Top 11 Student Holiday Destinations

Thinking about jetting off for a relaxing holiday this summer? After a busy year of studying for exams and deadlines, summer is officially here and it’s time to give yourself a break (you deserve it!).

At Downing Students, we want to make sure that you have the best student experience possible – both at home and abroad! So we’ve put together this great selection of student holiday destinations that we’re sure you’re going to love. 

So, in no particular order, here’s our list of the top 11 holiday destinations for students in 2023!

1. Ibiza

Ibiza is one of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea and is the ultimate party island. If you want a holiday destination with vibrant nightlife, plenty of dancing and beautiful beaches – Ibiza is for you!

Find Ibiza clubbing holidays here!

2. Zante

Zakynthos (also known as Zante) is a Greek Island in the Ionian Sea and hotspot holiday destination for party animals and beach-goers alike.

Get cheap flights here.

3. Budapest

Budapest, Hungary’s capital city, is a great destination for city-breakers who want a holiday with plenty to do and see. After a long day of exploring the city’s historical and cultural hot spots, relax and unwind with a cold refreshing beer at a local pub that won’t blow your budget!

Find cheap flights here.

4. Majorca

Majorca is the king of the Balearics and has long been a favourite summer holiday destination for couples, families and adventure-seekers due to its wide variety of activities. Stay at Palma, the Island’s capital city, and you can enjoy a day out at Hidropark waterpark, rock climbing or even paddle boarding!

Find holiday deals here.

5. Portugal

Portugal is located on the west of the Iberian Peninsular and has pleasantly warm summers and mild winter months, boasting the best of both worlds for city-break destinations and beach resorts. If you’re after a city break, Portugal’s two most famous cities are Lisbon and Porto, renowned for their beautiful landscapes, rich metropolitan life and wine.

The majority of cheap beach holidays are based around the south coast, including popular resorts such as Lagos, Luz, Albufeira and Vilamoura.

Find low-cost flights here!

6. Prague

Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic and is best known for its cultural offering and buzzing nightlife! Deep dive into Czech culture by visiting Prague Castle, the National Museum or one of Prague’s Michelin-star restaurants!

If you’re looking to dance the night away, make sure to check out some of the city’s best bars (you won’t have to worry about scraping the barrel when it comes to beer prices either!).

Check out last-minute deals here.

7. Lanzarote

Lanzarote is one of the Canary Islands located off the coast of West Africa, administered by Spain. It is well known for its all-year-round warm weather, variety of beaches and volcanic landscape.

Chill out at the beach or take a guided tour through the lava-formed tunnels, caves and volcanic parks for a holiday packed with adventure and glorious weather!

Find holiday deals here!

8. Crete

Crete is Greece’s largest Island renowned for its fine-sand beaches, fantastic cuisine, and ancient treasures. The island is also the birthplace of Zeus, according to Greek Mythology!

So, if crystal clear waters, ancient history and Greek salad are what floats your boat… look no further than Crete.

Find the best flights here.

9. Berlin

Germany’s capital, Berlin, is the perfect place to take a short city break, jam-packed with plenty to do and see. Take a stroll in the Grunewald forest, hunt for bargains in Mauer Park or explore Berlin’s Jewish history.

Alternatively, dive into Berlin’s electronic/techno music scene by discovering some of the city’s best clubs and bars and you’ll soon see why Berlin is undoubtedly one of Europe’s hottest party spots!
Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s captivating history or make the most of its famed nightlife, you’ll have more than enough to do to keep you entertained day and night.

Find cheap flights here.

10. Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and best known for its artistic heritage, beautiful canals and legacies. Uncover its long and eventful Dutch history from the middle ages at Rijksmuseum, enjoy a picnic at Vondelpark or tour the city’s sightseeing hotspots on a bicycle (iconic!).

If you’re yet to visit this vibrant city, Amsterdam definitely deserves a place on your travel bucket list this year!

Find the cheapest flights here.

11. Newquay

If a summer holiday isn’t on the cards for you this year, why not explore many of the vibrant cities across the UK? Enjoy a ‘staycation’ in Newquay, a popular seaside town on the north coast of Cornwall, best known for its sandy beaches and surfing! Find out more.

(Secret 12) Staycation 2023!

Yes, going abroad is great. Taking in the sea and the sand is fantastic if you’re tired of the rain and the cold. But just because it’s the summer, you don’t have to go abroad; there are plenty of great places to visit in the UK.

For example, why not go on a tour of the capital cities of the UK’s four nations — Edinburgh, Belfast, Cardiff. and London? Or maybe a few days wandering the Scottish Highlands appeals to you? Or how about a camping holiday in the Lake District? The UK has got loads to offer you. Why not take a trip to somewhere in the UK this summer?

At Downing Students, we offer summer stays at many of our locations including London, Liverpool, Leeds, Newcastle, Exeter and more. Check out our short-lets page here.