10 Best cities to study abroad in Europe 2025

The best cities to study in Europe are London, Munich, Paris, Zurich, Berlin, Edinburgh, Vienna, Laussane, Stockholm, and Manchester. According to QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2025, these European cities are ranked based on factors such as desirability, affordability, employer activity, and student mix and voice. With 44 countries, Europe stands out as the most popular continent to study abroad, offering a diverse range of cultures, languages, and educational opportunities. With its rich history and renowned universities, countries under the European Union welcome an average of 1.52 million international students. Universities in European cities offer a variety of programs to suit every student's budget and academic goals, making it a favorite study-abroad destination for international students. Finding the right cities in Europe can be overwhelming, given the countless options available. To help you make the right decision, we've compiled a list of the best places to study in Europe along with the studying and living costs and top universities in this article.

The following infographic shows the 10 best cities to study in Europe according to QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2025.

1. London, United Kingdom

• QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 1
• Overall Score of QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 100
• Top QS World Ranking Universities 2025: Imperial College London (2), University College of London (9)
• Average Tuition Fee: US$24,400 per year
• Average Monthly Living Cost: £1,100 to £1,300

London continues to hold its position as the top city worldwide for students according to the QS Best Cities Ranking 2025. With the highest number of universities compared to other UK cities such as Edinburgh, three are ranked in the top 50 globally. London offers a diverse and vibrant academic environment, welcoming students worldwide.

Why study in London?

• London is the European and global hub for many industries that offer great opportunities for students. Major companies like Google, Amazon, and Unilever recruit graduates from London universities.
• The city's renowned museums, such as the Natural History Museum, the British Museum, the Imperial War Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum offer free entry, enriching students' cultural experiences without financial barriers.
• London has one of the best nightlife in Europe, attracting visitors from across the UK to hotspots like Shoreditch, Brixton, and Mayfair.
• Nearly half of London is dedicated to green spaces with 47% of the city including parks, commons, outdoor athletics spaces, etc.
• London's status as a global city is evident in its diverse population, having other cultures such as the Bangladeshi community in Tower Hamlets and the curry houses of Brick Lane.

Cost of studying and living in London

For international students, the average tuition fee in London is approximately US$24,400, which is lower than the institutions in the United States. The tuition fees for undergraduate students range from £11,400 to £38,000 per year, with an average cost of approximately £22,200 annually. For postgraduate students, tuition fees vary from £9,000 to £30,000 per year, with an average cost of around £17,109 per year.

London has higher living costs, making it a less affordable option for both international and domestic students, including those from the EU. London's rent and overall living expenses are notably higher than other cities in the UK. According to the London School of Economics (LSE), students should budget between £1,100 to £1,300 per month to cover living expenses such as accommodation, utilities, transportation, and social activities.

Top universities in London

Below is the list of top universities in London

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
Imperial College London	2
University College London (USL)	9
King’s College London	=40
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)	=50
Queen Mary, University of London	=120
Brunel University	=342

2. Munich, Germany

• QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 4
• Overall Score of QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 97.7
• Top QS World Ranking Universities 2025: Technical University of Munich (28), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (59)
• Average Tuition Fees: No tuition fees for public universities, €5,000 to €20,000 per year for private universities
• Average Monthly Living Cost: €1,300 to €2,000

Germany's emergence as a leading international study destination is evident in its two cities making it to the top 10 of this year's QS Best Student Cities ranking. Munich, in particular, has moved to fourth place, surpassing Berlin and positioning it as one of the world's premier student destinations. The city has a diverse student population, with over 17,400 international applicants. Institutions such as the Technical University of Munich stand out as the city's highest-ranked university, securing the 28th position in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Why study in Munich?

• For undergraduate students, public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, regardless of nationality.
• While Munich experienced a slight drop in affordability this year, it remains a budget-friendly city for students, offering a range of amenities and a manageable cost of living.
• Despite being Germany's third-largest city, Munich maintains a high standard of living with affordable prices, reflecting its 12th position in the global desirability ranking.
• The city has numerous cultural events and activities throughout the year, including the renowned Oktoberfest, attracting thousands of tourists annually.
• The city's strong business presence, with companies like BMW, Allianz, PWC, Accenture, and Deloitte having headquarters in Munich, makes it in the top 20 worldwide for employer activity.
• The city's quality of life, infrastructure, accessibility, top-notch education, transportation system, vibrant nightlife, welcoming Bavarian culture, and scenic natural surroundings, including the Alps, forests, and lakes, make it the 5th best city in the world. 

