There’s no shortage of business schools to consider – and it’s certainly worth researching the location. 

Beyond school rankings and the programmes they offer, the location is often crucial. If you saw our last blog, we took a closer look at Helsinki, Breukelen, Milan, Carcavelos and Lyon.

There are many great cities to choose from. Here are five more to consider, and why they are such attractive locations.

1. Alajuela

Studying in a city known as the ‘City of Mangoes’ is unique enough as it is, but there’s so much more to Alajuela than the fruit. It’s one of the largest provinces in Costa Rica and is filled with nature. From rainforest, plains, and even volcanoes, it’s an incredible destination for those wanting to experience Mother Nature’s wonders.

Alajuela is also home to INCAE Business School, a highly ranked business school in Latin America. The university has a strong focus on sustainability, but also ensuring they are progressing and keeping up with the technological sphere.

One thing that makes INCAE stand out is The Centre of Collaborative and Women’s Leadership, which promotes female executives and entrepreneurs through leadership in the workplace. They are strong on being equal and diverse, and ensuring everyone gets equal opportunities.

2. Cologne

Germany has many iconic cities. Cologne is one of the oldest in the country, and the fourth biggest in Germany. Boasting a rich history, iconic beer and food, and home to Cologne Cathedral, a renowned gothic Cathedral which took over 600 years to build, the city is the perfect blend of traditional German values and modern culture.

The vast size of Cologne correlates to the University of Cologne, as it is one of the biggest universities in Germany, which takes a strong focus on researching natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

With society rapidly changing and evolving, the university prioritises lifelong learning, curiosity, and innovation that reflects the constant change and challenges that appear in society.

3. Frankfurt

Another great German city, Frankfurt, is known as a financial hub. With vast skyscrapers, international transport links, and a modern way of living, it’s even home to the world’s largest robot!

Focusing on future advancements is what the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management does. They aim to combine academic excellence with practical relevance, offer a dynamic global network and foster a shared drive for success and growth.

4. Porto

Porto Wine originates from the city, but wine isn’t the only thing the city has to offer. From music-filled streets with hearty food, historical churches, and some of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, many people consider studying in this city that blends culture, history, and character altogether.

It’s a city in which Porto Business School aims to become a global ecosystem of lifelong change agents. They say that here, ambition meets purpose, service becomes a vocation, and connectivity unlocks endless opportunities for meaningful impact.

5. Durham

Durham is a city filled with history and tradition. Although being well known for its Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (alongside Durham Castle), it’s also known as England’s smallest Cathedral city, making it highly walkable with lots to take in.

It goes without saying that the city is also known for its prestigious and highly reputable university. Durham University continues to rank high each year and has outstanding teaching and research. The university comes with highly impressive rankings, such as being ranked 3rd for the best university in the UK by The Times in 2026.

Durham University Business School is one of the UK’s longest-established business schools. Studying here in a city filled with personality and history will be sure to bring a unique experience to students and set them up for life.

For additional insights, announcements and perspectives, visit the conversation on Business Education.