Best Summer Holiday Destinations for Students 2023

Still trying to weigh up where you’d like to go to soak up some sun this summer? We’re here to help with our list of some of the best summer holiday destinations for students in 2023… 

With 31% of students reporting that the cost of living crisis is having a ‘major impact’ on their finances, it’s understandable that you’re likely looking for the most budget-friendly trips you can find this summer. 

Cheap and cheerful may be our life motto at the moment, but this doesn’t have to mean compromising on a stunning destination, with Europe being home to some of the most spectacular countries in the world that (thankfully) happen to be super affordable for tourists. 

From Hungary to Spain, here are some of the best summer holiday destinations for students this year based on budget-friendly flights and accommodation and plenty of fun things to do!

Remember to make the most of TOTUM’s incredible range of travel discounts to make huge savings no matter where you decide to vacate this year, enjoying money off both flights and hotels… 

Some of our top travel deals and discounts for summer 2023 include:

• Save £30 on solo holidays with Jet2

• Save up to £250 on summer getaways with TUI 

• Save £600 per couple on July & August 2023 river cruises with TUI 

• Save up to £300 per couple to Kefalonia with First Choice

• Save 15% or more with Booking.com

• Get £35 off holidays with Travel Republic

Best summer holiday destinations for students 

LISBON, PORTUGAL 

While Lisbon may be one of the priciest cities in Portugal, it has been hailed the best value European city break in 2023 following a Post Office Travel Money survey and has soared in popularity amongst tourists in recent years. 

Lisbon was the most visited Portuguese region by international travellers in 2022, and it’s clear to see why… 

With a fascinating history, a unique blend of architectural styles, iconic landmarks such as São Jorge Castle, Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery and a bustling nightlife, Lisbon is the perfect place to soak up some culture. 

How much are flights to Lisbon?

Flights from the UK to Lisbon start from as little as just £13, so you certainly won’t have to break the bank to get there! 

How much money will I need during my trip?

You can expect to spend around €120 per day while in Lisbon. 

What are some budget-friendly hotels in Lisbon?

According to Tripadvisor, some of the best and cheapest hotels in Lisbon include: 

• Hotel Gat Rossio

• My Story Hotel Tejo

• My Story Hotel Rossio

Remember, with TOTUM you can save on accommodation no matter where you choose to visit this summer by taking advantage of top discounts from the likes of Hotels.com, Booking.com, Expedia and more… 

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Hungary’s capital is another great summer holiday destination for students, with plenty of fun things to do day and night. 

Unwind at one of Europe’s largest spa baths, Szechenyi Baths, before heading to one of the city’s most iconic ruin bars, Szimpla Kert. 

How much are flights to Budapest?

Flights from the UK to Budapest can start from around £33, but on average you can expect to pay in the region of £223 for a return. 

How much money will I need during my trip?

You can expect to spend roughly 27,254Ft (£74.50) per day as a tourist in Budapest. 

What are some budget-friendly hotels in Budapest?

Some of the best and cheapest hotels in Budapest according to Tripadvisor include:

• Casati Budapest Hotel

• Bohem Art Hotel 

• ROOMbach Hotel Budapest Center

ZANTE, GREECE

Zante has long been a favourite summer holiday destination amongst students and is a great alternative to Ibiza if you’re looking for a budget beach getaway.

Ideal for groups of friends, you can spend your days visiting popular beaches such as Agios Nikolaos, Alykanas and Tsilivi which have plenty of opportunities for water sports before hitting the Laganas Strip.

How much are flights to Zante?

You can fly to Zante from the UK from as little as £50 depending on the time of year! 

How much money will I need during my trip?

Depending on the number of events you’re planning on attending during your holiday in Zante, you should aim to budget for approximately €100 per day. 

What are some budget-friendly hotels in Zante?

According to Booking.com, some of the best and most affordable hotels include:

• Domes Aulus Zante

• Club Zante Plaza

• Poseidon Beach Hotel

MAJORCA, SPAIN 

Majorca is the perfect place for students to enjoy a summer holiday without breaking the bank, with popular beach resorts such as Cala d’Or, Cala Millor and Sa Coma often having great deals on flights and accommodation. 

For nature enthusiasts, a trip to UNESCO World Heritage Site Serra de Tramuntana is a must, while beach lovers can find beautiful stretches of sand and turquoise waters at Playa de Palma or Cala Mondragó.

How much are flights to Majorca?

According to both SkyScanner and KAYAK, you can find flights from the UK to Palma, Majorca from just £13, but typically you can expect to pay around between £100 to £180 for return flights during the peak season. 

What are some budget-friendly hotels in Majorca?

Some of the best value hotels in Majorca include:

• AluaSoul Mallorca Resort

• PortBlue Club Pollentia Resort & Spa

• MLL Palma Bay Club Resort

MARMARIS, TURKEY

Another summer holiday destination offering great value for money for students is Marmaris, Turkey. 

As one of Turkey’s most popular party towns, you’ll find plenty of places to let loose and burn off that post-university stress, from foam parties to beach bars and everything in between. 

But Marmaris isn’t only renowned for its lively nightlife, it’s also home to hidden gems such as Cleopatra Island and boasts plenty of opportunity for activities such as jet skiing, parasailing and more. 

How much are flights to Marmaris?

Flights to Turkey may come in a little steeper than the likes of Spain and Portugal, but you can still bag yourself a bargain. 

If you’re lucky, you can find round trips from as low as £81! 

What are some budget-friendly hotels in Marmaris?

Some of the best value hotels in Marmaris include:

• Club Alize

• Emre Beach

• Club Exelsior

How to save on holiday and travel essentials with TOTUM

From flights and accommodation discounts to cheap airport parking and more, TOTUM is here to help make your next holiday as cost effective as possible. 

With your TOTUM membership, you can save money from the moment you jet off until you land back at home, saving on everything from transport and excursions to holiday essentials from the likes of Boots.

Join TOTUM Student for FREE to access hundreds of student discounts on big-name brands like ASOS, Apple, Myprotein, boohoo, Samsung, and more!

Sign up for FREE, download the TOTUM app, and enjoy the latest offers, vouchers, coupons and more at your fingertips. Find out more here or download the app for Apple or Android to get started today.