They say the world is your oyster, but when it comes to studying abroad, it never hurts to have a starting point. If you're interested but unsure of a destination, you're in the right place! We're here with our picks for the best study abroad destinations in 2026 and beyond, to get you inspired.

These are the cities students have their eyes on. We open the doors to more than 21 countries and 34 cities, giving you endless ways to make your study abroad experience your own. Consider this your starting point; see what draws people to these places. You might just find what you're looking for.

The Best Cities To Study Abroad In 2026

Barcelona, Spain

In Barcelona, daily life happens outdoors. You'll see people sitting in neighborhood plazas, runners and cyclists moving along the waterfront, and Park Güell offering views over the city. Catalan identity, the region's own distinct culture and language, runs deep here. You can practice Spanish in class and Catalan on your walks to and from. Local festivals take over entire neighborhoods with dancing and fireworks. Beach volleyball courts sit right in the city, weekend markets pack Gràcia's squares with food vendors and live music, and when FC Barcelona wins, thousands pour into the streets to celebrate. When you study in Barcelona with us, you're not here as a tourist, you're here as a student, a neighbor, a local in the making.

On our Barcelona programs, course offerings range from Political Science and International Relations to Arts and Culture to Journalism and Communications, and more. We also offer part time internships with your studies in addition to  full- time internship programs, where you'll gain professional experience while earning credit in your host country. You'll take your classes at the IES Abroad Barcelona Center, just minutes from iconic spots like Plaza Catalunya and the Arc de Triomf in the heart of the city.

Adam Smith
“I feel enchanted by this city; energized, perplexed, amazed, and fascinated. Living in the center of Barcelona within walking distance of the IES Abroad building, and other cultural landmarks such as Arc de Triomf, the Gothic Neighborhood, and La Sagrada Familia, has given me easy access to much of Barcelona’s beauty and chaos.”

From "My Top 3 Insights into Life in Barcelona after One Week"—Adam S (Drew University | IES Abroad Barcelona )

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is vibrant, unapologetically cool, and full of surprises, making it the perfect backdrop for your study abroad adventure. You'll walk past remnants of the Berlin Wall covered in street art, past moving Holocaust memorials, and into neighborhoods transformed into creative hubs. Berlin is yours to explore: maybe you'll dance in its famous  techno clubs, hunt for treasures at Mauerpark's flea market on Sundays, grab a Turkish döner kebab in Kreuzberg, or stumble upon experimental art galleries in Neukölln. Through IES Abroad, you'll dig deeper than any guidebook can take you, connecting with the city through coursework, internships, and experiences that show you Berlin from the inside out.
 

On our Berlin programs, you'll have a real team behind you—local staff based in Mitte who actually know the city and are there when you need them. Academically, there's a lot to choose from, whether that's Business and Sustainability or Security Studies and International Affairs, and most programs include the option to add a part-time internship. Explore places like Dresden or Munich on field trips, many of which are included in your program fee. Our course offerings go far beyond these areas, and when you're not in class, Berlin itself does the rest.

Alexa Hankins Headshot
“...Berlin has many beautiful, multipurpose parks! That being said, not all parks here are created equal- try to explore as many as you can before it gets cold, and find the perfect park for the activity you want to do!”

From "How to Enjoy Seasons and Nature in Berlin"—Alexa H (Boston University | IES Abroad Berlin)

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is known as the "Paris of South America," and you'll see why pretty quickly. The city is a mix of tango, beautiful architecture, and Italian and Spanish influences that go back generations. You'll hear it in the language—listen for "che" and the porteño accent. You'll see it in neighborhoods like San Telmo with its cobblestone streets and Sunday markets, or Palermo with its parks and street art. Recoleta has wide boulevards and buildings that look like they belong on a postcard. Want to really learn Spanish? Live with a local family. You'll practice over breakfast and start thinking in Spanish before you realize it's happening.

On our Buenos Aires programs, whether you're just starting out in Spanish or nearly fluent, there's a program built for your level, from Society and Culture to Advanced Spanish Immersion. You'll have the option to take courses at partner universities like Pontificia Universidad Católica de Argentina and Universidad de Buenos Aires, both internationally recognized institutions. Most semester programs include an optional part-time internship, and Buenos Aires has a way of pulling you in beyond the classroom too, whether that's a field trip to Peru, a classic Tango show, or a day out in Jujuy Province near the Bolivian border.

