Ten of the Most Beautiful Places to Study Abroad in Spring

There’s beauty in every corner of the world, but some study abroad destinations really stand out.

Whether you’re hiking through rainforests in Costa Rica, strolling cobblestone streets in Ireland, or snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, this guide showcases ten of the most beautiful places to study abroad, each with its own blend of culture, nature, and unique academic opportunity. You’ll also find a list of destinations nearby to each location and some common excursions you might expect to participate in.

And, don’t miss the opportunity to enter our spring 2026 special offer to win a free study abroad worth up to $25,000.

1. Sydney, Australia

Spring semester is one of the best times to experience Sydney, Australia. Due to the year-round sunny and warm weather, you’ll find this time of year is perfect to explore beaches, lush forests, and all the natural beauty this study abroad destination has to offer.

Program. Macquarie University Partnership

If you’re looking for a study abroad experience that blends academic innovation with stunning imagery in one of the most iconic cities, Sydney’s Macquarie University delivers. Located in a picturesque setting and widely known for its global mindset and strong research initiatives, Macquarie welcomes students from around the world to tackle today’s most pressing challenges through award-winning academics and nontraditional learning experiences.

• Nearby destinations or excursions.
  • A guided bike tour across Sydney Harbour Bridge, getting you oriented to the city.
  • Exploring the streets of The Rocks and uncover the dramatic history behind Australia’s earliest settlements.
  • A visit to the Sydney Opera House for a live performance
  • A ferry trip to Taronga Zoo introduces you to Australia’s native wildlife with unbeatable harbor views.
  • If you like the outdoors, you will likely enjoy walking the gorgeous Coogee-to-Bondi trail.
  • Outside the city, students often tour the rolling hills and vineyards of Hunter Valley, as well as take in dramatic scenery and rich biodiversity in the Blue Mountains.
  • On an overnight excursion to Jervis Bay Marine Park on the stunning South Coast, you’ll have a chance to spot dolphins or whales and share stories around the campfire with Aboriginal elders.

• Program highlights.
  • Classes at one of Australia’s top universities for global engagement and academic innovation with exceptional internship and leadership development opportunities.
  • Housing in fully furnished townhouses with private bedrooms and bathrooms, just a short walk from campus.
  • Easy access to Sydney’s metro system, shops, cafes, and the coast.

Visually, Australia is one of the most stunning continents in the world. IFSA offers programs throughout the country including Cairns, and Alidade. Check out a few of these programs available:

• James Cook University Partnership, Cairns
• Adelaide University Partnership

2. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is arguably one of the most breathtaking cities you can study abroad in, but choosing a spring program brings its own sort of magic. Here, you’ll experience blooming flowers, and stunning lush gardens, including the famous cherry blossom season! To make this experience better, spring-time in Edinburgh is usually less crowded compared to the summer months, so you’ll enjoy all these sights with fewer people and crowds.

Program. University of Edinburgh Partnership

If your ideal study abroad experience includes rolling green hills, centuries-old castles, and cobblestone streets straight out of a fairy tale, Edinburgh will take your breath away. With its spectacular architecture, dramatic cliffs, and cozy charm, this capital city is one of Europe’s most picturesque places to live and learn. Edinburgh offers beauty in every direction, blending history, legend, and natural wonder into one unforgettable backdrop.

• Nearby destinations or excursions.
  • On your included weekend excursion to the Scottish Highlands, you’ll sail across Loch Ness, stand among the misty peaks of Three Sisters Mountains in Glencoe, and walk the grounds of Dunnottar castle.
  • Within the city, you can explore historic landmarks on foot, dance to traditional Scottish folk music at a ceilidh, and hike up to Arthur’s Seat as well as explore surrounding meadows.

• Program highlights.
  • Housing within walking distance of the city’s green spaces and cultural landmarks.
  • Classes at one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities.

Explore all study abroad opportunities in Scotland.

3. London, England

If you opt for a spring study abroad program in London, you’re likely going to enjoy mild weather, with pleasant temperatures, and spring showers that bring in brilliantly blooming gardens and fresh greenery. Additionally, the crowds and tourists in London England are much more likely to be less compared to summer months.

Program. City St George’s, University of London Partnership

Whether you’re driven by startup energy, traditional business goals, or you’re drawn to charming cities,this program places you in one of the world’s most powerful financial and cultural hubs. City St George’s, University of London is renowned for its flexibility, real-world learning, and deep connections to industry.

