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22 Best Party Cities in Europe: From Budget Pub Crawls to Beach Clubs

If you’re planning a European adventure and looking for unforgettable nights out, you’ve come to the right place! From world-famous beach clubs in Ibiza to budget-friendly pub crawls in Prague and ruin bars in Budapest, Europe is home to some of the best nightlife destinations on the planet.

Over the years, we’ve travelled extensively across Europe and experienced everything from all-night techno clubs and backpacker bar crawls to beachfront cocktail bars and legendary music festivals. One thing we’ve learned is that there’s no single “best” party destination, what suits you will depend on your budget, travel style and the kind of nightlife you’re looking for.

In this guide, we’ve brought together insights from experienced travel bloggers who know these destinations inside and out. From the biggest party islands in the Mediterranean to underrated cities where your money goes much further, these are our picks for the top party destinations in Europe.

So whether you’re dreaming of dancing until sunrise in Mykonos, joining a pub crawl in Krakow, experiencing Berlin’s legendary club scene or sipping cocktails by the sea in Mallorca, here’s where to find the best nightlife Europe has to offer.

Last Updated: June 2026

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Which European Party Destination Is Right For You?

Not all party destinations are created equal. Some are famous for luxury beach clubs and VIP nightlife, while others are known for cheap drinks, backpacker hostels and legendary pub crawls. If you’re not sure where to go, this quick comparison should help you find the best fit.

DestinationBest ForBudget
IbizaBeach clubs$$$$
PraguePub crawls$
BudapestBackpackers$
BerlinTechno$$
MykonosLuxury nightlife$$$$
KrakowCheap nights out$

The Best Party Cities in Europe

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia – Best Party Destination in Croatia for Summer Nightlife and Boat Parties

Written by Claire from Europe in Winter

Dubrovnik harbour

The UNESCO city of Dubrovnik, most famous for its historic city centre and Game of Thrones filming locations, might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of partying destinations in Europe. 

Dubrovnik’s full of hip bars that serve local beers and wines. Some even have a view over the historic city centre, like the luxurious rooftop bar Above5. However, if you want more of a clubby scene, you won’t be disappointed. 

While there aren’t tons of Dubrovnik clubs, its venues make the most of its architecture. This means you can rave in Revelin Culture Club, a 16th-century castle, or enjoy gigs at Lazereti. Despite the city not being full of clubs, it does have an abundance of nightlife so you can be sure of an incredible night when you’re staying here! 

If daytime partying is more your thing, head to Banje Beach Club; this Mediterranean restaurant in the day that turns into a nightclub after the sun goes down making it the perfect to get into the ultimate vacation mood! 

How long to stay in Dubrovnik: 2-3 Days

Where to stay in Dubrovnik: City Walls Hostel or BoGo-Galijun

2. Budapest, Hungary – Best Party City in Europe for Ruin Bars and Budget Nightlife

Written by Lena from Not Another Backpacker

Budapest in eastern Europe

With countless street cafés, bars, and nightclubs, Budapest is one of the best cities in Europe for a night out. The Jewish District is filled with underground clubs and the famous “ruin bars”. These venues are set within old ruins of the city; feature funky decor; and on the weekends you’ll even be able to dance to live DJs and bands. 

The most iconic ruin bar is “Szimpla Kert”, which reminds me of a labyrinth with numerous rooms and several bars inside. While Szimpla Kert seems to be grungy and wild, there’s also an option for those who like it more upscale. If you prefer a clean setting, you can head to “Mazel Tov”, which is more of a high-end ruin bar in town. 

But don’t fry your brain deciding where you want to go. Although Budapest is Hungary’s largest city, it’s still quite small compared to other European cities, and most attractions are within walking distance. Therefore, it’s really easy to go bar-hopping in Budapest, and you can easily check out 4/5 bars (or more, depending on your pace) in one night!

If you want to venture out during the day, you can take public transport to get around, as trams run regularly and hit all major attractions in the city. Plus, one long weekend is usually enough to see all the highlights Budapest has to offer. 

