Student Bloggers

Studying abroad at University College Cork in Ireland has been an incredible experience, and one of the highlights has been the opportunity to explore other parts of Europe. I’m excited to share some of my travel experiences, tips, and recommendations for anyone considering traveling during their own study abroad journey.

Paris, France
I spent four days in Paris, visiting iconic landmarks like the Louvre, the Palace of Versailles (including the Trianon estates), Napoleon’s Tomb, and the Musée d’Orsay—all for free! If you’re under 26 and a resident of certain European countries, including Ireland, you’re eligible for free or discounted tickets at many attractions. Don’t forget to bring your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card as proof of residency.

For the Palace of Versailles, plan to spend at least five hours to fully explore. Beyond the main palace, the estate includes the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, Queen’s Hamlet, a farm, and even a boating experience on the estate’s river. There’s so much more than just the palace itself, so allocate enough time to enjoy it all.

If you’re planning to ascend to the top of the Eiffel Tower, be prepared for some unpredictability. Although signs may indicate that access to the top is closed, it often reopens without warning. I waited in line for 40 minutes despite the closure signs, and just as I reached the ticket booth, the top reopened! Persistence pays off. Don’t let the long lines discourage you either—they usually move faster than expected.

Madrid and Barcelona, Spain
In Spain, my friends and I spent three days in Madrid and one day in Barcelona, traveling between the two cities via a comfortable 2.5-hour train ride for about $45.

In Madrid, I highly recommend trying tinto de verano, a refreshing drink similar to sangria. Keep in mind that most restaurants charge for tap water. While there, visit the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace. Student discounts are often available, so bring your student ID and IRP card.

In Barcelona, must-visit spots include La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, designed by the renowned architect Gaudí. Be sure to book tickets on the official websites as early as possible, as these attractions are extremely popular. If tickets sell out, platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator offer private tours for only slightly higher prices. My friends and I managed to secure tickets the day before by booking a tour. Pay close attention to the meeting locations for these tours to avoid any last-minute stress.

Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent, Belgium
Belgium was a delightful surprise! We stayed in Brussels for a day, spent another day in Bruges, and a half-day in Ghent.

One day in Brussels is enough to cover highlights like the European Parliament, the
Manneken-Pis statue, Grand Place, and numerous Belgian chocolate shops. If you’re interested in a complimentary European Parliament tour, don’t forget your passport.

Bruges feels like a storybook come to life. Visiting during the Christmas season added a magical touch with festive markets and decorations, but this charming town is worth exploring any time of year. Highlights include making your own chocolate at a factory, taking a boat ride through scenic canals, and visiting the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo’s Madonna of Bruges. Accessing the church is free, but there’s a small fee to view the statue—it’s absolutely worth it!

Beer lovers (and skeptics!) shouldn’t miss the Bruges Beer Experience. Even as someone who usually dislikes beer, I found one I truly enjoyed.

If time allows, Ghent is a lovely city with great shopping and picturesque streets. However, if your schedule is tight, you won’t miss out by skipping it.

Zurich, Switzerland
We spent a day in Zurich before taking a three-hour train to Milan, Italy. A single day in Zurich was enough to admire the Swiss Alps from afar, enjoy Swiss chocolate, explore a few Christmas markets, and stroll through the city’s parks. Be prepared for higher costs in Zurich—Switzerland is notably expensive. Also, keep in mind that Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc instead of the Euro, so check the conversion rate beforehand.

Lake Como and Milan, Italy
After arriving in Milan via a $50 train from Zurich, we took a 1.5-hour train to Lake Como. The breathtaking views, incredible food, and chance celebrity sightings make Lake Como a must-visit. I even stumbled upon the perfect wool trench coat at a local shop!

In Milan, attending an Inter vs. Parma soccer game was the highlight of my trip. Tickets were surprisingly affordable at just $20, and the lively atmosphere was unforgettable. We also explored the Arco della Pace and the stunning Duomo di Milano. The cathedral is awe-inspiring both inside and out. Visiting during the Christmas season added to the charm, with festive markets offering delicious food and unique gifts. Milan’s public transportation is easy to navigate, making it simple to explore other parts of Italy if you have extra time.

Traveling while studying abroad has been a life-changing experience. Each destination offered its own unique charm and unforgettable memories. If you’re studying abroad, I encourage you to make the most of your time and explore as much as possible—you won’t regret it!