Segenet Mulaw Headshot
“Before I went to Buenos Aires, my life in the United States was built on speed...each day felt like a race against the clock. Then came Buenos Aires. I noticed it first in the mornings. Cafés opened when they opened—sometimes 8:30 a.m., sometimes closer to 9 a.m.—and no one seemed to mind. People lingered over coffee for hours, reading a newspaper or talking to a friend, never rushing off mid-sentence because of “the next thing.”...Dinners often began at 9 p.m. and stretched late into the night, punctuated by stories and laughter.”

From "What Buenos Aires Taught Me About Slowing Down"—Segenet Mulaw (Northeastern University | IES Abroad Buenos Aires)

Dublin, Ireland

Study abroad in the city that gave the world Oscar Wilde, traditional Irish music, and a cultural depth that reveals something new around every corner. Visit centuries-old pubs with live traditional music, Trinity College's Long Room library, and the cobblestoned streets of Temple Bar. Dublin is also Ireland's tech hub, with Google, Meta, and other major companies' European headquarters here. The city is walkable and easy to get around and you can explore places like the Cliffs of Moher or Galway on day trips. 

What makes Dublin work for so many students? You're not locked into one path. Some take classes at our Center, others enroll directly at Trinity College Dublin or Dublin City University and study alongside local students. You choose what fits. On our Dublin programs, You can dive into Writing, History, Politics, Engineering, or gain hands-on experience through a full-time internship. Summer brings its own options, including an Acting Program, full- time Internship. Creative paths, career-focused paths, or both—Dublin has it all. Our Dublin Center, a charming, fully renovated red-brick Victorian building that once served as a post office, will feel like a warm welcome between classes. Located just south of Dublin's city center, you're walking distance from Dublin Castle, St. Stephen's Green, and Trinity College Dublin.

Leo Breen Headshot
“Academics at the IES Abroad Centre were a highlight of my experience. Stephen, the Writers’ Program Coordinator, is an incredibly welcoming, kind, and funny presence throughout the semester. Always willing to share a travel recommendation or a story of his own, he was a wonderful professor and guide to studying in Ireland. My favorite classes were my Contemporary Irish Film class, my photography class, and my Irish History and Politics class.”

From "Reflecting on Study Abroad"—Leo Breen (Sarah Lawrence College | IES Abroad Dublin)

London, England

London is a buzzing, sprawling city where more than 300 languages are spoken on its streets, making it one of the most multicultural places you'll ever live. Every neighborhood has its own story. Explore the British Museum, wander along the Thames, or catch a free exhibition at the Tate Modern. Camden, just around the corner from where some of our students live, is the kind of place where you can grab street food, browse vintage shops, and lose a whole afternoon without trying. And when you need a breather from the city, the vast green parkland of Hampstead Heath is right there. London is perfect for the student who loves big city energy but still wants to find their own corner of it. And with IES Abroad, weekends might just take you on a field trip to Stonehenge, Edinburgh, or punting down the river in Cambridge.

On our London programs, you have a lot to choose from, with some of our most diverse program options all in one city. Dive into specialized programs like Theater Studies or Film Studies, enroll directly at universities like University College London, City St. George's, or Queen Mary. Build hands-on experience through a part-time or full-time internship in a city that is a global hub for business, media, arts, and more. And your home base is not just any building. You’ll be studying in the heart of London at our Centre in a Georgian building with green space called the Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn, supported by a team of local staff who know the city inside out and are with you every step of the way.

Pauline Gordula Headshot
“...Studying abroad in London made the United Kingdom and continental Europe incredibly easy to explore. I took trains across the U.K., hopped on the Eurostar to continental Europe, and caught flights from London’s many airports to new destinations. Each trip broadened my horizons and introduced me to cultures I never imagined I would get to experience.”

From "My Favorite Places I Visited This Semester"—Pauline G (University of Rochester | IES Abroad London)

Milan, Italy

This is a city that moves fast, thinks big, and takes what it does seriously, whether that is fashion, finance, design, or music. Wander through the artsy streets of Brera, where cobblestone alleys give way to art galleries housing some of the world's most celebrated works. The Duomo anchors the whole city, a constant reminder that you are somewhere truly extraordinary, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the kind of place where you can window shop the world's biggest luxury brands under a glass dome that has stood since the 1800s. On weekends, Lake Como and the Dolomites are both a quick train ride away.

On our Milan programs, you can study everything from Fashion Design and Merchandising to Business, Music, and beyond. Italian language courses are available at all levels, and trust us, nothing makes it feel more real than ordering your first pizza in Italian and actually getting what you asked for. If an internship is on your list, Milan is the place to do it. With our Milan Full—Time Internship Program, you will be working at an international fashion house, in e-commerce, luxury companies, music, and more.

