Congratulations! You’ve earned a college degree! Time to toss that mortarboard into the sky, high-five your parents, and start panicking about what to do next. May we suggest taking a well-earned summer vacation?

It doesn’t have to be a total waste of the brain cells you’ve spent the last four years nourishing. In fact, in the international destinations listed below, you can use your newly acquired smarts, extend your education, blow off steam, and make lifelong memories—all at the same time.

GREECE FOR GRADS

Athens: Western Civilization 101

If you took any philosophy, drama, art history, or math classes during your undergrad career, it’s safe to assume you spent some time thinking about Athens. Why not see the ancient city’s art, temples, and ruins for yourself? You can finally show off all that knowledge about the differences between ionic and doric columns.

• Where to stay: Near the Acropolis, the Plaka neighborhood is full of charming pedestrian pathways and sidewalk cafés.
• Must do: After you view the ruins, see the treasures they once held at the Acropolis Museum.

Study Break: Mykonos

This Greek isle is famous for two things: windmills and nightlife. On the 33-square-mile speck of paradise you’ll find everything from upscale sunset soirees to all-night blowouts.

• Where to stay: Mykonos Town is the place to be if you want to stay close to the action.
• Must do: Swim, dance, and drink at Super Paradise Beach—swimsuits optional.

THAILAND FOR GRADS

Bangkok: Intro to World Religions

Thailand’s capital city has a population of 14 million and a skyline of sleek towers befitting a modern metropolis of that size. But Bangkok also has a long history and a rich sacred tradition, reflected in dozens of serene Buddhist temples.  

• Where to stay: Affordable hotels are concentrated along Khaosan Road, where coaches for many of Thailand’s major tourist attractions depart.
• Must do: About an hour from downtown, Ayutthaya Historical Park is home to stunning 14th-century ruins.

Study Break: Phuket

White-sand beaches, reefs teeming with marine life, and towering limestone formations are among this tropical island’s natural attributes. As for the nightlife, it’s hotter than the temperatures, with parties that rage all night long.

• Where to stay: Close to sun, surf, and some of the best dance parties on the island, Patong Beach is the top choice.
• Must do: Hit up Kalim on the northern end of Patong Bay for excellent sunsets and surfing.

SPAIN FOR GRADS

Madrid: Survey of European Art History

When it comes to preserving Europe’s cultural treasures, Spain’s elegant, historical capital is among the continent’s leaders. The crown jewel of Madrid’s artsy offerings is the Prado, one of the world’s great art museums.

• Where to stay: The old city center, El Madrid de los Austrias, puts you close to the palace and the Royal Theater
• Must do: See Picasso’s Guernica, one of the artist’s most important paintings, at the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.

Study Break: Ibiza

There’s a reason it’s considered holy ground for clubbers. This sun-kissed, Mediterranean paradise draws exciting crowds and is nearly synonymous with luxurious excess.

• Where to stay: Ibiza town has everything from hostels to 5-star hotels in one central area.
• Must do: Go celebrity spotting—you could see Justin Bieber, Kanye West, or any other international trendsetter.