Oh to be young! Life is one big party – especially when you are on holiday. Under 25s are travelling more than ever before with more and more destinations on the radar for the avid young traveller. We pick five of the best places to drink, dance… and maybe do a little bit of sight-seeing.
1. Montreal
Montreal is undoubtedly the cultural capital of Canada, with a unique mix of North American modernity and European style. It beckons young travellers to its pulsating nightlife and year-round festivals – of which there are over 90! Visit during the summer and you’ll get the bulk of them, the most famous being the Just for Laughsfestival every July that hosts some of the best comedians from all over the world. Also big on the events calendar is the Montreal Jazz festival and the three-day outdoor music festival Osheaga that takes place on Ile Ste- Hélène, an island in the middle of the city. What makes Montreal even more appealing for young travellers is that it is very affordable - many of its attractions are free of charge.
©meunierd Hundreds gather for Montreal's renowned jazz festival.
2. Ibiza
When it comes to destinations for young travellers, you have to mention Ibiza, the notorious party island of the Balearics. Love it or hate it, its world-class nightlife really needs no introduction with clubs such as Pacha,Space and Privilege constantly being voted as the best venues in the world. on the flip-side, Ibiza offers plenty for young travellers who aren’t interested in the EDM scene (or have simply partied too hard and need to cool off). Ibiza is becoming a top destination for yoga retreats and its easy to understand why - just imagine getting to truly relax your body and mind on one of Ibiza’s pristine white beaches? Or why not escape the island completely and dive into the Med’s crystal clear waters and explore the sea bed in Las Salinas National Park?
Ibiza is more than just booze and music.
More: Best places to party: top 10 clubbing cities in Europe
3. Madrid
No one knows how to throw a party quite like los madrileños. No matter where you are in Madrid, there will always be something going on until the very late hours of the following morning. Immerse yourself in Madrid’s youthful, arty vibe should head to Malasaña, an up and coming neighbourhood, known for its cool bars and boutiques. Here you’ll also find some of the best art in the city from the street art lining the walls to the many amazing galleries such as the contemporary art gallery Conde Duque nearby. You’re best visiting in October when the neighbourhood hosts the VillaManuela festival - three days of live music, exhibitions and good food, all alongside Madrid’s most creative and eclectic locals.
Madrid's atmosphere is great by day and by night!
Madrid's atmosphere is great by day and by night!
More: 10 best things to do in Madrid: a local's guide
4. Istanbul
Instanbul has emerged in recent years as one of the hippest cities in the world. To get right in the centre of it all, find a hotel in the cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Beyoğlu. It is where locals and visitors alike flock for shopping, wining, dining and partying. Here, you can take a stroll down İstiklal Caddesi that’s red antique tramway and Art Noveau buildings ooze charm and enjoy a strong coffee and sweet pastry in one of its many cafes. And of course, no trip to Istanbul is complete without a visit to the Grand Bazaar where you can hunt in amongst the jewellery, copperware and Turkish rugs for the perfect souvenir. Afterwards, visit the nearby Turkish Baths, Çembirlitaş Hamamı, that is one of the best in the city.
©Alexander Tolstykh Take a ride in a quirky, antique tram.
More: On the Road with The Blonde Gypsy: 10 amazing places to visit on an epic journey from Europe to Asia
5. Prague
Although a hidden gem no longer, Prague is still one of the best cities for young travellers in Eastern Europe. Cheap beer, staggeringly huge nightclubs and a wonderfully picturesque city centre make it an ideal location for a city-break. Start your day exploring the old town, seeing some of the city’s most beautiful buildings such as Týn Cathedral and the Dancing House, then get to know the city’s history by visiting the Museum of Communism in order to get an understanding of the country’s turbulent recent past. once you’re all cultured out, tour some of Prague's incredible microbreweries where you’ll drink the best beer in the world (don’t tell Germany) and then get the party started in one of Prague ultra-hipster clubs. one of the coolest has to be Bunkr Parukarka, in the hip Zizkov district that was originally a 1950s nuclear bunker for the Communist Party. It plays a great mix of avant-garde electro and industrial music.
Prague's Old Town is a pleasure to explore.