Just outside this campus, you’ll be surrounded by the vibrant and charming Islington, packed with cafés, pubs, shops, and theaters. To complement your studies, IFSA’s included excursions offer a creative, cultural, and historical dive into the UK.

• Nearby destinations or excursions.
  • Beyond the city, you’ll travel to Stonehenge and Bath to explore ancient history and Roman heritage, or head south to Brighton for the Piers and Queers walking tour, spotlighting over 200 years of LGBTQ+ history.
  • Your weekend away in Yorkshire brings literary and architectural treasure together, from the Brontë Parsonage to Victorian-era estates.
  • You’ll also head to Wales, to dive into the country’s rich culture and industrial legacy during the Big Welsh Weekend, visiting Tintern Abbey, Raglan Castle, and the Blaenavon coal mines before an overnight stay in Cardiff.

• Program highlights.
  • Business-focused academics in a triple-accredited university with deep ties to London’s financial sector.
  • Access to vibrant neighborhoods like Islington and Lewisham, with shops, gyms, and public transport just steps away.
  • Easy access to London’s historic and cultural landmarks via the Tube or local trains.

Explore other programs available in the UK.

4. Auckland, New Zealand

New Zealand is the ideal destination for outdoor adventure, and the southern hemisphere fall is the perfect time to experience it. With changing landscapes, the mild weather makes it easy to enjoy outdoor adventures. In addition to beautiful nature, you’ll improve your chances of seeing local wildlife, including whales and dolphins.

Program. University of Auckland Partnership

Experience life in one of the world’s most livable cities while studying at New Zealand’s top-ranked and most innovative university. Located in a coastal city known for its subtropical climate, scenic beauty, and vibrant urban life, the University of Auckland offers a rich academic and cultural experience. From cutting-edge research to cultural traditions, this program blends modern global learning with local insight.

In this program, you’ll live near campus in university-operated housing and take classes in English, choosing from a broad selection of classes across disciplines. Whether you walk to class past lush city parks or ferry to nearby volcanic islands, Auckland offers the perfect setting to connect academic learning with real-world exploration.

• Nearby destinations or excursions.
  • Your time in Auckland includes unforgettable excursions that bring you face-to-face with the landscapes, people, and culture that define New Zealand.
  • You’ll explore Rangitoto Island’s volcanic trails and lava caves before reaching the summit for sweeping views of Auckland.
  • At a marae in Te Hana, you’ll share a traditional Māori dinner, and explore a recreated 17th-century village.
  • You’ll also visit a local winery and sculpture trail, hike Dome Valley Lookout, and relax with a meal in Matakana.
  • Students have also planted native trees, improved wildlife habitats, and contributed to flood prevention projects, all while engaging meaningfully with the local community.

• Program highlights.
  • Academics at New Zealand’s leading and most innovative university.
  • Cultural immersion through overnight marae stays, Māori-led programming, and local volunteer work.
  • Access to nearby beaches, volcanoes, city parks, shopping districts, and museums.
  • A self-catering lifestyle with social cooking and communal living built into the experience.

“It would be very easy to say that I found my passion in New Zealand because of the breathtaking vistas and unique wildlife, but when it comes down to it, it was the people of New Zealand who inspired me the most. Never in my life had I been in a place where every individual person, regardless of career or lifestyle, truly cared about the environment around them.”
—Lily H., Fordham University

Explore more New Zealand programs.

5. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Spring semester in Buenos Aires has mild weather making exploring the city via walking or bike rides even more enjoyable. Choosing a spring program means you’ll also experience the city’s beautiful southern hemisphere fall where trees turned golden and leaves hit the ground.

Program. IFSA Study in Buenos Aires: Business and Economics

Gain firsthand insight into global markets and regional innovation in the heart of South America. This unique and immersive program offers the chance to deepen your understanding of business and economics in a country where traditional sectors and entrepreneurial startups intersect.

With a dynamic cultural scene, historic neighborhoods, and famously late nights, Buenos Aires offers you unmatched opportunities to explore Latin American commerce and culture together.

• Nearby destinations or excursions.
  • Beyond the classroom, you’ll engage with the city’s history, creativity, and identity through a wide range of immersive activities.
  • Further afield, you’ll take a train and boat through the lush delta of Tigre and spend a weekend in Jujuy to encounter the dramatic hills of Quebrada de Humahuaca and the vast Salinas Grandes salt flats.
  • Other day trips could include visits to small towns like Colón, San Antonio de Areco, and Uribelarrea, with each offering a window into local commerce, artisan economies, and rural life.

