12 Best City Breaks To Travel This Summer

Make the most of your summer and travel to the cheapest European cities.

Whether it’s the first summer since starting university or your last, you deserve to have the best summer possible — you’ve just spent the year with your head in the books (just nod and agree)!

The student budget doesn’t allow for luxurious holidays on a remote island, but there are a lot of sunny and low-cost city breaks in and around Europe that are kinder to your wallet, and equally as fun. 

Don’t believe us? Well, you should — we’re the student experts 💁‍♀️

But don’t just take our word for it, here’s our proof — the 12 best cheap city breaks for couples, solo travellers, and everyone else. 

If you’re not up for going abroad, we’ve got the best hidden gems in the UK that you can explore instead.

Before you jet off, don’t forget to sort out your travel money, with some of the best ways to spend money abroad here.

In this article:

• Best European city breaks for young adults
• Sunny city breaks 
• Cheapest European cities 
• Cheap city breaks for couples

Best European city breaks for young adults

Yes, adults; that’s you. And us. *screams*

No more trips to Butlins, you’re upgrading to sunny city breaks in Europe, because guess what? We’re adults, and it’s time we get a stiff pint of culture down our necks and explore what this floating landmass has to offer. 

Don’t worry though, these are low cost city breaks, so you’ll have plenty of spending money to taste your way around the city. 

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is for sure one of the best European city breaks for young adults — it’s basically a rite of passage. 

The juxtaposition between the fairytale-esque backdrop of the city and its open-minded vibe is an incredible combination for a little city getaway. Explore the history of the capital in museums, relax at the coffee shops, and take a romantic stroll along the many canals.

The vibes are always buzzing, making Amsterdam a fail proof choice for a European city break. 

Must sees:

• Anne Frank’s House — deeply emotional and interesting, takes you back in time to the story of Anne Frank.
• Rijksmuseum — packed with 800 years of Dutch history and arts.
• De 9 Straatjes ( The 9 Streets) — a unique part of the city centre with vintage and designer boutiques, independent shops, cosy cafes, and canals. Think of Brighton’s Lanes but Dutch.

Berlin

Berlin is the coolest kid on the block. Edgy streets lined with art, LGBTQ+-friendly, rich in culture and history; what more could you ask for in a city?

Berlin makes it onto our list of the best European city breaks for young adults because the nightlife is unmatched (if that’s your thing), but it also oozes creativity and artistic soul, and opens its welcoming arms to everyone and anyone.

Must sees:

• Tiergarten — Berlin’s own Central Park covers 519 acres with tree-lined paths,  luscious lawns, and a lake to sip a beer besides. The perfect spot to unwind. 
• Berlin Wall Memorial — historic and poignant. 
• Mauerpark — a great spot on the outskirts of the centre that turns into a stage and flea market on the weekends. 

Rome

Rome isn’t huge but it has a lot packed into its vibrant streets. 

The city is pure romance so it’s ideal for romantic breaks for young adults. Enjoy delectable Italian cuisine al fresco style on the quaint streets or explore Vatican City and try to spy The Pope. 

Must sees:

• Colosseum — one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and a true sight to behold when you hop off the metro. 
• Campo De’ Fiori — this stunning plaza is home to a market by day and a lively square of nightlife by moon. 
• Spanish Steps — the longest and widest staircase in Europe, the Spanish Steps offers a breathtaking backdrop to your city break snaps. A must see if you want to get your steps in!

Sunny city breaks

If you’re trying to escape the UK for sunny city breaks, we don’t blame you. The UK’s week of sunshine is hard to predict…

Valencia

If you’re after sunny city breaks, Valencia is definitely going to be up your street. The Spanish city experiences around 300 days of sun a year, so there really is no better place to be, all year round. 

It has the best of both worlds; city and beach, and gives Barcelona a run for its money. 

Must sees:

• Bioparc — a zoo park near the heart of the city. Not just a zoo, but a whole other world and a fun way to spend a sunny city break. 
• Mercat Central de Valencia — a public market sat nestled within the gorgeous architecture of the Valencian Art Nouveau. You’ll find amazing Spanish delicacies and independent stalls to explore. 
• La Malvarrosa beach — catch some rays on your sunny city break to Valencia by heading to one of the city’s most famous beaches. Golden sand, warm blue water, and all the facilities you’ll need (ice cream!). 

Porto

A coastal city in Portugal, Porto is the hot new addition to sunny city breaks, proving to be extremely popular for solo travellers and young adults. 

The cobbled streets are lined with pastel and sherbet houses, but be warned, it’s a pretty hill-y city, so expect a calf workout. 100% worth it though.

Must sees:

• Parque de Serralves — a park and garden, your jaw will drop at the pink building in the park and the contrast against the green and turquoise of the trees and water. It also features an art museum. 
• Mercado Bom Sucesso — an indoor market with fresh produce, clothing, local food stalls and performances. 
• Livraria Lello — the most gorgeous bookstore; if you’re a book lover, this is a must visit on your itinerary. Honestly, it looks like it came straight out of a Harry Potter film. 

Valletta

Look no further than Malta for sunny city breaks, especially the gorgeous capital city, Valletta. 

The walled city sits on the coast of the island, so you can enjoy land and sea views wherever you go. The area is rich in history and ornate architecture, so every street you stumble upon is worth uploading to the ‘gram. 

Must sees:

• Upper Barrakka — a stunning garden offering jaw-dropping views. 
• St. John’s Co-Cathedral — step back into time and visit the gorgeous St. John’s Cathedral and admire the ornate art and architecture of the 16th Century. 
• Is-Suq Tal-Belt — Valletta’s food market offers international food in a 19th Century building. Think of London’s Spitalfields’ vibes. 

