European Weekend Trips for Study Abroad Students: The Icons to Hidden Gems
Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany
This is a must if you find yourself studying abroad in the fall semester. Since 1810, Munich, Germany has hosted the now world-renown Oktoberfest. The festival runs from mid September to the beginning of October. Buy an authentic dirndl or lederhosen when you arrive. Once in the proper attire, choose from the 17 large beer tents and 21 small. There’s no fee to enter, but expect to wait in line to enter, these fill up quick (tents open at 10 a.m. and close at 11 p.m.)! Oktoberfest has much more to offer than just steins of beer and dancing on tables. A full amusement park of roller coasters, ferris wheel, and more are available with the purchase of tickets. Also, enjoy the authentic German cuisine!
Where to Stay
Lodging books up quickly in Munich during this time, so I recommend booking as soon as you know you’re going. Airbnbs and hotels are a plenty in the surrounding area. My friends and I went with a travel group, Stoke Travel, that had a campground nearby the festival. If you are going with a large group, on a budget, and like to rough it then Stoke Travel’s Oktoberfest is a great option! They even provided breakfast and dinner along with all you can drink beer and sangria.
Springfest
If you are in Europe for the spring semester then don’t be too bummed about missing it in the fall. There is a smaller version of Oktoberfest that Munich does in spring called, Springfest!
Islands of Malta
Malta is a Southern European island country located in the Mediterranean Sea. It lies south of Sicily, Italy, and consists of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Many Americans are unfamiliar with the country of Malta, and so was I until my brother took his honeymoon here. My brother, a history buff, wanted a historical excursion, while his wife wanted an exotic, tranquil honeymoon vacation. Malta was the perfect blend. Then while I was studying abroad, my roommates are I were deciding on a fall break destination. A Ryan Air flight from Florence to Malta popped up for €10. Though my roommates knew nothing about the country, we booked our flights.
Its rugged coastline is adorned with dramatic cliffs (great cliff-jumping!) and hidden coves (swim or kayak into them), while inland, rolling hills dotted with picturesque villages offer a glimpse into traditional Maltese life.
Malta’s architecture is a wonder with prehistoric temples older than the Egyptian pyramids to medieval fortresses and Baroque palaces. Amidst this historical backdrop, vibrant festivals and warm hospitality welcome travelers, inviting them to savor the essence of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Split, Croatia
The second-largest city in Croatia, Split lies on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea. At the heart of Split lies Diocletian’s Palace, an ancient Roman palace complex built by the Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD. This UNESCO World Heritage Site forms the nucleus of the city and serves as a living monument to its Roman heritage. Within the palace walls, visitors can wander through labyrinthine streets, explore ancient temples and cathedrals, and marvel at well-preserved Roman architecture.
The city’s historic Old Town extends beyond the palace walls, characterized by charming cobblestone streets, bustling squares, and centuries-old buildings adorned with Venetian and Renaissance influences. Visit landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, with its towering bell tower, and the Peristyle Square. Beyond its historic core, Split boasts a vibrant waterfront promenade known as the Riva, where locals and visitors alike gather to stroll, dine at waterfront cafes, and admire panoramic views of the Adriatic. The city’s numerous beaches, including Bacvice Beach with its lively atmosphere and sandy shores, offer opportunities for relaxation and water activities.
Split is also a cultural hub, hosting a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. The renowned Split Summer Festival brings the city to life with music, theater, and dance performances set against the backdrop of ancient ruins and historic squares.
If you like music festivals, then Ultra Croatia needs to be checked off the bucket list. “Although the core of the festival takes place in the Park Mladezi stadium over the three days, there are normally plenty of accompanying parties that stretch out the festival to a full week. These include an opening party in Split and after-parties on some of the best-known Dalmatian islands,” (Visit Croatia). This 2024 will be the 10th anniversary!
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa. Comprising seven main islands – Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro – each offers a unique array of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Beach Paradise: With over 500 miles of coastline, the Canary Islands boast an abundance of pristine beaches, ranging from golden sandy shores to rugged volcanic coves. Popular beaches include Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife, Playa de Maspalomas in Gran Canaria, and Playa de Papagayo in Lanzarote, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and water sports such as surfing and windsurfing.
