Whether you’re just entering your twenties or refusing to admit you’re closer to the big 3-0, these are the places you’ll want to tick off before you’re an actual adult.  

1. Berlin, Germany 

While your body can still sustain a night out that extends well into the early hours, Berlin’s the place to be. End the night (or start the day) with a döner kebab, and don’t beat yourself up for the craving – it’s a big part of Berlin’s culture, so you’re basically just immersing yourself in the local life… 

2. Prague, Czech Republic 

A city that looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale – except this fairytale includes beer that’s cheaper than water. Packed for Prague already? 

3. Marrakech, Morocco 

When the European old towns all start to blend into one and you need something new, hop over to sensation central – Marrakech. The smells, the sounds, the sights… The buzz of this city is like nothing you’ve ever seen before.  

4. Paris, France 

Yes, it’s touristy. But it’s also... Paris. Drinking wine by the Seine and feeling like a main character in a rom-com? A defining experience for your twenties. 

5. Copenhagen, Denmark 

Cool homeware shops, pastries on every corner and locals’ outfits that will see you running to the nearest boutique… what’s not to love about Copenhagen? 

6. Athens, Greece 

Bit of history here, bit of fun there – an Athens escape is just what you need when you can’t really decide between a beach holiday and a city break. When you’ve climbed the Acropolis and wandered the museums, make your way to Psyrri – the ultra-hip neighbourhood where every watering hole is cooler than the one you just came from. 

7. Krakow, Poland  

Hands down one of the most underrated cities in Europe, Krakow’s got the main ingredients for a getaway in your twenties. Impressive sights, fun nightlife and hearty food for the perfect hangover cure. Did we mention it’s sooo much cheaper than home too?  

8. Ibiza, Spain  

Surprise, surprise, the party capital of the world made the list. Whether you’re going for your bestie’s birthday bash or just a weekend of pure vibes, a holiday to the White Isle is non-negotiable for your twenties.  

9. Innsbruck or Salzburg, Austria 

Learning how to ski or snowboard (AKA spending half of the first day sliding down the slope in the least graceful way possible), the jaw-dropping views and, the real reason you’re here, après… An Austrian ski holiday is too good not to try at least once.  

10. Budapest, Hungary  

Ruin bars, thermal baths and some of the finest architecture in Europe? Welcome to Budapest – it’s every bit as fantastic as it sounds. It also goes gentle on the wallet – an essential feature of any trip in your twenties. 

11. Lagos, the Algarve 

Need a couple days to recharge your batteries or go off-grid? Let Lagos be your playground. Spend your days lazing on the secluded plots of sand on the golden coast and your evenings making new friends with backpackers and locals.  

12. Rome, Italy  

If your love language is carbs, welcome home. Rome is an open-air museum, where every building has witnessed centuries of history, and every restaurant serves life-changing pasta. And then there’s the Colosseum – another major must-visit spot, nothing short of impressive. 

13. Madeira, Portugal  

Feast your eyes on shades of green in the lush, subtropical Madeira. There’s a reason people say it’s the Hawaii of Europe, you know… When hiking boots are well and truly off, make your way through the wine route or pop into a wine festival for a glass or two. 

14. Malta 

The recipe for an all-out summer holiday? Attending a festival while you’re there ought to do it. Mixing raves in caves with boat parties and good old gigs, a festival in Malta will rock your world, and summer! The world-class beaches sure don’t hurt either… 

15. Greek islands  

If you’re not spending your summer island-hopping between the Greek islands Mamma Mia-style, what are you even doing? Choose your base (our map features everything from iconic Zante to under-the-radar Symi) and visit the neighbouring isles, each one prettier than the last, or sip cocktails while admiring them from a fancy boat. Any takers? 

16. Turkbuku, Turkey 

Fancy living like royalty for a fraction of the price? See you in Turkey. The sandy beaches and turquoise waters ensure the holiday essentials list is checked, while you get busy picking the best-looking hotel – just because you can.  

17. Barcelona, Spain  

There’s no bad time to visit Barcelona, your twenties included. Ready for a sunshine and sangria-fuelled city break? From trendy rooftop bars to underground clubs where the party doesn’t stop until sunrise, Barcelona delivers the goods when it comes to nightlife. And the beach is never too far away here either… 

18. Porto, Portugal  

When all reds and whites don’t taste the same anymore, plan a trip to the vineyards of Porto. Stuff yourself with pastel de natas, wander the hilly streets of this tiled city and taste all the wine you can get your hands on. 

19. Majorca, Spain 

Whether it's a weekend in Palma or a week on the golden coast of Cala D'Or, Majorca is a Brit hit for a reason. Short flights, year-round sunshine, Caribbean-esque sea colours… Still don’t fancy mingling with the rest of the tourists (we know, you’re a different kind of tourist)? Lucky for you, our experts have put together a not-so-basic guide to Majorca…

20. Iceland  

When you get excited about waking up early, walks in nature and your newest hiking boots, that’s when you know – your twenties are coming to an end. And to start 30 in style, a bucket-list trip to Iceland does just the trick. Spot those black-sand beaches, natural lagoons and geysers, and you’ll quickly realise 30 feels pretty good.