Although it can be a rewarding experience, budgetary restrictions frequently apply to student travel. Fortunately, there are places that provide amazing experiences without going over budget. Here are ten inexpensive travel options that are ideal for students, along with information on why they are affordable and how to save even more money.
1. Prague, Czech Republic
Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Affordable accommodation and dining options.
Must-See Places:
- Charles Bridge: Historic bridge with statues and street performers.
- Old Town Square: Home to the Astronomical Clock and vibrant street life.
Free Activities:
- Walk Around the Old Town: Enjoy the medieval architecture and lively atmosphere.
- John Lennon Wall: A colorful graffiti wall dedicated to John Lennon and peace.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Stay in hostels or budget hotels.
- Dining: Enjoy inexpensive traditional Czech meals at local pubs.
2. Bangkok, Thailand
Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Low-cost lodging and food.
Must-See Places:
- Grand Palace: Stunning complex of buildings at the heart of Bangkok.
- Wat Pho: Famous for its giant reclining Buddha statue.
Free Activities:
- Chatuchak Weekend Market: Explore one of the largest markets in the world.
- Lumphini Park: A green oasis perfect for relaxing or exercising.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Opt for hostels or budget guesthouses.
- Dining: Eat at street food markets for delicious, cheap meals.
- Transportation: Use public transport like buses and tuk-tuks.
3. Budapest, Hungary
Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Inexpensive accommodations and entertainment.
Must-See Places:
- Buda Castle: Historical castle with beautiful views of the city.
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Largest medicinal bath in Europe.
Free Activities:
- Walk Along the Danube Promenade: Stunning views of the city.
- Heroes’ Square: Iconic square with impressive statues and monuments.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Stay in budget hostels.
- Dining: Eat at local markets and avoid touristy areas.
4. Lisbon, Portugal
Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Affordable lodging and public transportation.
Must-See Places:
- Belém Tower: Historic tower offering views over the river.
- Jerónimos Monastery: Stunning architectural masterpiece.
Free Activities:
- Alfama District: Explore the narrow streets and listen to Fado music.
- Miradouros (Viewpoints): Enjoy panoramic views of the city for free.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Look for hostels or budget hotels.
- Dining: Enjoy affordable local cuisine in small, traditional restaurants.
5. Hanoi, Vietnam
Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Very low cost of living.
Must-See Places:
- Hoan Kiem Lake: Central lake with a beautiful pagoda.
- Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s first university.
Free Activities:
- Old Quarter: Wander the bustling streets and enjoy the atmosphere.
- Weekend Night Market: Browse through local crafts and food stalls.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Stay in budget hostels or guesthouses.
- Dining: Street food is both delicious and cheap.
- Transportation: Rent a bike or use affordable local buses.
6. Mexico City, Mexico
Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Low-cost accommodations and dining.
Must-See Places:
- Zócalo: Main square with historical significance and pyramid ruins of old Aztec city of Tenochtitlan.
- Chapultepec Park: One of the largest city parks in the world with historic castle.
Free Activities:
- Museo Nacional de Arte: Free on Sundays.
- Explore Coyoacán: Visit the vibrant arts district and Frida Kahlo’s house.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Choose hostels or budget hotels.
- Dining: Enjoy cheap, authentic Mexican street food.
7. Krakow, Poland
Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Inexpensive lodging and food.
Must-See Places:
- Wawel Castle: Historic castle and cathedral.
- Main Market Square: Largest medieval town square in Europe.
Free Activities:
- St. Mary’s Basilica: Free entry to this stunning church.
- Walk the Royal Road: Explore the historic route through the city.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Stay in budget-friendly hostels.
- Dining: Eat at milk bars (traditional Polish cafeterias).
8. Istanbul, Turkey
Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Affordable lodging and food.
Must-See Places:
- Hagia Sophia: Iconic museum and former cathedral.
- Blue Mosque: Stunning mosque with beautiful interiors.
Free Activities:
- Grand Bazaar: Wander through the historic market.
- Bosphorus Strait: Enjoy the views and local life along the waterfront.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Opt for budget hostels and guesthouses.
- Dining: Enjoy cheap, flavorful street food.
9. Sofia, Bulgaria
Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Low cost of living.
Must-See Places:
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Impressive Orthodox cathedral.
- Vitosha Boulevard: Main shopping street with a lively atmosphere.
Free Activities:
- Borisova Gradina: Large park perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Vitosha Mountain: Hike for free and enjoy nature close to the city.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Budget hostels and hotels are widely available.
- Dining: Traditional Bulgarian food is inexpensive.
10. Marrakech, Morocco
Why It’s Budget-Friendly: Affordable accommodations and food.
Must-See Places:
- Jemaa el-Fnaa: Central square with food stalls and performers.
- Majorelle Garden: Beautiful garden with vibrant colors.
Free Activities:
- Explore the Medina: Wander the old city and soak in the culture.
- Visit Local Markets: Browse through colorful souks without spending much.
Tips:
- Accommodation: Stay in budget-friendly riads and hostels.
- Dining: Enjoy traditional Moroccan dishes at local eateries.
