A thirst for exploring is usually fulfilled by the newfound independence that university life offers, particularly in a city as diverse as
Manchester. Fast-approaching deadlines and a somewhat limited pocket may lead you to the conclusion that day-trips, or at a push, short
breaks, are all that you can manage.

However, after some meticulous research in the depths of essay-planning procrastination, we have come to the conclusion that day trips are actually achievable on an international scale. So we chose a Wednesday in the middle of May as the focus for our investigation, and managed to narrow down our top four destinations, chosen due to their cheap flights, quick travel times, and most importantly, what they have to offer.

 

Paris, France

An obvious favourite, Paris boasts a stunning urban skyscape, with the iconic Eiffel Tower at its heart. But in true French tradition, the city hosts a wealth of hidden gems as well as cultural highlights, from small local cafes demonstrating the best of European cuisine, to the expansive Louvre, hosting some of the world’s most iconic art.

Check out the Bois des Boulogne, particularly in good weather; this vast park was once the hunting ground of the kings. Nestled beside the river Seine, it has become a must-see destination for peace and tranquility beyond the city’s busy centre. Perfect for the hot weather we’re all hoping for this summer.

Flights from £34.50 each way with Flybe
Morning departure: 06.45 MAN - CDG
Return flight: 20.35 CDG - MAN

 

Dublin, Ireland

A treasure trove often overlooked, Dublin is only an hour’s flight away from Manchester. You will want to spend more time getting acquainted with its many pubs, bars and attractions than just a day however. The place to go for any student is the Guinness Storehouse, home to the internationally renowned St James’ Gate Brewery, where the legendary pint’s founder signed a 9000 year lease. For those less enthused about a brewery, Dublin Castle craves to be explored and is widely recommended.

There’s no shortage of local places to eat and drink; Dublin is a place that needs to be explored and offers an eye-opening cultural experience for any student - but be warned, despite the cheap flights, it has a tendency to be on the pricey side.

Flights from £16.99 each way with Ryanair
Morning departure: 08.00 MAN - DUB
Return flight: 20.30 DUB - MAN

 

Amsterdam, Netherlands

A firm student favourite, for obvious reasons, Amsterdam offers more than just the opportunity to let loose for the day, or more likely, the weekend. The city offers a plethora of galleries and world-renowned monuments; it sits as one of the cultural capitals of the globe, and there are regular flights from Manchester.

Discover the original Picasso in the Vondelpark; the 1965 sculpture was created by the acclaimed artist to mark the park’s 100th birthday. Explore the abundance of places to eat and drink. The tiny cafe Stadspaleis is well regarded as a hidden gem, a stone’s throw from Dam Square, described as stepping into a fairytale, with a small stove and tiny kitchen producing a delicious daytime menu. If you have time, be sure to check out the hidden prison underneath the Torensluis, the city’s widest bridge.

Flights from £32.18 each way with Easyjet
Morning departure: 07.05 MAN - AMS
Return flight: 19.00 AMS - MAN

 

Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva, home to the more mundane, though incredible, institutions of the UN and CERN, can not be disregarded as a student destination. The stunning architecture, excellent drinking hotspots and the impressive local custom of having an aperno, an early evening drink, are all to embraced.

A suggested favourite is Le Chat Noir, the bar, live music club and restaurant in the quarter of Carouge. There’s a wide variety of incredible cocktails and drinks, as well as some insanely good food. Live acts downstairs boast jazz, soul, rock and hip-hop in abundance. Geneva promises quirks and plenty to explore and marvel at, particularly in its diverse range of day attractions; Pulp 68 is an alternative to conventional museums... it offers an insight into the world of skateboarding whilst presenting an 80s experience with a remarkable collection of arcade games and cultural artifacts. Pulp 68 is a portal into the nostalgia of a time before our generation, offering a glimpse into the glamour, and cultural revolution of the mid-to-late 20th century.

Flights from £23.80 each way with Easyjet
Morning departure: 10.50 MAN - GEN
Return flight: 21.50 GEN - MAN