In partnership with UniHomes

If you’re a student, getting exams out of the way is a big relief. So big, in fact, that you’ll be looking to celebrate and get out of town for a bit before heading back to university life in autumn.

But where to go? Where should you spend your precious summer days before plunging back into academia? Thankfully, UniHomes, the UK’s largest student accommodation platform (with bills included for all accommodation), have got the answer – or five answers, to be exact. UniHomes have researched the best student-friendly destinations to visit this summer, basing their choices on budget (always crucial for students), being easy to travel to (all five picks are on the easyJet network), and having plenty of activities and sights that students are sure to enjoy.

Take a look at their selection below and then start mapping out your holiday. Once you’re back from your travels you’ll be keen to settle back into university, so consider using UniHomes to ensure stress-free accommodation. If you already have your student home sorted, you can still go to UniHomes directly to help sort out your utility bills – another stress eliminated. So, read on to start securing your next adventure without breaking the bank, all while knowing you can return without having to worry about accommodation.

Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest / Image: Canva

Yes, it’s the home of Dracula, but Romania also has a lot more to offer than just magnificent Gothic castles – although it definitely has those as well. The capital, Bucharest, is a beautiful city that’s packed full of cultural venues and boasts a great street food scene. It’s also known as one of Europe’s cheapest capital cities, which is going to be a big draw for many students.

Once you’re done soaking up all the art and munching down all the street food, treat yourself to some relaxation at Therme Bucharest, a huge spa complex just north of the city featuring outdoor pools, saunas and a swim-up bar if you want to really live the high life. And you can’t leave without diving into the Dracula legend at least a bit, so factor-in a day trip to Transylvania to visit Bran Castle, thought to be the venue that Bram Stoker featured in his legendary vampiric story.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh / Image: Canva

Okay, so you’re not guaranteed blazing sunshine in Edinburgh’s capital (although it can happen!), but you are guaranteed a fascinating city that’s full of history, art, incredible architecture and stunning scenery on its doorstep – plus a fair bit in and around the city itself.

When it comes to freebies, there’s lots to get excited about here. The Scottish National Gallery, the National Museum of Scotland, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, the Writers’ Museum and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art all operate free entry, making it super-easy to get a cultural fix without emptying your wallet. You could consider spending a few of those saved pounds in Leith, a vibey waterfront neighbourhood with excellent bars, restaurants, cafes and independent shops.

Afterwards, get back to nature by trekking up to Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that offers superb views across the city and beyond.

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Berlin, Germany

Berlin / Image: Canva

Looking for somewhere to go with a group of mates? Look no further than Germany’s capital, loved for its buzzing nightlife scene, evident in the thousands of great clubs and bars scattered across the city. Let’s be honest, you might not get into famously discerning club Berghain, but don’t worry as there are tons of other places in which to experience premium techno and lose yourself for a few hours.

But just because you’re going out and about at night, don’t neglect Berlin in the daytimes, as there’s so much to see. Some of the areas that once housed the Berlin wall are essential and important to explore to get an idea of Germany’s history and evolution. And then there are numerous cultural journeys to be had by checking out Museum Island, which also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s also an extensive selection of food markets to investigate once hunger sets in, providing everything from street food trucks to historical markets selling fresh produce.

The Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve / Image: Canva

If you’re looking to escape the famously temperamental UK summer and secure yourself some sun, head straight for the gloriously sun-kissed Algarve region. Here, you’ll find charming villages, undeniably Instagrammable beaches, fresh food, wonderful wine – and brilliant weather.

If you’re not sure where to start, try beautiful and historic Lagos, a picturesque walled town with a bit of everything – great beaches, local history and lively nightlife. If you want more of a city break, try Faro and make sure to spend some time in the atmospheric Old Town. Or if you want to go all-in on nightlife, make your way to Albufeira and its array of bars and clubs.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona / Image: Canva

You simply cannot go wrong with a trip to the Catalan capital, as whatever you’re looking for on your trip is sure to be here. This is a city overflowing with cultural riches, from Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished architectural marvel, La Sagrada Família, to museums celebrating heralded Spanish artists (including Picasso and Joan Miró) to laid-back music venues hosting live jazz. A trip to Gaudí’s colourful architectural playground, Park Güell, is also highly recommended.

It almost goes without saying that there’s superb food available across the city, from Spanish classics to globally influenced dishes, plus numerous inviting wine bars if you want to see what the locals are sipping. Alongside all that, you’ve got a choice of city beaches to head to if you want to catch some rays or take a dip. Barceloneta Beach is perhaps the most well-known, and offers a great atmosphere and far-reaching views from its golden sands.