Planning weekend trips while studying abroad sounds like a dream until you realize how many decisions go into making it happen. When you’re figuring out flights, hostels, and exploring the city, it can feel like a lot to juggle.
Take it from Taylor Wilson, a sophomore at UNC Chapel Hill. She was able to travel to Paris, Lisbon, and Valencia, all while studying abroad in Granada, Spain. Read on to learn how she researched and planned her own adventures across Europe!
The World at Your Fingertips
One of the best parts about studying abroad is the freedom to explore. In Europe, a new country is often just a short flight or train ride away, which makes every weekend an opportunity for adventure. Here are some ways to organize unforgettable weekend getaways and make the most of every moment abroad.
Research Is Key
Most people (including me) overlook the first and most important step: research. It helps you get a sense of where you are and what’s nearby. But don’t stop at destinations; think about experiences, too! Is there something specific you’ve been wanting to try, like a local dish, a famous landmark, or an activity that’s been sitting on your bucket list?
Research Tip: I love watching “Geography Now” videos on YouTube. They explain almost everything you could ever need to know!
Getting to Your Destination
Now that you have the background info, you are ready to start planning the details. So, how will you get there? There are two main ways to travel around Europe: plane and train.
1. Planes
Budget airlines will be your best friend! I highly recommend RyanAir and Vueling – just be sure to read the fine print on bag size with any budget airlin
2. Trains
They’re a very efficient way to get around Europe and can sometimes be quicker than traveling through airports! Eurail and Renfe are typically the most common options.
A few more tips:
- Look into nearby cities when searching for flights! You might find cheaper options that get you close to your destination. From there, you can take a bus or a train the rest of the way.
- Websites like SkyScanner, Kayak, or Omio make it easy to compare prices across different airlines and routes, but it’s best to book directly through the official company’s website once you’ve found your deal.
- When searching online for flights or other transportation, use an incognito window. Travel sites use cookies that can track your browsing history, and sometimes raise prices the more you look!
Finding a Place to Stay
If you’re willing to sacrifice a private room and a bit of comfort, hostels are affordable options and a great way to meet people. Some even include free activities like walking tours! Hostelworld is a helpful site, but always remember to read the reviews.
Keep in Mind
- Staying outside of the city center will always be cheaper. If you choose this, make sure you’re located close to a public transport stop.
- If you’re staying in a hostel, bring a lock so you can secure your belongings in a locker when you leave the room!
Experiencing the City
Now for the fun part: deciding what to do! I liked making a list of a few must-see spots or experiences I didn’t want to miss. It helped me make the most of my time without feeling over-scheduled. Plan your itinerary around your travel style, whether that’s scheduling full days or keeping things spontaneous.
Pro tip: Check popular attractions ahead of time because they may require time-entry tickets or advance reservations.
Final Tips for Traveling While Abroad
Lastly, try not to pack too much into one weekend. Focus on exploring one or two cities at a time. In the end, it’s so much better to really experience a few places than to rush through dozens — trust me! I hope this gives you the confidence to plan your own weekend trips and make the most of your adventures abroad!
