Leslie Duan
New Member
Hi everyone,
I might get some heat for this, but after years of traveling around Europe (and living in the UK as a student back in the day), I’ve come to a conclusion:
Capital cities are overrated. 
Don't get me wrong, London and Paris are iconic. But whenever friends ask me for itinerary advice, I always tell them to spend just 2 days in the capital and then escape to a University Town.
Here is why I think places like Leeds, Durham, or Bologna (in Italy) are actually better for travelers—especially solo travelers:
1. The "Student Economy" is a lifesaver
University towns are designed for people with no money. In London, a pint of beer is nearly £7. In a northern university town, you can still find spots serving them for £3-£4. The food is cheaper, the museums are often free, and there are always "student deals" that travelers can take advantage of.
2. They are actually walkable
I hate spending 2 hours a day underground on a metro. Uni towns are usually compact. You can walk from the historical cathedral to the best nightlife district in 15 minutes. It feels much safer and more relaxed.
3. The Energy
There is a specific vibe in cities with a huge student population. They are historic and old on the outside (castles, cobblestones), but young and energetic on the inside (cool cafes, live music, vintage markets). It’s the perfect mix.
Does anyone else feel this way?
Or do you think I’m crazy for skipping the big landmarks? I’m planning a trip back to the UK soon and thinking of revisiting some of my old haunts in the North instead of doing the usual London tourist traps.
Let me know your favorite "small" city!
I might get some heat for this, but after years of traveling around Europe (and living in the UK as a student back in the day), I’ve come to a conclusion:
Capital cities are overrated.
Don't get me wrong, London and Paris are iconic. But whenever friends ask me for itinerary advice, I always tell them to spend just 2 days in the capital and then escape to a University Town.
Here is why I think places like Leeds, Durham, or Bologna (in Italy) are actually better for travelers—especially solo travelers:
1. The "Student Economy" is a lifesaver
University towns are designed for people with no money. In London, a pint of beer is nearly £7. In a northern university town, you can still find spots serving them for £3-£4. The food is cheaper, the museums are often free, and there are always "student deals" that travelers can take advantage of.
2. They are actually walkable
I hate spending 2 hours a day underground on a metro. Uni towns are usually compact. You can walk from the historical cathedral to the best nightlife district in 15 minutes. It feels much safer and more relaxed.
3. The Energy
There is a specific vibe in cities with a huge student population. They are historic and old on the outside (castles, cobblestones), but young and energetic on the inside (cool cafes, live music, vintage markets). It’s the perfect mix.
Does anyone else feel this way?
Or do you think I’m crazy for skipping the big landmarks? I’m planning a trip back to the UK soon and thinking of revisiting some of my old haunts in the North instead of doing the usual London tourist traps.
Let me know your favorite "small" city!