falls, and Triple Falls, scattered throughout the area.

After exhausting yourself in the mountains, head back into the city to spend your afternoons and evenings exploring the art galleries and murals in the River Arts District (free) and then trying all the craft beer you can stomach.

With over 30 breweries in Asheville and 48 in the greater Asheville area, you will not go thirsty! Don’t miss the ever-popular Burial Beer Co., which offers delicious beer with a well themed taproom, or The Funkatorium by Wicked Weed for sour and funky beers. Whatever your favorite style of beer, you’re sure to find it in Asheville.

Related read → How to spend a 48 hours in Asheville, North Carolina

11. Wilmington, North Carolina

Recommended by MacKenzie from Rainbow Travel Life

Wilmington, NC may seem like an odd choice for college student travel – college students want to go to a college town? Absolutely! Wilmington has everything a student might want, including outdoor adventures, nightlife, inexpensive activities, plus the ultimate attraction to a stressed college student: beach access .

There are three wonderful beaches all within 20 minutes of Wilmington: Wrightsville , Carolina , and Kure . Kure Beach is the most cost-effective choice because parking is free! While in Kure Beach, you can also go on a few nature walks; Basin Trail leads to an observation deck overlooking the area. Kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing are all popular activities too.

Another one of the many things to do in Wilmington, NC for college students is downtown. During happy hours, there are tons of specials and plenty of bars and restaurants open late into the evening. No matter what time you head downtown (parking starts at $1/hour), make sure to walk the Riverwalk . It’s a 1.75-mile boardwalk along the Cape Fear River with shops, restaurants, art galleries, and a bit of history. Prices will of course vary based on what you find in the shops! Student tip : pop into Island’s for some extremely cheap but satisfying food.

Cost wise, Wilmington is probably the best location for students within driving distance. Avoiding a flight and rental car (as cars are imperative for getting around), saves a lot. For accommodation , budget hotels are typically $50-60; however, camping at Carolina Beach State Park is the cheapest option at $20-30/night.

12. Madison, Wisconsin

Recommended by Elisa from Flitter Fever

Mostly thanks to Playboy who named the University of Wisconsin #1 US Party School several times, Madison, Wisconsin has the reputation of a party city for college students. That’s convincing to study there for a while, right?

Since about a quarter of Madison’s inhabitants are students, who keep the city alive, there is always something fun going on.

There are two annual student parties that attract tens of thousands of young people to party in Madison. The Halloween Party on State Street , and the Mifflin Street Block Party , usually held on the last Saturday of April. Try a local Spotted Cow, a specialty unfiltered brew.

Besides the great party and music scene, the Badgers’ games always attract a young, infectiously enthusiastic crowd. The hub for college students is the University of Wisconsin (UW), an internationally renowned state school that welcomes many international students for a study abroad experience in Madison . There are lots of amazing people to meet and socialize with.

State Street Brats and the Ratskeller are popular student-friendly bars where you can get food, like a brat basket for only $3.50. These places pretty much sum up Madison; friendly people, bratwurst, and micro-brewed beer. Don’t miss Stock Exchange Night , with cocktails as cheap as $1.25.

If you can’t find a UW student that will allow you to crash their couch, Airbnb rooms cost $80 per night on average with shared bathroom. The most inexpensive motel starts at $37 per night.

13. Washington DC

Recommended by by Claire from ClairePins Travel

Washington DC is a surprisingly affordable destination for first-time travelers and students on a budget who are interested in art, culture and history!

There is no other city in America that is home to as many free, high quality attractions as Washington DC. All of the monuments, memorials, government buildings and branches of the Smithsonian museum (which includes several galleries) are free of charge and typically also offer free tours. The most challenging part of your visit might be choosing where to go first!

Washington DC is home to several universities and has a large student population. If you want to experience the local nightlife, try the Adams Morgan neighbourhood , Dupont Circle , or the Georgetown area, which is popular with local college students.

Keep an eye out for the many street art murals around the city if you want to get some unique photos from your visit.

You can get around the city using the affordable, reliable Metro System , which also connects to the airport, and many of the main sights are within easy walking distance. The city is also well connected by rail and bus service to other major cities in the USA, if you are looking to avoid an expensive flight.

You can visit Washington DC for $75-200 per day by staying in a hostel dorm for a solo traveler  or sharing a budget hotel room if you have a travel partner, and choosing grocery store and café food, using metro tickets and walking for transportation, and taking advantage of free museums and attractions.

14. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Recommended by Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting

One of the most fun cities in America is the east coast gem of Philadelphia. It offers historical attractions, some of the nation’s best museums, and a delicious food scene . On top of all that, the nightlife and affordability make it the perfect place for college students to visit.

The best areas to stay for nightlife are the Gayborhood/Midtown and Old City neighborhoods. It’s also easy to find an affordable   Philadelphia Airbnb to stay in these areas and have the best of the city at your doorstep. Depending on the season, group houses can be about $50 per person at a nightly rate.

Bars like Drinker’s and Lucy’s Hat Shop are popular for students as well as the bars in University City. There’s a cheap drink special that you can get anywhere in the city of Philadelphia. It’s called the “citywide” and it’s a can of Pabst Blueribbon and a shot of Jim Beam whisky. The original venue to serve it was Bob & Barbara’s, a hip dive bar with live jazz and drag performances and it quickly spread across the city.

Philadelphia is also full of must-eat foods like the popular cheesesteak and local favorites tomato pie and soft pretzels. One of the best places to try local food flavors is Reading Terminal Market . It’s an open-air market with rows of food stalls and a seating area for dining.

The city is also home to some of the country’s most treasured historical attractions and many are free to visit. The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are both free to visit including a guided tour of Independence Hall that can be booked online. Other museums in the city offer student discounts for entry, so there will be plenty to do while in the city.

15. Boston, Massachusetts

Recommended by Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

Boston would be a great destination for your college spring break. It is a beautiful walking city – all of the cool restaurants, historic sites, and shopping areas are near each other and one of the best ways to enjoy them is to walk to them . However, if you don’t like walking, Boston has an excellent transit system , both within the city and between the suburbs. This means that not only can you easily access different parts of Boston, but if you need cheaper accommodation, you can stay outside of the city, and take one of the trains in. The trains run regularly and are inexpensive.

An example of inexpensive accommodation outside of Boston but along one of the train lines is The Lodge at Brandeis University.

A great activity in Boston to consider is a food tour – like the Boston Secret Food Tour . You explore Boston all the while eating lots of delicious food. At first blush, the tour itself might seem expensive. However, if you take the tour early afternoon, you could skip lunch before and dinner afterwards.

As for one of the best evening activities, check out the Improv Asylum in Little Italy . There are multiple showtimes and seat prices at some very budget friendly. Afterwards, walk a couple stores down to Mike’s Pastry where you can try one of the best cannolis in the city. Bring cash and prepare to wait in line.

With the food tour, this day would likely cost you $180 ( accommodation based upon a sole occupant with food included). However, if you exclude the food tour, it would likely be closer to $100.

Related read >> Where to visit in the US in summer (Boston is on the list!)

16. New York City, New York

Recommended by Carolin from Happy When Abroad

New York City , the city that never sleeps, is the ideal place for a student getaway. Even though it is a big, loud, and popular place, New York City is not necessarily expensive. In fact, there are plenty of budget-friendly hostels ($40 – $50 / night average), restaurants, and attractions for college students.

Since the city is so incredibly diverse, you can freely decide how you would like to spend your time there. Whether you prefer to experience wild party nights, go on big shopping and sightseeing tours, or relax in the park, New York City has it all. No matter how you want to plan your stay, make sure to not miss out on some of the  must-see attractions in New York City . These include walking across the Brooklyn Bridge , enjoying the view from Top of the Rock , taking photos at Times Square , and visiting the Flatiron Building .

Completely free attractions for students include a ride on the Staten Island Ferry , an entrance to the Museum of Modern Art , a relaxing afternoon in Central Park , or a tour in the New York Public Library . Besides walking, the fastest and cheapest way to get around in the metropolis is the metro ($33 ​​for a 7-day-ticket). Are you ready to explore the impressive and inspiring city with the world-famous skyline, yellow taxis, and film locations? Let’s go!

17. Acadia National Park, Maine

Recommended by James Ian from Parks Collecting

Acadia National Park is a great place to travel for college students looking for an outdoor adventure. There are plenty of cheap campsites in and around the park, a free shuttle bus throughout the park, and the park is right next to Bar Harbor , where there are restaurants and bars for those looking for more comfort and social activity.

Most of the main activities are free or cheap.  The park has incredible hikes , including two of the most adventurous hikes in the country. The Beehive and the Precipice trails require climbing up iron ladders on sheer rock faces and walking along narrow ledges, so they are not great for those with a fear of heights, but perfect for college students looking for an adventure.

There are also miles of former carriage roads that are great for cycling . Bring your own bike or rent one cheaply in Bar Harbor. The shuttle buses have bike racks.

The park is surrounded by islands and you can take a ferry out to the Cranberry Islands for $32 round trip, where you can visit remote fishing villages and walk along the rocky shoreline. For a splurge, this is one of the cheapest places in the country to eat fresh lobster . There are lobster shacks right by the water’s edge that serve fresh lobster on no-frills picnic tables in the sunshine.

A campsite typically costs between $30 and $55 per night. You can get a pizza in a restaurant for about $10. Self-catering is cheaper, of course. With the park shuttle, transportation is basically free. So, Acadia National Park is a great option for college students on a budget looking for an active outdoors vacation.

International Places to Travel for Students

The Americas

Recommended by Julien from Cultures Traveled

What do you think of when you close your eyes and dream of traveling to Mexico? Perhaps you envision lounging on a white sand beach with glistening turquoise water. Or maybe you wish to discover the food and artisans of Oaxaca City ? Or is it possible that you aspire to explore all the ancient  Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan  while also uncovering cenotes along the way?

At nearly three times the size of Texas, some say Mexico has it all . Landscapes include beaches, mountains, active volcanos, deserts, and canyons with lots of cultural explorations in between. You could spend weeks in Mexico and barely scratch the surface. But its affordability and proximity to the United States mean you won’t go broke doing so.

Traveling around Mexico by bus or plane is relatively inexpensive and safe. The ADO buses are incredibly comfortable with plush seats, bathrooms onboard, an extremely cold air conditioner, and movies playing for entertainment. You can expect to pay about $20 for a seven-hour ride from Mexico City to Oaxaca, or about $10 for shorter travel within the Yucatan Peninsula .

Accommodations in Mexico can also be very affordable with lots of shared hostel rooms under $15 and many under $10 in large cities. And perhaps the best bang for your buck will be the food. You can eat tacos for 50¢ each or a meal in a modest restaurant for about $5.

Whether you are in need of a few days soaking up the sun at the beach after exams or you’re anxious to continue learning about ancient cultures, Mexico is a great destination for college students looking for an affordable travel experience.

19. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Recommended by Chris from Punta Cana Travel Blog

Punta Cana is a perfect destination for college students, especially for those who require some sun, Caribbean vibes, and exciting excursions. Of course, you won’t miss out on the party either, especially when choosing popular entertainment all-inclusive resorts such as RIU República, Be Live Collection Punta Cana or Royalton CHIC (choose one of the first two if you are traveling on a budget), but there are also a lot of other amazing things-to-do in Punta Cana , even if you don’t like to party. How about joining a catamaran cruise to one of the most paradisical islands in the Caribbean (Isla Saona), exploring the highest waterfall in the Dominican Republic (Salto de la Jalda) or having fun while cruising with some dune buggies through the countryside?

If you are traveling on a budget , you can also head on inexpensive hiking trips, explore the fantastic beaches for free or join the locals on a round of Domino. If you want to explore the nightlife, drinks are also cheap in the Dominican Republic, so be prepared for some of your best Cuba Libres you have had in your life.

In general, a vacation in Punta Cana is not meant to be expensive. The cheapest all-inclusive resorts are already starting at $60 per person per night with all food and drinks (incl. booze!) included, and excursions can be priced as low as $40 per person. And if you want to experience Punta Cana even cheaper, just skip on excursions and enjoy some of the free stuff to do in Punta Cana.

Recommended by Becky from Becksplore Travel

Panama is a great place for any college student, as it is super diverse and you can find anything from beautiful beaches to the big city life to the most stunning nature and wildlife. The locals are incredibly friendly and Panama is also one of the safest countries in Latin America.

Panama is rather small so you can easily travel across the country and see a lot in just a short amount of time. One place that should be included in any  Panama itinerary  is Panama City. Panama City isn’t only home to the famous Panama canal, but also an incredible city with great nightlife and a beautiful old town.  

Other places that you just have to visit are Boquete and Bocas del Toro. Boquete is surrounded by beautiful nature and popular things to do are going on a coffee tour or hiking up to the volcano Barú . Whereas, in Bocas del Toro you can spend your time scuba diving, surfing, taking boat tours or just hanging out by the surrounding beaches.

It certainly isn’t the cheapest country in Latin America but still affordable for college students as hostel accommodation is super cheap, usually around $10 a night. However, tours can be a little pricey at times. So if you are planning on going on some tours, sometimes taking a shuttle bus instead of public transportation and go out for some drinks every now and then, it might sum up to around $60 a day.

21. Colombia

Recommended by Emily from Wander-lush

Visiting South America has long been a rite of passage for college students – and as one of the most accessible destinations on the continent, Colombia understandably draws many young visitors. Extremely affordable and easy to get around using public transport, it’s a dream budget-travel destination with something for every preference (literally) – from the bustling cities of Bogota and Medellin, to the northern coastline and lush interior.

If hiking is your scene, don’t miss the Lost City Trek , which is often dubbed the best hike in South America. A bean-to-cup tour of the Coffee Triangle will give you a new appreciation for your daily cup of joe. Here’s where you’ll also find gorgeous colourful  pueblos  such as  Jerico in Antioquia region . Horse riding, paragliding and white water sports – and on the coast, snorkelling and diving – are all available.

Colombia’s cities are packed with history and culture. Join a salsa class before hitting the clubs to show off your skills. Other popular hands-on activities include cooking classes and language immersion courses , so you can come back from Colombia with a few new life skills – including how to make the best  empanadas  – under your belt!

The hostel scene is well-developed in Colombia, and things like food, alcohol and transport are very affordable as well. It’s recommended to budget around $50 per person per day – but you can cut that down considerably by travelling with friends and splitting some costs.

22. Ecuador

Recommended by Deb from The Visa Project

Ecuador is a traveler’s paradise, no matter which kind of travel you are into. Said to be one of the most ecologically diverse countries, it is packed with volcanos, beaches, quaint little towns, the amazon and a lot more.

Feeling adventurous? Then head to Baños to hike to its waterfalls, do some mountain biking or water sports, and then relax in the hot springs. Or go to Tena , to indulge in jungle excursions in the Amazon. And if hiking to a volcano is your idea of adventure, Cotopaxi National Park is a must.

Want a beach vacation? Salinas , called the Miami of Ecuador is a popular choice. Or just take the bus on the coastal route from Salinas until Esmeraldas, and explore all the small beach towns and villages on the way. Stop at Montañita for sure to experience crazy parties and nightlife.

If you are a college student and on a budget, Ecuador can be an amazing place to start out, considering how cheap it is. A basic lunchtime meal would cost $3 or more. A night’s stay in a decent hostel would cost upwards of $7. And long-distance buses typically cost from $1–2 per hour.

On top of that, if you are coming from the United States, you can simply spend in US Dollars since that is the currency of Ecuador . As simple as that.

And make sure to check about the entry requirements and  visas for Ecuador   before you travel.

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Peru is the ultimate adventurous destination for college students on a budget.

The Imperial City of Cusco is a great place to base and offers plenty of authentic experiences without a large price tag. Within the city limits, find tons of Inca ruins that have no entrance fees and see little to no tourists. There are also tons of hiking trails and lush parks that are free to explore.

Grab the best and local food from the neighborhood markets, many which are serving up a daily two course menu for under $1.50. There are a wide range of bars close to the Plaza de Armas , but save money and drink with the locals and grab a 2 liter of chicha , Peru’s favorite fermented corn beverage for less than half the price.

Adventure seekers should plan for at least one epic multi-day trek, but there are so many, it’s hard to choose. While most tourists take the Inca trail to Machu Picchu , there are many alternative routes, and almost all of them can be done for cheap and without a guide, like the 9 day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek . There’s also the world-class Ausangate , or Lares treks , both worth the climb. In the nearby Sacred Valley , there are wonderful day hikes with free Inca sites like  Saywa, Inti Punku, and Perolniyoc.

With shared hostels as low as $5 a night, market meals for $1.50, regional buses for under $2, and city buses for under 50¢, it’s feasible to spend under $25 USD a day, making Peru the perfect budget destination.

24. Bolivia

Recommended by Carley Rojas Avila of Home to Havana

Known as the Salar de Uyuni, the Salt Flats in Bolivia are both an unforgettable travel experience and one perfect for college travel. Known popularly as the “world’s largest mirror” for reflecting the sky when flooded in the rainy season, the Salt Flats are a popular visit for college students studying abroad in South America looking for a more budget friendly adventure than Machu Picchu. Though the Salt Flats may be popular with photographers and on many travelers bucket lists, it is surprisingly inexpensive to visit.

The best way to visit the Salt Flats is by taking a 3-day or 4-day jeep tour through southwest Bolivia, along the famous Lagunas Route . This route includes visits to high-elevation volcanos, hot springs, and bright red and green lagoons home to numerous flamingos. This is an incredible off-the-grid experience to share with an adventurous group of friends. The  best Salar de Uyuni tour itinerary  starts from Tupiza in south Bolivia and finishes at the Salt Flats for a fantastic culmination of the trip.

These popular multi-day jeep trips are quite affordable, often working out to a cost of around just $50 per day, inclusive of all expenses. Traveling around the rest of Bolivia, backpackers and budget travelers can easily get by on around $30 a day or less, while enjoying this diverse country – think major cities, the Amazon rainforest, and incredible mountain vistas wherever you look.

25. Ireland

Recommended by Pam from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

One of the best destinations to visit as a college student is the Emerald Island – Ireland. Rolling hills of green, breathtaking cliffs , and friendly locals welcome visitors. From historical castles to gorgeous nature, college students will delight in the variety of  things to do in Ireland . 

From kissing the Blarney Stone to exploring Fairy Forts , Ireland is truly a unique destination. Travelers will relish in the historical castles looming over the countryside. After a full day of exploring, head to a local pub to unwind. Drinking beer is not a requirement, but enjoying local food – like colcannon and shrimp – is! Great conversation over delicious food is what Ireland is known for!

While the official language of Ireland is Irish, most of the population also speaks English. It makes it easier to get around and talk with locals to find hidden gems. A budget friendly way to travel around the country is renting a car. You can drive from coast to coast in a few hours, but honestly taking your time is a better option. With proper planning, a trip around Ireland can cost around $75 per day.

Ireland’s rich personality makes it one of the best destinations for college students.

26. Portugal

Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Portugal is a fantastic country to visit for anyone looking for a laid back lifestyle, beautiful scenery and fun nightlife. As one of the more affordable countries in Europe, this is a great place for students on a budget who want to experience without spending too much.

Portugal is not a large country and it’s the perfect place for a road trip . Camping is very popular and probably the most affordable way of exploring the area. Even larger cities like Porto or Lisbon are actually not as expensive as you might expect them to be. And of course, the nightlife is fantastic. Whether you are having drinks in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto , partying the night away with university students in Porto or dancing on the beach in the Algarve , there is something for everyone.

You could easily spend less than $300 per week in Portugal if you are smart about saving. You could find a campsite for around $18 per night for two people and if you cook for yourself and avoid eating out you won’t be spending much on food either. Since alcohol taxes in Portugal are quite low, even a few drinks in a bar won’t break the bank.

You’ll fall in love with this incredible country and find yourself wanting to come back as soon as possible.

27. Andalucia, Spain

Recommended by Linn from Andalucia Hiking

Andalucia is the perfect destination for college students. There are many adventure activities to be had all over the region.

Start with Sierra Nevada and a Mulhacen hiking adventure that can be done in a day or several days to cross the highest peak of the entire Iberian Peninsula off your bucket list.

Go on a road trip to see the best white villages, like the hillside village, Frigiliana , with astounding coastal views, Antequera , which just happens to be next to the most unique karst landscape in Europe, El Torcal , which invites for another exceptional day out in nature.

Explore the dramatic white village of Arcos de la Frontera or the village of love, Vejer de la Frontera . Wander in the melting pot of Andalusian culture in its capital city, Seville . Learn how to salsa and have tapas and drinks with the locals.

The sand blown coast of Cadiz is just the place to go to save money. This is where you can party with the locals in Los Caños de Meca or go windsurfing in Tarifa .

There are endless things to do in Andalucia and it doesn’t have to cost an arm to do so. Budget $70 per day, but there are great hostels in the cities where you can save money, meet other travelers, and cook your dinner at home. You can get by pretty cheap by traveling by bus or train too and tapas are cheap. You can easily get a beer for $2 at local places. The most expensive area in Andalucia is Costa del Sol, so try focus on Seville and Cadiz if you need to save money.

28. Paris, France

Recommended by Elisa from World in Paris

Paris is an excellent destination for college students. The French capital is a lively and cultural city with many cool things to do for people of all ages! To get the most out of the city, we recommend spending a minimum of  4 days in Paris .

Many people believe that Paris is an expensive city. This is true only if visitors decide to stay in Paris’s most central areas and eat and drink close to the main attractions.

On the other hand, Paris has many cool things to do for free and many beautiful parks and picturesque neighborhoods to hang around without spending anything. Besides, there are many advantages for students under 25 , from significant discounts to free entrance, especially for students from the EU countries.

College students will appreciate the nightlife in Paris. There are many cool areas in Paris to hang around at night, being Canal Saint-Martin , La Villette , or Belleville some of the favorites, places where a beer can cost half of the price or less than in the fancy bars around the Champs Elysées.

Another fun thing to do in Paris at night is the apéro-dinatoires – evening drinks that turn into casual dinners with patés, cheese, and cold cuts.

Finally, for those who want to see something other than the French capital, there are transportation discounts for students for a day trip out of the city to places like Versailles, Normandy, or Lille. A good daily budget is $90 per day, but this cost can be reduced significantly by staying in Paris’ extensive hostel system, cooking your own meals, or even having inexpensive sandwiches for some meals from cafés.

29. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Recommended by Sam from Sam Sees World

There are so many amazing places in Europe to visit for college students but few are as amazing as Amsterdam. A city known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning canals, and young atmosphere, Amsterdam is the perfect travel destination for college students of all kinds. Whether you like partying, history, culture, or learning about new traditions, Amsterdam has something for you.

Many college students are drawn to Amsterdam for the nightlife. There are over 1,100 bars and clubs in Amsterdam, which is enough to keep you very busy. The best areas to visit for bars and clubs are Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein , here you will find rows of bars and clubs making the options endless. Spending a night out in Amsterdam promises an amazing time, even if drinking and partying isn’t your speed. Visitors can also enjoy the canals by night , go on evening cruises, and check out live music , and more.

Luckily for college students flights to Amsterdam can be really cheap. You can easily find flights from other cities in Europe for 40 euros and from New York for $300 round trip! Plus, there are plenty of hostels around Amsterdam that offer low-cost accommodations in a fun and exciting atmosphere.

30. Berlin, Germany

Recommended by Matt from Wheatless Wanderlust

Berlin is one of the most affordable capital cities in Western Europe, which makes it a perfect destination for traveling college students. It has a diverse range of things to do and see, ranging from free to relatively inexpensive, and a food and drink scene full of cheap-yet-delicious eats like döner kebab and currywurst.

Plus, it is widely regarded as one of the best nightlife scenes in Europe, with clubs pumping out dance music well into the early (and not-so-early) hours of the morning.

Some of the best things to do in Berlin, like walking through the Brandenburg Gate , climbing to the top of the dome of the Reichstag , and admiring the vibrant street art of the Eastside Gallery , are all free.

Things that aren’t free, like the awe-inspiring Pergamon Museum and the other museums on Museum Island , offer hefty discounts for students .

One of the best parts about Berlin, particularly in the summertime, is the green spaces. And there are no open container laws in Berlin, which means you can enjoy a picnic in the park complete with a bottle of wine or some local beer. Head to the Tiergarten or Tempelhofer Feld, the former airport that has been transformed into the biggest park in Berlin.

If you’re wondering  where to stay in Berlin  on a budget, the answer is Fredrichschain , which is also where you’ll find the best nightlife in the city. There, you’ll find a range of affordable hotels and hostels , and you’ll be within walking distance of both the Eastside Gallery and the coolest neighborhood in Berlin – Kreuzberg.

You can easily live in Berlin on $50 a day by either staying in a hostel dorm room or splitting a private room with a friend, taking advantage of all the great free attractions in the city, and eating breakfast at your accommodation.

31. Munich, Germany

Recommended by Devin of Deventuretime.com

Munich is a great destination for college students as it’s a budget-friendly city, easy to travel around, and has plenty of exciting things to do. It is a city that is frequented by many backpackers, so there are plenty of hostel accommodations throughout the city that are perfect for making new friends!

Munich is known for its incredible beer gardens and beer halls throughout the city. Not to mention, the famous Oktoberfest beer celebration ! One of the most famous taverns in the world, Hofbräuhaus , is located within the city. Here, you sit along tables and order giant steins of beer to enjoy with friends. Beer in the city is quite cheap, with full liter steins costing around $13.