“I came to love Italy, the people, and most importantly the city of Milan. My study abroad experience made me a stronger and more adventurous person. I hope I am able to travel back to visit sometime soon!”

—Alexandria C (Penn State | IES Abroad Milan)

Paris, France

Paris is pure magic. The Eiffel Tower lights up the night sky, while Notre-Dame and the Arc de Triomphe immerse you in history. With incredible art collections at the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay, student discounts keep it affordable! There's no shortage of culture to be experienced. Each arrondissement (district) offers its own vibe—from the lively cafes in the Latin Quarter to the trendy bakeries and nightlife in Le Marais. Belleville bursts with street art and markets, and Montmartre's hilltop views are breathtaking. Stroll through Luxembourg Gardens, wander along the Seine, or soak in the charm of Place des Vosges—it’s an experience you won’t forget.

On our Paris programs, you can study everything from Arts and Culture and Psychology to Business and International Affairs, and more. French language experience is not required for most programs, so if Paris has always felt out of reach because of the language, it's not! And if you do want to go deep, our French Studies program has you covered. For the full Parisian experience, live with a French host family and get an inside look at life in Paris that most visitors never see. Most semester programs also give you the option to add a part-time internship to your studies. Who wouldn't want to casually drop that they've interned in Paris? With IES Abroad, you're not visiting Paris. You're living it!

Abbey Weitzenkamp Headshot
“There were a lot of reasons I chose to study abroad in Paris and I would be lying if I said that pastry was not one of them. During my time abroad I made a point of visiting every cafe on Rue Daguerre, the street where I took classes. There are a variety of different shops and markets on the street so I was spoiled for choice for my morning pain-au-chocolate.”

From "Au Revoir"—Abbey W (St. Olaf College | IES Abroad Paris)

Rome, Italy

In Rome, every street corner has a story. On your way to class, you will walk past Castel Sant'Angelo and find yourself cutting through cobblestone squares that have been there since ancient times. There are cafes around every corner, markets tucked into piazzas, and the Trevi Fountain close enough to visit on a whim. The Pantheon sits right in the middle of everyday life. Testaccio's food market is where you'll actually learn what Roman food tastes like. Life moves at a slower place in Rome, giving you more time to enjoy the little things. Meals last longer, walks turn into detours, and weekends open up in ways you don't expect. 

On our Rome programs, Rome is your classroom. Art History students have millennia of artistic and architectural history right outside their door. Sociology and Religion students can attend a papal audience at the Vatican. IES Abroad students have worked at archaeological sites, helping preserve pieces of ancient history that you simply cannot touch back on your home campus. And if Business is your thing, Rome just got even more exciting. Business students also have access to courses on key topics  like Strategic Management and Digital Marketing

Ellie Barrickman Headshot
“One of the opportunities that attracted me to the IES Abroad Rome Center was the ability to participate in Corsi Singoli. These classes at local universities are available to all students with varying levels of language proficiency; some are taught in English, like one at the Academy of Costume and Fashion, or in Italian at RUFA (Rome University of Fine Arts) and Roma Tre.”

From "Corso Singolo - Roma Tre!"—Ellie B (Fordham University | IES Abroad Rome)

Santiago, Chile

Santiago is a city that combines the energy of urban life with the beauty of the Andes. In Bellavista, Santiago's bohemian quarter, you may just find your people. Restaurants, boutiques, avant-garde galleries, bars and clubs, it is the kind of neighborhood where students hang out, grab food, and may end up staying out later than planned. When you need a break from studying, Cerro Santa Lucia is a quick climb with views that remind you exactly where you are. For something bigger, Sky Costanera puts all of Santiago at your feet from 300 meters up, and Cerro Pochoco offers a real taste of the Andes just a short trip from the city. And when it comes to food on a student budget, Mercado Central and La Vega never disappoint.

On our Santiago programs, you can study Health Studies, Politics and Language, or explore two Latin American capitals on our multilocation program Business & Economic Development in Latin America. Where else can you observe a community-centered public health system, study politics in a country still shaped by its recent history, or visit Pablo Neruda's home in Bellavista, now a museum, and read his work where he once lived? With us, you won't just see Santiago. You'll actually get to know it.

