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Graduated? Surprise them with an unforgettable graduation gift!

Published: 25 June 2025

The end of the exams is near.. And while students are still waiting on results, the hardest part is behind them. Whether it’s A-levels, GCSEs or university finals, completing exams is a big milestone. And what better way to mark the occasion than with a thoughtful gift that says: you’ve earned a break. Whether it’s GCSEs, A-levels or a university degree, one thing’s for sure: graduating deserves to be celebrated. After months (or even years) of hard work, stress and late-night revision, it’s time to relax. Let us inspire you already with ideas for the perfect graduation present: a city break! 

Graduation gift idea: a city break to remember

A post-exam gift doesn’t have to be boring or predictable. Why not treat someone to a weekend away in an exciting European city? Whether they’ve just finished their school exams or completed their degree, a short getaway is the perfect way to unwind and explore.
 

And the best part? You can make the gift as personal as you like. Pick a destination that matches their interests such as art, food, shopping or nature. Or.. let them choose their own adventure. Whether you plan it together or surprise them with the flexibility of choice, a trip is a thoughtful and exciting graduation present.
 

Our favourite destinations for a graduation trip

Rome: culture, pasta and la dolce vita
The Eternal City is perfect for lovers of history, great food and a little romance. Walk past the Colosseum, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain and admire the stunning Pantheon. Rome is like an open-air museum – there’s beauty on every corner. Start your day with a proper espresso, wander the charming streets of Trastevere, and end with a plate of fresh pasta at a cosy terrace. Don’t forget to visit Vatican City, home to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Warm, lively, and full of magic.. Rome is a dream destination for any celebration, including a graduation. 

Accommodation in Rome
Accommodations in Italy

Barcelona: sunshine, culture and tapas
Barcelona has it all:  sunny weather, stunning architecture, buzzing streets and beach vibes. Start with a stroll along La Rambla, visit the colourful Park Güell or the iconic Sagrada Família. Foodies will love the pintxos in El Born or the fresh produce at Mercat de la Boqueria. And when you’re ready to relax? Head to the beach and soak up the sun. The perfect mix of city break and beach holiday – ideal as a graduation gift.

Accommodations in Barcelona
Accommodations in Spain

Lisbon: colourful, sunny and full of charm
Lisbon is full of character and joy. Hop on the iconic yellow tram 28, enjoy pastéis de nata in Belém, and take in the city views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. With its laid-back atmosphere and proximity to the beach, Lisbon is great for mixing city discovery with a seaside break. Fancy a day trip? Take the train to Sintra – a fairy-tale town filled with palaces and lush gardens. A vibrant and versatile city that’s ideal for celebrating success.

Accommodations in Lisbon
Accommodations in Portugal


Prague: romantic and historic
Prague is a city steeped in history, with fairy-tale charm and grand architecture. Walk across Charles Bridge, explore the hilltop castle and admire the Old Town Square. Sip a local beer at a cosy pub, explore the Jewish Quarter, or visit the Kafka Museum. At night, the city lights add an enchanting atmosphere. Affordable, beautiful and rich in culture. Prague is a brilliant graduation trip idea.

Accommodations in Prague
Accommodations in Czech Republic

Berlin: creative, dynamic and full of surprises
Berlin is a city of contrasts – rich in history, buzzing with creativity. Visit the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie or the moving Holocaust Memorial for a glimpse into the past. Street art lovers will feel at home in Kreuzberg or at the East Side Gallery. And don’t miss the city’s incredible food scene: try one of the vibrant street food markets like Markthalle Neun. Finish with a view from the TV Tower or a cycle through Tiergarten park. Berlin is quirky, cool and full of energy – a graduation gift they won’t forget.

Accommodations in Berlin
Accommodations in Germany

Prefer to stay closer to home?

A city break abroad is always exciting, but there are plenty of great destinations closer to home too, perfect for celebrating a graduation. Think of a weekend in Bath, a few days in York, or a quick trip to Edinburgh or Dublin. Whether in the UK or just across the channel, a local break can be just as refreshing and memorable.No flights, no hassle, just hop on the train or get in the car and go. Perfect for those who want to relax without the stress of travel planning.

Hotelgiftcard: the ultimate graduation gift

Want to surprise someone with a flexible and original graduation gift? Give them a Hotelgiftcard! It allows the graduate to book accommodation whenever and wherever they want, with over 600,000 hotels worldwide to choose from. You can send the Hotelgiftcard as a physical card (perfect in a festive envelope, alongside a guidebook or a map of the destination), or digitally for a quick and easy surprise. Want to make it extra special? Pair it with a bottle of wine or bubbly. It's not just a gift, it’s an experience waiting to happen.

A graduation gift that fits through the letterbox

Need to send your graduation gift by post? Or did you remember it at the last minute? No worries, Hotelgiftcard fits right through the letterbox and arrives in no time. Even if you're cutting it close, you can still deliver a gift that makes a real impression.
 

Why choose Hotelgiftcard?

Hotelgiftcard is the hotel voucher and perfect travel gift in the UK. Recipients can choose from over 600,000 accommodations worldwide. Perfect for hotels, bed and breakfasts, or holiday parks, this gift card offers flexibility and unforgettable experiences.
 

HGC card

Give a Hotelgiftcard as a gift!

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