• Program highlights.
  • Business coursework taught in English, focused on Latin American economic systems and market trends.
  • Cultural and professional immersion through internship or volunteer opportunities.
  • Guided cultural experiences and expert lectures that bring economics and policy to life.
  • Language support that enhances both daily life and professional engagement.

In Buenos Aires, every street tells a story. If you’re ready for a city that moves your soul, explore these IFSA opportunities.

6. Dublin, Ireland

Studying abroad in Dublin, Ireland in the spring offers a perfect blend of vibrant festivals, mild weather, and blooming, lush landscapes. You’ll experience iconic events like St. Patrick’s Day and the Dublin Dance Festival, immersing yourself in the city’s lively cultural scene. Beyond the city, the pleasant and mild spring weather makes it easy to explore Ireland’s picturesque countryside and dramatic coastal cliffs.

Program. University College Dublin Partnership

University College Dublin blends a storied past with dynamic academic opportunities, all on a leafy campus just three miles from Dublin’s vibrant city center.

The University stands out for offering unique research opportunities, even for students with no prior experience. Through courses like Intro to Scientific Research or Intro to Engineering Research, you can collaborate directly with PhD candidates and faculty on real projects. With a warm, community-driven atmosphere and easy access to the city, you’ll feel connected both on campus and beyond.

• Nearby destinations or excursions.
  • You’ll explore Ireland’s rich history and culture through excursions.
  • You might visit the seaside suburb of Dun Laoghaire, walking the same pier that inspired literary legends like James Joyce.
  • Outside the city, you’ll explore sacred Celtic sites like the Hill of Tara and the 5,200-year-old passage tomb at Newgrange.
  • A two-night trip to Kilkenny introduces you to artisan food, Irish folklore, and sporting traditions, all through visits to Kilkenny Castle, and local farms.

• Program highlights.
  • Access to a large, self-contained campus near the center of Dublin.
  • Cultural outings such as rugby games, comedy shows, and immersive walking tours.
  • Proximity to both city highlights and scenic escapes via local train, bus, and bike paths.

There are opportunities to study with IFSA all over Ireland, explore programs now!

7. Shanghai, China

By selecting a spring study abroad program in Shanghai, you’re opening yourself up to stunning sights, and cultural adventure. Springtime brings vibrant colors, as the city’s flowers, including cherry and peach blossoms, in full bloom. You’ll also be there to experience iconic cultural events, like the Longhua Temple Fair and the Peach Blossom Festival.

Program. IFSA Study in Shanghai

In Shanghai, beauty takes many forms. Towering skyscrapers, ancient gardens bloom, and winding lanes come alive with bursts of color.

From the tranquil waters of canal towns to the vibrant lights of the Huangpu River water, Shanghai offers a uniquely photogenic study abroad experience. It’s a dynamic, global city that invites you to immerse yourself in Chinese culture while exploring big ideas and future career paths.

• Nearby destinations or excursions.
  • On weekends, you’ll escape to historic water towns, where bridges and winding canals offer a peaceful contrast to city life.
  • You’ll also enjoy a river cruise past the glowing skyline, walk the iconic Bund, or discover local gems through a city-wide scavenger hunt. Every excursion in the program brings you closer to Shanghai’s unique character.

• Program highlights.
  • A sunset cruise along the Huangpu River to observe landmarks and watch the city come to life.
  • Guided city walks through historic and modern districts.
  • A hands-on Tai Chi workshop and cultural scavenger hunt.
  • Internship placements with nonprofits, businesses, and think tanks.

Thinking about studying in Shanghai, China? Explore the opportunities IFSA has available to make that dream into a reality.

8. Prague, Czech Republic

Studying abroad in Prague opens the unique opportunity to experience the vibrant city as it comes to life. You’ll explore ancient streets as the flowers bloom as well as events that can only be experienced in spring, such as the city’s iconic Easter Markets.

Program. IFSA Tech Career Accelerator

Designed for computer science majors, the IFSA Tech Career Accelerator in Prague blends cutting-edge academics with real-world, resume-building experiences in one of Europe’s most dynamic, and visually stunning tech hubs. Created in collaboration with select U.S. universities, this exclusive IFSA-designed program allows students to continue essential coursework in areas like AI, software engineering, machine learning, and data science, all while developing professional skills through team challenges, company visits, and optional internships.

Based in picturesque Prague, you’ll be immersed in a unique blend of both old-world charm and modern vibrant energy, and you’ll be joined by a community of international peers and have the option to take a course at Charles University, one of the Czech Republic’s top-ranked institution.