Miya Matsumune Headshot
“...I loved my IES Abroad internship seminar, and I loved living with my host mom in Providencia, and I loved walking everywhere. I loved trying new things and pushing myself out of my comfort zone, even with something as small as trying a new food...Yet, Santiago now feels like a home away from home. Since I've gotten back, many people have asked me if I would return to Santiago to work there after I graduate, and the answer is yes.”

From "The Journey of Cerro Manquehue"—Miya Matsumune (Bryn Mawr College | IES Abroad Santiago)

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is a city where the past and future come together in the most exciting way. Picture yourself stepping into the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, feeling the deep history, and then, in a completely different part of the city, experiencing the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, surrounded by thousands of people and neon lights. Imagine strolling through peaceful gardens at the Meiji Shrine or exploring Harajuku, where fashion trends come to life. In Tokyo, you can dive into pop culture in Akihabara or check out the latest gadgets and technology. And the food. From fresh sushi at a counter to a late—night bowl of ramen that costs less than your coffee back home, Tokyo feeds you well on any budget.

On our Tokyo programs, you can study everything from Japanese Manga and Animation to Gender and Family in Japan. Whether you choose Language & Culture, a summer program taught in Japanese, or the Seoul & Tokyo: Influence & Innovation program spanning two of Asia's most exciting cities, there is a path for you here. Once you pick your program, participating in our E-Pal Program lets you build a connection with a local student and meet others at Kanda University of International Studies. Whether you’re focused on language, culture, or exploring innovation across two cities, Tokyo provides an incredible opportunity to grow academically and personally. 

Gracelynn Lu Headshot
“While I was walking the streets in Shinjuku, swerving around people to get to my dance class on time without Google Maps, I mentally paused – when did I stop needing Maps? But the beauty of the little things, names and histories of the streets will always be there, you just need to slow down if you want to see it (and take pictures so you can remember it!”

From "Life After Coming Back from Japan"—Gracelynn Lu (Tufts University)

Explore Destinations by Country

What Makes a Place Great for Studying Abroad?

The best study abroad location isn't the same for everyone. It depends on what you're studying, how you want to experience a new culture, and what kind of daily life feels right for you. In our more than 75 years of experience, these are the factors that matter the most:

  • Academic fit: You want a place where you can stay on track with your degree while exploring subjects or perspectives that don't exist in U.S. classrooms. Whether that is using Berlin startups as real case studies in your Business coursework, or working in small teams to identify and solve real sustainability challenges in the city you are living in, you’re not just on track to graduate, you’re gaining skills and experience in and outside of the classroom that amplify your learning.
  • Cultural experience: You might be ready to dive into something totally new, or you might want to start somewhere that feels a little more familiar. Pick a city that excites you but still gives you room to grow. One of the best parts of studying abroad is exploring outside of your comfort zone! Our Center staff is there to support you the whole time, helping you settle in, showing you around, and making sure you get the most out of your experience.
  • Language opportunities: Languages are learned faster when you actually have to use them. If you've been studying Spanish for years, Barcelona or Buenos Aires let you use it—ordering coffee, making friends, having real conversations. Starting from zero? No problem. We have programs for every level. You can take classes in English while learning the language as you go. Either way, you'll come back speaking more confidently than when you left.
  • Cost: Different cities come with different price tags, and we know that matters. We have awarded nearly $7.9 million in financial aid and budgeting resources are there to help you plan the rest. You can also sign up for a virtual appointment with one of our financial aid experts to review your FAFSA, walk through the aid application, and get any questions answered.
“Everyone’s always telling me how the world is my oyster. So, when the time came to decide if I were to leave the comfy confines of my small, liberal arts college in the Northeast, where I’ve lived my whole life, to study abroad in a place I’ve never been, I knew I had to take the chance on this oyster and see if I liked the taste. ”

Siena C• Tufts University• IES Abroad Berlin• "A Pre-Departure Note"

Where to Go from Here?

We’ve shared our picks, now it's about finding the program that actually fits you—your academic goals, your timeline, and the kind of experience you're looking for. We've been running study abroad programs for more than 75 years, which means when you go with IES Abroad, you're not just signing up for classes in another country. You get local staff who are experts in their field and know the city, cultural activities that connect you on a local level, and support that prepares you for the bumps, not just the highlights. Use our Program Finder to filter by location, major, term length, and cost, and see what's possible.

Not sure where to start? Talk to an IES Abroad Representative. They've helped thousands of students (200,000 to be exact) figure this out and can walk you through what makes sense for you. 

Study abroad isn't just a semester somewhere else, it's the experience that you will remember forever.

Find Your Perfect Program   Discover the Rising Destinations of 2026