14 Best Places In Europe To Study Abroad: Told By Students!

Are you dreaming of studying abroad in Europe but feeling overwhelmed by the countless options? Today you’ll discover the absolute best places in Europe to study abroad, straight from the mouths of real students who have completed programs in foreign countries. We’ll delve into why they chose these destinations, what incredible experiences they had, and even provide some valuable tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Searching for the perfect study-abroad location can be daunting. You want to know what it’s really like firsthand and filter out only the crème de la crème. With insights from 14 different students who attended schools in unique places and explored over 40 different cities nearby, I’ve curated a list of the top European study destinations just for you.

Although I personally studied in Italy, I realized that there are so many other incredible places in Europe to pursue your education. That’s why I reached out to my network of travel blogging friends to gather insider knowledge on the best places and why they are worth considering.

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Map of The Cities Mentioned Below!

Here Are The Best Places To Study Abroad In Europe!

1. Urbino, Italy

Recommended by: Me, Kaylee Janell

One of the best places in Europe to study abroad is Urbino, Italy. The charming town offers breathtaking views of the rolling hills, that immerse students in a picturesque setting. With its stunning Renaissance architecture, Urbino transports you back in time, providing a unique opportunity to appreciate the rich history and artistic legacy of the region.

As my college in Texas, which specializes in Architecture, had a partnership with the school in Urbino, it exposed us to the birthplace of Raphael, one of the greatest artists in history. Urbino, being a town that can easily be explored on foot, serves as a rich source of artistic inspiration for students.

Urbino stands out from other places with its unique charm. Living in this quiet Italian village offers a serene and peaceful lifestyle that is hard to find elsewhere. To truly experience the local culture, you can immerse yourself in daily life by visiting the markets, exploring the grocery stores filled with fresh and delicious produce, and indulging in the treats of gelato and tea shops.

One of my study abroad regrets was not taking in the beauty of the small nearby towns. With that being said a con of studying abroad in Urbino is the distance to the nearest airport and train station. The airport is located in Bologna Italy, a 1-hour bus ride to Pesaro and then a 2-hour train ride away. With 3 hours total, it can be inconvenient when it comes to travel arrangements.

However, a useful tip to save time on travel days is to utilize the airport shuttle service, It can be pricy for a study budget at $40 each way but cuts down to 2 hours and no transfers. This way, you can streamline your journey and make the most out of your study abroad experience. Urbino has a genuine taste of Italian authenticity that has left a lasting impression on me.

• School Attended: University of Urbino
• Nearby Cities To Explore: San Marino and Perugia
• Nearest Airport: Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ)
• Best Time of Year: Fall, to see the festivals in all the nearby towns.

Read 43 Easy Study Abroad Bucket List Items To Do This Year!

2. Glasgow, Scotland

Recommended by: Nina of Ottawa Things to Do 

I chose to study at the University of Glasgow in Scotland for my study abroad because it was English-speaking, had classes relevant to my Medieval Literature degree, and my student advisor had been the year before and loved it.

Glasgow is an amazing city that’s really easy for students to enjoy. The University sits on one end of the Orange Circle line – the subway line that runs around the city – making it easy to get around. There are also tons of buses that will get you to school, the pubs, and other fun activities.

The university itself is gorgeous. It’s often referred to as Hogwarts because of its old architecture and the grand halls. Study abroad students will love all the activities they run, like regular Ceilidh dance events, Scottish Burns dinners, and even tours throughout the country for you to see more of Scotland. The introduction week even included a day trip to Edinburgh.

The university also has a ton of active clubs that you can join. I joined the Whisky Society, Creative Writing Society, and the Harry Potter Society (mostly for the pub crawls). British schools don’t have lectures like in North America. They have smaller classes where everyone gets in on the discussion. You’ll only have a few assignments a year, so they matter more to your grades, but it also means you have more time to live life rather than studying for a million tests.