Aside from beer halls, the city is full of fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Marienplatz is a beautiful square to visit, lined with shops and stunning gothic buildings. It is home to Rathaus-Glockenspiel , which is an interesting, automated show built into the side of New Town Hall. It attracts many locals and tourists daily to enjoy the show!

When traveling to Munich, you can budget daily for as low as $60. To keep costs low, opt to stay in a hostel , buy food from markets, and buy beer from shops. Costs rise as you shop, eat at restaurants, or stay at more glamourous accommodations.

32. Prague, Czech Republic

Recommended by Charu from Travel With CG

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a beautiful destination to visit in Europe. Home to medieval buildings, charming castles, and gothic cathedrals; it is a fascinating yet affordable place to travel internationally. With a picturesque Old Town full of colorful buildings and orange topped roofs, Prague is also an ideal city to explore on foot.

If you like going on walking tours , please note that multiple free ones start from the city’s astronomical clock every day. You can either walk the cobbled streets of Prague from your accommodation to reach there or hop on a tram and get yourself an inexpensive ride. A 3-day tram pass for students visiting Prague only costs 310 CZK ($15) and can be bought from nearly every tram stop or online.

The nightlife in Prague is enjoyable too. Whether you like multiple story clubs that play different music, beer gardens , or vibrant cocktail bars ; it is that one city in central Europe that you will find has got it all. Live music is big there as well, so you might even come across artists playing at famous touristic sights such as the John Lennon Wall when visiting.

Like any other big city, Prague is also home to a variety of budget accommodations . Apartments with multiple rooms, for instance, can even be found for as low as $25 per person per night.

33. Budapest, Hungary

Recommended by Cecily from Groovy Mashed Potatoes

Budapest is an Eastern European city with an energetic nightlife and culture. The historic spa capital is inexpensive compared to other European cities and a great way to discover Europe’s fascinating history and impressive architecture. There are many fun things to add to your  Budapest itinerary , from relaxing in thermal baths to partying in ruin bars with your friends.

During the daytime, unwind from your studies in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths. Szechenyi Baths is the largest thermal bath in Budapest and has a stunning neo-Baroque architecture. Weekday entrance fees are cheaper than weekend prices. Budget 3,500 HUF (~ $12 USD) for the weekday or 3,900 HUF (~ $13.50 USD) for the weekend.

Just before sunset, walk to the top of Castle Hill to admire views of the Danube River and the city’s most prominent buildings, such as the Hungarian Parliament building .

Budapest has one of the best party scenes in Europe. Have a unique night out in their eclectic and bohemian ruin bars , known to have cheap drinks and a lively atmosphere. Szimpla Kert was the first ever ruin bar, built in an abandoned factory in 2002.

It’s easy and inexpensive to get around with the city’s excellent transportation system . A one-way fare costs 350 HUF (~ $1.19 USD). There are many places to stay in Budapest , so budget $28 USD per day for accommodation , plus $20 USD per day for food and $20 USD per day for activities/alcohol.

34. Slovenia

Recommended by Simona from Slovenians Travel

Slovenia is a small country in the heart of Europe. It is still quite undiscovered and compared to its neighbors and still affordable. With a short coastline, beautiful mountains and lakes, and charming medieval cities it offers a great variety for different tastes.

Public transport works well and is cheap (choose between bus or train), accommodation can be found almost everywhere, and the prices range from $30, camping and hostels are even cheaper.

Slovenia has a wide variety of food as it has influences from the Italian, Austrian, Mediterranean and Hungarian cuisine. During the week many restaurants offer set lunch menus for $10-18 for a 3-course meal, and mains are about the same price. There are fast food stalls and food markets, where a kebab is around $3-5, burek (Balkan meat or cottage cheese pastry) is from $2, burgers from $5. Vegetarians and vegans also won’t be hungry. 😉

You should definitely visit Lake Bled , the most famous sight in the country. Unfortunately, everything is much more expensive there, so maybe think about a day trip from Ljubljana . Ljubljana, the capital, is a good base as it offers a lot of accommodation, restaurants, bars and clubs. For a little more off the beaten track and a bit cheaper city, choose Maribor , the second biggest city in Slovenia. Both are university cities, so many young party people live there and like to have a good time in all the bars and clubs.

You can get a big beer for about $3-4, cocktails from $7, not to forget the prices in supermarkets, where a big beer is around $1 and a bottle of wine from $4. The prices are a bit higher on the coast – Piran, Portorož, Izola and Koper are the biggest cities on the coast, Piran surely the most charming.

Slovenia is still an affordable destination, which offers so much on such a small area. That’s why it’s perfect for budget travelers.

35. Rome, Italy

Recommended by Claudia from Strictly Rome

With all its art, history, and culture, Rome is bound to be a fantastic destination for college students who can join one of the many short and long term university and college programs offered in the Eternal City. The city is intense but undeniably charming and beautiful and a great place to get acquainted with the Italian lifestyle. There are any great places to visit, delicious food, and incredible nightlife (especially in Trastevere).

Among the places to visit there is the Colosseum and the nearby Arch of Constantine , Roman Forum and Palatine Hill . A combined ticket for the 3 sites is $20. St. Peter’s Basilica is another must see – it’s free, and with a small fee you can access the Dome. The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel require pre-bookings, but they are a must see for art students.

If you are looking for free places to visit, a walk around the historic center will take you to the beautiful Altare della Patria in Piazza Venezia; Largo di Torre Argentina , a nearby archeological site home to a cat sanctuary; the Spanish Steps , Fontana di Trevi , the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona .

One important thing to know before visiting Rome is that the city is not cheap. The best budget hostels are in Esquilino – for nicer places look around St. John in the Lateran Church, which is safe and very central. Trattorie and street food are your best budget options for food. Calculate a daily budget of at least $65 USD per day.

36. Ios Island, Greece

Recommended by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

From the end of June until late August, Ios becomes a giant party for college students from around the globe. Daytimes are spent on the beach and nights spent dancing, against a backdrop of one of the most beautiful Greek islands . Ios is a seven-hour ferry journey from Athens , but the big draw is that it is cheap and friendly.

There are several great beaches including Koumbara  and Manganari , which can be reached by bus or boat. Milopotas beach is the main draw. This beach is long, sandy and one of the best in Greece. Sunbathers share the beach with coffee shops and restaurants where they can meet loads of people and there are water sports too. Scuba diving and windsurfing are popular and jet skis and banana boats are fun.

There are rooms to rent, but these need to be booked well in advance and there are several campsites including Far Out , with a 24-hour bar, two swimming pools, and volleyball. Ios is a fantastic place to forge new friendships with people of all nationalities.

A one-way ferry ticket from Athens to Ios can cost between $30-43 depending on the ferry company. While accommodation can be anything from $30-36 euros per night for a double room or a bit cheaper on the camping. Food in a taverna can be from $13 upwards depending on what you order but there are many street food options available like souvlaki . Drinks can be bought either from the kiosk and enjoyed at the beach or you can take advantage of the happy hours if you are on a budget.

If you have long said goodbye to your college days, Ios is still a gorgeous island to visit during the spring and autumn when it is peaceful by comparison!

Middle East

Recommended by Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad

Iran is definitely one of the most underrated travel destinations for college students, especially for those who enjoy history and culture. Filled with gorgeous architecture, calming nature, and delicious food, Iran is an amazing place to relax in after a busy semester. Contrary to popular belief, Iran is also incredibly safe and the locals are very friendly (yes, even to Americans!). Many travelers deem this destination safer than Europe.

Two weeks is the ideal amount of time to see Iran’s most beautiful places . Start your journey in Shiraz , home to the famous Pink Mosque which will take your breath away. Not far from Shiraz lies Persepolis , an incredible UNESCO site where you can learn about the history of the Achaemenid Empire. Next, move on to Yazd , a stunning desert city home to the spectacular Sar Yazd Castle .

No trip to Iran would be complete without spending a few days in Isfahan , where you can see two of the most magnificent mosques in the country: Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque and Shah Mosque . While you’re there, make sure to eat at the nearby Naghshe Jahan Restaurant . Don’t leave Iran without stopping by Kashan , one of the friendliest cities in the country!

Iran is a great budget destination; you can stay in very decent hostels for $7-20 a night. You’ll typically spend about $6.50 on meals per day, and each VIP bus ticket to get you between cities is around $6. It’s worth noting that it’s incredibly easy to get around Iran on your own, and the buses are super comfortable too!

38. Istanbul, Turkey

Recommended by Roxanne from Faraway Worlds

At the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Istanbul is the perfect city for college students who want a glimpse of the wider world. A large, vibrant city, Istanbul offers a peek into other cultures and ways of life. While it can be a bit overwhelming at times, Istanbul is also exotic and exciting, and, with a well-developed tourist industry , it’s relatively accessible to Westerners.

Istanbul is also an affordable city. It’s easy to get around with public transport and, if you watch your budget, you should be able to get by on around $30 a day. This should cover a dorm bed, groceries, beer, and entrance fees for tourist attractions. If you want to eat out, there’s a wide range of delicious and affordable food on the streets of Istanbul from donor kebabs and mussels, to freshly-squeezed juices and stretchy ice cream.

If you’re wondering  where to stay in Istanbul , Taksim or Galata are good options for students. Both are conveniently located, with cafes, bars and street food close by. These areas are also renowned for their nightlife , and you’ll see a good mix of locals and tourists out and about late into the night. During the day, you can wander through the ancient streets, see the big-ticket tourist attractions like the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sofia , and relax in one of the city’s beautiful parks.

Recommended by Sasha Naslin from The Alternative Travel Guide  

Egypt is the ideal destination for history and adventure lovers. Only in the hot deserts of Egypt, can you visit 40-centuries old monuments, the guardians of the history of mankind.

The Pyramid of Cheops is one of the world wonders that has survived to this day. Apart from the Chinese Wall, this is the largest structure ever erected by man. The Egyptian pyramids are a miracle that you should definitely see once in life if you have the opportunity.

In addition, Egypt is suitable for student travelers who love diving, snorkeling, and other adventurous activities. The Red Sea is one of the most ecologically clean seas in the world! The crystal clear water allows you to admire the indescribably beautiful coral reefs and the Red Sea fauna, diverse in colors, shapes, and sizes. You can see all this beauty already a few meters from the shore, but if you use fins and a mask, you will discover the fabulously beautiful underwater world.

And another important factor for students, Egypt is a fairly cheap country. A week in Hurghada in an all-inclusive hotel costs $200-300, depending on the season and the hotel’s level. In Cairo, you can pay for a hotel as little as $ 15 per night.

40. Don Det, Laos

Recommended by Samantha from International Detours 

One of the best places to travel for college students is  Don Det, Laos . While all of Laos is beautiful, Don Det is a small river island that just exudes relaxation . 

It’s cheap, can be explored by bicycle , and is a fantastic place to meet other travelers. This backpacking hub is filled with bungalows that sit right over the edge of the Mekong River , and there’s really not much better than being able to watch an epic sunrise right outside your door. And Don Det’s sunsets are truly extraordinary.

The island is also filled with delicious cafes and bars, making it an ideal place to meet other young people as there’s always something to do both during the day and after dark.

The affordability of Don Det is what really makes it a winning spot for those on a budget: for food, drinks, bicycle rental and miscellaneous extras, you can easily spend $20 per day or less. If you split costs, this value will decrease.

With zero cars, little noise besides the crowing of roosters, and no light pollution, Don Det is the absolute perfect hippie haven to truly forget about college and the world. And despite being as amazing as it is, the island is far less popular than some other spots in Southeast Asia, meaning you won’t get that overtouristed feel either.

41. Thailand

Recommended by Luke from Wild About BC

Thailand has long been a favorite destination for new travelers looking to dip their toes into the wonderful world of international travel. It is the ideal destination for college students to visit as it is so easy to plan a trip here . One of the reasons Thailand first became so popular is that it is stunningly beautiful. There are endless islands to visit, all full of amazing beaches.

There are plenty of beautiful places out there but Thailand is such an easy pick for numerous reasons. It’s great for planning a trip on a budget as food, accommodation and transport are all very cheap here. You can expect to pay around $10 per night here for a decent hostel with air conditioning and meals are just a couple of dollars each and the food is delicious.

As Thailand has been popular for a while it also means that there is lots of infrastructure to help you easily get around. There are plenty of transport companies and tour operators making planning your trip much easier. Booking busses, boats and tours online is easy and there is a wealth of information out there to help you plan.

The local people are used to having tourists here and English is widely spoken which also helps if you get stuck and need to ask for help. Thailand is also renowned for the vibrant nightlife. If you are looking to party and blow off some steam then there are few places better. Cities like Bangkok have their own party districts or you can go to Koh Phangan to enjoy the world-famous full moon party on the beach.

This is an awesome place to visit and the beauty, budget friendliness, infrastructure and nightlife all combine to make it an epic trip for college students.

42. Vietnam

Recommended by Trisha from Try Wandering More

Vietnam is a fantastic place to visit as a college student because it has a bit of everything – natural beauty, quaint towns, unique culture, interesting history, delicious cuisine, and eccentric nightlife. The most inviting aspect is that it is inexpensive, so you can have an incredible time without burning a hole in your pocket.

This country has so much to offer that it is a struggle to choose among the  best places to visit in Vietnam . At least 10-14 days are required to get a good flavour of the country, though a fast-paced trip through the main places can be managed in a week.

Vietnam’s Capital city of Hanoi is an ideal city to begin exploring. Further, it would be best to travel along the country’s length ending in the south at Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon) , Vietnam’s most modern city.

Popular places to see include the picturesque Ha Long Bay near Hanoi, the quaint town of Hoi An near Da Nang, and the fascinating Mekong Delta near Saigon.

Expect to be delighted by mouth-watering food and drinks with steaming bowls of Pho, local beers like Bia Hoi, and Vietnamese Coffee.

Vietnam is a backpacker’s paradise with per day costs being about $5-$10 for accommodation, $8 for local food, $2 for beer, $5 for transportation and $3 for attractions. So, about $20-30 a day is enough to get by if traveling cheaply or about $40 per day for a super comfortable trip. If traveling in a group, consider staying at hotels and motels , as opposed to only hostels, as these can come out to be inexpensive too when divided per person.

43. Philippines

Recommended by Sharon from Dive Into Philippines

One of the best places to travel for college students is definitely the Philippines. One of the great budget travel destinations in the world, the Philippines can feel very adventurous while being a relatively easy place to travel. Many people speak English , it’s fun to get around and there are gorgeous beaches seemingly everywhere.

One of the big plusses of the Philippines is that you can easily find yourself at a beach where you can feel like you have escaped the world. Or if partying is more your holiday style, there are plenty of places you can do that.

A great place to start your trip is in Cebu City , the Philippines’ second largest city and home to its second busiest airport. On this island, there are many great beaches and you can choose backpacker favorite Moalboal , swim with whale sharks at Oslob or get away from it all in many places. Close by is Bohol Island where you can also experience great beaches and diving on Panglao , visit the Chocolate Hills , meet a cute tarsier, or go jungle trekking. It’s a great spot and you can take it as easy or active as you like.

A huge benefit of traveling the Philippines is how cheap it can be – it’s possible to travel here on $20 a day. You don’t have to spend much more to feel like you are doing it in style too. Food, transport, accommodation is all cheap. In fact, booking ahead on domestic budget airline can even make travelling from one side of the country to the other quite affordable.

The Philippines really is the ultimate destination for college students where you want peace and quiet, partying or adventure.

44. East Java, Indonesia

Recommended by Kaylini from The Curated Travelist 

If you’re in search of adventure, then look no further than East Java in Indonesia. For college students seeking refuge from city life and in need of fresh air, scenic landscapes and cultural enrichment, this can be found in abundance in this region. Apart from it being a great escape, it’s equally prudent on the pocket. With the currency of Indonesia being significantly weaker than that of the dollar, you’ll get plenty of value for money here.

Your East Java itinerary will begin in the city of Yogyakarta . Embrace your zen when visiting Borobudur the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Take a train from Yogyakarta to Surabaya for the bucket list worthy experience of visiting the active volcano of Mount Bromo . The Bromo volcano at sunrise is a truly breathtaking moment and summiting to the crater rim and peering into a volcano is few most can boast of.

Just a short drive away you’ll find the magnificent Tumpak Sewu Waterfall , a giant panoramic curtain of showers. Heading further East of Java you’ll find the mystical Kawah Ijen crater . Mount Ijen is another active volcano, however, this volcano has the largest acidic crater lake in the world and allows you to experience the phenomenon of blue-flamed fire! This phenomenon can only be seen in several places around the globe and truly something not to be missed.

Will bucket list items like these, one would think you’d be paying an arm and a leg. However, with transport costs less than $20 using buses and trains and accommodation at hostels costing $10, it’s very budget-friendly. Plus, local cuisines are an absolute steal at $2-3. This adventure destination is life-changing for most and definitely worth adding to your bucket list!

45. Bali, Indonesia

Recommended by Margherita from The Crowded Planet

Bali is definitely a great destination for those traveling for the first time, making it perfect for college students heading out of the US for the first time. The Island of Gods has so much to offer, that even diverse groups of friends will all have something to do.

To give you an idea, Bali offers lots of adventurous activities like volcano hiking, walks and bike rides around rice terraces, surf lessons, and scuba diving courses. At the same time, it’s easy to plan spiritual or cultural experiences like yoga, meditation, cooking classes, and temple visits with local guides. It’s very easy to arrange activities – Bali has been a tourist destination for many decades, and it’s well set up with local travel agencies allowing you to book activities even with short notice.

Let’s not forget nightlife – in places like Canggu and Seminyak you’ll find plenty of beach clubs where you can relax by the pool during the day, and party at night!

Speaking about costs, Bali is also a budget-friendly destination. The main expense will probably be the flight – accommodation is affordable, with some dorm beds going for less that $10, and eating out is also really cheap, especially if you go for street food! The easiest and cheapest way to get around is hiring a motorbike for about $5 a day, but make sure your travel insurance covers motorbike accidents. Alternatively, you can opt for hiring a driver for a day for a price of about $30 to be shared between 4 people.

For more student travel tips, read these posts:

How to save money in college for traveling

10 ways to travel as a student

How to explore your own backyard (when you can’t go on a big trip)

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My Travel Essentials

• Travel Insurance  – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing .
• Travel Card  – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
• Get Your Guide  – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
• Booking.com  – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com , the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
• Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
• Merino Wool  – Where are my chronic over-packers? Merino wool is the material you’ve been looking for. It’s naturally anti-microbial, so you can rewear it…so, less clothes to pack! I’m a fan of WoolX Merino .
• Give the Gift of Travel  – This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
• Staycation Idea  – Check out Resort Pass , which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

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Alanna Koritzke

Recent PhD graduate and hyper-planner of Periodic Adventures, my goal is to share travel inspiration, budget tips, detailed guides, and fun travel stories!

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I think that most of the countries in Eastern Europe are great for students because they’re relatively cheap. I travelled to Poland while at university and came back home with half of my budget!

Agreed! I haven’t been to any yet, but they all seem very budget-friendly perfect for college students!

Elena Pappalardo

Although I’m no longer a college student, I definitely want to hit up some of these places when I can! Great round-up.

Thanks Elena! They definitely are great for any budget traveler.

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• Campus Life

Are you tight on cash but itching to have your own version of a fancy European ski trip or tropical adventure after seeing your classmates’ vacations on Instagram? 

You’re in luck! There are plenty of cheap travel destinations perfect for college students looking for a fun and reasonably-priced vacation. 🌍 

Catch some waves on spring break or spend a weekend exploring another city as you visit 28 of the best travel spots for college students on a budget . 💸

1. New Orleans, Louisiana 🎭 

2. daytona beach, florida 🏄, 3. andalucia, spain 👑, 4. myrtle beach, south carolina ⛵, 5. porto, portugal 🌉, 6. savannah, georgia 🍸, 7. denver, colorado 🍺, 8. belgrade, serbia 🚍 , 9. new york, new york 🗽, 10. philadelphia, pennsylvania 🌭, 11. placencia, belize 🐆, 12. zagreb, croatia 🎨, 13. portland, oregon 🌹, 14. cancun, mexico 💃, 15. phoenix, arizona 🏜️, 16. boston, massachusetts ⚾, 17. raleigh, north carolina 🌳 , 18. albuquerque, new mexico 🌮, 19. austin, texas 🎸, 20. san juan, puerto rico 🤿, 21. kraków, poland 🥨, 22. prague, czech republic 🧑‍🎨, 23. punta cana, dominican republic 🏞️, 24. budapest, hungary 🏰, 25. panama city, panama 🛳️, 26. athens, greece 🏛️, 27. bucharest, romania 👢, 28. negril, jamaica 🏖️, 1. plan a budget-friendly itinerary, 2. book cheaper local accommodations, 3. maximize your student discounts, 4. learn how the public transportation system works , 5. arrange your visit during the off-season , 6. book flights with the best value, cheap travel destinations for college students: frequently asked questions.

Experience a vibrant culture sans the jet lag by visiting New Orleans — the home of Mardi Gras, fried chicken and gumbo, and jazz. 

It’s a one-of-a-kind destination that pairs a bustling nightlife with strong booze, good music, and a little touch of creepy with voodoo. It’s no surprise why this city’s a popular destination for college students. 🎆

Munch on New Orleans’ signature beignets for less than $5 and jam to live music at the French Quarter where you’ll find a series of nightclubs, historical buildings, and soul food diners. 😋

There’s no need to bust your budget on pricey hotels when you can stay in cheaper accommodations in the Central Business District or the Marigny neighborhood (which are still close to the best attractions). 🏨

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, music lovers, and history buffs 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $85

When looking for a wallet-friendly trip, hearing the words “free attraction” will instantly make you giddy. 😀 Daytona Beach has plenty of these around, making it one of the cheapest travel destinations for college students. 

You don’t need to spend a dime at the “ World’s Most Famous Beach ” or the North Peninsula State Recreation Area to swim in the ocean, play beach volleyball, or just soak up the sun (don’t forget your sunblock!). ☀️

Cap off your day at the beach by watching the sunset with a glass or three of happy hour drinks (we’re talking one-dollar whiskeys and two-dollar tequilas😉) from the bars lining the beachfront.

👍 Best for: Beach bums, party animals, spring breakers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $76

While Andalucia isn’t the fairytale kingdom from the hit film Enchanted, it’s still a magical place to visit (and one of the most affordable regions in Spain!). ✨

The Andalucian capital of Seville makes you feel like a royal with its architectural wonders, like the Plaza de España and the 15th-century Palace of the Marquises of La Algaba (and they’re all free). 🫅

Seville is tourist-friendly since you can explore the city by foot or by bike , especially the hip district of Macarena (an area littered with vintage shops and student-priced tapas bars) near the Santa Cruz historic quarter. 🚶

Note: American citizens traveling for up to 90 days don’t need a tourist visa to Spain (and selected European countries) because it’s a signatory to the Schengen Agreement . 

Without needing to spend for a visa, keep an eye out for discounted flight fares during low peak seasons to get the best bang for your buck on this overseas trip. ✈️

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, history buffs, artsy students  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $43

Worn out after a college hell week? Escape to the popular Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, which is a paradise that fits every tourist’s budget. 🍹

Plan a picnic spread by the seaside with grub from affordable supermarkets like Aldi and the Walmart Neighborhood Market instead of giving tourist trap restaurants the time of day.

Looking for free entertainment? The Barefoot Landing has live music on selected days, and the Great American Summer Nights event offers live shows and fireworks at Broadway at the Beach. 🎆

👍 Best for: Beach bums, novelty seekers, spring breakers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $61

Compared to tourist hotspots like Barcelona or Paris, you can find cheaper round-trip flights in Porto that leave you with leftover pocket money. 😊

Hit up the affordable riverside neighborhood of Ribeira (which is also a UNESCO heritage site) located in this city’s old town, munching on fresh sardinhas assadas or grilled sardines served by cheap bars and watching the sunset while sipping this city’s world-famous port wine. 🍷

After a day’s activities at the Ribeira, head over to the enchanting library called the Livraria Lello and purchase a book as a souvenir (or pay the $5.50 admission fee instead).

Tired from touring around? Check-in at affordable hostels and guesthouses for around $35 a night. 😴

TIP: Get a Porto Card from the airport or tourist offices for discounts or free entrance to Porto’s attractions and commercial stores. If you plan to travel as the locals do, add a travel card for unlimited access to public transportation. 

Don’t forget to snap a photo of yourself with the famous blue-and-white tiled chapel called Capela das Almas in the Rua de Santa Catarina (and maybe sneak in some shopping) to complete your trip.

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, artsy students, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $47

Is relaxing in a laidback city with Southern hospitality your perfect getaway? Sounds like you can use some time in Savannah, Georgia. ✈️

Book dormitory-styled rooms at the local inns for around $25 to $30 a night with your friends, then slurp down happy hour oysters at Common for less than a dollar each or sip on three-dollar rosé glasses with a view at the Top Deck . 👯

Carrying alcoholic drinks around is possible in the Historic District because of its open-container policy . Cheers to drinking responsibly, right? 🍻

After filling your tummies, freely stroll through scenic spaces made famous by movies . You can step into the Forrest Gump bench scene at Chippewa Square or visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist at Lafayette Square, found in the 2019 version of Lady & The Tramp. 🎬

👍 Best for: History buffs, party animals, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $53

Soothe your study-induced stress by hiking and drinking (but not at the same time, okay? 😅) in Denver without busting your student budget. 

Nature lovers can take the scenic route along the 40-mile paved Cherry Creek Trail or stroll along Denver’s Botanic Gardens during Free Days , like Earth Day on April 22.