Cost of studying and living in Munich

Most undergraduate programs at public universities in Munich do not charge tuition fees, regardless of whether the student is from the EU/EEA or outside. However, private universities may charge tuition fees, which vary based on the institution and program.

While Munich is known as one of the more expensive cities in Germany, it is still cheaper than many other larger European cities. It is estimated that budgeting between $10,000 and $15,000 for living expenses is advisable, although the actual amount may vary depending on individual lifestyle choices.

Top universities in Munich

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
Technical University of Munich	28
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München	59

3. Paris, France

• QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 7
• Overall Score of QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 94.6
• Top QS World Ranking Universities 2025: Université PSL (24), Institut Polytechnique de Paris (46)
• Average Tuition Fees: US$2,100 per year
• Average Monthly Living Cost: €1,150 to €2,200

The French capital continues to maintain its position in the top 10 of the QS Best Student Cities ranking for 2025. Elite Parisian universities and schools such as ENS Paris, Ecole Polytechnique ParisTech, Sciences Po Paris, and HEC Paris have developed some of the most influential figures across various fields such as philosophy, science, politics, business, arts, etc over the past century. While it may have slipped from the top five, Paris remains a top choice for students worldwide. According to the student survey, respondents prefer the city for its beautiful monuments, rich history, vibrant culture, and incredible nightlife.

Why study in Paris?

• Paris is renowned as a major hub for international education with 12 universities featured in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
• Paris is home to some of Europe's most iconic landmarks and museums, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Élysées.
• The city's nightlife offers everything from cozy wine bars to lively clubs.
• Paris also has an abundance of green spaces where students can relax and enjoy picnics, such as Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Plantes, and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.
• Employers hold Parisian graduates in high regard, as the city secured a seventh ranking in the employer activity indicator.
• The presence of numerous international firms in the business district of La Défense including L’Oréal, Google, Microsoft, Procter & Gamble, and Nestlé offers ample job opportunities for skilled graduates.

Cost of studying and living in Paris

Although Paris is renowned for its high cost of living, this is partially offset by relatively low tuition fees, approximately US$2,100 per year for international students. Certainly, despite the lower tuition fees, enjoying the luxuries in this European capital can still significantly impact your student budget.

Top universities in Paris

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
Université PSL	24
Institut Polytechnique de Paris	46
Sorbonne University	=63
Université Paris-Saclay	73
Ecole des Ponts ParisTech	205
Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne	283
Université Paris Cité	=302
Sciences Po	=350

4. Zurich, Switzerland

• QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 8
• Overall Score of QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 94.5
• Top QS World Ranking Universities 2025: ETH Zurich (7), University of Zurich (109)
• Average Tuition Fees: US$2,100 per year.
• Average Monthly Living Cost: CHF 3,500 - CHF 8,300

Zurich secured the 8th position in the QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2025, renowned for its prosperity, orderliness, and low taxes, which may seem more suited to millionaires than international students. However, a closer look reveals why it deserves its place among the world's top student cities. Switzerland is renowned for its world-class education, with two of Zurich's universities featuring in the global top 100. Notably, ETH Zurich stands out as the highest-ranked university in continental Europe currently ranked seventh globally, and the top-performing university outside the US and UK. 

Why study in Zurich?

• Switzerland’s largest city, an international hub, and one of the wealthiest cities in Europe has earned a top-five score in the desirability indicator this year, ranking second globally.
• Zurich is a prime city for employment, offering a high quality of life and numerous job prospects for graduates.
• As Switzerland's economic powerhouse, Zurich has one of the largest financial sectors and ranks sixth for employer activity.
• The city offers plenty of opportunities in banking, accountancy, tax consultancy, business consultancy, and wealth management. Other sectors such as engineering, media, healthcare, trade, education, and architecture hire graduates.
• Students prefer Zurich for its natural beauty and high standard of living as it consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities features cleanliness, and safety, and is a well-maintained city.

Cost of studying and living in Zurich

The city ranks 94th in the affordability indicator this year. While Zurich is among the more expensive student cities in terms of living costs, the international tuition fees are relatively low. On average, tuition fees cost around US$2,100 per year.

The overall cost of studying in Zurich is lower compared to cities in the UK, US, or Australia.

Top universities in Zurich

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
ETH Zurich	7
University of Zurich	=109

 5. Berlin, Germany

• QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 9
• Overall Score of QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 94.4
• Top QS World Ranking Universities 2025: Freie Universitaet Berlin (97)
• Average Tuition Fees: No tuition fees for public universities, €5,000 to €20,000 per year for private universities
• Average Monthly Living Cost: €1,750 and €2,300

Berlin has been gaining popularity as a sought-after study-abroad destination, securing its position in the top 10 of the QS Best Student Cities 2025 ranking. The city is renowned for its high quality of life, affordable living costs and housing, liberal atmosphere, transportation, and excellent healthcare facilities. One of the factors contributing to Berlin's appeal as an international study hub is its English-taught courses, particularly at the postgraduate level.

