5 top university trip destinations for this summer

There’s no denying that summer is one of the best times to travel, especially as a university student. With six or more weeks off from your studies, it is the perfect opportunity to expand your learning beyond the classroom (and keep those brains sharp) with an educational trip abroad.

For lecturers, this is the ideal time to arrange a university getaway and encourage students to join. The difficult part is choosing the right destination. 

Depending on the nature of your subject, it may be easier to narrow this down, for example, if you’re teaching Spanish, a Spanish-speaking country is going to be top of the list.

But for those of you with the world at your fingertips, we’re here to help. Below, we’ll share five of the best destinations for planning a university trip this summer. 

1. Cape Town, South Africa

First on our list is Cape Town, an excellent choice for students interested in subjects such as environmental science and biodiversity, or simply for those who love nature and being outdoors. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, students can explore the unique ecosystems of Table Mountain and the Cape Floral Region. This is also a great place to sign up for volunteer projects, giving students a chance to contribute to community development or conservation efforts, and many universities choose to partner with local NGOs to do this. 

It’s also an interesting location for those studying politics and human rights, as you can visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. This offers a powerful lesson in history and social justice. 

2. Berlin, Germany

There are very few cities in the world that have reinvented themselves more times than Berlin, from the Prussian capital and epicentre of World War II to today, where the capital is a proudly diverse and vibrant hub for people from across the globe. 

Whether it’s history, art, language, business or politics, students visiting Berlin will have their pick of cultural sites, museums, landmarks, green spaces, and so much more. Plus, the great food, atmosphere and nightlife are an added bonus for students looking to truly experience what it’s like to live in Berlin. 

3. Boston, USA

Going to America is a trip all of its own, with 50 states and an area of almost 3,800,000 square miles to choose from. But did you know that Boston is one of America’s most student-friendly and historically important cities?

As a hotspot for its own students, it is close enough for those wanting to visit Harvard or MIT, as well as those hoping to carry on their studies in the oldest large free library in the US. 

That’s another reason why this is an ideal destination for literature, STEM or history students, particularly those who are studying the American Revolution, as the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail connects 16 significant historical sites. 

4. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is one of Europe’s most budget-friendly capitals, which can be helpful if you’re on a tighter budget. Plus, the city combines grand architecture and historical sites with a young and lively spirit that your students will love. 

During the day, you can explore the historic sites of Buda and Pest, walk along the Danube River, take in the vibrant street life and even relax in the thermal baths. At night, why not enjoy low-cost dining and have a drink at one of the city’s famous ruin bars?

Offering a more cultural experience than some of the other cities on this list, Budapest can be the perfect student getaway if you want to keep expanding your students' minds, whilst letting them relax and blow off some steam during the holidays. 

5. Kyoto, Japan

Last but not least, we have Kyoto, great for students of cultural studies, architecture and environmental sustainability. This city was once Japan’s imperial capital, as it is home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and hundreds of Shinto shrines. 

During their visit, students can explore the historic districts of Gion and Higashiyama to get a better understanding of geisha culture and traditional wooden townhouses. 

Plus, the Kyoto University itself is renowned for its groundbreaking research in environmental science, and occasionally allows guided tours of its projects, like those in sustainable urban planning, to educational groups. 

You can combine this with time in nature, hiking through the bamboo forests and Zen gardens for a peaceful yet enriching summer adventure.

Are you planning a university trip? 

If you’re a lecturer planning a university trip, or even if you’re a group of keen students hoping to arrange a getaway amongst your classmates, consider visiting one of the destinations we’ve outlined above. 

If you need help booking group flights, the team at BTG Travel Management can help. Our team works with airlines around the globe to secure you the best deals and make planning group travel much easier.

Simply get in touch today to find out how we can help with your university trip this summer.