Parched from your outdoor activities? Quench your thirst with the local craft ales on the Denver Beer Trail, with around 100 taprooms to choose from . 🍺 

This city has plenty on offer for art lovers, too! Catch some of the limited free admission tickets at the Denver Art Museum or stop by the RiNo , the hub for creatives and a go-to place for a hip nightlife scene. 🎨

👍 Best for: Outdoorsy types, novelty seekers, artsy students 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $71

We’re out here proving that Europe shouldn’t be feared by tight-pocketed students. From historic palaces to modern entertainment hubs, Belgrade is one of the most accessible and affordable go-to travel spots . 👍

You may have to spend around $870 for roundtrip airfare, but your stay in the city is easier on the wallet with $4 authentic Serbian fast food, less-than-a-dollar bus fares, and $20-a-night accommodations . 

Are you a sucker for street art, concept stores, and hole-in-the-wall coffee shops? Take your pick of attractions while wandering around the trendy neighborhoods of Dorćol and Vračar , which are around 30 minutes away from each other by bus. 🚌

TIP : To save on transportation, pay for bus, tram, and trolley rides using an electronic card purchased from city kiosks or stores with a “Bus Plus” sticker. 

Despite the modern culture taking over, you can still see traces of the age-old city in places like the Belgrade Fortress (which was built in 279 BC), the old citadel, and Kalemegdan Park — all with free access 24/7 .

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, history buffs, artsy students  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $14

The bustling Big Apple may be known as a city with high price tags, but it’s also got diverse attractions for every budget if you know where to look. 👀

Trade your hours spent studying indoors for a good ol’ stroll around Central Park or join free walking tours to Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown , giving you a glimpse of NYC’s melting pot of cultures. 

Note: While these tours are advertised as “free,” it’s customary to tip the guide. 😄

Art and architecture buffs will have a field day inside the Guggenheim Museum (which has Pay-What-You-Wish Saturdays) and the Museum of Modern Art (free admission for students of selected schools ). 🖼️

Lastly, don’t forget to drop by Times Square for cheap pizza slices and street performances . 

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, artsy students, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $87

A vacation in Philadelphia — the historic heart of the American Revolution — can feel like a front-row seat to our nation’s history.

Head toward the Liberty Bell at the Independence National Historical Park and the Independence Hall where the 1776 Declaration of Independence was signed. 📃 Admission is free but may require a dollar fee for ticket reservations. 

Walk around 17th to 18th-century American buildings and colonial alleys (all for free) at Elfreth’s Alley , a national historic landmark. 

Make sure to stop by for some famous Philly cheesesteak at Pat’s King of Steaks or grab student-budget-friendly meals from the food trucks in the hundred-year-old Reading Terminal Market . 🌭

👍 Best for: History buffs, foodies, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $65

College stress will be miles away as soon as you’re nestled within this beautiful coastal village in Belize. 🌅

Who has time to worry about grades when snorkeling in clear waters and walking barefoot along the sands is freely accessible in Maya Beach or Seine Bight ? 🏖️

A two-for-one attraction can be found in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary , where you can hike and spot jaguars for around $5.

Let your hair down and fill your stomach with affordable authentic food from local eateries like Carmen’s and taprooms like Barefoot Bar (which has a Traveller’s Tuesday Happy Hour!). 🥳

👍 Best for: Beach bums, outdoorsy types, spring breakers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $32

The Croatian capital of Zagreb is bursting with old-world and avant-garde attractions, making this a fun but cheap travel destination for college students on a shoestring budget. However, keep in mind that a visa application will be an added expense . 

Marvel at 17th-century buildings in the oldest part of Zagreb: Gornji Grad (Upper Town). Then, grab an affordable sandwich with pršut at Pingvin while strolling along the busy Donji Grad (Lower Town). 🥪

On the lookout for something out-of-the-ordinary? Visit the quirkily-themed Museum of Broken Relationships displaying discarded items from ended relationships. 💔 It’s open every day, and you can enter for around $6 using your student ID. 

In the summer, the culturally curious can soak up street festivals involving artists and performers scattered around the city. Otherwise, a stroll down the art-splattered alleys of Branimirova Ulica will do just fine. 🚶

👍 Best for: History buffs, artsy students, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $28  

Beautiful scenery? Check. Bike-friendly? Check. Iconic food carts? Check. Stressed college students can come for a breather in Portland. 🍃

So, what can you expect in the “ City of Roses ?” You can stop and (literally) smell the roses for free at the International Rose Test Garden , then bask in nature at the Hoyt Arboretum . 🌹

Next, stuff yourself silly at the numerous food carts around the city, where even vegan meals come at student-friendly prices. Drop by The Saturday Market in Chinatown for some artisanal crafts shopping and take Instagram-worth snaps at the Alberta Arts District . 📸

👍 Best for: Outdoorsy types, foodies, novelty seekers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $57

Get ready for a sand -sational vacation in Cancun, Mexico! After being buried in schoolwork, you might just find the relaxing break you need in this tropical fun zone. 

Sunbathe at the free-to-access public beach Playa Delfines during the day and party all night in the Hotel Zone’s (Zona Hotelera) nightclubs, such as La Vaquita .🪩

Note: While American citizens don’t need a visa to fly to Mexico for leisure purposes, they may need a valid Mexico Tourist Card called Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM). Check out the instructions from the US Government and Mexico for updates.

Grab souvenirs to remember your trip from the Mercado 28 flea market, where you’ll find locally-made handicrafts, like a Mexican or Mayan-style hammock, for just a few pesos. 

Save on your accommodations by choosing to stay in budget hostels at El Centro (downtown Cancun), which have the added benefit of being close to the beaches and attractions. 🏨 

👍 Best for: Spring breakers, beach bums, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $40

This desert city is more than just the gateway to the Grand Canyon; in Phoenix, Arizona, you’ll find everything from A to Z. 😉

Time to get acquainted with stunning desert flora at the Desert Botanical Garden for free every second Tuesday of the month . As it is one of Phoenix’s top tourist spots, make sure to reserve your tickets in advance. 

Hiking on Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak to enjoy the views is also a great way to spend your day. ⛰️

If the heat becomes unbearable, cool down at the Phoenix Art Museum and be inspired by haute couture exhibitions, Latin American art, or Old Master paintings. You can pay whatever you like on Wednesdays. Otherwise, bring your student ID for sweet discounts . 💸

TIP: Plan your trip to Arizona on the first Friday of the month because this is when the streets of Roosevelt Row and Historic Grand Avenue districts come alive with art, food, and music. 

👍 Best for: Outdoorsy types, artsy students , novelty seekers  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $68

Buried in schoolwork and daydreaming about the day you can take a break? Boston might be the place to go, and you don’t need to be an avid Red Sox fan to know that this budget vacation is a home run!

Multiple Boston attractions in the Freedom Trail can help you unearth the city’s and America’s histories without spending a fortune through a free walking tour . 🚶

Along the way, look for the red-bricked buildings and cobblestoned road of Acorn Street to provide the best backgrounds for Instagram. 🧱 Then, you can visit the Institute of Contemporary Art for free every Thursday from 5 pm to 9 pm. 😄

Hungry after all that touring? Find locally sourced food (and specialty souvenirs) at the Boston Public Market . 

👍 Best for: History buffs, artsy students, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $80

Dubbed the “Smithsonian of the South,” Raleigh in North Carolina is abundant not only in museums but also in pleasant city amenities and attractions.

You can wander for free at North Carolina’s Museum of Art , Museum of History , and the Museum of Natural Sciences . 🦕 Prefer something outdoors? Wander into the floral wonderland of the JC Raulston Arboretum at absolutely no cost. 

The City of Oaks is also great for walking or biking around. 🚴 If you’re looking to get off the beaten track, hike or bike at the Capital Area Greenway Trail System . 

After all that sightseeing, grab a bite at the Morgan Street Food Hall and other local haunts like Sup Dogs that offer delicious food at student-budget-friendly prices. 😋

👍 Best for: Museum-goers, art lovers, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $66

Did watching Breaking Bad change your life? It’s about time that Albuquerque should be at the top of your list of places to visit. It’s also one of the cheapest travel destinations for college students!

More than just the filming locations for the iconic TV show, this New Mexican city is rich with cultural gems. Visit the Old Town to munch on enchiladas, buy locally-made trinkets, or watch the latest free events at the plaza , like flamenco and salsa dances. 💃

Check out the Albuquerque Museum (which is free on Sundays and the first Wednesday of the month) to learn about how this multicultural city was influenced by Native Americans and Latinos, among many other cultural groups. 🖼️

👍 Best for: History buffs, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $46

As the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin hits all the right notes to become one of the top cheap travel destinations for college students. 🎵

Pub crawlers and music fans alike will love walking down Sixth Street (Austin’s entertainment district) that’s bursting with live entertainment venues boasting cheap drinks. 🎶

In the morning, get some fresh air at Austin’s famous Zilker Park and head over to Lady Bird Lake to enjoy an afternoon of kayaking or canoeing (equipment rentals are priced from $15 to $25 per hour).  

All this exploring will definitely make you hungry, so stop by for some affordable chow at The Picnic , a food truck trailer park . 🚚

👍 Best for: Music lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $55

San Juan might just make American college students feel like they’re on a European vacation with its Spanish architecture, but there’s no passport required as Puerto Rico is considered a US territory. 🌎 Travel back in time at El Morro , a fortress completed in the 1700s used to protect this city. You need to pay a small admission fee of $10 per head, but certain holidays let you in for free.

Instagram-worthy photos are within reach in the Old San Juan historic district with its cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses. 📸 You can also find cocktails for around $10 at La Factoria , a hidden gem of a bar located in the same district. 

And, what’s a trip to tropical San Juan without hitting its free-to-enter seasides? Sunbathe on the Condado beach and go snorkeling at Escambron. 🤿

👍 Best for: Spring breakers, history buffs, party animals  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $70

You don’t need to shell out big bucks to take in the beautiful architecture and UNESCO world heritage sites when you have a crack at visiting Kraków, Poland.

First order of business: saunter into the Old Town and the Rynek Główny (Main Square) , where you can enter Cloth Hall to buy handicraft souvenirs or visit the 13th-century St. Mary’s Basilica. ⛪

The bustling nightlife doesn’t disappoint since any of the pubs in Kazimierz (a former Jewish quarter transformed into a trendy neighborhood) offer cheap beers and Polish vodka. Then, doze off after a night out in decent accommodations for around $25 . 😴

Find yourself full for less than $10 with authentic Polish street food like obwarzanek (a cross between a bagel and a pretzel) or a zapiekanka (an open-faced sandwich made using a baguette). 🤑

👍 Best for: History buffs, novelty seekers, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $19

From beautiful buildings to hearty meals, Prague is a city that you will definitely love to czech out. 😉

Getting to walk around Prague’s Old Town and across the iconic Charles Bridge while munching on a trdelnik (chimney cake) sold on the streets is possible on a roundtrip flight worth around $850. 💸 Consider checking out cheaper airfares to score better deals . 

Keep your eyes peeled up, down, and around for quirky street art installations like David Černý’s The Hanging Man near Bethlehem Chapel and the Piss installation fronting the Franz Kafka museum . 

If you’re starting to feel peckish after a day of exploring, visit any jídelna serving classic canteen-style Czech meals and feel full for around (or less than) the price of a burger-and-fries meal back home. 😋

Prague is also known for its party scene, and you can go bar-hopping at Wenceslas Square , one of this city’s main cultural and business centers.  

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, artsy students, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $38  

After a grueling semester, kick back and relax on the pristine beaches of Punta Cana without inflated expenses for a Caribbean getaway.

You won’t need to spend a dime to take a dip in the calm waters of the famous Bávaro Beach or Macao Beach or simply relax by the shore and admire the view. 😎

Adventurers on a budget can take advantage of affordable hiking trails to view spots usually hidden from tourists , like the Loma Linda mountain. ⛰️ The trail begins at Rancho Terranova where you pay around $5 to trek the private property toward the mountain or nearby waterfalls. 

Unwind with a happy hour Cuba libre (rum and coke) in a beachside pub and join dancers swaying to the beat of merengue music for a vacation to remember. 🕺

👍 Best for: Beach bums, spring breakers, outdoorsy types 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $43

With piles of schoolwork upon more schoolwork, you must be Hungary for an adventure. And guess what? You’ll find just what you need in the budget-friendly city of Budapest, with roundtrip flight prices going as low as $477. 😲

Get a breathtaking overview of the city from the terrace of the Fisherman’s Bastion to begin your trip. 🏰

Just a 15-minute walk away lies Buda Castle , the former royal palace which was transformed into the National Gallery and Budapest History Museum. Best of all, you can roam around these two popular attractions for free ! 🤩

Quench your thirst while meeting the locals at the city’s famed Ruin Bars (an old Jewish quarter with abandoned buildings), where you can find cheaply-priced booze.

Resting up for another day of adventure in Budapest on a budget is also possible, thanks to low-cost hostels going for $10 to $25 a night. 😴 

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, party animals, history buffs  💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $28

Tropic like it’s hot in Panama City, but don’t confuse this destination with Panama City Beach in Florida because this one’s in Central America. 🕶️

It’s recommended that tourists warm up by exploring Casco Antiguo , a former Spanish colonial plaza with everything from bars to museums . 🏛️

Parque Omar is another free-to-enter attraction that’s worth the trip. The large green park offers a wide range of activities, like having a picnic, swimming in the clean public pool, or joining a dance class. 💃

Wondering how you can explore the rest of the city without busting your wallet? The answer: ride the Metrobus for a trip that costs less than a dollar.

TIP: Remember to buy a Metrocard from the Albrook bus station or a supermarket to use before riding the MetroBus because they don’t accept cash. 

👍 Best for: Novelty seekers, outdoorsy types, history buffs 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $26

Whether you grew up obsessed with Disney’s Hercules or the live-action film 300 , visiting Athens can have you greek – ing out. 🤓

Planning your trip during academic breaks opens a lot of doors, like a free close-up of ancient Greek artifacts at the Acropolis or museums showcasing Greek folk music instruments available on selected days from March to May.  

After traveling back in time, you can explore modern-day Greece via the Psiri street art, discover hidden city gems guided by locals on a free walking tour , or wander along the narrow streets of Plaka and score some souvenirs. 🖼️

👍 Best for: History buffs, novelty seekers, outdoorsy types 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $46

Sometimes, college can be overwhelming and you just want to get away from it all. While everyone’s escaping to the Caribbean, why don’t you take time off in Bucharest? 😀

Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready when you pass by historical landmarks like the Palace of Parliament (one of the largest administrative buildings in the world) and the postcard-worthy Calea Victoriei area in the city center during sunset. 🌇

Cheaply priced admission fees and student discounts can be expected when you visit the National History Museum and the Suţu Palace to learn more about Romania’s significant events. 

All that walking is bound to make you hungry, so grab a bite of cheap street eats like covrigi (pretzels) . Then, explore some more when you walk around the streets of Lipscani, the city’s charming Old Town filled with cafes, pubs, street performers, galleries, and boutiques.🚶

👍 Best for: History buffs, novelty seekers, party animals 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $45

Yearning for a Caribbean getaway? This tropical Jamaican paradise deserves a place on your travel wishlist!

Soak up some sun along Seven Mile Beach, a paradise of white sand and emerald sea . 🤩 The best part? It’s free to the public, with guards patrolling to ensure visitor safety and enough space for everyone. 

Thrillseekers can find just what they’re looking for at cliff-jumping hotspots like Rick’s Cafe , which also has a good view of the sunset. 

Of course, what’s a trip to Jamaica without enjoying some reggae music? Jam at the Jungle Night Club or sit back and relax to classical reggae during live music nights at The Roots Café . 🎶

👍 Best for: Spring breakers, beach bums, music lovers 💰 Average daily spend for a budget-conscious traveler: $45

6 Tips for Affordable Traveling for College Students

Cheap flights are a good reason to plan a college trip, but having a blast while staying within your budget is what makes it memorable. These six tips are bound to give you the #BestVacationEver. 

Research your itinerary to know your estimated expenses at least six months before your trip so you’ll know how much to spend on your flight, food, accommodation, travel insurance, and tours. 💸

Start by checking and making your student budget and figuring out how long it will take to save up for your trip. If your current savings need a boost, consider doing side hustles . 

Note: Don’t forget to set aside some cash for emergencies , like flight cancellations or losing your passport. 😲

READ MORE: 15 Best Summer Jobs for College Students (With Killer Perks!)

Popular hotels tend to be near the action, but they also come with a hefty price tag. The good thing is that there are tons of cheaper options available. 🏨

You can stay in hostels which can be great for groups traveling on a shoestring budget, or meet some residents by checking into homey inns run by locals or via Couchsurfing .

If you want a place all to yourself, find an Airbnb or stay with a friend who lives in the area . 😄

This requires one thing you must always have with you: your student ID . Use this to score free or discounted museum admissions, flights , and public transportation fares. 🪪

READ MORE: Sweet Discounts for College Students You Might Not Know About

Hailing taxis or booking Ubers in a foreign city can be intimidating and expensive. You have two options to get from point A to B as cheaply as possible: take advantage of public transportation or find a walkable or bike-friendly city . 🚶

If you go with the first option, you can check out tourist guides online or YouTube videos about the city’s public transportation, fares, and routes. 

Expect cities or beaches to be crowded and overpriced during peak season. It’s important to anticipate which months are too popular so that you can find a better alternative because no one wants to swim at the beaches of Puerto Rico if you’re packed like sardines. 

Since this can differ among locations, research will be your wallet’s best friend here. ✅

Consider the Goldilocks window — or the period when the best rates are found — to secure the cheapest airfares. 

Here’s how it’s done: book one to three months ahead for domestic flights and two to eight months ahead for international flights . ✈️

Do this by checking for available dates on budget airlines then make the deal sweeter by setting alerts on days when ticket prices are at their lowest (typically on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) .  

Use flight comparison sites like Kayak or Expedia as references to book directly on the airline which has the lowest price or the better deal. 🤑

Even if college students don’t always have the luxury of time and money, who’s to say it’s impossible to travel? 

With this list of 28 cheap travel destinations for college students, you’re ready to discover new places without breaking the bank. Bon voyage! ⛵

Where is the cheapest place to travel out of the US?

Cheap travel destinations that US college students can consider are Mexico, Central American countries like Panama, Puerto Rico, Belize, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, or Eastern European countries like Serbia, Croatia, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Romania because the US dollar can go a long way when converted to their local currency.

How can a college student travel on a budget?

1. Plan a budget-friendly itinerary 2. Book cheaper local accommodations 3. Maximize your student discounts 4. Learn how the public transportation system works  5. Arrange your visit during the off-season 6. Book flights with the best value

What factors should you consider to keep travel costs to a minimum?

If you don’t want to stretch your college student travel budget, traveling to places that are geographically near, are walkable or bike-friendly, and have an excellent public transportation system is the way to go.

How much does the average college student spend on travel?

The average daily travel expense for college students going on domestic trips is $144, while traveling internationally averages $271 per day. However, this can vary based on many factors, like your accommodation type, the time of year, and chosen activities. 

What is the best place to visit during spring break?

The best places to visit during spring break are:

1. Daytona Beach, Florida 2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 3. Placencia, Belize 4. Cancun, Mexico 5. San Juan, Puerto Rico 6. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic 7. Negril, Jamaica

What are cheap travel destinations in Europe?

These are the cheap European travel destinations for college students on a budget:

1. Andalucia, Spain  2. Porto, Portugal 3. Belgrade, Serbia 4. Zagreb, Croatia 5. Krakow, Poland 6. Prague, Czech Republic 7. Budapest, Hungary 8. Athens, Greece 9. Bucharest, Romania

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13 Best College Student Travel Programs [Locations, Reviews, Tips, & Prices]

Table of contents.

Ever dreamed of feeding a baby elephant in Thailand, or conserving turtle habitats in Bali? What about teaching English at local schools in Vietnam, or coaching sports in South Africa? If any of these sound like fun to you—you’ve come to the right place! Our college student travel programs give you the opportunity to do all of this and more. 

Traveling is one of the most rewarding things that a college student can do. A survey by the Student and Youth Travel Association found that 69% of teachers say student travel increases independence and confidence, and 66% say respectfulness and ability to adapt. 

So why don’t more college students like you travel? Well, it can be overwhelming and confusing , because it’s hard to plan a trip abroad, make an itinerary, and know where you can volunteer and make community impacts. We’re here to help!

At Further Travel , our mission is to help college students travel sustainably, learn skills, make a difference, and make new friends. 87% of travelers want to travel more sustainably, and we’re helping them do so. Since the acquisition of Invasion by Intrax in 2021, we’ve worked with thousands of students to match them to the best travel program while keeping the entire process easy. 

On our travel programs, you’ll volunteer at local schools, complete community service projects, and even work on animal and marine life conservation! In fact, each person who books with us equals one tree planted. 

Below are our 13 best college student travel programs:

• Camp Bali: 20-Day Explorer
• Camp Bali: 20-Day Island Hopper
• Camp Bali: 10-Day Adventure
• Camp Thailand: Camp Elephant
• Camp Thailand: 12-Day Adventure
• Camp Thailand: Island Explorer
• Camp Thailand: Ultimate Adventure
• Camp South Africa: Sports Coaching & English Teaching
• Camp South Africa: Animal Conservation
• Camp Philippines: Island Experience
• Camp Maldives: Island Experience
• Camp Europe: Eurotrip
• Camp Vietnam & Cambodia: Combo

Camp Bali: College Student Travel Volunteering & Conservation

From turtle conservation to monkey forest visits, Camp Bali is the perfect destination for college students who want to make an impact while visiting a tropical Asian country. 

The beautiful wildlife and stunning beaches get you some pretty amazing photo ops–you might even be able to check out The Most Instagrammable Spots in Bali . 

From surfing lessons to community service—Camp Bali has something for you!

20-Day Explorer [From £1,499]

The beauty and culture of Bali make it the perfect destination for college students . On our 20-Day Explorer program, you’ll visit Ubud, Seminyak, and Nusa Penida, where you’ll do activities like:

• Learn to surf
• Teach English at local schools
• Help out with turtle conservation
• Raft white water rapids
• Snorkel in coral reefs
• Visit monkey forests

This ultimate itinerary includes everything you need to learn about the amazing Bali culture and help out with local school projects. Most importantly, you’ll meet tons of people who love to travel and give back sustainably—just like you!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Camp Bali 📍🌎 (@campbali)

20-Day Island Hopper [From £1,549]

Sunset yoga, turtle conservation, waterfalls–the 20-Day Island Hopper program has it all. Visit Seminyak, Ubud, Lombok, and the Gili Islands where you’ll get a once-in-a-lifetime experience of Bali’s famous destinations and local views. 

The best thing about this travel program is the opportunity to make it your own. On our beach days, choose between surfing, snorkeling, or just soaking up the Bali sun. In Kuta, take some time to unwind with paddle boarding, group surf lessons, or local shopping—it’s up to you! On our Gili Trawangan beach day, you can create your own itinerary with these options:

• Do some extra scuba-diving
• Rent a bike and cycle around town
• Kayak and paddleboard
• Book a traditional yoga or meditation class

Most importantly, you’ll meet an amazing group of people and make lifelong friends. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Brooke🌴 (@brookemegantravels_)

10-Day Adventure [From £1,099]

Looking for something a little more affordable, or looking to fit travel into your busy schedule? Our Camp Bali 10-Day Adventure’s got you covered!

This travel program is jam-packed with the best Bali hot spots of our full trip. You’ll take surfing lessons, visit the monkey forest, do a community service project, and board a boat for some white water rafting. This travel program features incredible historical attractions, like the Lempuyang Temple, one of the oldest temples in Bali!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ella keatley-phoenix (@ellakp_)

Trying new foods when traveling is definitely at the top of our bucket list. In Bali, you’ll have the opportunity to broaden your palate with fresh and clean foods. In fact, Bali is big on clean eating, with tons of vegetarian and vegan foods for our veggie friends! If you’re not sure what to try or a little intimidated by the dish names, check out The Best Food To Try In Bali !

Camp Thailand: Learn & Explore With This College Student Travel Program

Camp Thailand is one of our top choices for college student travel. Volunteering opportunities, elephant conservation, cultural destinations, natural views—Camp Thailand has everything you’re looking for in a travel program. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Camp Thailand 🇹🇭🏝🐘 (@campthailand)

Check out our Camp Thailand programs below!

Camp Elephant [From £1,449]

Camp Elephant is your all-in-one stop for learning about elephant conservation and history. Even better, you get to live out the dream of taking mud baths with baby elephants! You’ll visit elephant sanctuaries at:

• Elephant Haven: A partner with Camp Thailand for 5 years now, Elephant Haven lets you meet the elephants, walk with them through the jungle, prepare their food and feed them their favorites, and even take a mud bath with them in the lake!
• Kui Buri: Take a look at elephants roaming freely in the beautiful Kui Buri national park, photograph wild elephants, and ask any questions you have about these amazing creatures!
• Petchaburi: Visit the Wildlife Friends Foundation Elephant and Animal Sanctuary where you learn the stories of the rescued elephants, take a tour and learn about the other animals (including tigers!), and prepare food for the elephants. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Louise Blanche (@loublanchexx)

While the elephants are the star of the show, Camp Elephant has a diverse itinerary! You’ll create your own Pad-Thai at traditional Thai cooking lessons, visit the 9 waterfalls of Erawan National Park, visit Black Mountain Water Park, and take a yoga class! For 4 days, teach English at local schools and orphanages to give back to the local community. Camp Thailand participant Hannah shared that working with kids on this trip is something she’ll remember forever!