So, if you’re looking for a weekend getaway in Europe to dance the night away and sightsee during the day, Budapest is the place to go!

How long to stay in Budapest: 3-4 days

Where to stay in Budapest:The Hive Party Hostel or DORMERO Hotel Budapest

3. Berlin, Germany – Best Party Destination in Europe for Weekend Breaks and Clubs

Berlin in Europe

Berlin is arguably the party central of Europe; clubbing is built into the city’s culture.

The party never stops in Berlin; clubs will be open for three days straight at the weekend, and they often don’t get good until the early hours of Sunday morning.

Certain districts in Berlin are well known for their clubbing scenes. This includes, Eberswalder Strasse, Wrangelstrasse, Friedrichshain or Kreuzberg. However, you can find a party pretty much anywhere in Berlin.

Berlin might be party central, but unfortunately, that party isn’t necessary for everyone. Berlin is notorious for its strict door policy and some of the most famous clubs, such as Berghain, are actually nearly impossible to even get in!

For the best chances of getting past those bouncers, dress casually in all black, avoid arriving in a large group, don’t use your mobile phone in the queue and learn some basic German!

Berlin isn’t just famous for its nightlife though, it is also home to some of Europe’s most famous landmarks, which you should definitely check out while you are there.

How long to stay in Berlin: 2-3 days

Where to stay in Berlin:Circus Hostel or Hotel AMANO

4. Bratislava, Slovakia – Best Budget Party City in Europe for Cheap Weekend Trips

Written by Ann from The Road Is Life

Bratislava

Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia, and it’s known for its buzzing nightlife scene. The Old Town of Bratislava is home to a huge variety of pubs and nightclubs. 

Whether you’re seeking a traditional bar or an underground techno club, there is something to suit everyone. The best place to kick off your evening is Michalska Cocktail Room, which is known for delicious cocktails and great service. 

If electronic music is your thing, continue the night at The Club. This is the biggest nightclub in town which will keep you dancing until the early hours of the morning.

To get a taste of Bratislava’s nightlife, joining a pub crawl is a popular activity. A guided pub crawl is a great way to experience a few different local bars while learning about the local culture and meeting some new people. 

If you happen to be visiting Bratislava in June, don’t miss the annual Junifest National Beer Festival. Similar to Munich’s Oktoberfest, Junifest has concerts, beer drinking games and many more exciting activities to participate in. 

Spending a weekend in Bratislava is a great weekend escape and the perfect amount of time needed to experience the city’s nightlife. Your best basing yourself in the Old Town, as this will make it easy to walk to the bars/nightclubs.

How long to stay in Bratislava: 2-3 days

Where to stay in Bratislava: Wild Elephants Party Hostel or BEIGLI Hotel & Garden

5. Lisbon, Portugal – Best Party City in Europe for Bars, Clubs and Nightlife Views

Written by Roxanne from Far Away Worlds

Lisbon high street

Lisbon is a vibrant city with colourful streets, great food and, of course, lively nightlife. Whether you’re looking for fun places to have dinner, rooftop bars, or late-night clubs, Lisbon has you covered. 

People tend to eat late in Lisbon, so start your night by heading to a restaurant bar around 10pm for music, good food and drinks, then progress onto a cocktail bar. Bars in Lisbon are usually free to enter and stay open until around 3am-4am. When the bars close, pick a nightclub where you can easily dance until dawn with the locals. Nightclubs typically have a door charge, which often includes a drink or two, and are open until about 6am. 

While Lisbon is very walkable, it is larger than you may expect. It’s best to stick to one area for a night out. While you can find great places to go out in just about any central neighbourhood in Lisbon, try the cocktail bars in Barrio Alta or head to Cais do Sodre for the best nightlife. Some popular bars and clubs include Harbour, 5a ClubA Capela, and Lux. For a calmer night out, opt for listening to the haunting local Fado music in one of the small bars in the Alfama district.  

