Already looking forward to your next holiday? As a student, your bank balance may not be the healthiest after a few weeks of post-exam celebrations, but if you plan ahead and select the right destinations you’ll be able to enjoy some European escapism without blowing your budget. Here are four affordable places to check out this winter…

1. Budapest

The capital of Hungary is not only one of Europe’s best cities in terms of value for money, but there’s little doubt that it’s also the continent’s most picturesque and vibrant hotspot. With an eclectic mix of architecture – from art nouveau to baroque – your eyes will be given a visual feast (perfect for your Instagram feed), while the bijou-sized cafés and eateries that line the streets will satisfy any foodie’s soul. To keep warm during the colder months, make sure to visit any one of Budapest’s renowned thermal baths. With something new to discover at every corner, this is a must-visit city for all avid explorers.

2. Prague

If you didn’t get to Interrail and visit Prague this summer, then make it your priority to do so in the upcoming months. Why? Because whether it’s the view of the Prague Castle and Vltava river from the 600-year- old Charles Bridge, or the plethora of Boho art galleries for you to dive into, Prague’s offerings are world-class. And if you want to sample the finest ales and beers in Europe, then look no further.

3. Athens

In this Greek metropolis, heritage and modernity thrive side by side. Here lies the Acropolis (perhaps the most renowned cultural landmark in the world), the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Parthenon – all historic sites that you must see in your lifetime. But, although it may be Europe’s oldest city, Athens also has a modern buzz to it. The car-free historic centre has the largest pedestrian promenade around, the open-air restaurants and bars entertain guests until late hours and the grand green spaces make for an idyllic afternoon of relaxation. Greece may have been hard hit by the financial crisis, but there’s nothing to say that Athens is deprived of entertainment.

4. Warsaw

Warsaw is a city saturated with history – its museums pay tribute to Poland’s complex past, while the memorials are a reminder of the capital’s tragic wartime experiences. But these are only a few examples of what there is to see. The entertainment, food and craft beer scene here is one of the most impressive (and affordable) in Europe, and although it was once a grey location during the communist era, there are now plenty of pastel-coloured buildings and lively clubs that help inject spirit throughout the population. Having shaken off its dark days, Warsaw is now a blossoming destination that’s getting popular by the year.

Hero image source