5 places you've got to go to before you're 25

Author: kirsten mccroskrie

Thursday, 24 July 2014

Young, free and full of wanderlust? From Montreal to Istanbul, five of the best places to go to have the time of your life.

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 Laughs festival 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.

 

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?

 

More: Best places to party: top 10 clubbing cities in Europe
10 best beaches in Ibiza

 

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.

More: 10 best things to do in Madrid: a local's guide