• Nearby destinations or excursions.
  • You’ll visit the Artificial Intelligence Center at Czech Technical University to explore moonshot projects in AI and discuss postgraduate research pathways.
  • You’ll also engage in conversations about equity in tech with guest speakers during the Women in Tech series.
  • Grow your global network by attending local meetups and tech events.
  • Beyond Prague, travel to the famous Bone Church in Kutná Hora, explore Czech outdoor culture on a hike and brewery visit, and spend weekends in cities like Brno or Plzeň to tour the Pilsner Urquell Brewery and uncover the city’s historical ties to the U.S. These excursions are designed to enrich your understanding of Czech history, identity, and innovation.

• Program highlights.
  • Advanced coursework in fields like AI, and data science, as well as software engineering.
  • Career-focused programming including team challenges, site visits, and optional internships.
  • Engagement with Czech tech professionals through guest lectures and company tours.
  • A close-knit international student cohort, with small class sizes and personalized faculty support.

Explore additional study abroad opportunities in Prague!

9. Barcelona, Spain

Experience winter fade away and the explosion of spring time as the city awakens. With mild weather, blossoming flowers, and fewer crowds, you’ll never run out of activities in and around this iconic city. From festivals in the city streets to the vibrant beaches nearby, you’re bound for adventure and unforgettable memories.

Program. IFSA International Business Career Accelerator

If you’re enchanted by bright Mediterranean coastlines, architecture, and vibrant city streets buzzing with energy and creativity, Barcelona is a dream study abroad destination. This cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia blends the beauty of old-world charm with cutting-edge innovation, making it as visually stunning as it is inspiring.

From sun-soaked afternoons in centuries old courtyards to colorful tiled mosaics in Park Güell, Barcelona feels like a city built to spark imagination.

• Nearby destinations or excursions.
  • During your time in Barcelona, you’ll explore places like Montserrat, with its otherworldly peaks and sacred mountain monastery, and Costa Brava, known for rugged coastlines and turquoise coves.
  • Day trips take you to Girona’s medieval streets, Figueras surrealist Dali museum, and the charming seaside town of Sitges.
  • You can also venture to Seville and Madrid, both iconic cities full of history, flamenco, world-class museums, and, most importantly, Spanish sunshine.
  • Back in Barcelona, every day is nearly an excursion in itself, whether you’re wandering through colorful markets or gazing up at the soaring towers of La Sagrada Família.

• Program highlights.
  • A cooking workshop featuring traditional Catalan cuisine.
  • Internships and business visits with global companies in Barcelona.
  • Housing near galleries, fresh markets, and iconic city sites.

IFSA offers multiple programs in Spain. Explore opportunities.

10. Mérida, Mexico

If you’re looking for outdoor adventure all while enjoying warm, and dry weather in a stunningly beautiful landscape, a spring program in Mérida Mexico might be perfect for you. From biking, to hiking to enjoying a coffee outside in a cafe, you’re visiting during the most present time of the year.

Program. IFSA Mérida Universities Program

If you’re dreaming of colorful colonial streets, ancient ruins hidden in the jungle, and vibrant markets glowing under the Yucatán sun, Mérida is a stunning place to study. Known for its warm hospitality, deep Mayan roots, and 300 days of sunshine a year, this modern city with ancient heritage offers beauty, history, and culture just around every corner. Mérida is a tropical gem full of discovery.

• Nearby destinations or excursions.
  • You’ll visit Chichén Itzá and Uxmal, which are some of Yucatán’s most striking archaeological sites, and explore the walled colonial city of Campeche by the sea.
  • You’ll also explore Ek Balam, tour the mangroves and beaches of Río Lagartos, and bike through Paseo de Montejo during a local street-closure celebration.
  • Your cultural outings also include visits to the Mayan World Museum and hands-on activities like the Biciruta tour, where Mérida’s beauty is experienced on two wheels. Each outing brings you closer to the region’s natural and cultural richness.

• Program highlights.
  • Excursions to Ek Balam, Cenote Xcanché, Río Lagartos, and Uxmal.
  • City bike tours, museum visits, and Mayan history experiences.
  • Full immersion through classes and homestays.
  • Three daily meals with welcoming local host families.
  • A warm, walkable city surrounded by lush natural beauty.

Explore all study abroad opportunities in Mexico.

Start your journey

Where you study shapes how you learn, and what you remember. These 10 programs offer more than strong academics; they invite you into breathtaking environments that inspire curiosity, connection, and adventure.

Whether you’re drawn to vibrant cities, peaceful beaches, or dramatic landscapes, there’s a study abroad destination that offers both beauty and substance.