Why study in Berlin?

• This German capital has three universities featured in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
• With 20% of its student population coming from outside Germany, Berlin provides a multicultural environment which leads to making friends from diverse backgrounds.
• One of Berlin's key attractions for students is the free undergraduate tuition fees at public universities, applicable to both domestic and international students.
• International students from non-EU/EEA countries holding a residence permit can extend it for an additional 18 months post-graduation while seeking employment opportunities in Germany. This favorable immigration policy enhances the attractiveness of Berlin as a destination for studies and careers.
• Graduates from German universities also benefit from job prospects, as international companies actively seek to recruit them. Berlin ranks 23rd for employer activity, with healthcare practitioners, engineers, and IT specialists being among the most in-demand roles.

Cost of studying and living in Berlin

As per the data of Numbeo, the estimated monthly living cost for a family of four in Berlin is 305,670.5₹ (3,387.1€) without rent (using our estimator) and for a single person, the cost will be 90,846.6₹ (1,006.7€) without rent. 

Despite being ranked 61st for affordability this year, Berlin offers free undergraduate degrees and some postgraduate programs at public universities in Germany for international students.

Top universities in Berlin

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
Freie Universitaet Berlin	97
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin	=126
Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin)	147

6. Edinburgh, United Kingdom

• QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 13
• Overall Score of QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 90.5
• Top QS World Ranking Universities 2025: The University of Edinburgh (27)
• Average Tuition Fees: US$21,200 per year
• Average Monthly Living Cost: £2,531

Edinburgh is the best city in the world with its stunning architecture and the friendly people that make it exceptional. The city scores well across various metrics, though its affordability ranking is slightly lower due to higher tuition fees for students outside of Scotland. Edinburgh has several top universities in the UK, with the University of Edinburgh ranked 27th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, making it the fifth-highest-ranking UK institution.

Why study in Edinburgh?

• Edinburgh ranked 16th globally in the student mix indicator, reflecting the city's diversity and international student population.
• Edinburgh is renowned for its festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Edinburgh International Science Festival, and Edinburgh International Book Festival, which draw tourists from around the world.
• As Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh has a rich history showcased by its historic old town, castle, and annual events like the Edinburgh International Festival and New Year’s Hogmanay street party. 
• The city’s cultural scene extends to its museums and art galleries, including four National Galleries, the National Museum of Scotland, and the Writers’ Museum, etc offering great cultural experiences.
• Notable business opportunities await graduates in Edinburgh, with international companies like JP Morgan, the Royal Bank of Scotland, and Cairn Energy operating in the city.
• Edinburgh ranks in the 49th spot globally in employer activity, sharing with Manchester this year which offers numerous job opportunities for graduates across sectors.

Cost of studying and living in Edinburgh

The average tuition fees for international students in Edinburgh are slightly higher than those in cities like London or Manchester, around US$21,200 per year. Previously, these fees were covered by the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS). However, post-Brexit, new students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland intending to study in Edinburgh will be required to pay international tuition fees.

As per the data of Numbeo, the cost of living in Edinburgh is 323,122.4₹ (3,065.3£) per month for a family of four without rent and 94,926.0₹ (900.5£) per month for a single person. 

Top universities in Edinburgh

Find the below table to know the top universities in Edinburgh

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
The University of Edinburgh	27
Heriot-Watt University	=256

7. Vienna, Austria

• QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 14
• Overall Score of QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 90.1
• Top QS World Ranking Universities 2025: University of Vienna (137)
• Average Tuition Fees: US$900 per year
• Average Monthly Living Cost: 

Vienna secures the 14th position in the QS World Best Student Cities ranking 2025 which has Austria's top two universities. Despite having a smaller selection of universities compared to cities like London or Paris, Vienna stands out as an exceptional European city offering a high quality of life, cultural richness, and affordable education. 

Why study in Vienna?