12-Day Adventure [From £999]

Camp Thailand’s 12-Day Adventure is our cheapest travel program for college students. Starting at £999, this program includes the ultimate itinerary:

• Elephant sanctuary visit
• Phi-Phi Viewpoint
• Hot spring visit
• Tiger Temple
• Emerald Pools

Visit the perfect locations: Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Krabi! This travel program is the best way to visit Thailand’s hot spots, learn about the local culture, and relax at the stunning beaches and springs. 

20-Day Island Explorer [From £1,549]

20-Day Island Explorer is the ultimate Camp Thailand program. It gives you the perfect balance of Thailand activities, from cultural experiences to relaxing on beautiful Thailand beaches! 

On our Island Explorer program, you’ll visit the amazing island destinations of:

• Phuket: In Phuket, take in the breathtaking views, visit the Big Buddha statue, learn Muay Thai boxing, teach in local schools, visit an elephant sanctuary, and enjoy a barbeque on the beach!
• Koh Phi Phi: Take a ferry to explore the islands of Koh Phi Phi, boat tour to local hotspots like Monkey Beach, and watch fire shows.
• Krabi: Climb 1,273 steps to visit Tiger Cave Temple, visit the Emerald Pools, explore Railay Beach, and embark on another island hopping tour!

This program gives you the opportunity to teach children in local schools and make a real difference for them. Past camper Laura said “When you teach the children in schools you form a close bond with them, which is a great experience; you’re given support before you [teach] and teach in pairs so anybody who may not be experienced in a classroom has the support of another member of the group.” If teaching seems a little intimidating, we’re here for you!

Most importantly, you’ll make lifelong friends who love traveling and giving back just as much as you do! It really does have everything you could ever want. We hope to see you there!

21-Day Ultimate Adventure [From £1,599]

If you’re looking for a tour that encompasses all of Thailand’s beauty and wonder, our 21-Day Ultimate Adventure is the perfect travel program for you. This program combines the wonders of all of Camp Thailand’s programs, so you can have the craziest all-in-one trip of a lifetime.

Our most travel-oriented tour, you’ll visit Phuket, Bangkok, Singburi, Hau Hin, Kanchanaburi, Khao Sok, Koh Phi Phi, and Krabi! Take part in all of these amazing activities:

• Bangkok River Tour: Use your IG selfie skills to get some beautiful pics on the water!
• Temple visits: Get to know Thailand culture and history at Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Golden Mountain.
• Lopburi Monkey Island: Where monkeys and humans live in harmony, this island is a must-see in Thailand!
• Erawan Falls: Explore all 9 waterfalls in Erawan National Park and make stops at the waterfall slide and fish spa along the way.
• Elephant Sanctuary: Spend an entire day feeding, caring for, and learning about the majestic elephant! You’ll even have the opportunity to take a selfie with an elephant. 
• Floating markets: A perfect way to get to know Thai culture, the Ratchaburi floating market is famous for its traditional food, crafts, and souvenirs. 
• Muay Thai boxing classes: Try out this traditional sport loved by Thai communities to get even closer with the culture!
• National parks & caves: Visit Phraya Nakhon Cave, Khao Sok National Park, and Tiger Cave.
• Fun on the water: Kayak around Khao Sok, explore on a boat safari tour, take a dip in the Emerald Pools and hot springs, and have some free beach days where you can scuba dive!
• Island hopping: Tour Koh Phi Phi islands and visit stunning beaches like Railay Beach.

This travel program really does have everything you could ever want!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natalie Ann Barrientoss (@natalie_bazzer)

Camp South Africa: Students Making A Difference

From teaching local students and coaching sports to working with animal conservation organizations, Camp South Africa is the perfect way for college students to make a difference. 

Work with some amazing kids, learn about local wildlife, and get to know your camp friends with weekend activities with our Camp South Africa travel programs!

Sports Coaching & English Teaching [From £1,449]

Making a difference in a community is easier than ever with our Camp South Africa Sports Coaching and English Teaching travel program!

Here, you’ll spend 5 weeks getting to know local township communities, helping kids with their Math and English assignments, and coaching sports like netball, hockey, rugby, and football. Since football is such a widely-loved sport in South Africa , some of the kids might even coach you!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Camp South Africa 🇿🇦 (@campsouthafrica)

On the weekends, you’re free to do whatever fun stuff you want to with these optional activities:

• Bungee jumping
• Shark cage diving
• Safari & game reserves drives
• Canoeing trips
• Waterfall visits
• Boat trips & snorkeling

(Note: optional activities come at an additional cost and are subject to availability).

This program is our only one open to 17 year olds too, so come get some great volunteering experience before you even head off to college!

Animal Conservation [From £1,349]

Do you love animals and want to make a difference in their lives while traveling to a bucket list destination? Our Camp South Africa Animal Conservation travel program has it all! See the Big Five (lions, leopards, buffalo, elephants, and rhinos), feed and care for reserve animals, participate in wildlife lectures, and maintain the reserve facility. 

On the weekends, you’re free to participate in these fun optional activities:

• Bayworld Natural History Museum
• Seeing wild penguins in Cape Recife
• Sardinia Bay Beach
• Storms River Bridge
• BayWest Mall

(Note: optional activities come at an additional cost and are subject to availability). 

Camp Philippines Island Experience [From £1,499]

Camp Philippines Island Experience lets college students teach local communities and clean up beautiful beaches, all while visiting stunning Philippines main spots and participating in once in a lifetime fun!

You’ll experience a perfect balance of exciting city life and relaxing tropical views. You’ll make a difference in the lives of kids by visiting local schools. You’ll even help out the locals and support marine life by cleaning up the beach!

Explore one of the most beautiful places in the world, while helping out the community and making lifetime memories—you won’t regret visiting Camp Philippines!

Camp Maldives Island Experience [From £1,999]

Do you want to travel to a bucket list destination while helping preserve the wildlife? Walk off the beaten path and get a real cultural experience with the Island Experience program!

At Camp Maldives , you’ll work with Save The Beach to clean up the beach, plant coral, conduct reef surveys, clean coral frames, and assess coral health for their online database. Learn about marine conservation in an interactive way, while actively helping out the local community and environment! 

Alongside helping marine life, you will help ecosystems on land! You’ll get to learn about seagrass conservation, local flora and fauna, and give back by planting coconut palm trees. 

Not only will you have the rewarding experience of helping the environment in a local community, but you will take part in activities like:

• Optional scuba diving
• Island exploring
• Paddle boarding
• Cooking class
• Rooftop pool

Camp Europe Eurotrip [From £2,499]

With 7 countries and an unlimited list of activities, Camp Eurotrip is our most customizable camp experience! Camp Eurotrip is the party destination travel program.

All of the destinations you’ll visit have so many opportunities for exploration:

• Paris, France: Check out the local cafes, take part in bar crawls, and experience “The City of Light’s” nightlife. Take a boat tour around the city or a walking tour to visit hotspots like Notre Dame de Paris, the Louvre, and the Parc des Tuileries. Book tickets for Moulin Rouge or snap some amazing Instagram pics at Montmartre!
• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Visit the best Amsterdam bars and explore this amazing city. Head to the Anne Frank House, take a tour through the Heineken Factory, and check out Rijksmuseum, the largest museum in the city—the possibilities are endless!
• Berlin, Germany: Berlin is famous for its beer, so head to Hofbräuhaus and later, soak it up with some currywurst! Visit the Reichstag Building, take our private walking tour of the city, and take part in the amazing nightlife at raves and modern clubs. 
• Prague, Czech Republic: Explore beautiful cultural monuments, ride beer bikes around the city, visit Charles Bridge, or even climb the 299 steps up to Petrin Tower. Check out the nightlife at the largest club in Europe—Club Karlovy Lazne. 
• Budapest, Hungary: Take part in SPArty time at the world-famous thermal bath, one of the biggest events in Hungary. Take a sightseeing tour along the river, tour historical monuments, and of course–enjoy Hungarian beer at the best bars in the city!
• Ljubljana, Slovenia: Explore this beautiful European city and visit Ljubljana Castle. Take a day trip to Lake Bled, where you’ll get your adrenaline up on the toboggan and take in the sights of the lake. 
• Venice & Rome, Italy: Visit two of the most iconic cities in Italy. Get lost in the ancient architecture and don’t miss hot spots like the famous Rialto Bridge and the Colosseum. 

(Note: some of these activities require prior booking– contact us if you need help or tips!)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Camp EuroTrip (@campeurotrip)

Camp Vietnam & Cambodia [From £1,899]

Camp Vietnam and Cambodia is one of our most exciting travel programs for college students , with visits to bustling cities, beautiful wildlife, famous temples, and giving back to the community! You’ll travel to a variety of destinations while learning about and experiencing the amazing culture of these places. 

Most importantly, teach English at a local school, do community service projects in Angkor Kreav, and clean up the beach in Cam Thanh village. Popular with students, many say that these community activities are the highlights of their trip!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Camp Vietnam✈️ (@campvietnam)

College Student Travel Programs with Sustainability & Culture

Further Travel is dedicated to our four pillars of travel:

• Fun: Laughter and the friendships you make while traveling are important to Further Travel. Alongside volunteering and cultural impacts , you’ll have some of the most fun, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
• Community: 80% of our travelers are solo travelers, so travel with us to make lifelong friendships with people like you!
• Culture: At the heart of Further Travel, we care about giving back to the communities we visit and gaining authentic cultural experiences. Our programs are designed to give you the best possible cultural experience and get you off the beaten track!
• Volunteer: Giving back is important, and that’s why Further Travel offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities, from animal conservation, teaching English, beach clean up, and planting trees–have a rewarding experience and know you are making a difference. For our teaching programs, you’ll even get your Young Learner’s Qualification.

We know how hard it can be to plan a trip, learn about local activities, and get your friends together—which is why we offer the best college student travel programs so that you can expand your global knowledge and make a real difference, all while making forever friends. 

Want to learn more? Check out our FAQs . Email us or call 0161 222 3780 to get started on planning your trip of a lifetime. 

We hope to see you soon!

FurtherTravel

Where to find the best volunteer abroad opportunities for students [2024 + 2025 guide], study abroad programmes with a twist: how to get paid, do good, and have fun, thailand island tour guide: travel hop with camp thailand, from conservation to celebration: visit thailand party islands with purpose, turtle conservation bali: join further travel to save precious turtles, a guide to volunteering with elephants at camp thailand, voluntourism: working with animal volunteer organizations in your travels, life changing travel, bucket list experiences.

Bucket list activities, experience local culture, and make a difference to local communities in mind blowing destinations around the world. This is Intravelr.

Dave's Travel Corner

Seeing the World One Step at a Time

Best Places for College Students to Travel

September 15, 2023 by Lindsey Cyprus Leave a Comment

Travel Destinations for Students in USA Living on a limited budget is sometimes a requirement for college students. You do not have to put off your desire to travel, though. There are many inexpensive, cheap places for college students to travel. In this part, we’ll look at several US locations where you may have a wonderful trip without spending a fortune. So prepare to discover these pocket-friendly treasures by packing your luggage.

New Orleans, Louisiana New Orleans, well-known for its vibrant culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and exciting music scene, is a great vacation spot for students on a tight budget. Discover the city’s historic French Quarter, enjoy delicious beignets, and attend live jazz concerts in one of the numerous pubs or clubs. The city of New Orleans is an excellent option for budget-conscious tourists since lodging costs are very affordable.

Asheville, North Carolina Students who enjoy the outdoors will find a peaceful haven in Asheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Discover the magnificent Biltmore Estate, trek along the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway, and stroll through the unique downtown district full of independent shops and art galleries. You may enjoy the beauty of the mountains without breaking the bank due to the abundance of hostels and cheap lodging options.

Austin, Texas Austin is the world’s live music capital and a cost-effective vacation spot for broke college students. Explore the city’s open areas, enjoy the local food truck culture, and enjoy free outdoor events and performances. The city has inexpensive hostels and low-cost hotels, so your stay won’t break the bank.

Traveling as a college student on a tight budget is feasible, especially if you pick the right places to go. With this affordable travel in the US cities, you may discover new things and create priceless experiences without exceeding your finances. Don’t allow your budgetary constraints to prevent you from experiencing the thrill of these low-cost US vacation spots.

As a matter of fact, CustomWritings , a professional essay writing service, understands the challenges of college life, and they are here to support you with your academic essays, so you can make the most of your travel experiences. Travel writing, meticulously crafted by experienced academic writers, offers insightful perspectives on diverse destinations and cultural experiences.

Tokyo, Japan: Embrace Modernity and Tradition Japan’s capital city Tokyo is where traditional culture and cutting-edge technology coexist. College students may visit renowned historical sites like Senso-ji and Meiji Shrine, Shibuya’s neon-lit alleys, and Akihabara’s futuristic atmosphere, the world’s electronic and anime culture center. Don’t forget to have sushi at a neighborhood izakaya or sing with some pals at karaoke.

Bali, Indonesia: Paradise for Nature Lovers and Beach Bums Bali is the solution for people looking for a tropical paradise on a tight budget. This Indonesian island, well-known for its beautiful rice terraces, colorful coral reefs, and relaxed attitude, is ideal for college students searching for the greatest trips. Discover Ubud’s cultural center, catch some waves in Kuta, or unwind on Nusa Dua’s tranquil beaches.

Seoul, South Korea: A Blend of Tradition and Pop Culture Ancient castles and temples coexist peacefully with modern K-pop and fashion in Seoul, South Korea’s bustling metropolis. Explore the ancient alleyways of Bukchon Hanok Village, indulge in delicious street fare in Myeongdong, and get immersed in the intriguing realm of Korean popular culture.

Traveling in Asia as a college student allows you to step out of your comfort zone, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient traditions, eager to explore vibrant cities, or simply want to relax on beautiful beaches in summer, Asia has something for everyone.

Top Places to Travel for College Students: Unforgettable Destinations Traveling during your college years is not just an escape from the routine of classes and exams; it’s a journey of growth and exploration. To help you make the most of this exciting phase, we’ve compiled a list of the top places to travel for college students. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, or unforgettable adventures, these destinations have something unique to offer.

Barcelona, Spain Barcelona is a lively city that skillfully combines a rich past with a contemporary, international vibe. You will be mesmerized as a college student by Antoni Gaud’s landmark buildings, such as the well-known Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Enjoy delicious tapas while strolling along the colorful La Rambla and enjoying the city’s world-famous nightlife. The stunning beaches of Barcelona provide the ideal getaway from your academic responsibilities.

New York City, USA For an urban adventure, there’s no place like New York City. The Big Apple is a melting pot of cultures, offering an array of experiences for college students. Visit iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. Explore world-class museums, enjoy diverse cuisine, and catch a Broadway show. The city’s energy is infectious, and you’ll be inspired by its endless possibilities.

Prague, Czech Republic Prague is a fairytale city that is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Europe. As a college student, you’ll value the low cost of living in this ancient city. Tour the Prague Castle, explore the picturesque Old Town Square, and indulge in regional specialties. The city’s strong arts scene and exciting nightlife make it an excellent choice for culture and entertainment.

College is a transformative period in your life, and travel is an essential part of that journey. The fun places mentioned here are just the tip of the iceberg regarding the world’s incredible destinations to explore. So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and make the most of your college years – one destination at a time. Your academic responsibilities can wait, but the world is yours to discover now.

College is a time for learning, self-discovery, and making lifelong experiences . Traveling is a fantastic way to do all three during your college years. There are many chances for college students worldwide, from walking through the ancient alleys of Europe to soaking in the sun on an Asian beach. There are affordable travel destinations suitable to your interests, regardless of whether you have a limited budget or are willing to splurge. Pack your luggage, get your tickets, and embark on a journey to extend your horizons and enhance your college experience. Remember to maximize your college experience both inside and outside of the classroom.

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Top Student Travel Destinations In The U.S. (2021 Edition)

• Organizing a trip

Looking for inspiration on where in the U.S. to travel with your students? Drawing on data from 389 trips that WeTravel's userbase is currently organizing, we highlight some of the top student travel destinations for the upcoming months.

The locations have exciting educational and recreational opportunities for many types of student travel. Based on our data, they are the top choices for bands, orchestras, marching bands, classes, elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, senior year bashes, grad nights, and more.

Whether you're interested in historical monuments, landmark sites, world-famous culture, outdoor fun, or thrilling amusement parks, these spots have it all. Here are the most popular travel destinations you might consider when organizing student trips in the near future.

Top Student Travel Destinations In The U.S. According To WeTravel’s Userbase

The graph below shows a breakdown by destination of 389 student travel trips currently being organized by WeTravel’s userbase. 

In writing, we'll look in more detail at why these might be popular locations for student travel. We'll also touch on the most common trip types going to each of the top ten destinations.

Orlando, Florida, tops our list of top student travel destinations. It’s the most popular destination for the student travel organizers in our userbase, with close to a quarter of the total trips destined for the city. 

Of course, you can’t talk about Orlando as a student travel destination without mentioning Disney and theme parks! There’s Walt Disney World as well as Universal Studios and Discovery Cove.

However, there are other highlights to Orlando tourism. According to our userbase, it’s popular for student choir trips, band trips, visits to dance studios, and theatres, among other highlights.

2. Washington D.C.

It's no surprise that Washington D.C., the federal capital, is next on the list of popular student travel locations. The place is filled with history and politics, and there are loads of important memorials and monuments for young minds to see and learn about.

You can host class trips to visit places like Capitol Hill, the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, the Washington Monument, the Smithsonian, and plenty more. And let’s not forget the many top universities here that are great for student visits.

Aside from the above, Washington is also a popular destination with our userbase for band trips.

3. New York

In student travel, the Big Apple is a hub for the arts. It’s a destination where you can visit  famous museums , galleries, theatres, universities, and more.

Students can catch a production on Broadway, learn about Wall Street Finance, admire monuments like the Statue of Liberty, explore Central Park, or just enjoy the street food and unique culture of one of America’s great cities.

As to be expected, some of the popular reasons for going to New York include class trips, marching bands, gallery visits, choir, orchestra, and theatre excursions, as well as Christmas trips.

Rebecca Nurse Homestead: Image from Facebook

Danvers, Massachusetts, has a place in history alongside Salem and the witch trials. Some of the top sites to visit and learn about here include the Rebecca Nurse Homestead and the Witch Trials Memorial.

Besides those famous sites, plenty of other worthy attractions make this pretty town one of the top student travel destinations. You can take your class to places like the Samuel Parris Archaeological Site and beautiful Endicott Park.

It is also extremely popular among schools for musical and choir trips.

5. Randolph

The town of Randolph in Massachusetts is conveniently situated for access to a number of world-class arts and entertainment venues. Expect to find Victorian-era homes and railroad architecture lining the streets, making it a fascinating destination to visit.

Top of the highlights list for student travel to Randolph includes the Chandler Center for Arts , a renowned performance venue.

Aside from that, you will find art studios, country inns, shops, and restaurants in this pedestrian-friendly town. Plus, it is surrounded by working farms and more than 240 miles of mapped trails for biking, hiking, cross-country, back-country skiing, and more.

Typically, our userbase visits the town for various entertainment and music trips; some of the popular ones being comedy and hypnosis.

6. Nashville

Tennessee’s capital city has always been a hit destination for students. This is mostly because of the incredible music scene that Nashville has to offer.

Any music fan will have the time of their lives seeing the many famous country music venues. There’s the Country Music Hall of Fame , the Johnny Cash Museum, Grand Ole Opry House, and many more music landmarks.

Nashville is an absolute treasure trove of musical attractions, historical sites, and art and culture for your student trips. 

Branson, Missouri, is an Ozark town jam-packed with fun activities. The town is famous for its theatre-lined 76 Country Boulevard, full of music and entertainment venues.

Then there’s the Silver Dollar City 1800’s themed amusement park, Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Diner, the Hollywood Wax Museum, The Marvel Cave, and plenty more.

This town also has many exciting outdoor recreational activities on offer. You can go zip-lining, fishing, go-karting, and enjoy the beautiful lakes surrounding the city. There is even visit a replica of the Titanic to see!

Between the museums, the entertainment, the unique sights, and the action-packed attractions, Branson is certainly one of the top student travel destinations for classes, bands, and choir trips.

Anaheim, just outside Los Angeles in California, is a popular trip choice for more senior students. Not only is Disneyland close by, but so is the Honda Center indoor arena, Angel stadium , and Adventure City. It’s the perfect base for students to explore Los Angeles and San Diego. 

Between the theme parks, rides, restaurants, hotels, sporting events, and shops, there is loads of fun to be had here. Understandably, the top trip types traveling to Anaheim are for seniors and grad nights.

9. Bird-in-Hand

Bird-in-hand is a totally unique destination for student travel. This unincorporated community in Pennsylvania is a picture-perfect village with a large Amish and Mennonite population. It’s certainly a quiet place to visit. However, there’s an authentic country feeling here that you just can’t experience in other towns.

From the farmer's market to nearby fruit farms and horse buggy rides, there's plenty of outdoor fun to be had here. You could be adventurous and take students on a hot air balloon ride or use Bird-in-Hand as a base to explore the surrounding Amish country.

10. Charleston

This South Carolina city has become a sought-after destination for U.S. tourism. Charleston is one of the top student travel destinations thanks to its historic center, battery promenade, waterfront park, and historic plantation sites surrounding the city.

Students can learn all about the fascinating history of this city through the various museums and landmark sites. Beyond the history of Charleston, it's also become a trendy city with exciting food, music, and cultural scenes. It's a popular location for class and Christmas excursions.

And there you have it; the ten most popular student travel destinations in the U.S., based on active trip data. From musical tours to class getaways or choir performances, there is an ideal location for your school.

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The 10 best places to travel as a student

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For beaches: Albania

For nightlife: madrid, spain, for island life: croatia, for making friends: slovenia, for the great outdoors: morocco, for bucket-list experiences: rajasthan, india, for local culture: cuba, for a working holiday: northern territory, australia.

Travel is the best form of procrastination and as a student, with those long holidays full of faraway deadlines, it's almost inevitable you're going to want to get away. Flights are cheaper than ever before, so there's no excuse whatever your budget. Whatever our preference, here are some of the best places to spend your student breaks.

The beaches of the rugged Albanian Riviera are picture perfect, nestled in secluded coves and lapped by crystal clear-waters. The coastline is dotted with traditional villages, and there are budget hotels and restaurants by the dozen.

Travellers inevitably find themselves staying longer than planned, whiling away their days on the beach with an ice-cold beer in hand – after all, this is one of the cheapest places in Europe to enjoy a lager (or two).

With everything starting so late (don’t expect lunch till about 4pm and dinner certainly not before 9pm), you’ll find yourself partying here until sunrise – at least.

The Spanish capital is home to scores of wild bars, pubs and clubs catering to all musical tastes where you can dance your socks off as you knock down some potent drinks.

You’ll probably find yourself in a café eating churros with chocolate for breakfast – the fried dough pastry is perfect for soaking up that pounding hangover.

© Rafael Ramirez Lee/Shutterstock

If you fancy sailing, secluded coves and beach parties then look no further than the islands of the Croatian archipelago. They also attract their share of cyclists – there are peaceful coastal routes offering gorgeous views.

Trendy Hvar Island is packed with stylish bars and clubs, while Brac retains a traditional feel with picturesque fishing villages, vineyards and olive groves.

City Harbour of the town of Hvar, on the island of Hvar, the Adriatic coast of Croatia © rustamank/Shutterstock

Slovenia is a peaceful country with areas of outstanding natural beauty. At tourist farms friendly hosts serve home-cooked organic food. You’ll be able to experience rural events and learn about farm life while making friends with welcoming and hospitable souls.

Ptuj, Slovenia © Ondra Vacek/Shutterstock

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From mighty forts to grand castles, Rajasthan has some of India’s most impressive architectural monuments. And while it may be a bit of a cliché, no trip to India would be complete without a visit to the Taj Mahal in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, one of the best examples of Mughal architecture in the world. You’ll also be able to spot tigers in the Rantambore National Park and feast on curries and refreshing mango lassis. What’s not to like?

Kumbhalgarh Fort. Rajasthan, India © Dmitry Rukhlenko/Shutterstock

Cuba is a hotpot of cultural traditions, with European, African and Asian influences evident in all aspects of life, from cuisine to religion. One of the best ways to gain an insight into everyday life is by staying in a casa particular (a private B&B).

Local families will welcome you into their home, lovingly prepare homemade meals and perhaps even smoke a cigar or two with you. This is the country to try your hand at salsa (or how about an Afro-Cuban dance?) and – of course – look the part in a vintage American car.

Renowned for its spectacular desert landscapes, Australia’s Northern Territory is a friendly relaxed place that is popular among visitors – and it’s a great place to live too.

It has a lively Indigenous culture and is one of the country’s most cosmopolitan regions with influences from nearby Asia. (Darwin, its capital city, is closer to Asia than that other Australian capital cities). Its population is also the nation’s youngest; the average age is just 31 years.

© AustralianCamera/Shutterstock

Top image © LHamilton/Shutterstock

Raised bilingually in London and Turin, Kiki Deere is a travel writer specialising in Italy. She has seen her work published in a number of magazines and UK broadsheets, including The Daily Telegraph, The Guardian and Lonely Planet online. She has completed numerous guidebook writing assignments for Rough Guides that have taken her to far-flung corners of the globe, from the Brazilian Amazon to the remotest province of the Philippines. Follow her @kikideere on Instagram and Twitter .

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10 Top Places for Student Travel

Enjoy enlightening experiences outside the classroom on a break or gap-year trip.

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Whether you want a hands-on volunteer trip or a budget-friendly winter break locale, there are plenty of enticing educational programs and small-group tours geared toward students.

