Six cool places to party in Europe this summer

Europeans sure know how to have a good time, and the warmer months are the prime season for it. We’ve rounded up six cool places that are ideal for making merry this summer, from the industrial-meets-arts city of England’s Manchester to the moonlike island of Pag in Croatia.

Belgrade, Serbia

Serbia’s grungy, gritty capital is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene. Experience the non-stop party atmosphere of floating clubs on the Danube and Sava rivers, hit the beach bars at artificial island Ada Ciganlija or, if you’re looking for something more folky, step back in time in the city’s bohemian quarter of Skadarlija. Here, the cobbled streets are lined with traditional restaurants, cafes and live music venues like Tri Šešira and Dva Jelena.

Pag, Croatia

Pag is famous for two things: cheese and partying. In fact, for those in the know, it’s largely considered the dance capital of the Adriatic – hosting a solid festival program all summer long. Zrce Beach is Croatia’s answer to Spain’s Ibiza, where beach clubs like Papaya and Aquarius host energetic parties that stretch into the wee hours. For those keen for a more laid-back vibe, there are also plenty of bars and lounges offering delicious cocktails and stunning sunset views. 

Manchester, England

Industrial heritage meets contemporary creativity in Manchester, which has long been a hotbed for great music (and raves). Fun places to party include canal-side Deansgate Locks, with a variety of bars and clubs housed in converted railway arches; and Gay Village, a vibrant hub of LGBTQ+ venues. Small promoters like Sour Grapes, Molehill Productions, Akoustic Anarkhy, Killjoy Productions and Sweet Face Magazine are absolutely worth checking out for gigs.

Athens, Greece

Party in the shadow of the Acropolis at clubs like Bolivar Beach Bar and Gazarte, and enjoy the city's vibrant bouzoukia clubs for live Greek music and dancing. In alternative Exarchia, experience the underground scene at spots like Nosotros or K44, which host live bands and DJ sets. The historic neighbourhood of Plaka offers more traditional offerings, where you’ll find plenty of tavernas to have a ripper of an evening at.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow is one of the oldest and most well-preserved cities in Poland – and it’s also home to one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe: Rynek Glowny. Here, there are plenty of outdoor drinking and dining options, but it’s on Kazimierz where the underground club scene really comes to life. Dace to electronic music at venues like Szpitalna 1 and Forum Przestrzenie, and enjoy cheap drinks in the district’s quaint and lively beer gardens.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

More and more folk are escaping the summer heat by heading north, making Belfast an appealing destination for those looking to stay cool while having a ripper time. Enjoy live music at traditional Irish pubs in the Cathedral Quarter, dance to indie and electronic beats at clubs like Limelight and Thompsons Garage, and experience the city's famous pub crawls and whiskey tastings – stopping in at speakeasies and saloons. The city’s massive student scene means there are plenty of themed club nights too, for those looking to get particularly raucous.