How long to stay in Lisbon: 3-4 days

Where to stay in Lisbon:Home Lisbon Hostel or Lisb’on Hostel

6. Prague, Czech Republic – Best Party Destination in Europe for Weekend Breaks and Clubs

Written by Charu from Travel with CG

Prague castle at sunset in summer

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is another top destination for partying in Europe. It is widely famous for being a city where beer is usually cheaper than water. If you are looking for an affordable and easily accessible party city for the weekend, think no further. Partying in Prague is even fit for student budgets and backpackers!

During summer, Prague transforms into a big beer garden, and you will find pop-ups serving beer around the city. For great views, head to Letna Beer Garden, home to one of the best viewpoints of the Old Town. You can also enjoy a range of lagers and quick bites to eat whilst you’re there. If visiting during the colder months, the many beer halls and pubs in the city are great too.

The nightlife scene in Prague is quite varied. So, whether you like to hang out in beer gardens and pubs or dance the night away in clubs, there are plenty of options to choose from. M1 Lounge Bar & Club, Roxy, Chapeau Rouge, and Duplex are some nightclubs to visit in Prague 1.

To get the most out of your visit, staying in Prague for three nights is ideal. There are many accommodations in the historic Old Town of the city, fit for different budgets. If you stay there, you can easily walk to most places. Alternatively, trams and taxis are feasible options to get around.

How long to stay in Prague: 2 days in Prague is enough time to see the sights, but 4 days is best! 

Where to stay in Prague: Onefam Oldtown or Hotel Ikona

7. Dublin, Ireland – Best Party City in Europe for St Patrick’s Day Celebrations

Written by Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveller

St Patricks day parade in Dublin

One of the top party destinations in Europe is the quaint city of Dublin, Ireland. The city is the birthplace of Guinness with over 750 pubs to indulge in the famous drink in. 

Dublin is also home to one of the biggest celebrations in the world, St Patrick’s Day. The celebrations last a full week in March. Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin should be on any traveller’s bucket list. Travellers should pack enough green for the week since legend has it the leprechauns can’t see you if you’re wearing green. The city comes alive for the week with Irish pride on full display. From decorations to locally sourced food, it’s no wonder why this city is a top party destination! The parade on the 17th starts early in the morning, so be prepared for a full day of celebrating. 

If you’re visiting during another time, don’t worry! The Temple Bar area of Dublin is always ready to party. You can find live music at most pubs any day of the week. One hidden gem that sometimes has traditional Irish step dancers is The Church. This historic church-turned-pub is a great place to fuel up on delicious food and drink before heading out on the town. 

Whether you prefer the large crowds of St. Patrick’s Day or an intimate party with friendly locals, Dublin is the perfect party destination! 

How long to stay: 3 days in Dublin is ideal! 

Where to stay in Dublin: Jacobs Inn or  Maldron in Parnell Square

8. Edinburgh, Scotland – Best Party City in Europe for Festivals and Hogmanay New Year Celebrations

Written by Laura from Travelers Universe

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the city with the highest density of bars in the UK. Let that sink in for a moment. So now you’re probably wondering what are some of the things to do in Edinburgh if you want to have a great time.

Going out in Edinburgh usually involves drinking whiskey and beer in the pub, lots of laughter and live music. Edinburgh’s nightlife offers possibilities for all types of people of different ages. You can either sit in a pub and quietly listen to live music while having a drink or stay until dawn in a nightclub enjoying a mega party.

It should also be noted that Edinburgh’s clubs offer a wide variety of music styles ranging from music from the 70s or 80s to the most popular songs of our time.

The best-known areas for partying in Edinburgh are the Grassmarket; the University area; the main streets of the old quarter; and George Street in the new city of Edinburgh.

In August, during the Fringe festival, the whole city becomes a stage. Hundreds of thousands of people come to Edinburgh from all over the world to experience the annual arts, literature and theatre festival.

How long to stay in Edinburgh: 2-3 days

Where to stay in Edinburgh: Kiss Ass Greyfriars or High Street Hostel

9. Bucharest, Romania – Best Cheap Party City in Europe for Pub Crawls and Student Nights

Written by Emily from Wander-Lush

Romania in europe

If you’re searching for the perfect alternative party destination in Europe, Romania’s capital city of Bucharest should be on your radar.