Volcanic Landscapes: The Canary Islands are of volcanic origin, resulting in striking landscapes characterized by rugged mountains, volcanic craters, and lava fields. Visitors can explore the otherworldly terrain of Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote, hike to the summit of Mount Teide – Spain’s highest peak – in Tenerife, or marvel at the lunar-like landscapes of the Caldera de Taburiente in La Palma.
Outdoor Adventures: Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy in the Canary Islands, including hiking, ATV rides, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Each island offers a network of well-marked trails winding through diverse terrain, from lush forests and rugged cliffs to desert landscapes and volcanic peaks. Additionally, visitors can embark on excursions such as whale and dolphin watching tours, scuba diving expeditions, and sailing trips around the islands.
Cultural Heritage: The Canary Islands have a rich cultural heritage shaped by centuries of history and diverse influences, including Spanish, African, and indigenous Guanche cultures. Visitors can explore historic towns and villages such as San Cristóbal de La Laguna in Tenerife, Vegueta in Gran Canaria, and Haría in Lanzarote, which are home to charming colonial architecture, traditional markets, and museums showcasing the islands’ history and heritage.
Cuisine: The Canary Islands offer a delectable culinary scene influenced by its geographical location and cultural heritage. Visitors can sample a variety of local dishes such as papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), mojo sauces, fresh seafood, and goat cheese, accompanied by locally produced wines and tropical fruits.
Whether seeking relaxation on sun-drenched beaches, adventure in volcanic landscapes, or immersion in rich cultural heritage, the Canary Islands offer a diverse range of experiences to suit every traveler’s preferences.
Budapest, Hungry
Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is a vibrant metropolis bisected by the Danube River, with Buda situated on the west bank and Pest on the east bank. Buda is characterized by its hilly terrain, offering panoramic views of the city and the Danube, while Pest features flatter landscapes and a more urbanized cityscape.
Buda Castle District: Perched atop a hill on the west bank of the Danube, the Buda Castle District is home to historic landmarks such as Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets, admire panoramic views of the city, and delve into Budapest’s medieval past.
The Pest Side: Pest is the bustling heart of the city, characterized by its vibrant cultural scene, lively streets, shopping districts, and nightlife (ruin bars are a must!). It’s a hub of activity, with museums, theaters, restaurants, cafes, and bustling squares like Vörösmarty Square and Heroes’ Square. Also located on the Pest side, Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a must-visit attraction. It’s the largest medicinal bath in Europe, featuring thermal pools, saunas, and spa facilities in a stunning Neo-Baroque building located in City Park.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, is a charming destination nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea. Known for its green spaces, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Ljubljana offers visitors a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. Here’s an overview of what to expect when exploring Ljubljana:
Warm Hospitality: Slovenian culture is known for its warm hospitality and friendliness. Visitors to Ljubljana can expect to be greeted with genuine warmth and kindness by locals, whether exploring the city’s sights or dining in its restaurants.
Cultural Diversity: Ljubljana is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from neighboring countries such as Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city’s architecture, cuisine, language, and customs.
Arts and Literature: Ljubljana has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural institutions showcasing the works of Slovenian and international artists. The city is also home to a vibrant literary community, with a rich tradition of poetry, prose, and storytelling.
Music and Festivals: Music plays an integral role in Ljubljana’s cultural life, with a wide range of musical genres represented, from classical and jazz to rock and electronic. The city hosts numerous music festivals throughout the year, including the Ljubljana Jazz Festival, Druga Godba World Music Festival, and Ljubljana Festival, featuring performances by local and international artists.
Cuisine: Slovenian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with influences from neighboring countries as well as unique local ingredients and dishes. Visitors to Ljubljana can enjoy traditional Slovenian specialties such as potica (nut roll), štruklji (dumplings), and jota (bean soup), as well as international cuisine served in restaurants throughout the city.
Green Living: Ljubljana is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmentalism, earning the title of European Green Capital in 2016. The city boasts an extensive network of parks, green spaces, and pedestrian zones, as well as initiatives to promote cycling, public transportation, and eco-friendly practices.
Folk Traditions: Slovenian folk traditions are still alive and well in Ljubljana, with festivals, parades, and celebrations throughout the year honoring customs such as traditional music, dance, and costume.
Also a short distance the the gorgeous Lake Bled.
Porto, Portugal
The city sits on both sides of the Douro River in the north of the country. Renowned for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and world-famous wine, Porto is a captivating destination that offers visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.