• Vienna secured a top 75 score for affordability for the cheap cost of living and lowest tuition fees for international students.
• The city excels in the desirability indicator, ranking fourth globally, and is often recognized as one of the world's most livable cities due to its unique charm and magnificent architecture such as Baroque buildings.
• In winter, Vienna's Rathausplatz transforms into a massive ice rink, known as Wiener Eistraum (Ice World), a popular attraction for visitors and locals alike.
• As one of Europe's historic capitals, Vienna has a wealth of cultural treasures, from renowned theatres and concert halls hosting legendary performances by Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert to museums dedicated to iconic figures like Sigmund Freud and art galleries showcasing the works of Viennese artists such as Gustave Klimt and Egon Schiele.
• Vienna's consistent ranking among the top 50 cities for employer activity, serves as a hub for numerous international organizations.
• The degree from Vienna’s universities is recognized highly by employers which offers excellent job prospects for graduates.

Cost of studying and living in Vienna

Vienna stands out as a highly affordable city for students worldwide, as it ranks 74th globally for affordability. This city is preferable for its low tuition fees and cost of living which is cheaper than many other European destinations like the UK. 

For the current academic year, students can expect to pay approximately US$900 annually for tuition fees at Vienna's universities. According to Numbeo, students should budget around £670 per month for day-to-day living expenses, along with an extra £807 for renting an apartment in the city center.

Top universities in Vienna

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
University of Vienna	137
Technische Universität Wien	190

8. Lausanne, Switzerland

• QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 17
• Overall Score of QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 87.8
• Top QS World Ranking Universities 2025: EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (26)
• Average Tuition Fees: $1,500
• Average Monthly Living Cost: 1,603.8Fr

Lausanne, the fourth-largest city in Switzerland by population, is situated in one of the country's fastest-growing metropolitan areas. The city is located on the shores of Lake Geneva and has Jura Mountains to the northwest. Secured a score of 23rd globally in the employability ranking, Lausanne is a great place for students to kickstart their careers, whether in the arts, sports business, or other fields.

Why study in Lausanne?

• Lausanne has been the official capital of the Olympic Games since 1994.
• Renowned as an international sports hub, Lausanne is home to the International Olympic Committee and the Court of Arbitration for Sport, along with approximately 55 other international sporting associations.
• Students with a passion for sports can indulge in activities such as watersports on Lake Geneva, mountaineering, winter sports in the nearby mountains, and cycling through local vineyards.
• The city also has 46 sites listed as Swiss heritage sites, including Lausanne Cathedral, the Casino de Montbenon, the Olympic Museum, and the Fondation de l'Hermitage.
• The city has vineyards, forests, mountains, rivers, and shorelines, making it an ideal destination for students.
• There is a new art district, Platforme 10, which has a variety of modern works from renowned artists alongside shops and cafes for socializing.
• Furthermore, Lausanne's nightlife features bars, restaurants, and clubs, providing opportunities for socializing and making connections.

Cost of studying and living in Lausanne

Switzerland is known for its high cost of living, making it one of Europe’s most expensive countries and ranking 82nd globally for affordability.

However, in contrast to the living expenses, university fees in Lausanne are relatively reasonable. The average tuition fee for international students is approximately $1,500, significantly lower than the average fees in cities like London and Paris.

Top universities in Lausanne

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne	26
University of Lausanne	=224

9. Stockholm, Sweden

• QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 20
• Overall Score of QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 86.6
• Top QS World Ranking Universities 2025: KTH Royal Institute of Technology (73)
• Average Tuition Fees: US$17,100 per year
• Average Monthly Living Cost: 11,400.8kr

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is renowned for its beauty, friendliness, rich culture, and high quality of life. Spread across 14 islands connected by 57 bridges, Stockholm offers an urban and natural beauty. The city is ranked 18th globally for desirability. Its universities, including the KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Stockholm University, rank among the top 200 in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Students appreciate the city's employment prospects, as it has many innovative companies nearby.

Why study in Stockholm?

• One of Stockholm's standout features is its progressive and tolerant ideology, earning it a remarkable 10th position in the student voice indicator this year.
• Visitors often start by exploring the city's historic cobbled streets, taking boat trips around the archipelago, or visiting its museums and galleries.
• As a student in Stockholm, you can experience its nightlife, explore eclectic shops, and cafes, or parklands of Djurgården Island.
• Stockholm excels in the employer activity indicator, ranking 33rd globally, making it a great destination for post-graduation employment.
• Learning Swedish can significantly enhance your prospects in the city's job market, where around 85 percent of jobs are in the service industry, alongside a thriving tech startup scene.
• Additionally, Stockholm is known for its finance and fashion industries, offering diverse career paths for graduates.

Cost of studying and living in Stockholm

Stockholm ranks 156th globally for affordability, primarily due to its high tuition fees at universities, which average around US$17,100 per year for international students.

