Every summer, thousands of people in their teens and early twenties burst from exam halls relieved, hyper and ready to party. And where do they all go to burn off this post A-level / uni finals elation? For the ultimate release, these holiday makers flock to certain party cities in Europe, where they are sure to find sun, fun and others like them.
Whether you’ve just finished 6th form yourself, or you’re just interested, here’s a look at some teen-to-early-twenties top party destinations over the last few decades.
1. Magaluf, Mallorca, Spain
Renowned for its three white-sanded beaches, this resort was originally a family favorite. But in the 80s an array of clubs and bars sprang up around Punta Ballarina and swathes of partiers began flocking to the island.
These days Magaluf isn’t as wild as it once was, but it’s still known for attracting young holiday makers. These come to dance into the early hours to big name DJs at BCM nightclub and, oddly enough, to see the Pirates acrobatic show – a Magaluf institution.
2. Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Anyone who was into Garage music will have at least heard of Ayia Napa. In the 90s it saw the likes of Ms Dynamite and Luck n Neat turn up on its shores. But not so long before, the resort was a sleepy fishing village, home to agricultural workers. First came the family tourists… and then came the partiers.
Club after club popped up and, at one point, nearly half a million tourists spent their holidays there. Famous for its number of clubs per square meter, late opening hours and anything goes attitude, Ayia Napa is still going strong and continues to be a number one party destination.
3. Faliraki, Rhodes, Greece
This seaside village was the hottest tip for teen-to-twenty-something people 10 years ago and, if reports are to be believed, it’s coming back in a big way. The beauty of the nightlife lies in its simplicity: want to go to a bar? Go to Bar Street. Want to go to a club? Go to Club Street. Aside from all the nocturnal activity, Faliraki also has the largest water park in Europe.
The resort went out of fashion for a while in 2004. But it seems a good party dies hard and 2010 saw a revival in Rhodes popularity.
4. Newquay, Cornwall, England
Newquay has been such a hot teen destination that we had to include it. Voted one of the country’s ‘Best Family Holiday Destinations’ by COAST magazine, Newquay is also a mecca for post examers.
But what drew virtually every 16-18 year old here after their exams? You can do all kinds of activities in this town – from fishing and surfing, to attending the Cornwall film festival. There’s also loads of bars and a few clubs, including Berties for big names, and Exodus for under-18s.
5. Malia, Crete, Greece
Browse Facebook or Twitter and it will soon become clear that the destination all the teen-to-twenty-somethings are heading for this summer is Malia. In fact, if you’ve just left sixth form and you’re not going there, there has to be a very good reason.
Since the mid-2000s, this resort has steadily become popular enough to rival veterans like Magaluf. Its Main Strip is home to a variety of bars and clubs, including the hugely popular Candy Club, which hosts the likes of Tim Westwood and DJ EZ. Crete, brace yourself…
Have you been to any of these party cities in Europe? Or are you a teen-to-twenty something in search of a party this summer? Where are you heading to?
