Cheap City Breaks for Students: 5 Great Autumn Escapes

Looking to plan a quick getaway in between your lectures? For everyone from an international student settling into UK life or a local craving a new scene, a city break doesn’t have to break the bank. Autumn is one of the best times to enjoy some cheap city breaks thanks to fewer crowds, cheaper prices, and milder conditions. The freedom of living in student accommodation means you don’t even need permission from your parents to bag your bags and jet off.

This guide brings together five destinations that are ideal for university students in the UK. Europe has so many culturally relevant cities to discover, hopefully you fall in love with one of them.

Kraków, Poland

Found in the south of Poland, Kraków is an ideal choice if you’re after a city that blends deep history with buzzing street life. You and your pals can explore the medieval architecture and tasty pierogi snacks by day. As well as a delightfully lively and budget friendly nightlife scene by night.

Why students love it: 

• Street food can keep you fed for as little as £2. The restaurants aren’t very expensive either.
• Student discounts are available at cultural sites and for tours.
• Most UK airports offer cheap return flights.

Budapest, Hungary

It may not be first place that comes to mind when you think of relaxation, but the Hungarian capital is home to some of the finest thermal baths in the world. You can book lengthy sessions in the baths for next to nothing, and then retreat to the bars and pubs in the evening.

It’s the ideal city break for students that want to soak in the vibes of a new city, without the pressure of walking around sight-seeing all day.

Why students love it: 

• Day tickets on the travel network costs less than £5.
• Student discounts are available at popular spa’s like Széchenyi and Gellért.
• Cheap hostels with strong WiFi and clean facilities.

Lisbon, Portugal

If you’re chasing the sun for some last minute rays, Lisbon could be the place to go. The capital of Portugal delivers Latin charm, vibrant colours, and a wonderfully coastline all in one city. It has a relaxed appeal that feels more like a beach holiday at times, but you can still bask in the culture when you want to discover something new.

Why students love it: 

• Public trams for under £1.50 per ride.
• Cheap hostels that often include breakfast.
• Traditional Portuguese meals available at low prices.

Prague, Czechia

A city that holds a place on many people’s ‘bucket lists’, the compact capital of Czechia gives you a fairy tale feel with a modern side that’s ideal for those in search of a party. There’s no shortage of stunning sites here either, both Prague Castle and the Astronomical Clock are worth seeing.

Prague also has one of the most efficient travel networks in Europe, making journeys around the city simpler than many other places.

Why students love it: 

• Most iconic beer gardens and cafés are friendly and student budget conscious.
• Fantastic array of sites to explore, all with historic stories.
• Affordable accommodation available in autumn.

Want to check out the best hotels and walking tours before you book? Use Tripadvisor to read reviews from fellow students and budget travellers before making the trip.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Some students don’t want to deal with the stress that airports can often deliver, so a UK city break is more to their taste. For those wanting a slice of the old world, there’s nowhere better than Edinburgh. Home to legendary literature, spooky ghost doors (ideal for Halloween), and a historic castle, the Scottish capital is not to be missed.

Why students love it: 

• Easily accessible by rail and road from most UK cities.
• Plenty of free museums to explore.
• Discounted entry to major attractions using your student ID.

If you are planning to travel by train, look into buying the 16-25 Railcard before you set off. It’ll help you save money far beyond your city break.

How to Travel on a Student Budget

It’s important to try and keep your city break as cheap and stress free as possible as a student. So, here’s a few bonus tips from us to help make sure of it:

• Book as early as possible to secure the best deals on flights and accommodation.
• Keep your student ID with you to make the most of the discounts it can provide.
• Pack lightly to avoid having to pay for hold luggage.
• Travel as a group so you can split costs and have the best time ever.
• Leave room for spontaneity when you arrive as it can be where you create the best memories.

Time to Make Your Autumn Escape

You don’t need loads of cash or time off to make a memory. Just a bit of planning, a sense of curiosity, and maybe a good book for the flight. Make sure to bring your housemates and enjoy a short reset before the deadlines start to creep up on you.

Looking for more tips, destinations, and budget hacks? Read more of our guides for all things student living.

Where will you discover first?