Students may be clinging to the last precious days of summer, but it's not too early to start thinking about where to plan a future trip. Teens about to graduate may even be considering taking a gap year. A recent Booking.com survey found that a third of polled American students ages 16 to 18 are considering taking a year off before college. So, where should students travel during a gap year or break from school? A recent study conducted by the Student & Youth Travel found U.S. student groups are particularly interested in attending educational programs across Europe that include music, history, arts, culture, science and natural history. The study also found teacher-organized trips to Latin America are in top demand among students, followed by trips to Canada. So, if you're ready to jump-start your travel search, check out these enriching, immersive and adrenaline-pumping spots for inspiration.

[See: The 7 Best Budget-Friendly Vacation Spots for Students .]

This small island municipality of the Netherlands gives students pursuing STEM disciplines the ideal laboratory for exploring tropical marine ecology. Thanks to the Council on International Educational Exchange's diverse study abroad programs, students traveling to Bonaire can take part in specialized dive training, learn field research methods and explore the area's rich history and culture – including huts from the African slave trade – during their visit.

Taipei, Taiwan

If you're eager to master a new language, Taiwan is a perfect place to learn Mandarin and absorb an exciting culture. It's also a budget-friendly place to visit, with free or cost-effective admission to many attractions, such as the Taipei 101 building and the National Palace Museum, along with affordable hostels and bed-and-breakfast accommodations. Plus, meals at high-end restaurants cost around $20 and the convenient metro offers a cheap and convenient way to get around. Even better, working holidays are common in Taiwan and many hotels offer international students part-time jobs. Apart from saving money, students can broaden their perspective of the local culture and community by working with residents.

For a once-in-a-lifetime trip, head to Cuba. Find out what life is really like far from the tourist traps in an agricultural community and work directly with students and farmers on projects improving Cuba's economic and social capacity. A variety of educational programs allow you to help locals practice English conversational skills, make crafts at a sewing cooperative, distribute drinking water, paint and deliver municipal pottery fixtures and participate in community-driven projects. Breaks from lending a hand might include checking out the museums, music venues and historical sites across Havana and partner communities.

Reputable small-group travel outfitter G Adventures offers a variety of tours targeted to the 18- to 39-year-old crowd. You can visit iconic European cities such as Rome and Budapest for around $1,400 on a 10-day trip. During your visit, you can sample the regional specialties and delicious wines of Italy, get in touch with the continent's rich culture in famed museums and galleries and compare dance floors in the nightclubs of Europe's party capitals. And if you have extra time to spare before or after your trip, you can easily tack on a visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or spend extra time in must-see hot spots, such as Florence, Venice and Vienna, Austria.

[See: 12 Great Destinations in Europe You Can Afford .]

History buffs, culture vultures and outdoor enthusiasts will feel at home in Miami. The grand Mediterranean Revival architecture in Coral Gables alone is worth the trip, not to mention the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and the Miracle Mile. For a convenient place to unwind, stay at the Westin Colonnade, adjacent to the famed Miracle Mile shopping district and its boutiques and art galleries. Other must-sees in the area include a short drive to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and the Venetian Pool, which was built out of a coral rock quarry in 1923 that boasts cool spring water, waterfalls, coral caves and grottos.

If you want to learn Spanish, why not brush up on your skills in Costa Rica at the relaxing Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort? Cushioned between the Pacific Ocean and a 1,100-acre tropical rainforest, the resort offers complimentary, hour-long Spanish lessons with a native language instructor. Apart from mastering your speaking and comprehension skills, you can soak up the great outdoors and hike and kayak through lush rain forests or lend a hand and learn about the area's unique biodiversity with a community service trip.

Blackfeet Reservation, Montana

For a taste of true reservation life, you can enjoy working with adults and children in the Blackfeet tribe with a recreational program, a child protection and nurturing program or an elder engagement, classroom or building improvement program. Participate in a garden or nutrition project before attending a smudge ceremony (a cleansing smoke bath that purifies the body, aura and energy). Afterward, learn about beading or enjoy fishing, hiking and other pastimes. On the reservation, you can secure dormitory-style lodging and enjoy meals prepared by local cooks.

Greenville, California

The volcano complex at Lassen Volcanic National Park features four types of volcanoes in one complex. There are 60 active individual volcanoes in the park, including the world's largest plug dome volcano. Plus, there are night programs that focus on learning about the stars. Students can travel from one side to the other and experience the area's unique microclimates before camping or finding lodging on the Plumas County side of the park. Plus, students can join ranger-led programs and enjoy curriculum-based field trips for educational learning on- and off-site.

The Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands are home to some of the most unique species in the world, from sea lions to giant tortoises. Reputable expedition cruise outfitter Ecoventure offers eco-friendly cruises filled with ample wildlife-viewing opportunities on naturalist-led excursions through the archipelago's diverse islands. Want to swim alongside sea lions and pups? No problem. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, where you can get a good look at tortoises and iguanas. In addition to learning about the area's environment, students can embrace other educational opportunities, such as brushing up on wildlife conservation or volunteering with the non-profit organization Pack for a Purpose to bring supplies to local communities.

[See: 10 Bucket-List Destinations That Don't Cost a Fortune .] Malawi, Africa

For students looking for an off-the-grid destination, Malawi in southeast Africa offers a safe, welcoming environment and plenty of educational opportunities. Lake Malawi has more fish species than any other lake in the world, and the area's wildlife reserves and national parks – including Lake Malawi National Park – offer up-close animal encounters. The area's vegetation may be of particular interest to agriculture students and those passionate about food processing. What's more, the area offers plenty of reputable hostel accommodation options – a great choice for students looking to mix and mingle with other visitors and scale back costs.

Tags: Travel , students , Vacations

About En Route

Practical advice on the art of traveling smarter with tips, tricks and intel from En Route's panel of experts.

Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

Edited by Liz Weiss .

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15 Best Travel Destinations for College Students on a Budget

If you’re a student traveling on a college budget, forget expensive and cliche destinations like Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Instead, consider far-off places like Cambodia, Poland, or Peru — all of which can provide more culture and far more value. Sound good? Keep scrolling for the 15 best travel destinations for college students on a budget.

Italy and Greece may top many a bucket list, but both countries are far too expensive for the average college student on a budget. Instead, those on a college budget who are interested in the remains of ancient empires should consider Albania. This great alternative is full of inexpensive hostels and hotels. Even food, transportation, and activities are cheaper than in most other European countries. Visitors to Albania will want to experience the many interesting museums dedicated to the country’s shared history with Rome, Greece, and the Ottoman Empire. Just as interesting are the many beaches, especially those in the southern part of the country collectively known as the Albanian Riviera.

Amsterdam, Holland

Western Europe is notoriously expensive, but one merciful exception to that is Holland. Known also as The Netherlands, this small and fascinating country has tons to offer the budget traveler. Right off the bat, flight deals into the capital city of Amsterdam come around quite frequently thanks to the fact that the main airport, Schiphol, is a major European hub. Once you’ve landed, check out the city’s long list of free and cheap attractions and activities, including:

• walking tours
• canal cruises

Hostels in Amsterdam are plentiful, so even finding clean and safe accommodation is friendly on the wallet.

Even with the popularity of countries like Thailand and Vietnam, Asia is still considered a budget-friendly destination. And what’s one of the best Asian countries for college students on a budget? That would be Cambodia. This enchanting country offers visitors starred hotels for much lower prices than other destinations around the world. Food and transportation costs are also low here, as are entrance fees to places like Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even better is the fact that many of Cambodia’s most beloved sites are completely free, as is the case with Monkey Island, said to be the real-life inspiration behind the story of King Kong.

Flight deals and travel packages are quite common for China, making this powerhouse country a great budget destination for college students. The big cities of Shanghai and Beijing are great additions to any itinerary. Both places offer plenty of safe, no-frills accommodation options averaging $10 per night. Street food or popular chain restaurants can cost as little as $1. Even day trips to such iconic sights as the Great Wall of China can be extremely affordable, with plenty of options to choose from.

Colombia is experiencing a Renaissance. With local businesses, tour companies, and even the government desperate to attract visitors and prove themselves a worthy destination, Colombia is extremely budget friendly. The capital city of Bogota has plenty to see and do, as does the charming city of Cartagena, an historic walled city chock full of colonial-era architecture and cobblestoned streets just inviting you to explore. In both cities, large hotels can be booked for less than $100 a night, though we recommend finding something unique like an eco-friendly coffee farm, where you can stay for a mere $30 a night.

Dominican Republic

College students on a budget, but desperate for beaches, would do well to consider a trip to the Dominican Republic. Extremely affordable four- and five-star resorts are easily available from online travel agencies like Groupon and Expedia. Once in the DR, activities are also budget friendly, and range from kayaking Los Haitises National Park ($3 for the rental) to lounging on the world-class, white-sand beaches (free!).

As the tourism industry improves in India, so too do the budget friendly options. Travelers can do well throughout India with a budget of just $50 per day. This includes affordable, yet safe and healthy, meals, accommodations, and transportation. While flights from the United States to India can cost a pretty penny, flights around India can be affordable enough to make seeing everything from the beaches of Goa to the hustle and bustle of Mumbai possible.

Indonesia — and especially its island of Bali — is currently one of the most popular travel destinations, and for good reason: it’s cheap! From lush rainforests to postcard-perfect beaches, Indonesia is a great destination for those who love adventure, but are on a budget. Whether you choose to visit Bali, Sumatra, or one of Indonesia’s other islands (there are more than 1,000!), you’re likely to find:

• clean accommodations
• activities like snorkeling and beach yoga
• delicious delicacies that won’t set you back more than a few dollars each.

Latvia recently did a stint as the European Union’s chosen European Capital of Culture. That did a lot to highlight this beautiful, underrated, and totally budget-friendly country. Latvia’s capital city, Riga, is perfect for college students on a limited budget. Some of the city’s best features are architectural, and experiencing these UNESCO World Heritage Sites is as easy as joining a free or cheap walking tour. Riga Cathedral and St. Peter’s Church, both hailing from medieval times, are also free to enter. Food, transportation, and accommodation options are plentiful, and very inexpensive compared to so many other European countries.

Malaysia is yet another budget-friendly country in Asia that is just perfect for college students. This large country offers a variety of experiences:

• cosmopolitan Kuala Lumpur
• the remote culinary mecca of Penang
• the island of Borneo with its lush rainforests and population of orangutans

If you’re looking for beaches and classy resorts, Malaysia has plenty, very few of which are likely to cost as much as those found on more “traditional” college-kid itineraries.

Sure, Peru can get expensive. But this vibrant South American country can also be done on a college-student budget. Hostels, or even a private room in a guesthouse, are likely to cost about $30, while full meals can be found outside of the fanciest restaurants for $5-10. If a guided tour to Machu Picchu is out of your budget, there’s no need to worry. Peru offers the budget-conscious traveler plenty to see and do for less. These budget-friendly options include:

• sailing down the Amazon
• enjoying the white-sand beaches of Mancora
• touring lesser known Inca ruins like Choquequirao.

The often overlooked Eastern European country of Poland is a hidden gem, especially for college-aged travelers on a budget. The fairy tale-like town of Krakow features a cobblestoned main square and a McDonalds that just happens to double as a fascinating archaeological site. Meanwhile, Warsaw is chock full of history that even art majors are sure to appreciate. Both cities offer visitors free or inexpensive activities, including:

• outdoor concerts
• ornate gardens
• good, old-fashioned exploring on foot.

Want to experience Europe without the insanely high prices? Then head to Portugal! This beautiful country is often overlooked by tourists, but that’s a mistake. The capital city of Lisbon is a great destination for historical and cultural sites, while the coastal towns of the Algarve are ideal for relaxing on the beach. And because Portugal’s overall cost of living is 30% less than the rest of Western Europe, its costs of accommodation, food, and transportation are all much less too. Must-do activities include:

• lazing on the beach
• visiting castles
• trying fresh seafood from cafes.

College students who travel all the way to Eastern Europe will be thrilled with all that Romania has to offer. Surviving day-to-day in this budget-friendly country can often mean $40 a day for sit-down meals, clean accommodations, and public transportation. Romania’s best offerings — its historic architecture, welcoming charm, and interesting culture — are all free.

Quito, Ecuador

If you’re okay saving the expensive Galapagos Islands for another time, then Ecuador is a near perfect travel destination for college students on a budget. This is especially true for Ecuador’s capital city of Quito, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. Over the last 10 years, Quito has spent upwards of $250 million to make itself more appealing to tourists. Today, it’s a bustling city with an impressive number of historic hotels, cozy AirBnBs, and restaurants you’ll want to write home about. Wandering Quito’s maze-like streets, arguably the city’s best adventure activity, is especially easy on the wallet, as are the myriad plazas, cathedrals, and street foods you’ll find along the way.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Europe for College Students

November 2, 2023

Programs for this blog post

Authored by:.

Forty-four countries. Thousand-year-old histories. Deep global impact. Out-of-this-world food. Iconic landmarks. Beautiful natural landscapes. Rich, diverse cultures.   

This is your ultimate guide to Europe study abroad.  

How to Plan a Trip to Europe for Study Abroad  

We have a lot of Europe study abroad programs. So, when wondering, “How to plan a trip to Europe for study abroad,” we recommend first starting with a few simple steps below to avoid feeling overwhelmed.   

Read More: How to Study Abroad in Europe: 3 Steps  

Step #1: Choose Your Program 

Determine when you want to go on your study abroad program – spring , summer , fall , or winter . Our programs are available year-round. Next, look at the available Europe study abroad programs that fit your desired timeframe and start narrowing down which countries and programs seem the most exciting. It’s also a good idea to begin browsing scholarship and grant options during this first step. We offer many, and your school might have some financial aid, too.  

Read More: Study Abroad Scholarships: Everything You Need to Know  

Step #2: Get Expert Advice 

Get expert advice from your school’s study abroad office and academic advisor to make sure your study abroad plans align with your educational and career goals. It’s smart to mention your plans to a parent or guardian, too.  

Step #3: Get Organized 

Organize your necessary travel documents, like an updated passport, CIEE application , and more. Our application FAQ videos will also help with this step.  

Step #4: Start Packing 

Get packing! You’ll want to ensure you have your essential documents and other necessary items like comfortable walking shoes, prescription medication, and more. More on this later. After your suitcase is stuffed, prepare for the adventure of a lifetime in Europe. 

Our four-step process is a general overview of how to study abroad in Europe with CIEE – let’s take a closer look at some details!  

Best Places to Visit in Europe for Study Abroad  

As we’ve mentioned, we have many Europe study abroad programs. In fact, we offer 12 incredible European destinations as study abroad options:  

• Czech Republic  
• Denmark  
• England  
• Estonia  
• France  
• Germany   
• Ireland  
• Italy  
• Netherlands  
• Portugal  
• Scotland  
• Spain  

Another cool thing about our Europe study abroad destinations is that we offer multiple-city options, depending on the program you choose. For example, our Spain programs include Seville , Barcelona , Madrid , Alcalá de Henares , Alicante , and Palma de Mallorca . Our Italy programs include Florence , Rome , and Milan , and our France programs span Paris , Toulouse , and Rennes . Your Europe travel is virtually endless with CIEE!  

And you really can’t go wrong with any of these Europe study abroad locations. They’re all incredible. With each city offering its own unique history, culture, heritage, and distinct modern-day practices, you’ll deepen your global perspective and truly learn more about the world.  

As we mentioned in Step 1, remember to align your personal, academic, and professional goals with your Europe study abroad program. This will really help narrow down your options and ensure you’ll get the most out of your study abroad experience.  

For example, if you’re passionate about fashion, our programs in Milan, Italy are your best bet. If you love all things IT, check out Tallinn, Estonia , or if you’re ready to take your Spanish language skills to the next level, you can’t go wrong with a program in Seville, Spain. A trip to Amsterdam or Copenhagen will be excellent if you want an inside look at how eco-friendly countries operate. We could keep going, but you get the point; you can really do it all when you study abroad in Europe.  

Read More: 10 of the Best Places to Study Abroad in Europe  

How Much Does a Trip to Europe Cost for Study Abroad  

While you’re ready for the study abroad adventure of a lifetime in Europe, it’s important to keep in mind costs. You might even be wondering, “How to travel Europe cheap,” to keep within a budget that makes sense for you while still doing all the European exploration that’s important to you. And we have good news – we offer millions in funding to students each year to make their study abroad dreams a reality.  

Browse our options to see what type of financial assistance you may be eligible for, and reach out to our team if you have any questions. We’re happy to help.  

Read More: 2 Best CIEE Travel Grants for College Students    

In addition to scholarship and grant support, our Europe study abroad program costs vary depending on program length, credits, and other program details. Currently, our programs range from about $4,000 to $23,000 . Summer in Lisbon and January in Prague are two of our least expensive Europe study abroad programs, and they’re fascinating. Although shorter in length, you’ll get to adventure through these historical cities while taking interesting courses – you can’t beat it!  

One of our more expensive options when you study abroad in Europe is our Business + Culture in Amsterdam program. This 18-week program yields 15 semester hours, or 22.5 quarter hours, depending on your institution’s credit system, and the opportunity to study at one of two prestigious institutions: the University of Amsterdam or the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. This will be an experience like no other.  

Read More: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in 2023?  

What is the Best Way for Students to Travel in Europe  

Guided cultural excursions are baked into every single CIEE study abroad program, which means you’ll see some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and best places to visit in Europe while diving into the cultural significance of such sites. You’ll also get to take a variety of different cultural classes alongside your CIEE peers and truly get an authentic experience of your study abroad destination.  

Take a look at just a few of our cultural excursions in Europe:  

• In Edinburgh, Scotland , go underground to visit the Real Mary King’s Close, a well-preserved underground street that offers a fascinating glimpse into 17 th -century life in the city  
• During your Paris, France study abroad program, take a weekend trip to Bordeaux to explore the history of the slave trade in the region  
• Take authentic cooking classes and flamenco dancing lessons in Madrid, Spain, to better understand the country’s lively culture and the importance of festivals and celebrations  
• In Prague, Czech Republic , visit Terezín, a former Jewish ghetto and Nazi labor camp  

While some of these cultural excursions include insight into challenging histories and realities, learning them is crucial as you become a global citizen and gain a new international perspective.  

Although your CIEE cultural excursions and coursework take priority during your Europe study abroad program, you’ll still have plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture on your own and get some exciting Europe travel under your belt.  

Europe is known for its advanced public transportation systems and inexpensive regional airfare, so make sure to use local transit to your advantage during your travels! Much of Europe is also walkable, so make sure you have some comfortable shoes packed ahead of your travels!  

It’s also a smart idea to chat with our CIEE center teams to get a better sense of intriguing and safe places to visit – you’ll be sure to uncover some hidden gems in your new city.  

Read More: 10 of the Best Study Abroad Programs in Europe  

What to Pack When Studying Abroad in Europe  

Keep in mind what we consider essential items as you prepare to study abroad in Europe:  

Your essential documents: 

• Passport + a photocopy (just in case) 
• Visa + a photocopy  
• A second form of valid ID (e.g., driver’s license or government-issued ID) 
• Plane tickets  
• Proof of health insurance 
• Proof of CIEE enrollment 
• Cash (look this up ahead of time; not all countries considered to be part of Europe use the Euro, although most do)  

Other essential items: 

• Comfortable walking shoes 
• Camera to capture your beautiful surroundings  
• One nice outfit for special occasions 
• Prescription medications, enough for the stay if possible 
• Preferred over-the-counter medications 
• Prescription eyewear 
• Adapters to charge your current tech in Europe’s electrical outlets (this will vary by country too)  

Read More: What to Pack When Studying Abroad in Europe  

Europe is Calling 

All that’s left to do is prepare for the experience of a lifetime in Europe – buckle up, you’re in for an incredible ride no matter where you decide to take your studies.  

EXPLORE EUROPE STUDY ABROAD    

• Activities & Excursions
• Planning/Packing

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22 Best student-friendly budget Destinations in India 2023

https://www.travelshavel.co.in/2020/07/22-best-student-friendly-budget.htmlBudget Friendly destinations In India 2020

Have you Bored with regular assignment submissions and often internals in college? 

Are You already planned to have a trip with friends just after exams?

As a college student, It is the best time to explore new destinations around. with having charmful youth and enthusiasm to explore new things, it's always been a favorite and most memorable part for college students.

Traveling is something that one must do in their student life.

With having a lot of time in hand and not clear about what to do with it; college buddies mostly tempted to travel with their friends and enjoy their time.

If you're such a scholar, bored of frenetic assignments and submissions, and probably seeming to a getaway, then budget traveling is the best option to opt for.

Traveling, exploring new places, engaging with new people, exploring a beautiful world with friends, and getting out of your comfort position not only build self-confidence and responsibility within you; but also grow wholly as a person.

Getting permission from parents is not a big issue when you don't have yet any boss to ask for a leave.

And managing money for the trip is a little puzzling, nowadays many students do online freelancing with their coursework to compensate for their monthly expenses and travel itches. And money also won't become a problem.

So here are some handpicked budget-friendly destinations in India which will promise you to give most out of this Beautifull country, without having much load on your pocket.

Places to hit in India while college Trip:

North india :.

The northern side of The country has a vast number of places to look for during the college trips, some of them are,

1. Shimla :

Queen of hills

Shimla- perfect for summer vacation

5.Rishikesh:

River rafting and other activities

(source) Rishikesh

6.Nainital:

City of lakes

(source) -calm climate

Shimla which is situated at the height of 2200m is the Best hill station for Budget Travellers. it is the best and one of the cheap holiday destinations to spend quality and fun time with friends or family. Shimla grooms in summers with clear sun rays and scenic mountain views will leave you in awe. And If you do visit in January-February to play with snow and related activities.

The Britishers when they are ruling India are so impressed with this hill station that they positioned it as their summer capital.

Why during college?

Shimla will be best for winter road trips, summer trips with friends, and perfect for one who loves nature and hill stations at very affordable.

Best time to visit?

March to June is the most suitable season to tour Shimla when the climate as the daytime is agreeable.

Estimated Budget?

approx 2000-3000 per person for Two days

Places To Visit In Shimla:

*Mall Road, Shimla

*Kalka Shimla Toy Train

Things To Do In Shimla:

*Nature camping

*Treehouse Stay

*Jhakoo and Tara Devi temple visit

Do you remember the last scenes of 3 idiots?

(flick source) Manali-Pangong lake

One of the perfect bike ride in India. And even every motorcycle riders dream is to trip to Manali.

Nestled in the Bees river valley with picturesque scenes and cool climate, Manali has always been the first preference of college students for hill station likers. With lush green forests, sprawling grasslands blanketed with wildflowers, flowing blue rivers make Manali a perfect vacation spot for undergrads, with affordable cost.

Manali is Bollywood’s favorite destination and it will surely become a favorite of yours too.

The Great Himalayan National Park is a must to visit in Manali.

At Solang Valley in Manali is crowded with people who are famous for activities like paragliding, zorbing, river rafting and horse-riding available, and one must not miss them.

And some last scenes of 3 idiots Bollywood film was shooted at Pangong lake in Manali.

Since you are with friends and you will enjoy camping, river rafting and other activities with your friends.

February to April when the snow is enough to enjoy and it will not let make you shiver.

Around 10k per person

Places To Visit In Manali:

*Solang Valley

*Hidimba Temple

*Rohtang Pass

*Beas Kund Trek

Things To Do In Manali:

*Paragliding in Manali

*Adventure Activities in Manali

TAKE ONLY MEMORIES, LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS - CHIEF SEATTLE

3.Darjeeling:

Remember the toy train

(source) Darjeeling- toy train

Another Famous hill-station in India, and the best gateway to the Himalayas at favorable costs.

Darjeeling is the best weekend gateway from Kolkata and Delhi.

from lush green tree plantations, beautiful mountainscapes, ancient forests, quaint houses, friendly people with the world-famous Darjeeling special Tea; And Don't forget to take a ride on Toy train, which you have seen in song ' mere sapanoki rani kab aayegi Tu'.

If you have a group that loves picturesque scenes, cool climate, and a glimpse of mighty Himalayas at a very affordable price, then Darjeeling is for you.

April to June do the most suitable months to tour Darjeeling.

2500-4000 per person

Places To Visit In Darjeeling:

*Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

*Tiger Hill

*Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

*Nightingale Park

*Batasia Loop

Things To Do In Darjeeling:

*Darjeeling Ropeway

*Toy Train Ride

McLeod Ganj

4.mcleodganj:.

Popular for trekking

(source) popular Hill station In north India

22 Best student-friendly budget Destinations in India 2020

Mcleodganj is another famous hill station in India and it is a gateway to the Tibetian culture and heritage. The current Dalai Lama was born here.

people come to Mcleodganj because to gey Mighty Himalayan experiences, spirituality, for adventures and photo sessions because of it's picturesque scenes around. Everything in Mcleodganj is very cheap whether it's eateries, transports, stays, visits, shopping and more.

And don't miss the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Which you have seen in some of the live cricket matches.

If your group has photography enthusiasts and wants some scenes to have on your memory at a very convenient price then This Heavenly Hill station is your Next choice.

Between Mid-February till Mid-July (springs and summers)

2000-4000 per person

Places To Visit In Mcleodganj:

*Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

*War Memorial

*Gyuto Monastery

*Dharamshala International Film Festival 2020

*Library of Tibetan Works and Archives

*St. John in the Wilderness Church

Things To Do In Mcleodganj:

*Bhagsu Falls

*Namgyal Monastery

*Tsuglagkhang Complex

*Bhagsunag Temple

*Trekking in Mcleodganj

Rishikesh is a spiritual hub and yoga capital of India. This small town in Dehradun is popular for its adventure activities like river rafting. And their Ancient temples and cafes. Rishikesh is best to suit for budget travelers with all at a very minimal cost. And on top, if you share with your friends then your expenses go down even more.