Bucharest’s nightlife scene has been blooming since the fall of communism in 1989 and now there is an abundance of nightclubs and sky bars. The northern part of the city is best known for upscale bars, while the centrally located Old Town is the heart of Bucharest’s nightlife scene. Here you can find pubs, craft beer and Berlin-style clubs.

A little further north, the Universitate neighbourhood has live music and student-friendly venues, making it a great choice for budget travellers. Nomad Skybar is one of the most popular drinking spots in the entire city, thanks to its panoramic views.

Bucharest’s popularity with backpackers means there’s a pub crawl every night of the week. For something more classy, book in for the Oysters and Champagne evening at The Vault. Meet friends at Berăria H, the largest beer hall in Eastern Europe, or for something more intimate, head to the charming Caru’ cu Bere brewery in the Old Town, with its heritage decor and old-worldly vibes.

One of the coolest things to do in Bucharest at night – especially if you’re visiting in winter – is to go to Therme Bucharest. Europe’s largest spa complex comes to life after dark when you can enjoy the underwater bars and saunas without the crowds and relax under the stars in the outdoor heated pool.

How long to stay in Bucharest: 3-4 days

Where to stay in Bucharest: T5 Social or Zava Boutique Hotel

10. Marbella, Spain – Best Luxury Party Destination in Europe for Stag and Hen Parties

Written by Cristina from My Little World of Travelling 

party beach hotel

Marbella, located in the popular Costa del Sol, is one of the main party hotspots in Europe. Not only is it a beautiful destination to visit, but this coastal town is a synonym for luxury and hosts incredible summer parties and concerts. It’s the perfect place for those who want a combination of sightseeing and enjoying its lively nightlife. 

You can go and explore Marbella’s Old Town, home to whitewashed buildings and alleys. Alternatively, the main square, Plaza de Los Naranjos, is full of restaurants and bars to enjoy a meal with a drink, and then go to one of Marbella’s beach clubs.

Some of the most famous beach clubs include Amare Beach Club Marbella and Nikki Beach Marbella. For many of these, you can buy a day pass to enjoy their incredible facilities.

In addition to the beach clubs, you also want to check any concerts that take place in Marbella. The most popular one is Starlite Marbella. This gig is often held from mid-July to the beginning of September, and you can see nationals as well as international singers.

The summer months are the perfect time to visit Marbella if you’re after a lively and party atmosphere. 

How long to stay in Marbella: 4-5 days

Where to stay in Marbella:Hard Rock Hotel or Villa Palma

11. Vienna, Austria – Best Party City in Europe for Elegant Nightlife and Clubbing

Written by Lyubomira from Bulgarian On The Go

Vienna

From electro and hip hop parties to Balkan and Latino clubs, Vienna has it all.

Even if you’re spending just 2 days in Vienna, be sure to check out the night scene and experience the Viennese bars and clubs. The most popular area for going out is the so-called Bermuda Triangle, which is the area around Schwedenplatz metro station. Here you’ll find an abundance of bars and some nightclubs right in the heart of Vienna. 

Some of the most preferred bars and clubs in Vienna include Flex, the best place for electronic music and live concerts; Travel Shack, the go-to place for Erasmus students and foreigners, famous for its interesting range of shots; and Grelle Forelle – a two-floor techno and house paradise right at the Danube canal. 

If you’re visiting Vienna at the end of June, be sure to check out Donauinselfest – the biggest open-air music festival in the whole world. If this doesn’t sound tempting enough, note that the event is completely free of charge and it lasts three whole days. 

Overall, the party scene in Vienna has something for everyone, so one can easily find a good party that suits their preferences.

