IE University’s spring break this year goes from the 9th of April to the 18th. Being in Spain, there are so many beautiful domestic places to visit, but for many whose first time it is living abroad in Europe, take advantage of the close proximity you have to other European countries and cities. Europe has a range of climates in springtime, so you are sure to find a destination that truly speaks to you.
Set a budget and decide length of travel
How long would you like to be travelling for? Or most importantly, how long can you afford to travel for? These two are crucial questions to keep into account when planning your trip.
There are 2 main ways to decide your budget:
- per/day basis – e.g., how much you’ll spend every day of the trip. Make sure you include the accommodation, food costs, sightseeing, etc.
- Thinking of how much money you are willing to spend on all of these by themselves.
Use these tips to help you better budget your trip!
Pick your location
This is arguably the most exciting part!! Gather your travel wishlist, and evaluate which destinations could be affordable and doable. If you are travelling with your friend group, make sure everyone is happy with this destination.
A very important thing to consider is the climate. Are you looking to tan and be by the beach the whole day? Or would rather hike around the Alps?
If there are several locations you would like to tackle during the 9-day break, why not try Interrail? Not only do they give you ideas for destinations, they also set you up with the best travel order that makes most sense to your situation.
Check out these top European Spring break destinations:
- Spring Break in Europe by Student Universe
- 17 Top Destinations for Spring Break in Europe by Full Suitcase
- Personal recommendations: Lisbon, Portugal – delicious food, cheap, beautiful weather, beach, great nightlife…
Pick your method of transportation/travel
How will you get there? Luckily, transportation and travel is so easy in Europe, and you have plenty of options to choose from! Here are your most likely/common options for travel in Europe:
- Aeroplane
- Train (Interrail)
- Bus (Interrail)
- Boat
You may decide on what is cheapest, but remember, that is not always what is most convenient. Do your research. Sometimes a city’s closest airport is an hour away from the city centre so you are better off
Once you get to your destination, familiarise yourself with the local public transport. Some places have some that are very unique to that specific location; could be a fun touristic activity! Check if there is Uber or Volt in the place you chose to travel to. Taxis can often be tourist traps!
Pick accommodation
Maybe you have a family friend you can live with? Or you would rather stay in a hotel. Are hotels out of your budget? Take a look at hostels. Want more of a home-feel after a long day of tourism? Check our AirBnB!
To help you budget and manage your hotel experience, you can use Booking to assess all price ranges, based on location, star-reviews, and comments.
Research / schedule an itinerary
Unless you would rather go with the flow once you get to your destination, plan out every day down to wake-up times and meals in an itinerary. This is truly a question of personal preference. For some it aids the smoothness of travel, others it restricts and hinders it.
Use this guide to help you create your own itinerary:
Or make it easy on yourself and base your itinerary off of a pre-made one! So many of these can be found on Pinterest…
- Berlin, Germany
- Porto, Portugal
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Romania
The days leading up to your trip
Make sure you are aware of any government health forms to fill out, preliminary COVID practices, and specific equipment. You can still purchase any forgotten materials once you have arrived at your destination, but it is always good to come prepared.
Packing can be tedious, but making a check-list to make sure you do not forget anything important is a huge help! Check out USA Today’s packing list; make sure you tailor it to the climate and conditions of your destination.
The whole Stork team and I wish you the best of luck planning your trip, and the safest of travels!