Historic Center (Ribeira): The historic center of Porto, known as Ribeira, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of the city’s cultural and architectural heritage. Characterized by narrow cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and charming medieval alleyways, Ribeira is a delight to explore on foot. Visitors can admire iconic landmarks such as the Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto), São Bento Train Station with its stunning azulejo tilework, and the Dom Luís I Bridge spanning the Douro River.
Port Wine Cellars: Porto is synonymous with port wine, a fortified wine produced in the Douro Valley region. Visitors can take guided tours of the city’s historic port wine cellars, known as “caves,” located across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. Here, they can learn about the wine-making process, sample different varieties of port, and enjoy panoramic views of Porto’s skyline.
Douro River Cruises: A popular activity in Porto is taking a leisurely cruise along the Douro River, where visitors can enjoy scenic views of the city’s waterfront, historic bridges, and terraced vineyards. Boat tours typically offer options for short sightseeing cruises or full-day excursions to the Douro Valley wine region.
Livraria Lello: Book lovers won’t want to miss Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. This stunning Art Nouveau bookstore, with its ornate wooden staircase, stained glass windows, and intricate carvings, is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series.
Cuisine: Porto is a paradise for food lovers, with a diverse culinary scene showcasing traditional Portuguese cuisine and innovative contemporary dishes. Visitors can sample local specialties such as francesinha (a hearty sandwich), bacalhau (salted codfish), and pastéis de nata (custard tarts), paired with locally produced wines and port.
Cultural Institutions: Porto boasts a wealth of cultural institutions, including museums, galleries, and performance venues. Highlights include the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, Casa da Música concert hall, and the Porto Coliseum, which hosts concerts, theater productions, and other cultural events.
Beaches: While Porto is primarily known for its historic attractions and urban culture, it also offers opportunities for relaxation and recreation on its nearby beaches. Foz do Douro, located at the mouth of the river, is a popular seaside district with sandy beaches, oceanfront promenades, and seafood restaurants.
San Sebastián, Spain
San Sebastian, located in the Basque Country of Spain, is a coastal gem renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. Here’s an overview of what to expect when exploring San Sebastian:
La Concha Beach: One of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe, La Concha Beach boasts golden sands, clear turquoise waters, and picturesque views of the bay and surrounding mountains. Visitors can sunbathe, swim, surf or take leisurely walks along the promenade.
Old Town (Parte Vieja): San Sebastian’s Old Town is a charming labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings, and bustling squares. Explore the area’s pintxo bars, where you can sample delicious Basque tapas paired with local wines and ciders. Don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic Plaza de la Constitución, once the site of bullfights and executions.
Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo: These two hills offer panoramic views of San Sebastian and its coastline. Monte Urgull is home to a historic fortress, while Monte Igueldo features an amusement park with a vintage funicular railway leading to the summit.
Cuisine: San Sebastian is a culinary mecca, boasting numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, pintxo bars, and traditional eateries. Indulge in Basque specialties such as pintxos (small, elaborate tapas), txakoli (local white wine), and fresh seafood dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Cultural Attractions: Explore San Sebastian’s cultural offerings, including the San Telmo Museum, which showcases Basque art and history, and the Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium, a striking modernist building that hosts concerts, exhibitions, and film festivals.
Surfing and Water Sports: With its prime location on the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastian is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking are popular activities, with several surf schools and rental shops available for visitors. I did a surf camp with Stoke Travel!
Day Trips: San Sebastian serves as a gateway to the picturesque Basque countryside and nearby coastal towns. Take a day trip to the charming fishing village of Getaria, visit the scenic town of Hondarribia, or explore the lush landscapes of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.
Thalassotherapy: Relax and rejuvenate at one of San Sebastian’s thalassotherapy centers, which offer spa treatments utilizing seawater and marine-based products. These centers provide a tranquil oasis for unwinding and pampering yourself.
Living in Florence and Valencia provided convenient access to nearby travel hubs, facilitating seamless exploration of off-the-beaten-path destinations. From the iconic Oktoberfest in Munich to the tranquil islands of Malta, each destination offered unique experiences and unforgettable memories. Whether savoring Basque pintxos in San Sebastian, marveling at the historic architecture of Porto, or delving into Ljubljana’s rich cultural heritage, Europe captivated me with its beauty and diversity.
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