The water activities here are like no other and you can enjoy those thrilling moments with your friends hence making a great memory to cherish upon. Moreover, in Rishikesh, many sadhus teach meditation and spirituality, which will help you to grow as a person.

For white water, rafting in September-June and November.

The International Yoga Festival is arranged in Rishikesh in the opening week of March

up to 3500 Rs per person

Places To Visit In Rishikesh:

*Triveni Ghat

*Lakshman Jhula

*Ganga Aarti, Rishikesh

*The Beatles Ashram

Things To Do In Rishikesh:

*Rafting in Rishikesh

*Cliff Jumping

Nainital is the most visited Hill station in North India.

This Hill station is nourished on the foothills of the Kumaon zone in the Himalayas.

Nainital is placed around the Naini Lake at an elevation of around 1938 meters. It experiences a pleasant climate Throughout the year and making it the best vacation gateway.

Take a boat riding at Naini lake at 250 rs per person, the boats which we see the same as in Kashmir, with clouds embracing you making it mesmerizing clips to experience.

The type of nature scenes you get in Nainital and if you like to be close with nature and to completely refresh yourself with a minimal price? then Nainital is perfect for you.

The most suitable season to tour Nainital is from March to June for boating in Naini Lake.

From late November to February which is the wintertime season for one who enjoys the snow.

5000-6000 rs per person

Places To Visit In Nainital :

*Naini Lake

*Eco Cave Gardens

*Mall Road Nainital

*Naina Devi Temple

*Snow View Point

Things To Do In Nainital :

*Nainital Ropeway

*Boat riding at Naini lake

*Trekking at Naina Peak and Tiffin Top Trek

Continue Reading: 22 Best student-friendly budget Destinations in India 2020

21 Places Worth Seeing on College Tours

Explore campus facilities and fixtures after you've gone on the official college tour.

Getty Images

It's critical for college applicants with clear academic interests to explore the building that houses their intended major.

If you're a soon-to-be college student, exploring a college campus in person can help you determine if a school is the right fit.

College admissions consultants, high school counselors, undergraduate admissions officers and parents of college-bound students recommend taking a school's official guided tour to see the institution's selling points.

Once the official presentation is over, it's important to take a self-guided tour, where you check out places that your guide didn't show you and encounter people you otherwise would not have met.

Here are 21 places on a college campus that applicants should consider exploring:

• Facilities associated with your desired major
• Places where students pursue hobbies
• A student union or student center
• A college dining hall
• Religious and cultural institutions
• The career center
• Fraternity and sorority houses
• The neighborhood, town or city surrounding the campus
• Unique parts of the campus
• Bulletin boards across the college campus
• Lecture halls and classrooms
• Student health facilities, including counseling centers
• Collaborative workspaces and hubs for hands-on learning
• Campus or municipal police department
• Stadiums and gyms
• Student housing options
• College offices that provide logistical assistance
• Outdoor spaces
• Transportation amenities
• School-affiliated publishers and bookstores

Facilities Associated With Your Desired Major

Martyne Lo Russo, a parent whose son earned a bachelor's degree in sports management from St. John's University in New York City, says that when her son was a college applicant, he looked for a school with a strong sports management program. So, when he toured St. John's as a prospective student, he visited its sports management department and met with the dean. Lo Russo advises college hopefuls to visit undergraduate academic departments for the college majors they are interested in.

Meaghan Arena, a higher education administrator who has held leadership roles at multiple schools, also says it's critical for college applicants with clear academic interests to explore the building that houses their intended major.

"Having a feel for the place you'll spend most of your time can help you know if you see yourself there over the next four years," Arena wrote in an email. "It can also help you to understand the average size of classes in your major and the availability of technology in the classrooms and labs."

Many experts advise science-oriented college hopefuls to visit a school's science research laboratories to learn about ongoing research at the school.

Places Where Students Pursue Hobbies

Amber Jin, founder of Get Into Ivy, a company that sells digital courses on how to apply to college, says applicants should visit the places on campus where they would spend the bulk of their leisure time if they were admitted. For instance, someone passionate about theater should visit a college's performing arts facilities, she says.

Meg Caddeau, a college admissions counselor at the IvyWise admissions consulting firm and a former associate dean at Princeton University and Amherst College , says it's important for college hopefuls to see the places on a college campus where students relax and have fun, including lounge areas and music practice rooms.

Experts note that some schools have impressive museums and art galleries, which if present, are worth visiting. Spaces connected to labor-intensive student organizations, such as campus newspapers, are also potentially interesting, experts say.

A Student Union or Student Center

"So much learning happens outside of the walls of the classroom," Deborah Cohan, a sociology professor at the University of South Carolina—Beaufort , wrote in an email. "The student center might be referred to as the living room of the campus. Once at these centers, students can see the sort of programming that is offered and the sort of public figures invited to campus."

A College Dining Hall

Michelle Mullooly, director of admissions at The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, says college applicants should be sure to eat a meal at a campus dining hall.

"College dining halls are where students relax, recharge and socialize," Mullooly wrote via email.

Religious and Cultural Institutions

Jin says college applicants who have a strong religious, racial or ethnic identity can benefit from visiting places on campus that cater to people with a shared background. For instance, a college applicant who is an ethnic minority might want to visit a minority student association, and a religiously affiliated college applicant might want to visit a student group connected to his or her faith.

Josef Blumenfeld, a Boston-based parent, says that during his daughters' college tours, his family made a point of stopping at the campus Hillel either in-person or virtually to inquire about how hospitable a college was for Jewish people like themselves.

"Interestingly, Hillel as an organization stepped up to provide much more information about campus security and anti-Semitism," Blumenfeld wrote in an email.

Black students may want to make a pit stop at a school's Black Student Union, experts say. Kat Gill, whose biracial daughter graduated from Harvard University in 2020, noted that her daughter made sure to stop by locations where Black students congregated on school campuses during her college search, and she also struck up conversations with Black students at the colleges she was considering.

Gill suggests that LGBTQ students take a similar approach to gauge whether a school's culture is tolerant and friendly.

Minority college applicants can get valuable information from current students in their minority group, Gill says. "It gives you a good idea of how things are on campus."

The Career Center

Joe Orsolini, president of College Aid Planners, a company that helps families save and pay for college, says a college tour is not complete without a visit to the career center.

"It may not be the 'sexy' part of the college tour, but it is important to see what companies are interviewing on campus," Orsolini wrote in an email. "This will give you an indication of your prospects for who is hiring that school's graduates."

How to Find the Right College Tour Group

Delece Smith-Barrow Nov. 2, 2017

Fraternity and Sorority Houses

Experts say that if a college has an active Greek scene and numerous sororities and fraternities, it would be a mistake to not visit a fraternity or sorority house.

"Walk or drive by the frats and sororities to see what they look like," Caddeau suggests. "Do a bit of online investigating as well. Stats on the percentage of undergrads who are involved in Greek life should be available. If Greek life dominates the social scene, it could be helpful to ask about alternatives to Greek life social events."

The Neighborhood, Town or City Surrounding the Campus

Brooke Fincke, director of college counseling at Chapel Hill—Chauncy Hall, a private school in Massachusetts, says college students generally take occasional trips off campus. A comprehensive college tour should include sightseeing in the communities around campus, she says.

Pierre Huguet, CEO of the H&C Education consulting firm, suggests that prospective undergraduates think about whether they'd prefer to attend an urban school .

"If the activities that give meaning to your life are hiking, canoeing, and fishing, you probably won’t want to go to college in an urban setting," he explained in an email. "On the other hand, if you’re all about visiting museums and writing a food blog, a school in New York or Chicago may be perfect for you."

Experts on college affordability also say that seeing the community around a college and the prices charged at local restaurants and stores can give college hopefuls a sense of how high living expenses would be at that particular college.

Unique Parts of the Campus

A college or university may have multiple statues or plaques that commemorate important events in the school's history, or it may have particularly noteworthy architecture. Experts say prospective students should try to see the most iconic and unusual features of a college campus, since those details can provide clues about the student experience.

Bulletin Boards Across the Campus

Fincke advises college applicants to read the bulletin board flyers posted on a college campus, since these flyers can indicate how vibrant student life is on the campus. She suggests that college applicants take photos of these bulletin boards to help them remember all the activities and clubs that were mentioned on them.

Christine Chu, a college admissions counselor at IvyWise and a former assistant director of undergraduate admissions at Yale University and Georgetown University , says prospective students can benefit from attending college events.

Lecture Halls and Classrooms

Experts say college applicants should ask to observe an undergraduate course in a subject of interest during their college tours. It's important for college applicants to gauge whether a college's teaching style matches their learning style.

"For students visiting campuses during the academic year, I would strongly encourage them to sit in on a lecture as well as a seminar if possible," Chu wrote in an email. "Listening in on classroom discussions can illuminate the intellectual vitality of a school and the student body."

"More than a home to book stacks and special collections, which alone reveal so much about the life of the mind of a university, libraries can be mini hubs," Chu explains. "Students gather around conference tables to collaborate on projects or study together, and the coffee spot is often filled with students catching up with friends. And sometimes, being ensconced in a well-loved leather armchair in a quiet nook simply embodies one of the quintessential moments of being a college student."

Student Health Facilities, Including Counseling Centers

Experts note that it is common for college students to experience mental health challenges. Access to therapy is essential, especially for students who have been diagnosed with a chronic mental illness like bipolar disorder.

The quality of the student health center is worth investigating, according to college experts. "It’s important to see the health center and understand the university’s approach to health care and what services are provided," Kerr Ramsay III, who has a doctorate in higher education leadership and serves as senior vice president for undergraduate admission at High Point University in North Carolina, wrote in an email.

Collaborative Workspaces and Hubs for Hands-On Learning

Ramsay recommends going to spots where students brainstorm with one another. " Ask to see spaces that support your desire to work in teams and complete projects together outside of class," he suggests.

Another type of location worth checking out is a space where students get to apply the lessons they learned in class, he says, noting that his school offers a production studio and a trading room with a live stock ticker.

Campus or Municipal Police Department

Prospective college students who are worried about security can stop by the campus police headquarters or the local police agency to ask about crime in the area and inquire about safety measures, according to experts.

Stadiums and Gyms

Chu notes that because college and university sports events bring so many people associated with a school to a single spot, visiting a stadium at one of those times is ideal, since "you can literally feel the school spirit pulsating through the stands."

Laurie Kopp Weingarten, president of One-Stop College Counseling in New Jersey, recommends visiting workout spaces, since staying in shape is a high priority for many potential college students.

Student Housing Options

"I would advise prospective students to visit the dormitories because these are important to campus life," Janet Ruth Heller, a former university faculty member who taught at multiple academic institutions, wrote in an email. "Are the rooms well equipped? How is the wi-fi? Does the room have air conditioning? Are there elevators for multi-story dormitories? Do students need to bring their own rugs, sheets, blankets, extra lights, etc.?"

Experts suggest touring off-campus apartments where the cost is less than the expense of a dorm room, or for situations where access to school-controlled housing isn't guaranteed for all four years of college.

College Offices That Provide Logistical Assistance

Shymika Stephenson-Davison, owner and lead consultant at the PreCollege Solutions consulting firm, says students who need financial aid should visit the financial aid office. Many colleges have support services that cater to both low-income and first-generation college students and that also assist students with disabilities, so students who could benefit from such assistance should be sure to stop by that office, Stephenson-Davison suggests.

James Lewis, president of the National Society of High School Scholars, encourages potential undergrads to visit a college's academic resource center, if it has one. In an email, he advised seeking answers to the following questions: “Do they have tutoring, and if so, what subjects? Is it face-to-face or virtual? By appointment only? Can you get one-on-one support for math, science, writing or any specific class you take?"

Outdoor Spaces

Alex Chip, founder of Top Score Education tutoring and test prep company, commented in an email that “having the escape and stress release of a beautiful garden or an invigorating hiking trail can offer a welcome respite from the pressures of the university experience.”

A college's outdoor amenities are particularly significant nowadays due to the coronavirus pandemic, says Patricia Roberts, chief operating officer of GiftofCollege.com, a company that helps people contribute to the college funds of their loved ones.

"Given the recent history with Covid and the need to pivot to outdoor spaces for socially-distant informal socializing or organized events, I strongly suggest prospective students ask about and examine dedicated outdoor spaces that can be utilized by students during all seasons," she wrote in an email. "This would give prospective students a sense of available options should indoor gatherings be subject to restriction again in the future."

Transportation Amenities

Allen Koh, founder and CEO of Cardinal Education consulting firm, notes that the availability of parking spots, trains and buses on campus is critical information to consider. "This will definitely help you choose in terms of how easy your commute will be from your home, apartment, or even within the city," he says.

School-Affiliated Publishers and Bookstores

"You may observe the level of importance the college places on knowledge production by looking at its press or publishing house," Koh says. "If there is one, try checking the university bookstore and look at the titles being released, especially in your own field. How advanced and productive they are in your chosen field will give you an idea of the kind of instruction you will receive from the school."

Searching for a college? Get our complete rankings of Best Colleges.

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The 4 Best Guided Travel Companies for College Students

Written by rtc member, jordan mehan.

We’re all itching to travel, so what better way to pass the time than planning a trip for 2021. Check out some of the best guided travel companies for college students below to help kickstart your trip planning! 

1. EF Ultimate Break

Looking for something a bit more educational? EF, or Educational Tours, may be a great option for you. With EF, you can tour places such as England and France while learning about WWII or the STEM field. Perfect for history buffs or those looking to challenge their mind!

Between the wide selection of trips and the great travel deals, it’s no wonder that Contiki is many college students’ first choice when booking a guided travel experience. Right now they’re having a Great 2021 Escape Sale where you can save up to 25% on a 2021 European trip. Think Greek Island Hopping and cycling through the Scandavian cities!

3. Intrepid Travel

The travel experiences offered by Intrepid certainly live up to the name, as they are full o adventure and culture. Check out some of their most popular destinations , such as Vietnam, Morocco, and more to secure your spot for future travels. 

4. Bus2Alps

Already overseas and looking for a weekend trip? Bus2Alps is a great option. This travel company is popular amongst American study abroad students in Europe- and rightfully so. Traveling with Bus2Alps eliminates the stress of weekend trips while abroad; they take care of transportation and hostel bookings. Plus, they offer a variety of activities that range in prices, such as skiing  the Alps and wandering through downtown Dublin on a pub crawl .

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• Last Updated On
• June 10, 2023

13 Best Family Vacations with College Students and Young Adults

Family vacations aren’t over just because your kids are off to college. 

The dynamic will change for the better. 

Each second you spend time with family is more precious now that they’re older.

You’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.

But planning trips can now be a hassle with different schedules.

They’re too young for adult fun and old for kiddie adventures.

So, I’ve curated a list to help you plan a smooth vacation with your family.

I’m a travel writer and a parent.

I go on trips yearly for the best family vacations with college students and young adults.

I’ve also talked to locals and fellow parents about their experiences on these trips.

And I have ranked them based on activities and attractions, affordability, safety, accessibility, and accommodation options.

So, get your shoes on and pack your bags for the perfect getaway with your family.

Best Family Vacations With College Students Compared

Mix your plans with outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, fine dining, and fabulous shopping. Here’s a quick guide to the best vacations ever:

Editor’s Choice

New York City, New York

If your college-going kids are into theater, a visit to New York City’s Great White Way will be the perfect family vacation destination you can gift them.

• Activities and Attractions: 5/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Safety: 3.5/5
• Accessibility: 5/5
• Accommodation Options: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

London, England

If your young ones have also been bitten by the Harry Potter bug, then a visit to the Wizarding World in London will be irresistible for them.

• Activities and Attractions: 4/5
• Safety: 5/5
• Accommodation Options: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise

Experience Europe by booking your family on a Danube River Cruise to have a great trip with your college-age kids.

• Affordability: 3/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Accessibility: 3/5

Here are the top 13 family vacations with college students and young adults.

1. New York City, New York (Editor’s Choice)

New York City, NY (212) 639-9675 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Many educational landmarks
• Several restaurants and attractions

There is some new show that’s happening there always and could even be on the bucket list of the young adults in your family!

If you are traveling in January, you can even catch the NYC Broadway Week.

You will also find it easy on your pocket with offers such as 2-for-1 tickets to many shows.

Don’t forget to dine at Ellen’s Stardust Diner that has a singing waitstaff.

Some of the other attractions are a walk through the theater district; visiting the Drama Book Shop to discover scripts and sheet music; or just a stopover at Shakespeare in the Park during summertime.

Recommended Hotel: Crosby Street Hotel

Related: Top NYC Restaurants

Related: Best All Inclusive Resorts for Families with Young Adults

2. London, England

London, England Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Wizarding World
• Shopping centers and restaurants nearby
• Unpredictable weather

See Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in his West End home, and then proceed to the Palace Theatre, where you can find the House of MinaLima, the one who did the graphic designing for the Wizarding World.

If you love shopping and munching, there is a shopping center nearby.

Hop over to the Chinatown a couple of blocks away, or visit the Warner Bros to complete the Harry Potter experience.

The Making of Harry Potter – Studio Tour just outside the city will be an unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss the photo opp at Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station.

Recommended Hotel: The Biltmore Mayfair, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Related: Places to Eat: London, England

3. Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise

Danube River, Europe Visit Website Open in Google Maps

• Visit eight cities in four different countries
• Guided tours

You can visit eight cities in four different countries as you cruise from Germany to Hungary or the other way round.

At each port, Adventures by Disney organizes special experiences that narrate the stories of each city and town, giving them a peep into European history and culture.

Don’t miss exciting activities such as climbing through the treetops 50 feet above the Bavarian forest floor or sliding into a salt mine under the Austrian Alps.

You will be hiking to the ruins of English King Richard the Lionheart’s castle built in the 1100s, tasting gourmet meals and exploring world-famous Christmas markets if you visit during the holiday season.

Recommended Hotel: Sugó Panzió

Related: Best Family Vacations in Europe

4. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City, Canada Visit Website Open in Google Maps

If you want a more affordable destination that is still rich in culture, go to Quebec City in Canada.

It’s an excellent alternative to London, England, and Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise.

If you want international vacation spots but the budget is a constraint, you can still cross over to Canada and soak in the French culture, language and cuisine.

Quebec City has a 400-year-old history and Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is the only fortified city in North America besides Mexico.

Samuel de Champlain set it up as the base for explorers, trappers, and traders from France in 1608, till the British defeated them and took over in 1759.

Even today you will find at least 95 percent of the population speaking French in the City.

You will also find tasty French cuisine and you can soak in the European charm so noticeable in the region continues.

Walk between towering walls, on cobblestone streets, ride horse-drawn carriages and watch street performers.

Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

5. Tulum, Mexico

Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico Visit Website Open in Google Maps

For ideas on family trips, Tulum, Mexico, is a must-visit destination, especially for those with interest in anthropology and archeology.

Located just an hour south of Playa del Carmen, you can visit the only surviving Mayan walled city with its well-maintained ruins of the Mayan port dating back to 564 AD and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The Mayan pyramid of Coba is just a 45-minute drive away from Tulum.

It is not just history, you can also have some fun time on the white sandy beaches by the turquoise Caribbean sea, visit the cenote river caves and the eco parks and experience Spanish culture, language and cuisine.

Don’t forget to drop into the trendy downtown area for some shopping.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Bardo

Related: Places to Eat: Tulum, Mexico

6. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, Ireland Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

There is something for students, the religiously inclined and the one with a parched throat in the capital city of Ireland.

Trinity College in Dublin was started in 1592 and is well known even among American college students who choose this as one of their destinations to study abroad.

Its “long library room” is popular among book lovers.

While here, you can see the 9th Century Book of Kells, the 15th Century Brian Boru harp, which is the national symbol of Ireland, and a copy of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic.

Nearby, you can visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublinia, Christ Church Cathedral and the Dublin Castle.

For some drinks, for a bite or just enjoy a night out, go to the Temple Bar quarter.

Right across is the iconic, 200-year-old, cast-iron Ha’Penny Pedestrian Bridge over the River Liffey.

Recommended Hotel: InterContinental Dublin

7. Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park, South Africa (27) 21 424 1037 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Trips with college kids must include a visit at least once when they are twenty something to a wildlife destination as they are old enough to be able to patiently observe animals as well as handle the long journey.

South Africa’s Kruger National Park covers nearly two million hectares of land with a wide diversity of life forms along with historical and archaeological sights.

Apart from the Big 5, which include the Cape buffalo, African elephant, leopard, lion and rhino, you can also sight the wild dog, the ground hornbill, the fish eagle and see the Baobab and Marula trees.

Jabulani Safari in South Africa’s Kapama Game Reserve is also nearby and, if you are lucky, you can catch sight of the herd of elephants whose four-month-old calf had been rescued in 1997.

Recommended Hotel: The Cycad Lodge & Chalets

8. The Rose Bowl – Pasadena, California

1001 Rose Bowl Dr Pasadena, CA 91103 (626) 577-3100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No college-goer can resist the pull of sports, and no sports buff can resist a visit to the granddaddy of all football events, the Rose Bowl.

So if you are planning a trip with your college-going kids during the winter holidays, make sure you drop in for the New Year’s Day Tournament of Rose Bowl football game, a worldwide event with over a million viewers every year.

It is preceded by a Roses Parade, an impressive affair with over 40 flower-covered floats, several marching bands and many equestrian units marching 5.5 miles down Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, California.

Even after the parade has ended, these floats are on display at the Showcase of Floats.

You can also have some fun at the public fanfest that happens at 8 am and is free and open for all.

Recommended Hotel: 1 Hotel West Hollywood

9. Disney World – Orlando, FL

Orlando, FL, United States (407) 939-5277 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

There is no age limit to have a fun-filled vacation at Disney World.

Plan a weekend getaway to explore, discovering events and activities you have never done before.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a new addition that is bound to go down well with your college-going kids.

Some of the other cool fun things that would keep your twenty-something entertained include Resist the First Order, Fly the Millennium Falcon and the water park.

Soak yourself in the atmosphere of Oga’s Cantina, a local hangout, and enjoy the DJ churning out some out-of-this-world music.

You may find it difficult to drag your young adult from the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex with over 60 sports and thousands of events for athletes of all ages and abilities being conducted over 230 acres of land.

Recommended Hotel: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

Related: Restaurants: Orlando, Florida

10. Give Kids The World – Kissimmee, FL

210 S Bass Rd Kissimmee, FL 34746 (407) 396-1114 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

College students today are aware of their social responsibility and are highly committed to working for their communities with a desire to give back.

Universities provide them with the opportunity to do community service by partnering with relevant organizations to organize trips related to such activities.

One of the summer vacation ideas for families with college students is the Give Kids The World Village in Kissimmee, Florida, just outside of Disney World.

A cheap vacation that can also provide an unforgettable experience.

You can take college students to volunteer in this whimsical vacation resort where children with life-threatening illnesses wishing to visit Central Florida stay with their families.

The volunteers, selected after screening and provided training, work in shifts and are provided with meals, ice cream and entertainment in the evenings.

Recommended Hotel: Calypso Cay Vacation Villas

Related: Places to Eat: Kissimmee, FL

11. Disney Cruise Line

200 Celebration Pl Kissimmee, FL 34747 (407) 566-3500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you have made several trips to Disney theme park, Disney Cruise Line may be an option you want to try out.

Not just Florida, the Bahamas or the Caribbean, you can explore more exciting options such as the Mediterranean, Northern European or Alaska.

Not only will your family get to enjoy the entertaining shows and storytelling sessions along with exceptional service, but you can also experience new cultures and countries at the ports of stop of the cruise.

Your college-going children will also be allowed access to adult areas such as the Quiet Cove pool, Senses Spa and the adults-only restaurants such as Remy and Palo.

This can be also a great gift for a soon-to-be graduate as a reward for years of hard work in college. 

Recommended Hotel: Reunion Resort & Golf Club

12. Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If the young adults in your family are wired for some thrilling adventures, they may want to try climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge cabled to the structure for safety.

As you ascend the 1,332 steps, the panoramic view gets exciting.

The ferry boats cruising the harbor below are a sight to see, and you may also want to take one to visit Manly Beach, a sandy stretch that is an attraction of its own.

Take Bonza Bike Tours to visit some of Sydney’s iconic sites.

The Great Barrier Reef is a must see, as are some of the many other attractions this region has to offer such as the lush national parks and restaurants serving delicious food.

Don’t miss the joy rides in the seaside amusement park, The Luna Park.

Recommended Hotel: Meriton Suites Pitt Street

Related: Best Beaches in Australia

13. Iceland

Iceland Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Iceland has many natural wonders such as volcanoes, hot springs and massive glaciers.

Float in Iceland’sn oldest hot pool, Blue Lagoon, go on a whale safari, hike to waterfalls or go caving.

The black sea sand of Reynisfjara Beach is a rare, not-to-be-missed sight.

If you enjoy snorkeling, Silfra in Thingvellir National Park with its clearest water on earth should be part of your itinerary.

Iceland lets you go on self-drive tours or you can book one of the packages and let someone else take care of the logistics as you sit back and relax the enchanting view Iceland has to offer.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Grimsborgir – Your Golden Circle Retreat

Tourist’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

For the perfect vacation, you have to consider your family’s preferences and your budget. 

New York City has tons of educational sites like world-renowned art museums and national landmarks.

Many attractions and restaurants are also offered.