The only con for studying abroad here is the weather. Glasgow is damp and dark for the first two months of the year. Just catch an EasyJet flight to Spain or Amsterdam and you’ll get to see more of the sun. I still recommend going for the winter semester, because school finishes right as the summer weather kicks in, which is the perfect time for a Scottish road trip.

• School Attended: University of Glasgow
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Edinburgh and Isle of Skye
• Nearest Airport: Glasgow Airport (GLA)
• Best Time of Year: Jan – April (winter semester) 

There Are The Surprisingly Top 6 Studying Abroad Pros And Cons!

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Recommended by: Samantha of Continuous Roamer

I studied in the Netherlands from 2013 to 2017 at Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. I decided to enroll in a bachelor’s degree abroad because I liked the programs better than those available in England, my home country. I was also eager to immerse myself in a new country and use it as an opportunity to live abroad while I was young.

Several universities in the Netherlands caught my eye from around the country; however, I thought living in Amsterdam would be the most exciting and interesting. I also liked that my chosen university required you to study abroad for a semester during your studies.

When studying in the Netherlands, it is important to learn some basic phrases and vocabulary. While English is widely spoken, it is useful to have a minimal level of Dutch so that you can go about your life in supermarkets, on public transport, and attending appointments. To become a true local, you will need to ride a bike around Amsterdam. So, if you are moving to the Netherlands to study, make sure you are confident on two wheels. Also, buy a secure lock for the bike or it will get stolen.

The Netherlands has tons of benefits and reasons to choose it for your study abroad destination. However, the weather is not one of those. To live in the Netherlands, you will need good wet-weather clothes and get used to the lack of sun, compared to other warm destinations, such as Italy or Spain.

• School Attended: Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Zaanse Schans and Leiden
• Nearest Airport: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
• Best Time of Year: Year-round destination but the February to June semester is good for national King’s Day Celebrations in April and spring tulips

4. Durham, England

Recommended by: Clara of Marco Clara Travels

Upon completion of my Singapore-Cambridge GCE Advanced Levels, I was determined to choose an overseas University for my undergraduate degree. I had a keen interest in Geography and shortlisted top-ranking Universities in the United Kingdom such as University College London, London School of Economics and Political Science, and Durham University.   

As someone who grew up in a city-state, it was clear that I wanted to choose a school outside of London. Durham University instantly appealed to me, especially its collegiate structure. As a college student at Durham University, you would instantly be part of a college community that you will call home. This system helped me adapt and assimilate into the University very quickly. Durham City is also very charming. I always felt like I was studying in a Harry Potter filming set! 

One tip for future students of Durham University is to join the college rowing team. Durham River (also called River Wear) is very beautiful and rowing on it is a different mesmerizing experience altogether! 

The only shortcoming of the school’s location is the lack of International food offerings. When you study abroad and feel homesick, the best remedy is food that tastes like home. A great study abroad gift can be a care package sent from home but luckily, Newcastle City is a 15-minute train ride away. That was where I satisfied my bubble tea, dim sum, and sushi cravings! 

• School Attended: Durham University, United Kingdom
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Edinburgh and York
• Nearest Airport: Newcastle International Airport (NCL)
• Best Time of Year: Autumn, as the fall leaves along Durham River is a delight to the eyes

Read 43 Best Study Abroad Gifts For Students!

5. Zagreb, Croatia

Recommended by: Olivia of Inspired By Croatia

Zagreb, Croatia is one of the best places in Europe to study abroad in. My choice to study there was a personal one, as I wanted to reconnect with my Croatian heritage. Croatia isn’t the most common choice for studying abroad, which is exactly why I think it’s the perfect choice!

For a European capital, Zagreb is so underrated, yet offers so much, especially for students. Zagreb is a very safe and walkable city, making it easy to get around. The center is compact with plenty of pedestrian areas, green spaces, bars, and cafes, and don’t even get me started on the amazing restaurants in Zagreb. On top of that, there’s always something going on in the city. From festivals and concerts to various events – you’ll never find yourself bored here.

