Spring break is all about new places, great company, and making the most of your time off. And the best part? You don’t need a big budget to have an unforgettable trip.
With the right destination and a few smart travel tricks, you can soak up the sun, explore cities all around the continent, and enjoy every moment—without worrying about your wallet. Here are the best budget-friendly spring break spots, plus easy ways to make your money go further.
Best Affordable Spring Break Destinations for Students
1. Porto, Portugal
Lisbon might be the first city that comes to mind when thinking of Portugal, but Porto offers just as much charm—at a lower cost. With its colorful riverside district, stunning architecture, and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect destination for a budget-friendly getaway.
Wander through the winding streets of Ribeira, take in breathtaking views from the Dom Luís I Bridge, and visit Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. Porto is also home to some of the best seafood in Europe, and a francesinha—a legendary local sandwich stacked with meat, covered in melted cheese, and drenched in beer sauce—is a must-try.
Budget Tip: Save up for your trip effortlessly with AutoSave—rounding up your everyday purchases and setting aside the spare change for your next pastel de nata.
2. Kraków, Poland
Kraków is one of Europe’s best budget-friendly cities, offering a mix of history, culture, and a lively nightlife scene—all at prices that won’t stretch your wallet. The city’s medieval Old Town is like stepping into a fairytale, with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and Europe’s largest market square at its heart.
Start your day with a stroll through Wawel Castle and take in panoramic views from its hilltop location. Dive into Kraków’s rich history with a free walking tour, then grab a plate of pierogior a zapiekanka—an open-faced baguette topped with melted cheese and mushrooms—for a cheap and satisfying meal. When the sun sets, Kraków turns into a nightlife hotspot with plenty of affordable bars and underground clubs. Here, a night out is often cheaper than your morning coffee, making it one of the best places in Europe to party on a student budget.
Tip: Track your expenses in real time with Instant Notifications, so you know exactly how much you’re spending on pierogi and Polish vodka.
3. Valencia, Spain
Valencia is the perfect mix of beach days, vibrant city life, and incredible food—without the price tag of Barcelona or Madrid. This sun-soaked destination is famous for its futuristic architecture, golden coastlines, and, of course, being the birthplace of paella.
Start your day biking through the City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural wonderland that looks straight out of a sci-fi movie. Then, head to Playa de la Malvarrosa for some time by the sea, where you can enjoy the Mediterranean sun without the crowds of Spain’s more touristy beaches. When hunger strikes, grab an authentic paella Valenciana—a rich, saffron-infused rice dish traditionally made with chicken and rabbit.
At night, Valencia’s bar scene comes alive, offering a mix of affordable tapas spots, lively student bars, and hidden cocktail gems. The city’s prices are refreshingly low compared to Spain’s bigger hotspots, making it easy to enjoy every moment without overspending.
Tip: Split expenses easily with Tricount, so you and your friends can track who paid for what—no awkward IOUs after too many rounds of sangria.
4. Thessaloniki, Greece
Athens may get all the attention, but Thessaloniki is where you’ll find the perfect mix of history, stunning sea views, and an unbeatable food scene—at a fraction of the cost. Greece’s second-largest city is vibrant, walkable, and packed with energy, making it an ideal spot for a budget-friendly spring break.
Start your trip with a visit to the White Tower, the city’s most famous landmark, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, stopping for strong Greek coffee at one of the many seaside cafés. For history lovers, the Rotunda and Roman Forum offer a glimpse into the city’s ancient past.
But the real highlight? The food. Thessaloniki is famous for its bougatsa, a warm, flaky pastry filled with custard or cheese, and its unbeatable street food—think souvlaki, gyros, and koulouri, all for just a few euros. When night falls, the city’s bar and club scene kicks off, with affordable drinks and late-night bites keeping the energy going.
Tip: Get worldwide coverage with bunq’s Travel Insurance, including medical emergencies, car rental, repatriation, baggage, cancellations and even active sports accidents.
5. Düsseldorf, Germany
Düsseldorf might not be the first place that comes to mind for spring break, but if you’re looking for a unique and affordable European getaway, it delivers. This city is home to Little Tokyo, one of the biggest Japanese communities in Europe, offering authentic ramen, sushi, and matcha cafés—all at student-friendly prices.
Spend your day exploring Immermannstraße, Düsseldorf’s main Japanese district, stopping by izakayas for delicious (and budget-friendly) bites. Visit the EKŌ-Haus, a serene temple and garden that feels like a little piece of Japan in Germany. If you time your trip right, you can catch the cherry blossoms in spring, adding even more charm to your visit.
Tip: Set a daily spending limit with bunq’s Budgeting Tools to keep track of your matcha lattes and ramen runs without going over budget.
Tips for Traveling on a Student Budget
1. Set a Budget Before You Go
Decide how much you can spend daily on food, transport, and activities. Use bunq’s Easy Budgeting tools to track every expense on the go. No more guessing where your money went!
2. Avoid Foreign Exchange Fees
No one likes extra charges. With bunq’s ZeroFX, you always get the real exchange rate when spending abroad. No surprises, just savings.
3. Book in Advance for the Best Deals
Flights and hostels get pricier as spring break gets closer. Use Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Booking.com to score early-bird discounts.
4. Take Advantage of Free Experiences
From free museum days to walking tours, many destinations offer budget-friendly activities—especially if you flash your student ID. Research ahead and save big.
5. Keep Your Money Safe
Lost your bunq card? Freeze it instantly and order a replacement in the app, so you’re never stuck without access to your money. Travel stress-free with bunq’s security features.
Stress-Free Spring Break with bunq
Spring break should be about making memories—not worrying about your bank balance. With the right destination, smart planning, and bunq by your side, you can have an epic trip without breaking the bank.