How long to stay in Vienna: 2-3 days

Where to stay in Vienna:JOE&JOE Vienna or Wilde Vienna Fleischmarkt

12. Munich, Germany – Best Party Destination in Europe for Oktoberfest Beer Festivals

Written by Fiona from Travelling Thirties

Oktoberfest in Germany Europe

One of the best party cities in Europe is Munich. There is one event that makes Munich an amazing party city, Oktoberfest.

Oktoberfest is the largest beer festival in the world, where over a three-week period from the last weekend of September until the middle weekend of October, over 7 million litres of beer are consumed. 14 tents serve steins of beer from 10am until late in the evening, from 14 local breweries. Each brewery brews a beer specifically for Oktoberfest.

If attending the festival isn’t enough, you can choose to camp at Oktoberfest to keep the beer flowing and the party going until the early hours of the morning.

The festival grounds are easy to reach from Munich; in fact, you can walk from the centre of the city to the festival grounds at Theresienwiese.

It is recommended to spend at least two days at Oktoberfest. One day can be spent exploring the fairgrounds outside of the tents, including the rides, the food stands and the festival atmosphere. One day exploring the 14 tents, once you’ve spent time in the tents you most likely won’t feel like exploring the fairgrounds.

Dress up in your best traditional German wear and “Prost” locals and travellers as you party the days away at Oktoberfest.

How long to stay in Munich: 3 days

Where to stay in Munich:Jaeger’s Munich or Wombat’s City Hostel – which is one of the best hostels in Europe!

13. Newcastle, England – Best Party City in the UK for Stag and Hen Dos

Written by Clare from Where’s Clare

Newcastle bridge and river

Newcastle Upon Tyne may be the best party destination in the UK. The local Geordies are all super friendly, the city is small enough to walk anywhere in 20 minutes and it’s an incredibly cheap night out! Newcastle is known for its trebles; that’s three shots of vodka and a mixer, all for as little as £3.

There are so many bars in Newcastle, it’s easy to find something to suit all tastes. Some of the best all-around bars are Alvinos and Market Shaker. Digital is Newcastle’s largest club, it plays an eclectic mix of music and is popular with students. To live out your Geordie Shore dreams, end the night in Tup Tup Palace. For an indie/alternative night, try Pumphreys Blues Bar followed by The Cut or World Headquarters. If you’re into pure cheese, Flares is a must. End your night like a local with cheesy chips in a takeaway!

The next day, take the metro out to Tynemouth to blow away your hangover with a sea breeze. 

How long to spend in Newcastle: 2-3 days

Where to stay in Newcastle: YHA Newcastle Central or Four Points Flex

14. Belgrade, Serbia 

Written by Marya from The Beautraveler

Bar in Belgrade, europe

Belgrade was once named on the top list of the best party cities in the world according to Lonely Planet and the city still lives up to its reputation now. With the combination of affordable drinks and lively social life with welcoming people in town, Belgrade has the best entertainment facilities compared to other cities in Serbia. 

You will never run out of ideas to party in the capital city of Serbia, as there are many choices of party scenes in the country all year round. From the traditional taverns called “kafana” that serve local drinks and dishes with live music and mostly play Serbian folks music, to the floating lounge on the riverside that’s mostly known as “splavovi” by the locals. 

While splavovi is a popular venue for the party during summer, you can visit kafana anytime to immerse in Serbian culture and socialise with the locals. 

Plan a trip to Belgrade for 3-4 days to explore the historical places in the daylight, and enjoy the nightlife from dusk to dawn. You can take advantage of their integrated public transportation system through public buses, trams, or trolley buses. 

While in the city, don’t forget to stop by Kafana Pavle Korcagin to experience the party scene, the Serbian way!

How long to stay in Belgrade: 3-4 days

Where to stay in Belgrade: Balkan Soul Hostel or Kopernikus Hotel Prag

15. Cardiff, Wales – Best Party City in the UK for Student Nights and Pub Crawls

Written by Kieran from Wales Guidebook

Cardiff
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

The Welsh know how to party so you won’t be surprised that the capital of Wales, Cardiff, is a top party destination in Europe. Not only are the people super inviting and laid back, but there is a really diverse range of venues depending upon what you’re looking for. 