Just remember that the city is notorious for being crowded.

If your kids love Harry Potter, they’ll enjoy London, England.

They’ll witness how the movie was made.

And all the shopping centers and restaurants around are a plus.

Sadly, the weather is unpredictable, so you must dress appropriately.

Meanwhile, at Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise, you can visit eight cities in four different countries.

You can also do many exciting activities onboard.

But the cruise comes with high rates.

It may hurt your wallet. 

A trip to Quebec City, Canada, is a good alternative to these destinations.

You can learn about French culture and soak in the European charm.

The only drawback is that it is reported to have unreliable public transportation. 

How I Picked The Vacations

As an experienced travel writer, I review the best places to visit for families with older children.

I did thorough research on these destinations.

I also interview locals and fellow parents about their experiences during those trips.

And I consult other review sites to use the information posted by other travelers. 

Our Rating Method

I rate these vacations based on the following criteria: 

• Activities and Attractions: This criterion assesses the quality and availability of activities in every destination. Does it have museums, art galleries, or theaters? Are there concert venues or sports arenas in the area? Are there national parks or beaches? I ask myself these questions when assessing activities and attractions. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate each affordability. Does the area have a reputation for being expensive? Are the accommodation options budget-friendly? Are there locations and attractions you can visit for free? Does it have affordable dining spots? I consider these factors when rating affordability. 
• Safety: This is used to evaluate a vacation destination’s safety. Does the area have a low crime rate? Is it tourist-friendly? Are the attractions well-maintained? Is the staff trained for emergencies? Are there safety measures in place? These are the factors I consider when assessing safety. 
• Accessibility: I use this criterion to assess a location’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have an efficient public transport system? Are there free parking spaces in popular areas? Are the local attractions wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when rating accessibility. 
• Accommodation Options: This is used to evaluate the accommodation options of every destination. Are there hotels, motels, or vacation rentals near popular areas? Are the rooms spacious and comfortable? I use these factors to assess this criterion. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do i choose a family vacation.

Choose a vacation destination based on its activities and attractions, affordability, safety, accessibility, and accommodation options.

What Is The Most Affordable Vacation For Young Adults? 

Going to Quebec City, Canada, is the most affordable vacation for college students and young adults.

Each destination on this list offers not only fun but also educational adventures. 

London, England, was fascinating since my kids were movie buffs.

We went on thrilling rides and tried Harry Potter-flavored food.

Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise was a different experience.

Where else can you visit four countries in one trip?

Besides the activities onboard, the tour guides gave us a peep into European history and culture.

Quebec City was also unique because we got to experience Europe without actually going there.

We devoured tasty French cuisine we had never tried before.

Nonetheless, New York City is still our favorite.

We went to museums, tried different slices of New York pizza, and even got tickets for Broadway.

It’s truly one of the best family vacations with college students and young adults.

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10 Best Cheap Travel Destinations for College Students in the USA

Traveling with your buddies is always a fabulous idea. We understand that college budget has some restrictions when you wish to travel. However, a trip together is definitely a cherry on the cake to your friendship. Here are 10 best cheap travel destinations for college students in the USA .

These destinations are not only best but also won’t blow your budget and yet assure you the most memorable trip. Start saving and start planning your perfect itinerary. Make most of your upcoming spring break or summer vacation or the much-awaited winter break.

10 Best Budget-Friendly Traveling Destinations for College Students in the USA

• New Orleans
• Myrtle Beach
• Oklahoma City
• Jacksonville, Florida
• Tucson, Arizona
• Grand Canyon

1. New Orleans

It is the best cheap spring break vacations for college students . A must-visit is Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday, an event of Carnival traits. You may also consider keeping yourself up until the wee hours at the Bourbon Street clubs.

Moving around New Orleans is easy as well as economic. One day Jazzy Pass will cost you only $3 which gives you access to riding any streetcar or local bus, any number of times.

Entertainment and fun are very affordable in New Orleans. Explore by foot or hop on any streetcar, or take a riverboat cruise. Try a bite on signature dishes: crawfish, red beans, and rice, beignets, gumbo, creole dishes.

2. Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach in South Carolina is also known as the resort city. Amusement-parks and clean beaches are the main attractions. When not on the beaches, you may visit the Ripley’s Aquarium and the Broadway Grand Prix.

Myrtle is a perfect place for the students. You can have many entertainment options without spending a fortune. Save more by renting a home for your stay. Visiting the tourism board will give you access to many coupons for attractions, shopping and much more. From chained restaurants to locally owned eateries, you’ll have many options for fine dining. It thus makes Myrtle Beach one of the cheap spring break trips for college students .

Duty-free shopping, scuba diving, fishing and more than 500 islands are reasons enough to visit the Bahamas. If you’re a nature enthusiast, you’re sure to enjoy white washed shores.

Save your money and try booking an all-inclusive package. Try johnnycakes and peas n’ rice at any of the islands. The best way of getting around the Bahamas is by public buses (known as jitneys). However, this facility is not available on all islands. The crime rate in the Bahamas is high, hence be cautious and safe. Nonetheless, Bahamas is the best place to consider it for an all-inclusive vacation for college students.

Denver, the Mile High City offers you a number of free hiking and biking trails around the city. The MallRide service lets you travel around downtown for free. Even the public transportation here is safe, reliable and easy on your pocket as well.

Consider staying at hostels for as less as $19 per bed, per night. Denver has many attractions to amaze you. Breweries are the most well-known. The Coors Brewery tour is free. Follow this tour with the tour of museums, most of which are free or inexpensive. Breathtaking views await you at the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. The free access to must-visit attractions makes Denver one of the cheap vacations for college students in the US.

Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland, is also the most populous city. It can rain anytime, so it’s a good idea to carry your umbrella always. This city is not only historically rich but also culturally rich.

There is an entire list of the attractions, such as the Guinness Store House, the Temple Bar, Dublin Castle and much more. Overlook the breathtaking views of the entire city with a pint of beer in hand from the Guinness Storehouse. Phoenix Park and St. Stephen’s Green parks are great attractions, and you do not have to spend any money to visit the same. Relax and enjoy in one of the pubs on any night. Dublin is one of the most-preferred and cheap summer trips for college students .

6. Oklahoma City

This city offers you plenty of fun things and is one of the best places for college students to travel in the US . From funky festivals to not so boring museums, Oklahoma has many attractions. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a must-visit.

Test your fitness level at the Sandridge Sky Trail and overcome your phobia of heights. Try eating the originality of Oklahoma, the fried onion burger at the Mother Tucker.

This city is also home to world’s largest livestock market. Discover the science like never before at the CurioCity, located inside the Science Museum.

7. Jacksonville, Florida

A city with many attractions welcomes you to its downtown Riverside Arts Market. Local crafts and wares are on sale on every Saturday. Another must-visit tourist attraction is the Kingsley Plantation and entry is free as well.

Beach lovers have free access to beautiful beaches like Amelia Island, Ponte Vedra Beach, and Atlantic Beach. Jacksonville has surely something for everyone. It is the most preferred place for cheap winter break trips for college students .

Camelback mountain, a very popular tourist attraction welcomes thousands of visitors every year. Hiking and biking is definitely a must for all the enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies. Check out the world-famous Heard Museum and see what’s in store for you.

The new METRO Light Rail allows you to move around Phoenix for only $3.50, for an all-day pass. There are many good budget hotels for your accommodation. You may consider camping as well.

9. Tucson, Arizona

Arizona’s second largest city has sunny days around the year, and hence it is never a bad time to book your trip to Tucson. Horseback riding, museums, gardens, glass studio tours, biking, beautiful parks, hiking, balloon rides, what more one could ask for? Tucson has loads of fun activities and ample of attractions to keep you all busy.

Go for shopping at the St. Philips Farmers Market. This weekend market is one of the biggest markets in Southwestern Arizona. Lastly, take a tour of the Taste of Tucson Downtown, a cultural walking and culinary tour.

10. Grand Canyon

Make your trip grand by visiting the Grand Canyon. It has been a favorite destination for vacationing. The Grand Canyon is also a UNESCO World Heritage site with more than 4 million people visiting this site every year. A free shuttle bus operates from March through September, and it takes you through South Rim.

Forget hotels and 5-start stays; instead, opt to camp and save your pocket as well. Get going with your gang. It is also one of the best road trip destinations for college students .

You may also check out other travel destinations as well:

• Best Cheap Weekend Getaways for Couples in the USA
• 10 Best Places to Celebrate Your 21st, 30th and 50th Birthday

Some homework and research will let you explore many cities in the USA at a reasonable price. Now, vacationing doesn’t has to be necessarily expensive. The above comprehensive list is well crafted after consideration of various factors. Be it relaxation or adventure, the places listed won’t break your bank.

Now, fun can be affordable too!

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14 Cheap Spring Break Destinations for College Students in 2024

Fact Checked By The GradCafe Editor

The life of a modern college student can be stressful: It’s not easy balancing assignments, exams, and even a part-time job . By the time March and April roll around, most students are ready to blow off some steam.

Spring destinations for college students offer the perfect opportunity to go on vacation with friends, discover new places, embrace adventure, or simply relax.

Spring break destinations for college students should be budget-friendly and fun — and they should also ensure that you’ll head back to school ready to push through the end of the academic year!

Table of Contents

When Is Spring Break 2024?

In 2024, most schools are going on Spring break between late February and mid-March, though some vacation periods are in late March. The exact dates  vary depending on the institution, so check with your administration office before booking anything.

Related : Need to get more organized before heading off on spring break? Check out our tips and advice on the best academic planners  and the best laptops for graduate students .

How We Ranked the Best College Spring Break Destinations of 2024

Your ideal spring break destination will depend on your preferences and interests: Do you like to party or prefer getting lost in nature? Do you dream of days spent by the beach or want to hit up local attractions?

There are certain elements that nearly every college student looks for when planning a vacation (and that just about guarantees an awesome spring break getaway). Here are the criteria we used to determine the best spring break destinations for college students in 2024:

Between educational expenses and student loans, whether part-time or full-time , most college students are a bit skint. Rather than a luxurious getaway, we’ve chosen the best spring break destinations for college students on a budget while still offering a fantastic time).

2. Location

Spring break goes by too quickly — who wants to spend half of that time in airports and planes? We’ve picked the best US and some international destinations fairly close by.

3. Group-Friendly

Spring break is all about going away with your friends and having a great time. We’ve stuck to places that are perfect for groups seeking a fun vacation

To thaw out and absorb some sunshine before returning to colder climates, we’ve chosen places that are great to visit during spring.

5. Picture-Perfect

The picturesque destinations on this list are definitely Instagram-worthy (and are sure to make your followers jealous).

13 Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations for College Students

If you’re looking for beautiful beaches, why not consider some of the best spring break destinations like Miami Beach, Oahu, or South Padre Island? Seeking a party spot? Las Vegas and Panama City Beach will keep you dancing all night long.

If you’re hoping to get into the great outdoors, why not check out the Rocky Mountains, Moab, or even Nicaragua (just be sure to grab your passport first)?

Florida College Spring Break Destinations

For many, Florida beaches are synonymous with Spring Break, and for good reason! The Sunshine State offers plenty of fun, cheap places for spring break college students.

1. Panama City Beach, Florida

Best for:  Beachside partying

Average cost of hotels:  $130-280 per night

Spanning over 25 miles, Panama City Beach is a paradise of white sand and warm, pristine water. It’s not hard to see why it’s called the Spring Break Capital of the World . This destination has something for everyone.

The city is ideal for people looking to chill out on the beach, shop, or eat at excellent restaurants. For adrenaline junkies, it has a lot to offer, from dolphin encounters to water sports.

What To Do in Panama City Beach:

• Hit up Pier Park and explore over 170 shops and restaurants.
• Try snorkeling, jet skiing, swimming, and other water sports.
• Check out the quirky backdrops for Insta-worthy selfies at the Selfie Museum.
• Visit ZooWorld and discover over 260 rare species of animals.
• Lay on the beach for hours.
• Dine at a beachside restaurant and enjoy fresh oysters and other seafood.

2. North Miami Beach, Florida

Best for:  Nightlife and water sports

Average cost of hotels:  $130-310 per night

With affordable hotels, perfect weather, and a host of activities, North Miami Beach is an ideal spring break destination. Miami Beach is much more than crystal clear water and endless white beaches: It’s also home to many popular museums, theaters, shops, restaurants, and nightclubs.

What To Do in North Miami Beach:

• Visit South Beach for its famous parties and water sports.
• Explore the stunning Art Deco buildings and nightclubs at Ocean Drive.
• Try fishing and volleyball with your friends at Haulover Park.
• Discover the wonderful architecture of the Spanish Monastery  and learn about its rich history.
• Enjoy the panoramic views of the shoreline at South Pointe Park.
• Go shopping at Lincoln Road Mall.

3. Daytona Beach, Florida

Best for:  Beach time and car racing

Average cost of hotels:  $140-200 per night

A cheaper alternative to Miami Beach, Daytona Beach boasts 23 miles of golden sand and sparkling water, inviting water sports and lazy days in the sun. However, it’s the Daytona International Speedway that makes this spot famous — and a top pick for adrenaline junkies.

If revving car engines isn’t your thing, you can check out a range of other attractions like the USA’s oldest lighthouse and the Museum of Arts & Sciences.

Note : This popular spring break destination is up and running again after being damaged by hurricanes Ian and Nicole  in late 2022.

What To Do in Daytona Beach

• Watch a car race right on the beach.
• Visit the US’ tallest and oldest lighthouse.
• Explore vintage American cars and other historic exhibits at the Museum of Arts and Sciences.
• Discover Florida’s native wildlife, palm trees, and various birds at Tomoka State Park.
• Head to the Daytona Lagoon for a fun day of thrilling water slides.

Related : The best jobs for MBA graduates .

Fun Spring Break Trips for College Students in the Deep South

Don’t overlook the southern parts of the US when looking for cheap places to go for spring break college students. Here, you’ll find some lesser-known yet super fun and affordable destinations!

4. South Padre Island, Texas

Best for:  Nature and wildlife

Average cost of hotels:  $100-230 per night

You don’t have to go to Mexico or the Caribbean for a stunning beach getaway. South Padre Island has white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and a wide range of activities.

There’s more to this island than just basking in the sun: Go fishing, watch dolphins, and even witness baby turtles hatching. The pleasant weather and beautiful ambiance make South Padre Island one of the best spring break spots for college students in the Southwest.

What To Do in South Padre Island:

• Go birdwatching at the South Padre Island Birding Nature Center  (it’s also an alligator sanctuary).
• Visit Sea Turtle, Inc. to watch baby turtles enter crystal clear ocean waters for the first time.
• Try 13 amazing water slides at Beach Park, Isla Blanca.
• Enjoy horseback riding at Adventure Park.
• Enroll in sandcastle-building lessons and participate in a competition.

5. New Orleans, Louisiana

Best for:  Music and food

Average cost of hotels:  $160-300 per night

Known for its eclectic vibe, delicious food, Mardi Gras, and incredible music, New Orleans has over 18 million visitors every year  — and for good reason!

Not only is New Orleans one of the best budget destinations for spring break, but you can also try mouth-watering food, attend legendary jazz festivals, and plan wild weekends.

What To Do in New Orleans

• Hit Frenchmen Street and explore its nightclubs, restaurants, bars, and great music.
• Explore fascinating architecture and history by taking a stroll through the French Quarter.
• Listen to authentic New Orleans Jazz at Preservation Hall.
• Try beignets, delicious coffee, and other local specialties at Cafe du Monde.
• Take a tour of the Mississippi River on Steamboat Natchez.

6. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Best for:  Affordable beach vacations

Average cost of hotels:  $170-260 per night

Gulf Shores is a stunning beach destination boasting crystal clear waters and white sand beaches just along the coast of Florida.

This up-and-coming spring break vacation destination is not nearly as well known as certain spots in Florida (yet), so it’s a great place to enjoy a fun, relaxed getaway without the seasonal crowds.

Along with lazy beach days, you can enjoy golf, sport fishing, and plenty of opportunities to party.

What To Do in Gulf Shores:

• Visit the popular Gulf Shores Public Beach.
• Have loads of water-based fun at the massive Waterville USA water and amusement park.
• Go camping or hiking at Gulf State Park.
• Let loose at the legendary Flora-Bama Lounge beach bar at Orange Beach.
• Get close to nature at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.

Related : The best states to start your tech career .

Spring Break Destinations in the Wild West and Beyond

You’ll also find some great spring break ideas for college students in the great American West and as far as Hawaii. Enjoy amazing nature, culture, and nightlife without leaving the USA.

7. Moab, Utah

Best for:  Nature and adventure

Average cost of hotels:  $300-480 per night

Moab is a great spring break destination for adventure junkies and nature lovers alike. The weather is warm and pleasant around spring break, making it the perfect time to explore this destination.

Try ATV rides, mountain biking, or river rafting if you want an adrenaline rush. The city is also budget-friendly, and most of its attractions are within walking distance (or a few minutes drive from the heart of the city).

What To Do in Moab

• Try white water rafting on the Colorado River.
• Go on a desert safari.
• Rent a jeep and check out the rich nature just outside of town.
• Visit Arches National Park.
• Hit the Island in the Sky district for enchanting views.

8. Las Vegas, Nevada

Best for:  Nightlife and live performances

Average cost of hotels:  $100-250 per night

Las Vegas needs no introduction: Famous for its high-end casinos, neon lights, and incomparable nightlife, it’s long been an excellent spring break destination for college students who love to party.

But there’s more to Las Vegas than blackjack tables: Climb the Eiffel Tower for a mesmerizing view of the city, check out a live show, or watch the beautiful fountain display at Bellagio.

What To Do in Las Vegas

• Get active with hiking and biking at Red Rock Canyon.
• Get a bird’s eye view of the entire Strip from the High Roller Observation Wheel.
• Visit the downtown Neon Museum.
• Take in the breathtaking live acrobatic performances at Cirque du Soleil.
• Book a “Paris” tour to see the replicas of some of the world’s most iconic buildings.

9. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Best for:  Hiking and outdoor activities

Average cost of hotels:  $130-210 per night

With warm, sunny, and pleasant weather during spring break, the Rocky Mountains are the perfect destination this time of year.

The resorts offer comfortable accommodations, amazing food, and a lot of fun things to do outside of the snow season. It’s the ideal spring break destination for fitness junkies and nature lovers, with plenty of hikes and other activities.

What To Do in Rocky Mountain National Park

• Drive the very scenic Trail Ridge Road.
• Explore local history at the Holzwarth Historic Site.
• Climb Longs Peak for breathtaking views of the area.
• Go hiking on the Cub Lake Trail.
• Go fishing in Mills Lake.

10. Oahu, Hawaii

Best for:  Nature and water sports

Average cost of hotels:  $170-290 per night

Oahu is another gorgeous spring break destination — and it’s just a short flight from the West Coast!

It has stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and everything from shopping centers to beaches to museums. This Hawaiian destination is perfect for lovers of the great outdoors, offering a range of activities such as surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking.

What To Do in Oahu:

• Hike the peak of the Diamond Head State Monument .
• Learn to surf at Waikiki Beach.
• Explore the history and architecture of Iolani Palace.
• Spot different species of turtles at Laniakea Beach.
• Book a helicopter ride and take in the amazing views of the island.

Central American and Caribbean Spring Break Getaways

Some of the cheapest spring break destinations for college students can be found in the USA’s backyard. Central America and the Caribbean offer a range of popular and affordable spots with plenty of beaches, parties, and amazing landscapes.

11. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Best for:  Culture and partying

Average cost of hotels:  $70-160 per night

For a cheap spring break trip for college students that’s just as memorable, head to the Mexican city of Puerto Vallarta.

This is a fantastic beach destination for groups, couples, and solo travelers, with perfect warm weather every spring. It’s another great spot to unwind on the beach, explore the vibrant city, or try some of the many outdoor activities.

What To Do in Puerto Vallarta:

• Visit Zona Romantica, the most colorful district of the city, and explore its historic buildings with red-tiled roofs.
• Take a morning stroll around the Malecon and discover its excellent restaurants, beaches, and colorful buildings.
• Hit Playa Las Gemelas, a tranquil local beach that is less crowded than other city beaches.
• Discover Mexico’s stunning orchids at the Botanical Garden.

12. Jamaica

Best for:  Caribbean vibes

Average cost of hotels:  $60-180 per night

Reggae music, spectacular beaches, low-key vibes, and endless-flowing rum: It’s hard to think of better ingredients for an amazing spring break.

This Caribbean island has all this and more; during spring, the weather is warm (with very little rainfall). Plenty of things are happening on the island too, like coffee, seafood, and rum festivals.

However, be aware that some areas of Jamaica are safer than others, so check what the State Department says about Jamaica  and avoid the areas identified as “high risk.”

Portland is a stunning beach destination that’s safe for tourists and is slightly less crowded than many other parts of the island.

What To Do in Jamaica

• Go bamboo rafting on the scenic Rio Grande.
• Swim in the natural pools underneath the stunning Reach Falls.
• Discover Jamaica’s beautiful native orchids.
• If the dates line up, check out the colors of Carnival (usually two weeks in March or April).
• Go shopping and pick up some authentic handmade crafts.

13. Cancun, Mexico

Best for:  Beaches and nightlife

Average cost of hotels:  $50-160 per night

Seen by many as the best spring break destination for college students on a budget, Cancun is packed with resorts offering affordable packages that include accommodation, three meals a day, drinks, and entertainment.

In addition to the city’s vibrant nightlife scene, it also boasts stunning beaches. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you can try parasailing, jet skiing, and other water sports.

If you’ve had enough of the beach, immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and learn about Mexican history.

What To Do in Cancun:

• Take in the stunning sunset at Playa Delfines.
• Visit Las Coloradas and see the world’s most beautiful pink lake.
• Take a glass-bottomed boat tour to discover the ancient statues and artifacts at the underwater museum MUSA .
• Swim in a stalactite river at the world-famous Cenotes.
• Relax and enjoy delicious Mexican food at Isla Mujeres.
• Go shopping at Mercado 28 and pick up some souvenirs.

14. Granada, Nicaragua

Best for:  Adventure and nature

Average cost of hotels:  $35-90 per night

Spring breakers with a more adventurous spirit will love immersing themselves in Nicaragua’s vibrant culture, trying local food, and getting lost in the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes” — all for a super affordable price tag.

The historical city of Granada is a jewel in the country’s crown. Located on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, the city boasts Spanish colonial architecture, plenty of restaurants and bars, and is within easy reach of stunning nature and fun attractions.

Note : When visiting any underdeveloped destination, it’s always a good idea to exercise caution and follow official advice  to make sure you stay safe and have an awesome trip.

What To Do in Granada

• Take a boat trip to Las Islets, a cluster of hundreds of tiny islands caused by an ancient volcanic eruption.
• Climb to the top of Granada’s cathedral for breathtaking city views.
• Swim in the clear blue waters of a volcanic crater lake at nearby Laguna de Apoyo.
• Hike a cloud forest and see sloths in their natural habitat at Mombacho.
• Peek inside an active volcano, Volcan Masaya.

How to Plan Spring Break on a Budget

There’s no denying that college is expensive. According to Grand Canyon University , undergraduate students can expect to spend between $30,132 and $33,662 on tuition, housing, food, and other expenses.

However, visiting the best spring break destinations for college students in 2024 doesn’t have to break the bank, even if you’re on a tight budget.

Here are some practical tips for planning cheap spring break trips for college students:

• Get organized early –  Accommodation, transport, and other costs often get much more expensive closer to the date, especially around peak periods such as Spring Break. So booking a few months in advance can save you some serious cash.
• Avoid the predictable destinations – Although you can plan an affordable trip to Florida or Mexico, many of the best deals are in less-known places. For a fabulous Spring Break on a budget, consider heading off the beaten path to somewhere like Moab, South Padre Island, or Central America.
• Look for bulk discounts   –  Group trips can be much more affordable than traveling alone or as a couple. Grab some buddies and look around for accommodation deals for large groups and group discounts on activities.
• Pack smart – Buying extra supplies like sunscreen, shampoo, or flip-flops after you arrive can become costly. So make sure you pack all the essentials to avoid unnecessary expenses. Also, avoid overpacking to ensure you don’t get hit with excess baggage fees.
• Ask about student benefits – You’ll be surprised to learn how many companies and organizations, such as airlines, hotels, and museums, offer student discounts. Before paying, always check if there’s a discount available — it never hurts to ask!
• Tap into credit card rewards – Many credit cards offer travel rewards, so be sure to check if your card allows you to earn points or miles and how you can use them for Spring Break.
• Plan a budget – Make sure you don’t overspend by planning a strict budget for your trip, including how much you can afford to spend on meals, drinks, and activities. You can ensure you stick to your budget by bringing a prepaid debit card.

Related : The best backpacks for college .

4 Reasons to Travel During Spring Break

With midterms looming, planning a spring break trip might be the last thing on your mind. But making a trip to one of the best spring break destinations for college students can have a number of advantages:

1. It’s a Great Time to See the World

Many destinations in the US have their best weather in spring, with sunny, warm days (and even spring flowers). Equally, many of the cheapest international destinations are in the US backyard, such as Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

At the end of their dry season is the time to go because there will be plenty of sunny days for sightseeing!

2. Fewer Crowds

The peak season for most destinations in the summer and around the holidays. Many attractions have fewer crowds during spring break and may even offer discounted rates on accommodation and tours.

3. Relax and Reset

You’ll need to hit the books hard after spring break, regardless if you’re a full-time undergrad or a part-time grad student . This is an important opportunity to chill out and/or blow off steam as you head into the final stretch of the academic year.