When it comes to the cost of living, a family of four needs 328,982.2₹ (41,457.9kr) monthly without rent, and a single person requires a monthly cost of 90,469.4₹ (11,400.8kr) without rent.

Top universities in Stockholm

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
KTH Royal Institute of Technology	=73
Stockholm University	118

10. Madrid, Spain

• QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 34
• Overall Score of QS Best Student Cities 2025 Ranking: 83.1
• Top QS World Ranking Universities 2025: Complutense University of Madrid (164)
• Average Tuition Fees: €7,000 – €25,000 per year
• Average Monthly Living Cost: US$1851

Madrid, Spain's capital and largest city, ranked in the top 50 of the QS Best Student Cities. It is a major financial, administrative, and cultural center and a hotspot for tourists with its legendary nightlife and gastronomic traditions. Famous for its football team, ‘Galacticos’ of Real Madrid, the city also has renowned art galleries like the Prado and a chic fashion scene. Madrid performs well in various QS indicators, with its highest score in desirability, ranking 24th globally. 

Why study in Madrid?

• International students appreciate the city's vibrant nightlife, cultural diversity, lifestyle, and favorable weather and are attracted to its siestas, tapas bars, and lively weekends.
• Madrid's diverse educational offerings cater to students in STEM fields and humanities, providing ample opportunities for academic and professional growth.
• The city's charm extends beyond academia, offering a blend of stunning landmarks such as Palacio de Cibeles, Royal Botanical Garden, Madrid Rio urban beach, and museums and galleries.
• Madrid also excels in employer activity, ranking 44th globally. Despite challenges post-economic crisis, industries like government, banking, insurance, tourism, and publishing show signs of recovery, solidifying Madrid's position as a major business hub in Spain.

Cost of studying and living in Madrid

Madrid is ranked among the top 120 cities globally for affordability, which is a relatively modest ranking for a European capital. However, it still fares better in terms of affordability compared to its Spanish counterpart, Barcelona, making it the more cost-effective option among Spanish cities. According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly expenses for a single person in Madrid are around US$811, with an additional US$1,040 needed for rent.

The average tuition fees for undergraduate courses in Madrid are €6,000 – €20,000 per year and for a postgraduate degree, the tuition fees range from €7,000 – €25,000 per year.

Top universities in Madrid

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
Complutense University of Madrid	164
Universidad Autónoma de Madrid	=198
University of Navarra	249
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M)	=285
Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)	=321

Best countries to study in Europe based on cities

The best countries to study in Europe based on cities are:

• United Kingdom
• Germany
• France
• Switzerland
• Austria
• Sweden
• Spain

Know more about the best countries to study in Europe based on factors like QS ranking universities, cost of living, tuition fees, and scholarships.

Summary

If you find it challenging to choose among the best cities for studying abroad in Europe, you're not alone! The continent has livable cities, the oldest and most reputed universities, offers quality education, a variety of courses and specializations, job opportunities, etc. Europe is a treasure to explore history, culture, and a lot more, ensuring that whichever city you choose, you'll gain new experiences. Fortunately, these cities are well-connected by trains and budget airlines, making it easy to explore and enjoy the European experience to the fullest. 

Considering key factors such as universities, tuition costs, and living expenses is essential before choosing a European city. Below we’ve given the best European city to study abroad based on these criteria.

• Cities that have the top universities according to QS World University Ranking 2025 are London and Zurich.
• Cities with lower living costs are Madrid and Vienna.
• Cities that have low tuition fees are Munich and Berlin as the public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education.

Related Resources

• Best cities to study in UK
• Best cities to study in Germany
• Cost of studying in Germany
• Cost of studying in UK
• Cost of living in UK
• Cost of living in Germany

FAQ

1. Where to study in Europe?

According to QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2025, the best cities to study abroad in Europe are:

• London, UK
• Munich, Germany
• Paris, France
• Berlin, Germany
• Zurich, Switzerland
• Vienna, Austria
• Edinburgh, UK
• Lausanne, Switzerlandd
• Stockholm, Sweden
• Manchester

2. What is the cheapest European country to study in?

The cheapest European countries to study are:

• Germany
• France
• Poland
• Slovenia
• Greece

3. Which college is the cheapest in Europe?

The cheapest universities/colleges in Europe are:

• Scuola Normale Superiore.
• Sant'Anna.
• Free University of Berlin.
• University of Göttingen.
• RWTH Aachen University.
• The University of Vienna.
• Nord University.
• Nantes University

4. Which country in Europe has the best education?

According to the OECD, PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) scores, the European countries that have the best education systems are:

• Estonia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Finland
• Germany