Amanda PhillipsTop clubbing destinations for 2016
Sun, sea and parties. This is what a holiday in the Mediterranean looks like to some young groups of friends (they may also still want the sand as well). Whether its their first holiday without parents or the friend group has been to some of Europe’s best party destinations already, the Mediterranean is not short of famous nightclubs for 18-30 year olds to let their hair down.
A lot of party destinations in Europe are also budget friendly and won’t break the banks of young tourists. We offer a range of destinations and deals as part of our 18+ Young & Lively holidays, and we’ve rounded them up with a bit of information to help you decide which one you and your friends should head to for Summer 2016.
San Antonio, Ibiza
Ibiza is regarded as the party island of the Mediterranean, but it’s specifically San Antonio that is the town to head to if you’re after a party holiday. The Sunset Strip is its primary landmark and along here party goers will find a wide range of bars and clubs. Aimed a bit more towards 20-somethings, some of the San Antonio nightclubs have a more exclusive feel to them. There’s also boat parties that sail out during the day and dock into port again at sunset but if you’re looking for water sports during the day head to the slightly calmer beaches in the Bay of Antonio where you can also enjoy a meal at one of their beach-side restaurants.
Hotels: Hotel Brisa, Casita Blanca, Azuline S’Anfora and Laura S’Atalaya.
Magaluf, Majorca
Magaluf needs no introduction. Popular with newly eighteen-year-olds and regularly chosen as the first holiday destination to visit without parents. One of the cheapest party destinations in Europe, entry to clubs and drink prices won’t dent the holiday funds. Magaluf is however a very busy resort and queues build up quickly so it’s a good idea to buy tickets in advanced, especially for BCM – Europe’s biggest nightclub.
Hotels: Martinique Apartments, BH Mallorca Hotel, Bellevue Vistanova and Teix Hotel.
Laganas, Zante
The small town of Laganas is famous as the home of well-known clubs such as Rescue Club, Plus Club, Medousa Bar, Cherry Bay and Zeros. If you’ve worked your way through the bars onland then head out on a boat party, some of which last through the night. The morning after, relax on one of the longest beaches on Zante and try and spot some loggerhead turtles. If you’re wanting to try some water sports head along to Agrassi beach for a wide variety and Tsilin Water Park for water slides.
Hotels: Ellenis Studios, Vivian Hotel & Apartments, Alexander Hotel and Alkyonis Hotel.
Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Ayia Napa is the destination that appeals to a wide range of party-goers. With legendary nightlife including A-list DJs, the main square of Ayia Napa is perfect for a wild night, while Nissi Beach offers trendier bars for a calmer night out. During the day beach bodies will love the many Blue Flags dotted along the coast and water sport lovers will be spoilt for choice – including diving as this resort offers one of the clearest waters in Cyprus.
Hotels: Paloma Studios, Efi Apartments, Paul Marie Apartments, and Tsokkos Holiday Apartments.
Kavos, Corfu
If you’re a fan of boat parties Kavos is the party destination to head to. One of the best places for boat trips in the Mediterranean, anyone who likes to sail through the sea – with a drink in hand or just to spot some wildlife – will be right at home. Water park lovers will also love Aqualand, the resort’s water park and party-goers should remember to check out the famous Sunrise Sessions at the Atlantic – a club night that starts at 3am and finishes at sunrise.
Hotels: Oasis Beach Club, Aphrodite Studios, Kapanis Beach, and Kalimera Hotel.
Sunny Beach, Bulgaria
A modern holiday resort on the eastern coast of Bulgaria, Sunny Beach is for club-goers who also want a side serving of culture. The country has a low cost of living which makes it a great choice for young travellers, with nightclubs and daytime activities being cheaper than most other party destinations. During the day enjoy mini-golf, horse riding along the Blue Flag beach or surfing on the Black Sea. For a bit of history, Nesebar – a UNESCO-listed town – is a 15-minute drive away.
Hotels: Mariner, Favorit Hotel, Jupiter Hotel and Hotel Palazzo.
Malia, Crete
Just like a lot of beach resorts on the Greek islands, Malia is sun-kissed and lively. Just behind the main beach lies the strip – a lively row of bars, nightclubs and pubs ready for partygoers to come and explore. A lot of clubs in Malia also don’t charge to get in. During the day, work off the night before on the beach, or splash about at the water park, Watercity, or speed round the tracks at Kartland. If you visit during the summer you’ll also have the chance to attend an open-air festival.
Hotels: Village Oasis, Dionysos Hotel, Hermes and Mirage Studios.