My biggest tip for studying abroad in Zagreb is to say yes to new things and get out of your comfort zone as much as possible. After all, that’s what studying abroad is all about, right?

A potential con when studying abroad in Zagreb is the language. The Croatian language can be a difficult one to pick up, but luckily most Croatians speak English very well, so communication shouldn’t be an issue. However, learning a few local words or simple phrases can go a long way and is appreciated by the locals.

• School Attended: Zagreb School of Economics and Management
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Ljubljana and Budapest
• Nearest Airport: Franjo Tuđman Airport Zagreb (ZAG)
• Best Time of Year: Spring or Fall

6. Bratislava, Slovakia

Recommended by: Becky of Becksplore Travel

I studied abroad for a semester in Bratislava, Slovakia. I mostly chose Bratislava because I didn’t really know a lot about Slovakia yet, and its central location makes it a great place to travel to countries nearby. You can make day trips to Austria, the Czech Republic, or Hungary, which makes Bratislava the perfect base to discover other European countries.

One thing to know before studying abroad in Bratislava is while the city is quite small and there isn’t too much to see, that’s also what makes it really social. Everyone goes out to the same places or eats at the same restaurants, so you are bound to bump into people you know most places you go.

Through the university, we also got train tickets to travel through Slovakia for free, which made it very affordable to travel to other Slovakian cities on the weekends. If you are here on an Erasmus semester, it will be super easy to make friends, as they organize a bunch of great events for exchange students. 

One con of studying in Bratislava might be the university itself. The building was very old, so there weren’t really a lot of places where you could study and plug in your laptop to charge, But if you are only there for a semester, that shouldn’t be too much of a problem. Overall, Bratislava was a fun place to study, with lots of activities to do and great places to visit nearby!

• School Attended: University of Economics in Bratislava
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Vienna and Budapest
• Nearest Airport: M. R. Štefánik Airport Bratislava (BTS)
• Best Time of Year: All year around

7. London, England

Recommended by: Daniella of Sampler Platter Travel

London, England is a perfect city to study abroad in, acting as an academic and cultural hub. When I studied abroad last year, I chose the city for its top institutions and fantastic job opportunities, especially in economics and business. 

London is a culturally diverse capital, offering mouth-watering Indian food and iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace. As a student, you will never get bored exploring new restaurants and museums. Of course, the lack of a language barrier for English speakers means that it is a city accessible to many students. For those who are non-native speakers, London provides a great opportunity to improve their skills in the language. 

London is different from other cities due to its vibrant energy and fantastic quality of life. From upbeat restaurants and bars to relaxing green spaces and parks, London has a high standard of living, providing a warm and welcoming environment for students. On the other hand, London is a very expensive city, so it is best to plan and make sure to save enough for your adventures. You will love exploring the city!

• School Attended: University of Chicago Booth School of Business
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Bath and Manchester
• Nearest Airport: Heathrow Airport (LHR)
• Best Time of Year: Spring, fewer crowds in the city, and no humidity like the summer, you also don’t have to deal with the winter gray and rain.

Hey before we keep going, I wanted to let you know I made a Study Abroad Pre-departure Checklist you can download for FREE when you sign up to my email list. You can grab yours right below!

8. Leuven, Belgium

Recommended by: Natali of She’s Abroad Again

As a Law student, studying abroad wasn’t part of my curriculum. Since I really wanted this experience, I applied for an extra credit study abroad semester in Leuven, Belgium. I chose Belgium because the country is ideally situated in the center of Europe, well connected to the rest of the continent, and small enough to explore on a budget. 

There are several universities in Belgium, and I briefly considered studying in Brussels, but I quickly changed my mind as I learned about the student towns of Leuven and Ghent. Both towns are incredibly popular with foreign students, offer great programs in English, and have fantastic student life! I picked Leuven as it was smaller, and it was the best decision. 

