10 Crazy, Extreme, and Magical Trips to Take When You Study Abroad in Europe
One of the best parts about studying abroad in Europe is the close proximity to other countries and cultures. Many students who go abroad travel on the weekends, and some even go somewhere new every weekend! Here's a quick guide for where to go for crazy, extreme, and magical weekends away from your temporary European home.
Craziest Weekend Trips When You Study ABroad In Europe
When you're young and living the time of your life in Europe, a few crazy weekends are bound to happen. Make sure they're the right ones in these awesome cities.
Munich, Germany for Oktoberfest
Anyone who has been reading this blog for a while knows that I LOVE Oktoberfest. It is seriously so much fun. Clink your huge steins with people from every continent at the world's largest beer festival.
Even if you don't like beer or think it sounds lame (gasp), trust me when I say that this experience is completely worth it.
Plus, there are carnival rides outside the tents - could it get any better than that?!
8 Tips For First-Timers at Oktoberfest
Prague, Czech Republic
This slice of Central Europe is not to be overlooked during your time abroad. Not only is it very inexpensive (it's not on the euro), there is everything from cool, underground-scene pubs to over-the-top six-story clubs and ice bars.
Make sure to see if there are also any music festivals happening during your weekend too for a night to remember (....or not).
Budapest, Hungary
This up-and-coming Eastern European city is seriously so cool. Head to the thermal baths during the day and party at the ruins bars at night. Hungarians definitely know how to have a good night out.
The Thermal Bath Experience in Budapest
Barcelona, Spain
The notoriously late nights out are a staple here - you'll find that nights don't get started till after midnight and end during sunrise around 5 or 6 am.
Most Extreme Weekend Trips When You Study Abroad in Europe
Being abroad is the best time to push your comfort zone. What better way to do so than with extreme sports?
Get out there - on the mountains, in the water, wherever - and try something new!
Interlaken, Switzerland
Often dubbed "the adventure capital" of Switzerland, this small town is known for extreme sports.
Summer offers gorgeous views for hiking and winter offers snow sports in the alps. There are many activities to do year-round, including parasailing, sky diving, or canyon jumping.
Scandinavia
Since it likely will take you a little more time to get farther north, this might be better for a long weekend instead of a regular one. It would be worth it nonetheless!
Try your hand at snowmobiling, bobsledding, bungee jumping - this list has countless activities to do. And there's no better place to do it than with naturally stunning Scandinavia as your backdrop.
Most Magical Weekend Trips When You Study Abroad in Europe
These destinations will have you feeling like you stepped inside a fairy tale, providing countless memories to take back home with you.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The first time I saw a photo of Amalfi, it took my breath away. I knew I had to see it in person.
This treasure of Southern Italy is the perfect beach getaway and is definitely worth the trip.
Mediterranean Musts: 17 Reasons Why You Need To Visit Italy's Amalfi Coast
Munich, Germany + Neuschwanstein Castle
Munich is already a daydream, though nearby is the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. Look at photos of it and just tell me it's not the most magical looking castle you've ever seen.
Cork, Ireland
Start in Cork (Southern Ireland) and wander around the adorable Irish city with colorful doors.
Make your way to the Blarney Castle for major emerald everything, or even take a bus/train through the countryside to Dublin where you'll see endless greenery along the way.
Ireland: Imagine the Greenest Scene Ever, Then Multiply it By 100
Salzburg, Austria
This Austrian town is where the Sound of Music movie took place. You'll see the hills that are "alive" and charming, colorful buildings everywhere.
If you happen to be here during the winter holiday season, make sure to stop by some Christmas markets - lesser-known than the ones in Germany or Vienna, which it all the more special.
Your time studying abroad is limited. You can always return to your favorites in the future or hit up places you didn't get a chance to see the first time around.
However, studying abroad is a unique experience and traveling differently after college won't be the same. Make the most of it while you're there!