Cheapest European cities

European city breaks are all well and good if you can afford it. They’re not the most expensive (unlike all-inclusive beach hols) but there are definitely more affordable options if you’re after a cheeky little break away. 

We’ve got some of the cheapest European cities that are underrated and well worth travelling to on your student budget. 

Vilnius

Who? Where? What? Never heard of it? 

Okay, maybe I’m biassed being a fellow Lithuanian, but Vilnius, the country’s capital, is gorgeous and really bloody cheap! In fact, according to the Post Office City Costs Barometer, Vilnius has been crowned the best-value city. 

Compared to second place, Lisbon, costs in Vilnius are more than 10% lower than the Portuguese capital, and less than half those of 18 other cities. The city has a mixture of old and new, so it’s perfect for those who want culture, history, and fun.

Must sees:

• Trakai Island Castle — based on a tiny island in Lake Galvė, Trakai Castle looks like it belongs in a Brothers Grimm fairytale. It sits on one of Lithuania’s deepest lakes and in the winter it becomes a natural skating rink. 
• Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights — Lithuania has a lot of history since it was taken over by the Soviet Union for the 50-year period between 1940 and 1991. The museum dedicates artefacts and records from that time.  
• Užupis — a self-declared republic. The district is colourful and artsy, and also packed full of history about how it came about. Definitely worth a visit on your trip to Vilnius. 

Sofia

Taking the lead in 2022 for the cheapest all-round destination is Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Overlooking the city is Vitosha Mountain and every street you turn down transports you back into time, but with modern touches throughout. 

Must sees:

• Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky — the largest Orthodox temple in the Balkan Peninsula. The architecture of the Cathedral is unmatched and iconic, and once you step inside it only becomes even more ethereal. 
• Borisova Gradina Park – the oldest park in Sofia. Take a leisurely stroll to take in the views or opt for a boat ride on Lake Ariana. 
• Vitosha Mountain — hike up the mountains to get your steps in and behold the beauty of the city from above. 

Berat

Berat, the capital of Albania, sits on top of the Osum River, in the centre of the country. The city is known for its unique architecture, most notably the Ottoman-era buildings of white stone and red roofs. 

Berat is full of hidden little treasures and is also one of the cheapest European cities, offering low cost city breaks. You can expect to pay as little as €2 to €4 for a meal in a cafe; a total bargain!

Must sees:

• Berat Castle — a landmark of Albania, Berat Castle is a must see, dating back 2,500 years. 
• Kanionet e Osumit (Osum Canyon) — a river gorge that flows through a canyon. It’s a gorgeous hidden gem where you can hike the rocky slopes or raft through the water. 
• Alpeta agrotourism & winery —  a family-owned winery where you can stay in one of their guest houses and take a wine tasting tour around the vineyards. 

Cheap city breaks for couples

Whether it’s you and your bestie, or you and your boo, exploring new cities is great fun as a pair. 

Naturally, two of you can split the costs of your trip making it cheaper for you, but we’ve also got some cheap city breaks for couples to help you save even more of your student budget. 

If you’re wanting to travel around and save money by avoiding flights, check out our guide on what is interrailing. It might be something you’d be up for and it’s a great alternative for seeing Europe. 

Prague

The beautiful and charming capital of the Czech Republic might be famous for its stag dos, but it’s also one of the cheapest European cities for couples to explore. 

Gothic churches and castles make up a lot of the city, so it gives off a very romantic vibe for your couple’s trip. 

Must sees:

• Prague Castle — it doesn’t get more romantic or fairytale-esque than Prague Castle. 
• Lennon Wall — a wall dedicated to John Lennon following his assassination. A really nice sight with vibrant art. 
• Charles Bridge — one of Europe’s most beautiful bridges. The medieval stone bridge is definitely a backdrop of romance for couples visiting the city. Imagine being there at sunset with your love. Awww.

Krakow

Krakow is a Polish city full of charming sights and history. It mixes its medieval vibe with modern touches making it a great European city to visit. 

It’s also considered one of the cheapest European cities for a low cost city break. A pint is around €3,50 — like a third of the price in London. 

Must sees:

• Krakow Old Town — a visit to the city can’t be complete without stopping off in the Old Town. Head to the Market Square, one of the largest medieval markets in Europe. 
• Kościuszko Mound — this artificial mound is dedicated to Polish national leader Tadeusz Kosciuszko. Take the path to the top and enjoy the panoramic view of the river and city. 
• Wieliczka Salt Mine — around 8 miles out of the city you can visit the salt mine. Take the tourist route through the labyrinth of salt mines and admire the gorgeous underground landscapes of lakes and chambers. 

Riga

The capital of Latvia is a great place to visit on a smaller budget. One of the cheapest European cities, you can comfortably spend a couple’s trip here without breaking the bank. 

Set by the coast of Latvia, you’ll get views of the Daugava River and the idyllic and quaint architecture of the buildings, making every corner of the city worth exploring. 

Must sees:

• Riga Central Market — stop by early on a weekend morning and stroll hand in hand through the market with your boo. You’ll find traditional Latvian products and food, as well as gifts and trinkets. 
• Three Brothers — Three Brothers is a 3-house building complex of the oldest medieval dwellings in Riga. Admire the gorgeous facade as you’re transported back to the past. 
• The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia — an outdoor museum that showcases how people once lived in the country. 

Find amazing savings and discounts with our travel student discounts. Looking to plan your next adventure? Make sure you check out our essential travel tips for students.