I loved how you could bike everywhere, there was always something going on, every bar and restaurant had student prices, and it felt like every other building in the city center was a university building! Also, Belgians have some unusual student events, like Cantus – where you drink beer and sing songs from a little booklet. 

As a student, you should take advantage of train passes to go on day trips in Belgium! If you’re under 26, you should get a 10-trip pass as it will save you up to 80% of the ticket! A thing to consider is that Leuven is in the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium. For some reason, I was hoping to learn French while studying abroad, but that wasn’t the local language. 

Belgium is not a cheap country, and finding affordable accommodation will require patience. Lots of students live in townhouses with 5-10 flatmates! Also, it rains a lot in Belgium. I didn’t see any sun from February to March, but spring months were lovely!

• School Attended: KU Leuven
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Brussels and Ghent
• Nearest Airport: Brussels Airport (BRU)
• Best Time of Year: Spring

9. Malaga, Spain

Recommended by: Cristina of My Little World of Travelling

Before studying for my Master’s Degree in Leeds, the UK, I did my Translation and Interpreting Degree in Malaga, Spain. I chose the University of Malaga because it was the closest to me.

Studying in Malaga is fantastic for many reasons. There is a lively atmosphere for students with weekly fun events and many activities to do in your free time. Also, it is well-connected with the rest of Europe and other destinations in Southern Spain.

Depending on the degree you choose to study, you will be based in the Teatinos or El Ejido area, which is closest to the city center. Although I was living with my parents when I studied at Malaga University, I had friends from other cities and countries who struggled with finding accommodation.

When preparing for studying abroad I recommend looking at a student-shared apartment as soon as you know you want to study in Malaga. The main con of studying here and in many Spanish universities is that many professors use theory and books as the main teaching methods. I feel like other European universities offer a more engaging and practical way of learning.

• School Attended: University of Malaga
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Marbella and Granada
• Nearest Airport: Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP)
• Best Time of Year: Anytime except summer because of the heat

Read How To Prepare For Study Abroad!

10. Rome, Italy

Recommended by: Madison of Madison’s Footsteps Travel Blog

My study abroad semester at John Cabot University in Rome in the spring of 2017 was an adventure I’ll never forget. To be honest, choosing Italy for my semester abroad was a spur-of-the-moment decision. It was directly through my home university, which made logistics and credits much easier, and I thought, why not? Little did I know that this impulsive choice would lead me to one of the most incredible experiences of my life.

Although I’m undoubtedly a bit biased, Rome is unlike any other destination in Europe. Sure, there are countless beautiful cities with rich histories, but Rome takes it to a whole new level. It boasts one of the world’s best culinary scenes, and trust me, I indulged in every incredible plate of pasta and mouth-watering pizza that crossed my path. The food alone was worth a trip to Rome! 

But it wasn’t just the cuisine that made Rome special. The city itself is a living museum. Everywhere I turned, there were ancient ruins, breathtaking views, and artistic masterpieces. Unfortunately, like many study-abroad students, we prioritized trips to other countries on the weekends instead of exploring our own backyard.

To anyone planning to study abroad in Rome – I highly recommend getting to know your host city before jetting off around the continent! Of course, studying in such a popular city does come with its drawbacks. During the on-season, things can get crowded and expensive. Tourists flood the streets, and visiting popular monuments during those times can be a hellish experience. However, the vibrant energy of the city more than makes up for the crowds. 

The hardest thing about studying abroad in Rome is leaving. The second I boarded the plane, I knew that I would be back as soon as humanly possible…and I ended up finding a job in Florence after graduation! The memories you make, friendships you form, and lessons you learn during study abroad will stay with you forever – especially in Rome. 

• School Attended: John Cabot University
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Florence and Naples
• Nearest Airport: Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
• Best Time of Year: Spring

Here Are 6 Ultimate Study Abroad Weekend Trips On A Budget!