Most of the nightlife takes place around St Mary’s Street which means you can reach everything by foot without the need for taxis. At the top end near Cardiff Castle is where you’ll find all the upmarket cocktail bars, such as The Alchemist and Dead Canary. Then, down towards the train station, things get lively with clubs to boogie all night such as Popworld, Retros and Walkabout

If you aren’t into the mainstream clubs, then Cardiff has plenty of alternative choices. For live music, you can head to Clwb Ifor Bach; for rock and metal you can head to Fuel Rock Club, or if you just want to enjoy a drink with friends, you can hit up one of the many rooftop bars such as The Philharmonic or Jacobs Roof Garden

But if there’s one reason that Cardiff is the true party capital, it’s because the party doesn’t stop until late. Most clubs are open until 4am and some, such as Live Lounge and Pulse, are open even later. When all the partying is over, you can head to chippy lane, an entire street dedicated to chip and kebab shops so you can have chips and curry sauce just like the locals. 

How long to stay in Cardiff: 2-3 days

Where to stay in Cardiff: BunkHouse or Hotel Indigo

16. Krakow, Poland – Best Cheap Party City in Europe for Pub Crawls and Student Nights

Written by Natali from She’s Abroad Again

Krakow Old Town

Poland is an amazing destination for backpackers and young people, to begin with. The party scene and nightlife in Krakow could easily be the best ones in the whole of Europe!

This historic capital should definitely be on your Poland itinerary. 

One of the main reasons that Krakow is such a great party destination is that the city is very compact and easy to get around. You can stay in one of many party hostels in town and just walk to the city centre. The Old Town district has more pubs and bars per square metre than anywhere else in the world!

The best aspect is that you can enjoy nightlife as a solo traveller or in a friend group. If you visit in the summer, one of the most unique ways to party in Krakow is to join the Krakow Boat party. Otherwise, you can join plenty of pub crawls and discover the best bars and clubs in town with local guides!

The sky’s the limit when it comes to party options in Krakow. Just go easy on Polish vodka; you will be offered a shot everywhere you go!

How long to spend in Krakow: 3-4 days

Where to stay in Krakow:Greg & Tom Hostel or The Little Havana Party Hostel

17. Amsterdam, The Netherlands – Best Party Destination in Europe for Weekend Breaks and Clubs

Written by Paul from Paulmarina

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city that never sleeps! You will be busy jumping from one celebration and party to another in the Dutch capital. 

In De Wallen you will come across fun cocktail bars, pubs, Coffeeshop and vibrant nightlife culture. The historical red light district is also in this part of the city; you will just stumble into it! 

Another great corner to hang out in the city is the Rembrandtplein. This used to be a milk market, which was turned into a lively nightlife hotspot. Look out for these popular venues, Club Prime and The Escape, and get the full dose of Amsterdam clubbing culture in one perfect night. Famous Dutch Trance DJs, such as Tiesto and Armin van Buuren have played epic sets here. If you love Techno and Trance, you might want to experience the Easter Awakening Festival held in Amsterdam every year. 

You can stay in the heart of the city or in quieter areas in the suburbs; all corners are easily accessed with the public tram networks. Yet, the city has so much more to offer! Discover all the things to do in Amsterdam!

How long to spend in Amsterdam: a weekend in Amsterdam is long enough to see the main sights!

Where to stay in Amsterdam: Flying Pig Downtown or The Bulldog

18. Rome, Italy – Best Party Destination in Italy for Late-Night Bars and Social Nightlife

Written by Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad

Rome at night

Rome is hands down one of the best party destinations in Europe if you enjoy delicious food and a large dose of culture and history. With plenty of clubs, bars, and nightlife near the historic centre, you will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to party next to world-famous monuments such as the Colosseum. How much cooler can it get?

Spend at least three days in Rome to enjoy all that the Eternal City has to offer. 

If you enjoy salsa, Caruso Cafe is a great place to go. Trastevere is another fun area to enjoy Rome’s nightlife. Don’t miss Alcazar Live, one of the most popular nightclubs there!

