Travelling with friends is that small yet precious adult luxury that turns an ordinary weekend into a collection of stories you’ll retell for years. Between laughter, spontaneous plans and the occasional night that goes on longer than expected, shared trips strengthen bonds and finally pull us out of our daily routine.
At a stage in life when friendships are often reduced to a quick coffee squeezed in between impossible schedules, gifting yourselves quality time together feels almost revolutionary. So what’s the perfect formula? A destination that combines fun, culture, gastronomy, great nightlife and reasonable prices. Europe (and just outside) is full of cities with this ideal balance… and many of them are part of the Volotea network.
Here’s a selection of destinations that are perfect for a getaway with friends, where exploring by day and celebrating by night go hand in hand.
Barcelona
Why it’s perfect with friends
Barcelona has it all: beach, culture, endless partying and a contagious creative energy. It’s an open, social and easy-to-navigate city, ideal for groups with different interests.
What to see (top 5)
- Strolling through El Born and the Gothic Quarter
- La Sagrada Familia
- Park Güell and Gaudí’s houses
- La Barceloneta at sunset
- Barcelona’s markets
Where to go out at night
El Born and El Raval to start off with bars; Poble-sec for late-night tapas; clubs like Razzmatazz or Apolo to end the night dancing.
Where to eat
- Bar Cañete (lively tapas)
- La Pubilla (honest Catalan cuisine)
- El Xampanyet (a fun, informal classic)
- La cova fumada (fish and tapas in an authentic Barceloneta spot)
Marrakech
Why it’s perfect with friends
Exotic, intense and sensory. Marrakech is ideal for groups looking to experience something completely different without travelling too far.
What to see
- Jemaa el-Fna Square
- The Medina souks
- Majorelle Garden
- A traditional hammam
Where to go out at night
Rooftop venues such as Café des Épices or bars with live music like Comptoir Darna.
Where to eat
- Nomad (modern tradition)
- Café Clock (young, relaxed atmosphere)
- Chez Lamine (authentic and affordable)
Bilbao
Why it’s perfect with friends
Compact, food-focused and full of character. Bilbao is ideal for groups who enjoy eating well and going out without complications.
What to see
- Guggenheim Museum
- The Old Quarter
- A walk along the river
- La Ribera Market
Where to go out at night
Pozas and the Old Town: packed bars, local atmosphere and guaranteed fun.
Where to eat
- Gure Toki (creative pintxos with local produce and a more refined gastronomic touch)
- Sorginzulo (traditional Basque atmosphere, generous portions and an authentic tavern spirit)
- El Globo (an essential classic where you can try some of Bilbao’s most famous pintxos, such as gratinado de txangurro, spider crab au gratin)
Valencia
Why it’s perfect with friends
Sunshine, partying and great food. Valencia combines the Mediterranean lifestyle with urban fun at reasonable prices.
What to see
- City of Arts and Sciences
- El Carmen neighbourhood
- Malvarrosa Beach
- Albufera
Where to go out at night
Ruzafa is the epicentre: creative bars and lively clubs.
Where to eat
- Casa Montaña (historic wine bar in El Cabanyal, famous for its wines, classic tapas and lively atmosphere)
- Canalla Bistro (creative, travel-inspired cuisine by chef Ricard Camarena; informal, fun and very popular with groups)
- La Pepica (traditional rice dishes and paellas in an iconic seafront setting)
Athens
Why it’s perfect with friends
Epic history by day, a youthful atmosphere by night. Athens surprises and wins you over.
What to see
- Acropolis
- Plaka
- Anafiotika
- Acropolis Museum
Where to go out at night
Psiri and Gazi, with affordable bars and terraces with views.
Where to eat
- Oineas (modern tavern with contemporary Greek cuisine, sharing plates and a young atmosphere)
- Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani (traditional mezze, artisan cured meats and authentic flavours in a consistently lively venue)
- Kuzina (creative Greek cuisine with Mediterranean touches and spectacular views of the Acropolis)
Nice
Why it’s perfect with friends
Elegant yet relaxed, ideal for groups looking for good weather, the sea and French wines.
What to see
- Promenade des Anglais
- Old Nice
- Castle Hill
- A day trip to Monaco or Cannes
Where to go out at night
Old Nice is packed with lively bars and international pubs.
Where to eat
- Chez Pipo (local institution where you can try authentic Niçoise socca, simple, affordable and very popular)
- La Rossettisserie (informal rotisserie in the old town, perfect for eating well without spending too much, in a casual setting)
Le Safari (classic brasserie on Cours Saleya, ideal for groups, with Mediterranean cuisine and a lively terrace)
Toulouse
Why it’s perfect with friends
A university city, youthful and affordable. Toulouse is ideal for a spontaneous getaway.
What to see
- Place du Capitole
- The banks of the Garonne River
- Saint-Cyprien neighbourhood
Where to go out at night
Carmes and Saint-Pierre, with student-filled bars and music.
Where to eat
- Le Colombier (contemporary French cuisine, carefully prepared dishes and an elegant yet informal atmosphere)
- Chez Émile (historic venue where you can discover the true cassoulet toulousain, convivial and authentic)
- L’Entrecôte (a simple and much-loved formula: steak, a secret sauce, unlimited fries and a lively atmosphere)
Travelling with friends means sharing moments, laughing at the unexpected and creating memories that last far longer than the trip itself. And if, after this group getaway, you’re already dreaming of a romantic weekend for two, don’t miss our article dedicated to romantic destinations—perfect for changing pace, but not your love of travel.