11. Dublin, Ireland

Recommended by: Sydney of A World in Reach

In college, I spent a summer studying abroad in Dublin, Ireland. Dublin was the very first city I visited outside of the US, and I quickly fell in love during my weeks there.

When I was choosing my specific study abroad program, I had narrowed it down to a few parameters. First, I knew that I wanted to study in Europe. Second, I wanted to be sure that I could take classes that would count toward my major requirements. And lastly, I wanted to find a program with scholarship opportunities. The program I picked in Dublin ticked all of those boxes.

Dublin is a great study-abroad destination, especially for students who have never been outside of the US before. Although it’s considered to be a large city, Dublin feels quite small. The city center is very walkable and the bus system was easy to figure out. I was able to easily take the bus from the university campus south of the city right into the city center.

Studying in Dublin also gives you the opportunity for day and weekend trips to other incredible places in Ireland. Don’t miss spending a day at the Cliffs of Moher, checking out Blarney Castle, or heading to the seaside town of Howth, just 25 minutes from the Dublin city center.

A downside of studying abroad in Ireland? It’s among the more expensive destinations in Europe, so your daily expenses might be more than if you chose a cheaper destination like Prague. However, there are plenty of Ireland budget travel tips that can help keep your costs low.

• School Attended: University College Dublin
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Howth and Galway
• Nearest Airport: Dublin Airport (DUB)
• Best Time of Year: Summer, as the weather is better during the summer months.

12. Faro, Portugal

Recommended by: Ana Veiga of We Travel Portugal

I studied Languages and Literature at the University of the Algarve for a year and got my bachelor’s degree in Faro. The city is located in the Algarve in the south of Portugal. To me, what makes the Algarve special and a great place for those who want to study abroad is how diverse and beautiful the region is.

A big part of studying abroad is getting to know the place, its food, and all the life that happens outside of campus. In the Algarve, you have stunning weather – usually reported as 300 sunny days a year! So even
those who study here during winter can expect the temperature to be mild and you can anticipate lots of bright sunny days, great for exploring!

Continental Portugal is also relatively small, precisely 739 kilometers long, to travel from North to South takes approximately six hours by car. Cheap buses and trains are available, so you can travel far on a
typical student budget. There are so many beautiful places to explore, from the beaches and fishing villages to medieval towns, and of course, the bigger cities like Lisbon and Porto!

One of my study abroad tips for anyone thinking of coming to study in Faro is when renting a flat or room, you should be aware of short-term contracts. Faro is a popular tourist destination during the summer, and many owners want the place vacated during the summer season. You can find rooms on the beach for the school season from September to May, but keep in mind they’ll want you to leave for the summer months.

• School Attended: Faculdade de Ciências Humanas e Sociais – University of the Algarve
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Tavira and Lagos
• Nearest Airport: Faro International Airport (FAO)
• Best Time of Year: Spring

Here Are 15 Tips For Studying Abroad In Europe!

13. Graz, Austria

Recommended by: Martina of Places of Juma

Studying in Graz, Austria offers a fantastic experience for international students. Renowned for its exceptional quality of life, Graz is considered one of the best cities to live in Austria. It boasts wonderful attractions, magnificent architecture, and a rich cultural scene with numerous events.

The city’s vibrant academic atmosphere is complemented by its diverse range of universities. The University of Graz, founded in 1585, stands out as a leading academic institution in Austria with over 32,500 students currently enrolled. The university actively participates in international exchange programs like Erasmus+ Mobility and ISEP, providing students with valuable opportunities for academic and cultural exchange.

Graz’s nightlife, centered around the UNI quarter, offers students a vibrant social scene with hip bars, clubs, and affordable dining options. Additionally, the city’s strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring Austria and neighboring countries. Graz is just two hours away from Vienna, the Austrian capital, and offers easy access to destinations like Slovenia, with Maribor only an hour’s drive away.