Getting around Rome is pretty simple. If you stay in the historic centre, many places will be within walking distance; plus, walking is a very scenic way to explore Rome. Alternatively, buses and the metro easily connect all the main spots in town. 

How long to spend in Rome: 3 days

Where to stay in Rome: YellowSquare Rome or Hotel Parker

19. Ibiza, Spain – Best Party Island in Europe for Beach Clubs and Superclubs

Ibiza party hotel in spain

It wouldn’t be a best party destinations in Europe post without mentioning Ibiza! 

If you are looking for the best clubs, the best parties and nice weather, Ibiza should be top of your list. The east coast of the island, Playa d’en Bossa, has a beautiful beach and buzzing nightlife, while still on the quieter side and home to the slightly lesser-known clubs.

On the west coast is San Antonio, home to the world-famous Sunset Strip. San Antonio is a great place to base your trip, especially if you’re hoping to visit O Beach Ibiza, arguably one of the most famous beach clubs in the world or Ibiza Rocks Hotel.

How long to stay in Ibiza: 3 days

Where to stay in Ibiza: Amistat Island Hostel or Ibiza Rocks Hotel

20. Albufeira, Portugal – Best Party Destination in Portugal for Stag and Hen Dos

Written by Linn Haglund from Amused by Algarve

Albufeira market

One of the best party destinations in Europe is the south Portuguese town of Albufeira. Especially throughout the summer months, young adults flock to this coastal town to party at the “Party Strip” where all the best bars and nightclubs are clustered together, making it a huge party scene. 

Albufeira is a walkable town that is easily reached by public transport from Faro Airport. There are plenty of party hostels to stay at for a long weekend or a week.

Another draw is that there are so many cool things to do in Albufeira in the daytime too. While some days are perfect for lazing at the beach, others might be perfect for boat trips to see the mesmerising coastal caves like Benagil Cave.

Albufeira old town is also perfect for walking around and going shopping. There are plenty of bars and restaurants throughout the town to start with early drinks and recovery food before heading out to the Party Strip. 

How long to stay in Albufeira: 3-4 days

Where to stay in Albufeira: Son of a Beach or Casa dos Arcos

21. Mykonos, Greece – Best Party Island in Europe for Beach Clubs and Superclubs

Written by Dymphe from Dymabroad 

Mykonos

One of the best party destinations in Europe is Mykonos. 

Mykonos is well-known for its nightlife and one of the best places for this is the main town of the island, Mykonos Town. Here you can find many bars that are great for both relaxing and partying. For example, 180 Sunset Bar is a beautiful bar from where you can enjoy a view of the sea while listening to live music. Furthermore, the Scandinavian Bar Mykonos is a great bar in Mykonos Town for partying. 

In addition, Mykonos Town is a great place for seeing Greek architecture and having delicious Greek food. What’s great is that the beaches on Mykonos are amazing for partying. One of the best beaches for this is Paradise Beach where you can find many beach clubs where famous international DJs perform. Super Paradise Beach is another great beach on Mykonos for partying. Besides that, there are many other beautiful beaches with a variety of bars and clubs. 

Getting around Mykonos is very easy to do as there is a good public transportation network with buses. Furthermore, staying on Mykonos for a week allows you to explore many different places and have a great partying experience.

How long to spend in Mykonos: 4-5 days

Where to stay in Mykonos: Mycocoon Hostel or Izabela’s house

22. Mallorca, Spain – Best Party Island in Europe for Beach Clubs and Summer Holidays

Written by Joanna from The World in My Pocket

Palma Mallorca beach Magaluf

Mallorca is a well-known party destination in Europe. For years both English and German travellers have chosen the island for the epic parties in Magaluf and El Arenal. One of the best clubs in the world, BCM Planet Dance, is located in Magaluf. This club has been awarded the 5th best in the world and no wonder, as the parties here are fantastic. 

The seafront in Magaluf is buzzing, be it day or night. It is full of cafes, bars, and restaurants that remain open until late at night. You can never get bored here. 

