Last minute destinations for the ultimate graduation getaway

Below is your last-minute guide to the biggest and best vacation destinations in Europe and the greatest places to stay while you’re there… get your bags packed quick and get moving!

Next question is, what do I do with my life? And the answer? Party hard for one last summer until reality kicks in !!!

1 - Ibiza

As if we could write an article about holiday hotspots and not feature Ibiza!! Not only home to incredibly azure waters and an abundance of white, sandy beaches, the island is internationally renowned for hosting the craziest events in the world, so it is no wonder why the most exclusive A-list celebrities flock here to experience Ibiza for themselves. With worldwide DJs such as Martin Solveig and David Guetta performing regularly in famous nightclubs such as Pacha, Amnesia and Ushuaia, this party island is a MUST for those looking to let loose after years of hard work finally paying off!

Where to Stay: We recommend staying at the Amistat Island Hostel Ibiza for a relaxed stay which is easily accessible to the nearby clubs and bars, being situated in the heart of the islands main party strip San Antonio. Shared rooms or private rooms are available here, and with our last minute deals you can still secure a good price! If you want to try something different from the usual holiday routine, why not have a look at Ibiza Beach Camp? This all-inclusive party campsite located just 50m from the beach offers discounted club entries, organised party nights, and the best thing? You can add-on an unlimited bar for just 10 euro per day!

2 - Croatia

Boat parties, festivals, and all-night poolside raves has given Croatia its crazy summer nightlife reputation. The glistening sea and sandy beaches act as the perfect backdrop for your summer shenanigans. From city to sea, Croatia is a non-stop shindig. Home to the most famous festivals in the world, such as Hideout and Outlook, Croatia really knows how to throw a party. What's more, there are more and more opportunities to hire your own boat with a group of friends, or link up with new people when you arrive through organisations such as The Yacht Week if you want to try something new. If boozin' and cruisin' under clear blue skies sounds like a bit of you then it's time to get going!

Where to Stay: If you are looking for something inland, then we recommend Zagreb Youth Hostel for the perfect city break as it is located smack-bang in the centre of the city. You want a beach? Why don't you splash out in style at the 4-star Hotel Croatia, less than 100m from the beach of Baska Voda, boasting highly reasonable prices considering its quality conditions and location. It's perfect for something a bit less full-on if you need a bit of an unwind on a sun-lounger after grad week.

3 - Santanyí

If you want to go somewhere a bit more off the beaten track for some seaside R&R, then how about taking a trip to Santanyí in Mallorca. Yes, you've heard of Palma, Magaluf and Port de Pollença, but perhaps this one is new to you? Situated in the most southern part of the island, Santanyí is home to some of the most spectacularly blue waters and sandy beaches of Europe! With no large buildings or complexes in sight, this small town boasts rustic scenes and natural landscapes. Relax and sit back under the suns rays, sipping on cocktails for the ultimate chill-sesh.

Where to stay: As Santanyí isn't the usual summer hot-spot, the accommodation available is considerably low with respect to many other beach resorts in Europe. Both Hostal Marblau Mallorca and Apartamentos Vistalmar Mallorca are situated just a stone's throw from the beach and the bar, and if you are on the look-out for some after-hour fun then Cala d'Or is a lively nearby nightlife spot to check out. Last resort... just hop in a cab to Magaluf (only 45mins drive) for a last-night blow out before the flight home!

4 - Riccione

Are you curious to see how the Italians party in the summertime? Italy isn't just pizza, pasta and gelato you know... the Italians live it up LARGE when they hit the beach! Head to the Romagnola Riviera and witness the madness for yourselves in the lively town of Riccione. The music starts early and finishes late, as beach clubs such as Samsara get going from early afternoon and carry on till evening. You then have the choice to head to one of the incredible open-air clubs nearby... check-out Villa delle Rose for fireworks till dawn.

Where to stay: The best places to stay here are Riccione Beach Hotel - literally a few steps away from Samsara beach making it the perfect location for all-day entertainment, or, for something a bit more central we suggest Hotel Graziella for a slightly less crazy atmosphere.

Photo credits @samsarariccione Instagram

5 - Barcelona

Can't decide between a city break or a beach getaway? Barcelona provides both, plus the option of experiencing the most insanely crazy parties out there! This incredible seaside city has something for every traveller, be it historic monuments, breathtaking gardens, gothic architecture, tasty tapas, or even if you just want to crash on a beach for the week! With an impressive selection of nightclubs and bars you will always find a fiesta somewhere. Don't believe us? See our article on why Barcelona is the best place to go out right now!

Where to stay: If you want to stay in the midst of the mania, we recommend staying at Kabul Backpackers Hostel , known for its insane party vibes and ranked one of Europe's most famous hostels, it will have you covered for all your nighttime needs. For something a little less hectic, Palace Guesthouse is a simple, low-cost alternative which is conveniently located just 5 mins from Las Ramblas.

So there you are! Which one of these destinations will you be going to next? Make sure to send us your pictures!