4. Experience New Things

Your college days are the perfect time for new experiences and adventures. Use this time to see new places and appreciate everything the world offers!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can students stay on campus during spring break.

This depends on your school. Some dorms close during this time, meaning you can keep your stuff in your dorm (but you can’t be there during spring break). You may need to go home to your parents or go away on vacation.

What’s the Most Popular Beach for Spring Break?

Miami Beach and Panama City Beach (both in Florida) are the most popular US spring break beach destinations. Another Florida location, Daytona Beach is another great Florida destination for spring breakers. Otherwise, check out South Padre Island or Cancun.

What Percentage of College Students Go on Spring Break Trips?

According to Gitnux , between 35 and 40% of college students take a spring break trip, amounting to around 1.5 million travelers annually. On average, students spend $1,080 on their trip, and around 20% of all spring breakers regret spending too much during this time.

How Early Should I Plan My Spring Break?

Spring break is a popular travel time, so booking transport and accommodation 3-4 weeks in advance is a good idea. That said, you can sometimes find great last-minute deals — so it’s never too late to book your dream spring break trip!

Government of Canada. “Nicaragua Travel Advice.” https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/nicaragua

Grand Canyon University. “Cost of Attendance.” https://www.gcu.edu/tuition/cost-attendance

Lindner, J. “ College Spring Break Statistics (Fresh Research) .” 2023 Dec 16. Gitnux.

STS Travel. “Spring Break 2024 Dates.” https://www.ststravel.com/college-spring-break-dates

U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs. “Jamaica Travel Advisory.” https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/jamaica-travel-advisory.html

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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These are the best places to travel as a student this summer

From the price of a beer to the price of a hostel, this study evaluates all the student essentials

Just because you want to travel on a budget, it doesn’t mean your opportunities are limited – there’re plenty of affordable travel destinations to visit this year . 

And the same goes for the most budget-reliant demographic of society: students. Though studying often means your bank account really takes a beating, there are plenty of places you can head to for some not-so-spenny holidays, and UNiDAYS have brought us a round-up. 

The platform’s 2024 index study has evaluated everything from hostel prices to beer prices, as well as safety rating, average meal cost, the price of a one-way transport ticket, the number of group activities, and the population of international students. 

So, where ranked as the best place to travel as a student for this year? That would be Tbilisi , the lovely Georgian capital, which scored 7.32 out of 10. The average cost of a pint here is just £1.87 (€2.19), and the majority of its attractions are pretty close together, making it easy to explore the city on foot. 

In second place, it was Lisbon , which ranked well for safety, and in third, it’s Yerevan in Armenia aka ‘the Pink City’ – a meal here costs just £7.18 (€8.41). However, this list is by no means just a cheap-sheet. Reykjavik claims spot number five, and though it’s notoriously unaffordable, you can’t argue that those geothermal pools look like a pretty good spot to detach from your exam stress. 

Here are the best places to travel as a student in Europe

• Tbilisi, Georgia
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Yerevan, Armenia
• Prague , Czechia
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Istanbul , Turkiye
• Madrid , Spain
• Belgrade, Serbia
• Vilnius, Lithuania
• Zagreb , Croatia

Did you see that these are the European cities with the cheapest (and most expensive) pints ?

Plus: This European city has been named the world’s most walkable . 

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news.

• Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

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20 Places to visit in India during college Trip

College years are said to be the best time for college trip as you are no more a kid. Travelling to different parts of the country, seeing new things, meeting new people helps you in your character formation. This obviously adds to your college life memories and also helps you learn a lot of new things.

Places to visit in India during college Trip:

Here are some must visit places where you can go while you are in college and enjoy with your college friends.

Goa is one of the best places which one should visit during college years with friends. Undoubtedly it is a party hub where one can taste and see the best of Portuguese culture in India. Usually bachelors come here to celebrate and live their adult and independent lives with friends.

Here one can visit beaches, forts and churches, night bars and clubs, etc. One can also try their luck in casinos and enjoy water sports here.

Here the other attractions are Church of Mae Do Dues, Aguada Fort, Temple of Bodgeshwar, etc.

2. Srinagar

Srinagar, the gem of Kashmir, is a good place to enjoy life between the hills. Kashmir is regarded as a living paradise and attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world. Bachelors come here to celebrate their lives with friends and spend time keeping apart the hectic and boring daily life.

Here one can spend nights in beautiful Dal Lake by boarding a houseboat called shikara, and enjoy the nights stress free with friends and the heavenly breeze. One can also go for sightseeing. Shalimar Bagh, Hazratbal mosque and Shankaracharya hills are the places mainly visited by tourists.

Located in the heart of the Kumauni region of Almora, Binsal is a perfect place to experience the beauty of the wildlife in India. A place situated in a high altitude surrounded by jungles allows a big variety of wildlife to reside here. Peace is a perfect word to use here which allows the flora and fauna to develop naturally as they are meant to.

Here one can visit the Bineshwar Mahadev temple to see and experience the cultural heritage of India. The other major attractions are Zero point, Binsar Wildlife sanctuary, etc.

As a rise in the want of camping in our country, Kantal is regarded to have or rather served the best camping experience in India. Place in the hills have a clear sky upon it which helps the stars to shine brightly and help the campers to look and enjoy the view of various formations and constellations at night.

Here one can spend nights with friends sitting around a bonfire and chatting with each other. And later can enjoy the view above them .Other tourists spots here are Kodia jungle, Tehri Lake, etc.

It is said that one should travel once alone or with friends to Kasol. One comes back with a life time experience of travelling. It is one of the most peaceful places in India. Here one experiences grass growing greener near him/her and a sense of peace comes to us whenever we enter this place.

Other tourist spots are Parvati River, Malana village, Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, etc.

This place is situated near Bengaluru and is famous for coffee plantations. Situated in a high altitude Coorg is an amazing place to spend time with friends and to smell the sweet coffee plantation here. This place is also regarded as Indian Scotland.

The other attractions here are Abbey Falls, Nalknad Palace, Nagarhole National Park, etc.

7. Leh Ladakh

Leh-Ladakh, the bikers paradise, is a must go place for the bike riders specially when in college. Bike ride on the crazy windy roads is a dream come true moment for any bike rider. Getting stuck anywhere in the road and living with the locals of that place makes one independent and the journey really adventurous. And when with friends this journey becomes one of the best experiences in one’s life and stays as a memory for life time.

The other attractions are Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, etc.

Kutch in Indian is one of the largest white desert stretches in the world. The sunrise and the sunset here gives a heavenly view and the camel rides during the sunny days with friends give a feeling of traveling in Egypt to the tourists. During kites festival the sky is filled with over sized and colourful kites which gives an amazing view to the tourists.

Other attractions are Prag Mahal, Kalo Dungar, Kutch museum, etc.

9. Rishikesh

Regarded as a cultural place with world renowned temples, Rishikesh is also famous for water sports mainly rafting. In the lap of River Ganga this place is one among the best places for fresh water rafting in the world. It is heaven for water sports lover and an enthusiastic experience for youths to raft in the fresh waters of River Ganga.

The other attractions are Rajaji National Park, Lakshman Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, etc.

Located between the hills and jungles of Pine Trees, Shimla is regarded as the queen of northern hills of India. While travelling in the toy trains one can recall the childhood hopping in the colorful toy trains in amusement parks but the only difference is that the track is surrounded by Pine Trees and not by other rides. The journey gives an adventurous and exiting feeling to the tourists especially to the college students due to the long journey of the toy trains.

Other attractions are Chadwik Falls, Christ church, Scandal point, etc.

Located in the middle of the snowcapped hills, Manali is a gem to Himachal and also the heart of Himachal Pradesh. It is among the best and one of the famous snowcapped resorts of India. The mountain climbing and a late night snow storms make tourists realize the pain and hardships of the locals. Besides the hard ships it is also an adventurous experience for the tourists.

Other attractions are Bhrigu Lake, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Devi temple, etc.

12. Udaipur

Udaipur being a city of rivers in Rajasthan is regarded as the eastern Venice of the world. The city being a city of rivers is also famous for its colorful lightings during the evenings and nights. Although famous for these reasons the best Rajasthani culture is found here. One can experience the royalty of Rajasthani’s here.

Other attractions are Lake Pichola, Jagadish Temple, City Palace, etc.

Mysore is regarded as a silk capital of India. A beautiful city with a royal past and a bright future is world famous for silk products and a mouthwatering native desert call Mysore Pak. The beauty of this city is preserved by the architectural experts of our country before British Raj.

Other attractions are Mysore palace, Mysore Zoo, GRS Fantasy Park, etc.

14. Prashar Lake

Located at a distance of 50 kilometers from Mandi district, Prashar Lake is superb place for the youth who are excited for trekking. Here, as situated in the heart of Himachal, we can sometimes see the wild animals near us. This is really adventurous especially for the youths who are in a mood of adventure during free time.

Other attractions are Mandi, Bhutnath Temple, three-tiered temple, etc.

15. Meghalaya

Meghalaya is one of the refreshing holiday destinations of India. The beautiful greens and the big mountains attract a large crowd of tourists. As the youths are not afraid of the dark, height, insects and caving Meghalaya is a must go place for the youths.

Other attractions are Elephants Falls, Khasi hills, Motrop (giant conical rock), etc.

16. Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji is a heavenly sight for the youths who want to experience something real out of the blue. This land is famous for the waterfalls and mostly for the natural bridges which are naturally made by the big trees with the help of its branches and roots.

Other attractions are Mawswai caves, Thangkharang Park, Kynrem falls, etc.

Hampi is designated as a world heritage site and a wonderful place for the youths who are concerned with and interested in the ancient more in Monarchy. This place is famous for the ancient architecture and the old monumental beauty.

Other attractions are Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Temple, etc.

18. Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a small city located between The Great Salt Lake and The Bay of Bengal. Mahabalipuram is called Mamallapuram by locals and is famous for monuments and architectural beauty of ancient times (before 7 BC).

Other attractions are Shore Temple, The Five Rathas, Tiger caves, etc.

Ooty called Udhagamandalam by locals is a popular and mostly visited place by tourists in the Nilgiri Hills. Being a mighty rock mountain it is adventurous for the youths to visit this place for many kinds of adventurous sports.

Other attractions are Pillars Rocks, Kodai Lake, Bear Shola Falls, etc.

Auli regarded as the skiing capital of India, is a best place for the youth who have a hobby of skiing. It’s a beautiful place to see sunset in the higher altitudes. Auli is a place which encourages skiing not only in winters but in all seasons.

Other attractions are Pangarchula peaks, Shri Hemkunt sahib, etc.

So don’t waste time deciding places as now you know where to go? Travel to some of these places with your friends and add on to your college life memories. Choose the best place according to your budget and start your journey without any delay. Enjoy the best time of your life.

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US News & World Report – EDU

14 Tips for an Effective College Visit

Posted: December 21, 2023 | Last updated: December 21, 2023

Finding the right fit.

Start planning early.

Ask questions.

Get student perspectives.

Explore college through the lens of campus media.

Visit academic departments.

Check out other campuses nearby.

Learn about the local community.

Visit a dining hall or student center.

Explore the campus library.

Explore various virtual tour options.

Ask about campus safety.

Get financial aid information.

Ask about disability accommodations.

Meet with clubs and organizations.

Learn more about colleges.

College visit tips

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16 free (or almost free) things to do in college on the weekend.

Senior Associate, JPMorgan Chase

The weekend is approaching, and you’re trying to stick to your budget and be financially responsible, but you don’t want to stay in your dorm all weekend long. The good thing is, there are many things to do on the weekend in college that are free or almost free. You might just need to get a little creative.

Continue reading for ideas on filling up your weekend schedule if you want to do more than study (everyone needs a break sometimes)!

Also, remember to keep in mind that if there are activities that you’re interested in doing around campus that do cost money to check to see if student discounts are available before going or signing up.

1. Host a movie night or TV show marathon

This can be a great way to bring friends together for a hangout in your dorm room or apartment. Consider creating a cozy atmosphere and finding movies on a binge-worthy TV show for your group to enjoy. You might even make it a theme night – think of themes like a classic movie marathon, a rom-com theme, or more.

2. Have a game night with board games or video games

Encourage friends to bring their own games to enjoy each other's company and some friendly competition. This can be a great way to unwind without having to leave campus.

3. Go to a free lecture or discussion on campus or at a local library

Going to a lecture is certainly a more intellectual activity, but perhaps a lecture topic that you're interested in is taking place that you can take advantage of. One of the great things about being in a college setting is having these opportunities presented to you regularly, and on top of that they are often free. Now is the time to take advantage of these opportunities!

4. Attend a community theater production or student-run play

Many colleges have theater programs that have performances throughout the year, often at a discounted price for college students. In some cases, attending these productions is entirely free. Take a friend to a show or consider this a great idea for a date on a budget !

5. Participate in or attend an on-campus or community open mic or poetry slam

If you have a knack for slam poetry, singing, improv, or playing an instrument, show off your skills at an open mic event near you. Colleges regularly host these events, and you may be able to find them in your community, too. If performing isn’t your cup of tea, these events can be fun to attend, and are often very affordable, if not free.

6. Host a clothing or accessory swap with friends

Consider refreshing your wardrobe for free and exchange anything you’re not wearing with college friends. Not only can this be a great way to update your wardrobe, but it can also be a fun way to gather friends that’s entirely free.

7. Go to campus sporting events and cheer on your team

Attending campus sporting events can be a great way to show school spirit, connect with fellow students, and enjoy the excitement of cheering on your school. College students can often get student discounts on tickets or sometimes the tickets are entirely free depending on the sporting event.

8. Organize a collaborative study session with classmates

Studying may not sound like an appealing way to spend a weekend, but sometimes, it may be unavoidable during heavy periods like midterms or finals. If you find yourself in one of these periods, why not put a fun study event together. For instance, consider hosting a potluck study group where everyone brings a dish for the group to enjoy. Studying will be a lot more enjoyable with tasty treats and good company.

9. Volunteer at a local animal shelter or participate in a pet adoption event

Volunteering can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, and a meaningful way to give back to your community. If you love animals, volunteering at an animal shelter or helping to facilitate a pet adoption event can be a great way to spend time with animals, and it won’t cost a thing.

10. Explore local thrift stores and play dress up for the afternoon

It can be fun to peruse thrift stores for finds, even if you don’t have plans to buy anything. Try on that 1960s shift dress or three-piece suit from the rack and make a day of exploring.

11. Host a DIY home spa with homemade face masks, manicures, and relaxation activities

College can be a stressful time. If there’s a weekend when you’re looking for a relaxing activity for a group of friends (or just need some solo relaxation time) why not host a DIY home spa get together with homemade face masks, manicures, and any other relaxing activities you can think of.

12. Participate in a campus or community environmental cleanup or recycling initiative

Keep an eye out for announcements, flyers, or social media posts about upcoming environmental cleanup events on your college campus or in your local community. This can be a great way to give back while potentially being an opportunity to make new friends.

13. Organize a group hike or nature walk in a scenic area

If you like to be outdoors or are simply looking for a fitness activity for the weekend that won’t involve signing up for a pricey fitness class, why not research hiking trails good for a group walk – the more scenic, the better.

14. Try a new recipe with friends or roommates

Have you recently found a recipe you’ve been wanting to try? Make a night of it and turn that recipe into a hangout. Have your friends or roommates bring a few of the ingredients and master the recipe you’ve been wanting to try together.

15. Start the side hustle you’ve been thinking about

If you have a side hustle or business idea you’ve had in the back of your mind for a while, turn it into one of your weekend activities. Many prominent business leaders started companies during college, so there’s no time like the present. Even if you don’t want to be the next big founder, this may be an opportunity to start a side hustle to simply earn money while in college.

16. Visit an outdoor farmer’s market

If you love perusing food items or just like getting out into your local community, consider visiting a local farmer’s market on the weekend. You can explore local culture, discover unique items, and potentially enjoy free samples as you walk around.

Final thoughts

It’s important for college students to find a balance between their academic responsibilities and enjoying their social life. Engaging in various activities during your free time can help you make the most of your weekends and create a well-rounded college experience. And you don’t have to spend a lot of money to do it!

Why Visit Colleges?

Find the right college for you..

A key part of deciding which college to go to is finding a good fit. And a great way to get more information is to visit the colleges in person.

Virtual tours are also a great way to learn more about a campus. It can help you determine whether a college is the right place for you and prepare you for a campus visit at your convenience.

A Firsthand View

Why are college visits important? A campus visit is your opportunity to get a firsthand view of a college. A college catalog, brochure, or website can only show you so much. To really get a feel for the college , you need to walk around the quad, sit in on a class, and visit the dorms.

Get Answers to Your Questions.

A visit also lets you talk to students, faculty, financial aid staff, and admissions officers. You can get answers to important questions like these:

• What’s the campus meal plan like? How is the food? What are the options?
• What's the social scene like? What kinds of activities are available?
• Is there plenty of dorm space or a housing crunch?
• How many students are commuters? How many are campus residents?
• Is there a health center? What mental health resources are available?
• What career development resources are available? What student employment opportunities are available?

Use this checklist for a campus visit to remind yourself of everything you want to do once you reach your destination.

Your family members can also participate in the visit and any information sessions. They can help you decide which colleges to apply to and which one to attend.

Benefits of a Campus Visit.

Visiting a college is a great starting point. Pick up any official college material you see on the campus tour, such as brochures and financial aid forms.

Don't forget to get business cards, too, so you'll have a real, live contact if you have a question about admissions or financial aid. Do college visits help with admissions? Yes, these visits allow you to speak to the admissions officer handling your application.

Student newspapers and activity calendars give you a sense of what campus life is really like. Check out bulletin boards to see what bands are coming to the campus, what parties are advertised, what internships are posted, and what the day-to-day energy of the place is like.

Get Ready to Decide.

It’s your decision. Heed your intuition. Do you feel comfortable walking around campus? Do you feel at home? Do you click with the students and faculty? Is this what you imagined college to be like? Spending time on campus helps you determine whether a college is a good fit.

Adapted from  Campus Visits and College Interviews  by Zola Dincin Schneider. 

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Teen Girls Confront an Epidemic of Deepfake Nudes in Schools

Using artificial intelligence, middle and high school students have fabricated explicit images of female classmates and shared the doctored pictures.

After boys at Francesca Mani’s high school fabricated and shared explicit images of girls last year, she and her mother, Dorota, began urging schools and legislators to enact tough safeguards. Credit... Shuran Huang

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By Natasha Singer

Natasha Singer has covered student privacy for The Times since 2013. She reported this story from Westfield, N.J.

• April 8, 2024

Westfield Public Schools held a regular board meeting in late March at the local high school, a red brick complex in Westfield, N.J., with a scoreboard outside proudly welcoming visitors to the “Home of the Blue Devils” sports teams.

But it was not business as usual for Dorota Mani.

In October, some 10th-grade girls at Westfield High School — including Ms. Mani’s 14-year-old daughter, Francesca — alerted administrators that boys in their class had used artificial intelligence software to fabricate sexually explicit images of them and were circulating the faked pictures. Five months later, the Manis and other families say, the district has done little to publicly address the doctored images or update school policies to hinder exploitative A.I. use.

“It seems as though the Westfield High School administration and the district are engaging in a master class of making this incident vanish into thin air,” Ms. Mani, the founder of a local preschool, admonished board members during the meeting.

In a statement, the school district said it had opened an “immediate investigation” upon learning about the incident, had immediately notified and consulted with the police, and had provided group counseling to the sophomore class.

“All school districts are grappling with the challenges and impact of artificial intelligence and other technology available to students at any time and anywhere,” Raymond González, the superintendent of Westfield Public Schools, said in the statement.

Blindsided last year by the sudden popularity of A.I.-powered chatbots like ChatGPT, schools across the United States scurried to contain the text-generating bots in an effort to forestall student cheating. Now a more alarming A.I. image-generating phenomenon is shaking schools.

Boys in several states have used widely available “nudification” apps to pervert real, identifiable photos of their clothed female classmates, shown attending events like school proms, into graphic, convincing-looking images of the girls with exposed A.I.-generated breasts and genitalia. In some cases, boys shared the faked images in the school lunchroom, on the school bus or through group chats on platforms like Snapchat and Instagram, according to school and police reports.

Such digitally altered images — known as “deepfakes” or “deepnudes” — can have devastating consequences. Child sexual exploitation experts say the use of nonconsensual, A.I.-generated images to harass, humiliate and bully young women can harm their mental health, reputations and physical safety as well as pose risks to their college and career prospects. Last month, the Federal Bureau of Investigation warned that it is illegal to distribute computer-generated child sexual abuse material, including realistic-looking A.I.-generated images of identifiable minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

Yet the student use of exploitative A.I. apps in schools is so new that some districts seem less prepared to address it than others. That can make safeguards precarious for students.

“This phenomenon has come on very suddenly and may be catching a lot of school districts unprepared and unsure what to do,” said Riana Pfefferkorn , a research scholar at the Stanford Internet Observatory, who writes about legal issues related to computer-generated child sexual abuse imagery .

At Issaquah High School near Seattle last fall, a police detective investigating complaints from parents about explicit A.I.-generated images of their 14- and 15-year-old daughters asked an assistant principal why the school had not reported the incident to the police, according to a report from the Issaquah Police Department. The school official then asked “what was she supposed to report,” the police document said, prompting the detective to inform her that schools are required by law to report sexual abuse, including possible child sexual abuse material. The school subsequently reported the incident to Child Protective Services, the police report said. (The New York Times obtained the police report through a public-records request.)

In a statement, the Issaquah School District said it had talked with students, families and the police as part of its investigation into the deepfakes. The district also “ shared our empathy ,” the statement said, and provided support to students who were affected.

The statement added that the district had reported the “fake, artificial-intelligence-generated images to Child Protective Services out of an abundance of caution,” noting that “per our legal team, we are not required to report fake images to the police.”

At Beverly Vista Middle School in Beverly Hills, Calif., administrators contacted the police in February after learning that five boys had created and shared A.I.-generated explicit images of female classmates. Two weeks later, the school board approved the expulsion of five students, according to district documents . (The district said California’s education code prohibited it from confirming whether the expelled students were the students who had manufactured the images.)

Michael Bregy, superintendent of the Beverly Hills Unified School District, said he and other school leaders wanted to set a national precedent that schools must not permit pupils to create and circulate sexually explicit images of their peers.

“That’s extreme bullying when it comes to schools,” Dr. Bregy said, noting that the explicit images were “disturbing and violative” to girls and their families. “It’s something we will absolutely not tolerate here.”

Schools in the small, affluent communities of Beverly Hills and Westfield were among the first to publicly acknowledge deepfake incidents. The details of the cases — described in district communications with parents, school board meetings, legislative hearings and court filings — illustrate the variability of school responses.

The Westfield incident began last summer when a male high school student asked to friend a 15-year-old female classmate on Instagram who had a private account, according to a lawsuit against the boy and his parents brought by the young woman and her family. (The Manis said they are not involved with the lawsuit.)

After she accepted the request, the male student copied photos of her and several other female schoolmates from their social media accounts, court documents say. Then he used an A.I. app to fabricate sexually explicit, “fully identifiable” images of the girls and shared them with schoolmates via a Snapchat group, court documents say.

Westfield High began to investigate in late October. While administrators quietly took some boys aside to question them, Francesca Mani said, they called her and other 10th-grade girls who had been subjected to the deepfakes to the school office by announcing their names over the school intercom.

That week, Mary Asfendis, the principal of Westfield High, sent an email to parents alerting them to “a situation that resulted in widespread misinformation.” The email went on to describe the deepfakes as a “very serious incident.” It also said that, despite student concern about possible image-sharing, the school believed that “any created images have been deleted and are not being circulated.”

Dorota Mani said Westfield administrators had told her that the district suspended the male student accused of fabricating the images for one or two days.

Soon after, she and her daughter began publicly speaking out about the incident, urging school districts, state lawmakers and Congress to enact laws and policies specifically prohibiting explicit deepfakes.

“We have to start updating our school policy,” Francesca Mani, now 15, said in a recent interview. “Because if the school had A.I. policies, then students like me would have been protected.”

Parents including Dorota Mani also lodged harassment complaints with Westfield High last fall over the explicit images. During the March meeting, however, Ms. Mani told school board members that the high school had yet to provide parents with an official report on the incident.

Westfield Public Schools said it could not comment on any disciplinary actions for reasons of student confidentiality. In a statement, Dr. González, the superintendent, said the district was strengthening its efforts “by educating our students and establishing clear guidelines to ensure that these new technologies are used responsibly.”

Beverly Hills schools have taken a stauncher public stance.

When administrators learned in February that eighth-grade boys at Beverly Vista Middle School had created explicit images of 12- and 13-year-old female classmates, they quickly sent a message — subject line: “Appalling Misuse of Artificial Intelligence” — to all district parents, staff, and middle and high school students. The message urged community members to share information with the school to help ensure that students’ “disturbing and inappropriate” use of A.I. “stops immediately.”

It also warned that the district was prepared to institute severe punishment. “Any student found to be creating, disseminating, or in possession of AI-generated images of this nature will face disciplinary actions,” including a recommendation for expulsion, the message said.

Dr. Bregy, the superintendent, said schools and lawmakers needed to act quickly because the abuse of A.I. was making students feel unsafe in schools.

“You hear a lot about physical safety in schools,” he said. “But what you’re not hearing about is this invasion of students’ personal, emotional safety.”

Natasha Singer writes about technology, business and society. She is currently reporting on the far-reaching ways that tech companies and their tools are reshaping public schools, higher education and job opportunities. More about Natasha Singer

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