Even if you come for a weekend in Mallorca, out of season, you can always find great nightlife in Palma. The clubs here stay open until the early hours of the morning and the taxis to get back to your hotel are very affordable. 

Mallorca is a summer destination, so, if you are planning to party, make sure you come here during the high season. In the low season, many of the resorts in Mallorca shut down.

How long to spend in Mallorca: 3-4 days

Where to stay in Mallorca: Hostel Soller or Hotel Be Live Adults Only Marivent

FAQs About Partying in Europe

What are the best party destinations in Europe?

Some of the top party destinations in Europe include Ibiza, Berlin, Prague, Budapest, Mykonos, Amsterdam and Krakow. 

What is the cheapest party city in Europe?

If you’re travelling on a budget, cities like Krakow, Budapest and Bucharest are some of the cheapest party cities in Europe. 

Is Ibiza worth it for nightlife?

Yes, if you’re looking for iconic beach clubs, world-class DJs and luxury nightlife experiences, Ibiza is one of the best party destinations in Europe. However, it is one of the most expensive options. 

Which European city has the best nightlife for backpackers?

Prague, Budapest and Krakow are consistently ranked among the best party cities in Europe for backpackers. 

Is Europe safe for nightlife and partying?

In general, Europe is very safe for nightlife, especially in major tourist cities. As with any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid unlicensed taxis, and keep an eye on your belongings in busy nightlife areas.

What is the best time to visit Europe for nightlife?

The summer months (June to September) are the most popular for nightlife in beach destinations like Ibiza and Mykonos. However, cities like Berlin, Amsterdam and Prague have year-round nightlife scenes, so you can visit them at any time.

Final Thoughts on the Best Party Cities in Europe

Europe is home to some of the most diverse nightlife in the world, and what makes it so special is that there truly is something for every type of traveller.

Whether you’re looking for sunrise beach parties in Mykonos, underground techno clubs in Berlin, affordable pub crawls in Prague or legendary clubbing weekends in Ibiza, the best party cities in Europe offer completely different experiences depending on your travel style, budget and vibe.

Hopefully this guide to the top party destinations in Europe has helped you narrow down where to go next. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a stag or hen do, or building a longer European itinerary, these cities are a great place to start. If you’re putting together a bigger trip, you might also find our guide to backpacking Europe useful!

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27 Comments

  1. Even though I’m not big into partying I do actually love the idea of so many of these cities. The ones I’ve been to I already loved, and the rest were already places I was interested in visiting. It’s good to know there’s now to them than just the tourist sites they’re known for

    1. We completely agree Emma. We absolutely loved Budapest but wish we went to Bratislava! Thanks for your kind comment.

  2. Oooo my partner is going to Berlin (without me!) in a couple of weeks – I better not mention to him that it is a major party spot!! Or I will tell you to be on his phone in line hahah!!

  3. When I was younger and travelling thru Europe, Eastern Europe was still behind the iron curtain and very conservative. I’d love to see these party places there now.

    1. Thank you so much Chelsea. I hate to say it but you’re really missing out and you should definitely go!

  4. Budapest looks so fun for partying with the unique bars. We were too exhausted during our trip to Lisbon recently to go out unfortunately, but it’s good to know that it’s a party place!

    1. If we have to recommend a city to visit in Europe, we always say Budapest. It has everything including a great party scene if thats your thing.

  5. These are all so on point! I’m not a big party girl, but this is so helpful when planning a Bachelorette or something 🙂

    1. Thank you so much Samantha! We totally agree, a lot of these locations are perfect for party weekends.

  6. When I was younger, I can definitely attest to some of these cities, especially Berlin. You’re right, they really don’t get started into the wee hours of the next day. Although my party days are long gone, I know by travelling through some of these European cities, and waking at sunrise for photography that people are coming home at that time, especially the ones in Eastern Europe, Prague in particular.

    1. Great to hear you agree with our post Renee! Which places would you go back to if you had the chance?

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