Despite its many merits, non-German-speaking students may encounter a language barrier in Graz. While many courses are offered in English, basic German language skills can enhance everyday communication and integration. Overall, studying in Graz promises an unforgettable experience filled with academic growth, cultural immersion, and memorable adventures in one of Austria’s most dynamic cities.

• School Attended: University of Graz
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Vienna and Maribor
• Nearest Airport: Graz Airport (GRZ)
• Best Time of Year: Spring

14. Prague, Czech Republic

Recommended by: Mackenzie Jervis of A Wandering Scribbler

When I was choosing where to study abroad, I knew people who were mostly going to Edinburgh and London. And while those are amazing cities and would be so much fun to study in, I wanted something different.  As someone who had never been out of North America before this point, I liked that Prague was different enough to feel adventurous, but not too much of a departure from Western culture.

I loved that Prague was a “smaller” city compared to some other popular study-abroad locations. I was able to really explore every part of the city either by public transportation or easy walks. It also helps that the cost of living is lower than some of its neighboring countries in Europe. So I was able to experience more on a limited student budget. 

Definitely learn some Czech language basics. While many people can speak English, there are many locals who have no understanding of English, especially if you leave the tourist areas. Knowing a little of the language can help through any awkward issues. Besides, if you’re going to spend a significant time in any place, it’s always good to learn the language to help get a better understanding of the local people and the culture. 

At the time I studied there, there were definitely Western influences, shops, and restaurants around the city. But, there were way fewer than other major cities I’d visited. This allowed for students to experience more of Czech culture. However, there were times when I missed some things from home, and it felt impossible to find them. 

• School Attended: Charles University
• Nearby Cities To Explore: Pilsen and Brno
• Nearest Airport: Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
• Best Time of Year: Spring because you can see the city dusted in snow and then watch as the weather warms up and the flowers bloom.

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Final Thoughts-

When it comes to the best places to study abroad in Europe, it is important to hear from real students who have experienced it firsthand. As someone who studied abroad in Italy during college, I can attest to the transformative power of such an opportunity.

From personal experiences shared above, it is evident that immersing oneself in a foreign country not only provides a unique perspective but also fosters personal growth and cultural understanding. So, if you’re considering studying abroad, Europe offers an array of incredible destinations that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on your educational journey. 

Happy exploring!

Read More About Studying Abroad!

43 Easy Study Abroad Bucket List Items To Do This Year!

43 Best Study Abroad Gifts For Students

Here Are My Top 2 Study Abroad Regrets: Don’t Do The Same!

6 Ultimate Study Abroad Weekend Trips On A Budget!

The Surprisingly Top 6 Studying Abroad Pros And Cons

How To Prepare For Study Abroad (Includes Checklist)

Best 15 Tips For Studying Abroad In Europe

The Best 50 Inspiring Quotes About Studying Abroad!

The Best Places In Europe To Study Abroad: Told By Students!

What Are My Recommended Resources For Planning A Trip?

When planning my trip, I use my trusted trio of CheapOair, Viator, and Booking.com to provide a comprehensive solution for everything I need.

CheapOair is a go-to resource for affordable flight tickets. With its extensive network of over 600 airlines, it offers a wide array of choices, enabling you to easily compare prices and select the best deal that suits your budget and travel schedule.

Viator on the other hand, is an excellent platform for booking tours and activities. It provides access to thousands of sightseeing tours, attractions, and events in over 1,500 locations worldwide. It ensures you don’t miss out on the unique experiences each destination has to offer.

Booking.com is your reliable partner for accommodations. With over 28 million listings including hotels, apartments, and hostels, you can find the perfect place to stay that fits your budget and preference.

Together, these platforms make trip planning convenient, cost-effective, and fun. They ensure you have everything you need, from flights and accommodations to activities – at your fingertips.

Check Out My Resources Page For All My Recommended Travel Tools!