We get it; you’ve all been stuck at home, itching to travel again. If you’re a student just taking online classes, you’re probably wondering how to make better use of your time. Well, we’ve got a solution: short trips within Germany! We’ve rounded up our favorite travel destinations for students that won’t break the bank, along with some handy tips to help you save money on the road.
### Best Places to Visit for Students in Germany
#### Mecklenburg Lake Plateau
The Mecklenburg Lake Plateau is a magnet for those who want to immerse in nature and enjoy some peace and quiet. With over 1,000 lakes and rivers, it’s perfect for swimming and cooling off. You can rent a houseboat, sailing boat, or kayak to explore. If you’re on a budget, a houseboat is a great option, especially if you’re traveling with friends because you can split the costs. You can also save by buying groceries in nearby villages or even bringing food from home. This area is very accessible by car or train, and traveling during the low season can help you save even more.
#### Elbe Sandstone Mountains
Located in Saxon Switzerland, the Elbe Sandstone Mountains offer stunning landscapes and a cheaper alternative to traveling to real Switzerland. This destination is perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Many activities, such as hiking, are free or very low-cost, and you can cool off in small creeks during the summer. Don’t miss the Königstein Fortress by the Elbe River, which you can visit for just 7€. This area offers plenty to do on a student budget.
#### Spreewald
For an Indiana Jones-like adventure, head to Spreewald in Brandenburg. This area’s main mode of transportation is the boat, making it a water lover’s paradise. You can save money by mooring your boat and camping along your journey. It’s just 1.5 hours away from Berlin, so combining city and nature is easy and economical.
#### Quedlinburg
Quedlinburg might be an unfamiliar name, but it’s a hidden gem in Saxony-Anhalt. Founded around 922 AD, it’s full of cultural treasures from the early Middle Ages. Outside the city, you’ll find beautiful hiking trails. It’s not your typical tourist spot, making it special and budget-friendly. The town also offers a variety of cuisines to satisfy your culinary cravings without burning a hole in your pocket.
#### Marburg
Located in Hessen, Marburg is an excellent budget-friendly student city in the shadow of Frankfurt. This medieval town offers rich history through its architecture, like the Landgrafenschloss and the old university. The local student scene is very welcoming, making it easy to find friends to grab a beer with. For photography buffs, don’t miss spots like Weidenhäuser Straße and the Rosenparkbrücke. With over a third of its population being students, Marburg is vibrant and lively.
#### Berlin
Berlin remains a top pick for students due to its affordability and vibrant culture. The city is rich in history, particularly related to the inner-German wall and WWII. You can explore many landmarks cheaply, such as taking the number 100 bus to see the Tiergarten, Reichstag, Bellevue Palace, and the Victory Column. For panoramic views, head to Teufelsberg, Elsenbrücke, or Oberbaumbrücke instead of the pricier television tower. Berlin’s many small restaurants and flea markets, like the one in Mauerpark, make the city an ongoing favorite for budget travelers.
#### Dresden
Dresden is a budget-friendly city on the Elbe River, known for its impressive architecture. You can explore medieval culture and WWII history without spending much. Many sights, like the Zwinger, Frauenkirche, and Fürstenzug, are free to visit and within walking distance. The city offers a great mix of historic and modern vibes in areas like Neustadt. Upload your trip to Dresden and find cool travel buddies to join you!
### Tips for Budget Travel
1. **Travel in the Low Season:** Spring and fall offer beautiful landscapes without the summer crowds, making it a great time to travel.
2. **Choice of Transport:** Consider the costs and practicality of different transportation options. Look for group tickets and travel deals to cut costs.
3. **Choosing Accommodation:** While hostels are typically the cheapest, don’t overlook hotel and vacation apartment deals, especially in the low season.
Make your student years memorable with these budget-friendly travel ideas and tips! Enjoy exploring Germany without breaking the bank.