News
New Year, New Adventures – January Getaways on a Student Budget
There are times when everyone needs a little break, and the December-January exam period is one of those times. Understandably, you might not be able to daydream about what you’ll do after exams, which is why we’re here to help! We’ve picked out 3 destinations where you can unwind after the winter fatigue and tackle the challenges of the next semester with renewed vigor!
Travel with Y Generation Student Union!
Head to Milan, the Fashion Capital
What else comes to mind when thinking of Milan than the image of its iconic cathedral? The cross-shaped church covers 11,700 square meters, with its tallest spire reaching 108.5 meters and adorned with thousands of statues. If possible, go up to the roof for a close-up view of the intricate details and a fantastic panorama of the city.
Milan is not called a fashion capital for nothing: the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II houses luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. If you’re a fashion enthusiast, don’t miss Via Monte Napoleone and Via della Spiga, where all the famous designers are represented. Pro tip: if luxury shopping is out of your budget, check out the street markets on Papiano Street on Tuesdays and Saturdays or the market near Porta Venezia for great deals on Italian clothes and shoes.
The city is rich in historical and cultural treasures. Alongside the Mona Lisa, few artworks have sparked as many theories and interpretations as Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper. You can view it in the Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, but be prepared to buy your ticket well in advance due to high demand.
How to Travel?
The two largest budget airlines have daily flights to Milan. In the second half of January, you can snag a round-trip ticket for under 10,000 HUF for a long weekend!
Choose Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires
Prague’s charm lies in its resemblance to Budapest’s streets, making it feel oddly familiar. The city has survived many wars, fires, and renovations, resulting in a diverse architectural landscape. Its main attraction, Prague Castle, is not only Europe’s largest castle complex but also holds the Guinness World Record for the largest ancient castle in the world, stretching 570 meters long and 130 meters wide.
Make sure to visit the Old Town Square, home to the Town Hall, the Gothic Tyn Church, and the medieval astronomical clock, Orloj. The clock’s hourly chime is a spectacle that draws many visitors, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
The Vltava River divides Prague, offering beautiful views from numerous bridges. The most famous is the Charles Bridge, adorned with statues on both sides and part of the world heritage. Legend has it that touching the statue of St. John of Nepomuk with each finger on a star will grant you a wish. Early morning or late evening visits are recommended to avoid the crowds. Street musicians, portrait artists, and vendors vie for attention and wallets along the bridge.
Czech Republic’s craft beer scene is thriving, and Prague’s pubs are worth an hour of your time. U Fleků, the city’s oldest operating brewery, has been serving guests and brewing beer for over 500 years, accommodating 800 people in its eight halls and another 400 in its beer garden.
How to Travel?
Daily flights and direct train services make traveling to Prague convenient. Whether you fly or take the train, all major attractions are easily accessible from the central station or airport.
Visit Malta, the Land of Knights
Malta is a tiny country that you can explore in just a few days thanks to its excellent bus network. This island nation is a true gem in the heart of the Mediterranean with a rich history dating back to the Neolithic era. Explore the capital, Valletta, one of the world’s smallest capitals, covering 0.84 square kilometers with approximately 6,600 residents.
Although it’s not the best time for beach activities, a visit to Comino Island is a must. Its main attraction, the Blue Lagoon, dazzles with its myriad shades of blue. You can join boat tours or take a short 7 km hike to discover hidden natural beauties.
Gozo, an island north of Malta accessible by ferry, is also worth visiting. The prehistoric megalithic temples built from massive stone blocks were constructed even before the Egyptian pyramids. Of the 14 remaining temples, 7 are on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The oldest, Ġgantija, is located on Gozo Island.
How to Travel?
Flying is the best option: you can get a round-trip ticket for under 15,000 HUF in the second half of January.
For traveling, having some spending money doesn’t hurt.
