The Ultimate Spring & Summer Break Bucket List
This is guide to the most iconic spring and summer breaks yet. From chasing waterfalls to sunset swims, these student trips deliver adventure, culture, and memories you won’t forget.
Spring and summer break are prime time for saying yes to the trips you’ll still be talking about at your 20-year reunion. Whether you’re traveling solo, rolling deep with vacation groups, or figuring out where to travel for your first trip abroad, these destinations hit the sweet spot— unforgettable, student-budget friendly, and built for memories. Here are ten spring and summer break experiences that feel big, bold, and absolutely worth it.
1. Exploring the Golden Circle in Iceland
Iceland feels like another world in the best way possible. The Golden Circle packs waterfalls, geysers, and horses into one jaw-dropping loop, perfect for a spring break that leans more wow than wild. Long daylight hours means more exploring, fewer crowds than summer, and plenty of moments where you just stand there wondering how this is real. Plus, Icelandic people are super kind and definitely know how to appreciate the time they do get in the sun- so their pubs are very lively.
It’s ideal for solo spring break trips or student travel with a group that’s down to chase waterfalls and soak in hot springs.
2. Ziplining & nature adventures in Costa Rica
If your idea of a perfect break includes adrenaline and fresh air, Costa Rica delivers. One minute you’re ziplining through the rainforest, the next you’re spotting sloths or swimming in waterfalls. Spring and summer bring lush landscapes and warm weather, aka peak season for outdoor adventure. It’s a classic pick for student trips where the group chat is equally hyped about nature, beaches, and post-adventure chill time. Big plus: Costa Rica is significantly more affordable than your all-inclusive Cancun resorts.
3. Beaches & sea caves in the Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve is place that turns everyone into a sunset person. Golden cliffs, turquoise water, and boat cruises through sea caves make this a spring or summer break dream. It’s relaxed without being boring and social without being overwhelming—great for vacation groups or students traveling abroad for the first time. Bonus: Portugal is one of the most budget-friendly countries in Western Europe.
4. Cherry blossom season in Japan
Seeing cherry blossoms in Japan is like stepping into a real-life postcard. Spring break lines up perfectly with Sakura season, when parks, streets, and rivers are covered in soft pink blooms. Between exploring Tokyo’s bustling streets, Kyoto’s temples, and late-night ramen runs, Japan is a standout for solo spring break trips and student abroad trips that mix culture, food, and once-in-a-lifetime moments.
5. The Amalfi Coast: Cliffs, color & coastal towns
The Amalfi Coast is THE place. Think colorful towns stacked on cliffs, winding coastal roads, and swims that feel cinematic. Spring and early summer are ideal—warm weather, fewer crowds, and lots of gelato served in actual lemons. It’s perfect for travelers that want equal parts sightseeing, beach days, and living out their European summer fantasies.
6. Santorini & Crete sunsets and sea days
Greece in the spring or early summer is unmatched. Santorini brings the iconic white buildings and sunsets, while Crete balances it out with beaches, history, and a more laid-back feel. Together, they’re the ultimate combo for student trips that want that iconic first trip out of the country. Clear water, golden-hour swims, and dinners that turn into long conversations—this is the good stuff.
7. Island-hopping in Croatia
Imagine a personal yacht for just you and your friends that doesn’t break the bank? Croatia is MADE for summer break. Crystal-clear water, historic coastal cities, and island-hopping days that blur together in the best way. It’s social, scenic, and ideal for vacation groups who want beach clubs one day and medieval old towns the next.
8. Exploring Barcelona & the Spanish coast
Spain brings art, beaches, nightlife, and food all in one place. Spring and summer mean long days, warm nights, and endless tapas. It’s an easy win for student abroad trips—walkable, vibrant, and perfect for groups that want culture during the day and a vibrant social scene at night. Huge plus, Spain is extremely affordable!
9. Morocco: Markets, mountains & coast
Morocco feels like multiple trips in one. From colorful souks to coastal towns and desert landscapes, it’s ideal for spring break when the weather is warm but manageable. It’s a standout for students looking for something different—rich culture, unforgettable visuals, and experiences that feel far from ordinary student travel.
10. Bali for balance
Bali is where mornings are for waterfalls and afternoons are for beach clubs or rice terrace views. Summer break is prime time, and it works especially well for solo spring break trips or small vacation groups looking for a mix of adventure and reset energy. It’s affordable, stunning, and always delivers.
Spring and summer break aren’t just time off, they’re a chance to see more of the world while you can. Whether you’re planning student trips with friends, testing the waters of solo spring break trips, or locking in your next student abroad adventure, these destinations prove that student travel can be meaningful, fun, and wildly unforgettable.
Key takeaways
- Spring and summer break are your chance to go big without blowing your budget. From waterfall-chasing in Iceland and Costa Rica to beach days in Portugal, Greece, Croatia, and Bali—and culture-packed adventures in Japan, Spain, and Morocco—these 10 destinations are unforgettable, student-friendly, and perfect for solo trips or group travel. Short version: epic memories, manageable budgets, zero regrets.
- You don’t need to plan any of this alone—we already did the hard part. You just pick what destination, trip, or experience speaks to you the most and show up.
Know before you go
From the ins and outs of our trips to finding the one that fits you best—here’s what you need to know.
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