The Ultimate Guide to Friend Vacations: Top Destinations for Your Next Group Getaway

There’s something truly special about traveling with friends. Those shared experiences—whether it’s watching the sunset on a Hawaiian beach, sampling wines in Napa Valley, or exploring the streets of Paris—create bonds and memories that last a lifetime. Unlike family trips or solo adventures, friend vacations offer a unique blend of freedom, fun, and camaraderie that’s hard to match.

But choosing the perfect destination for your squad isn’t always straightforward. The ideal spot depends entirely on your group’s collective interests, travel style, budget, and preferences. Are you art enthusiasts or beach lovers? Do you prefer meticulously planned itineraries, or would you rather see where each day takes you? Are you looking to venture internationally or stay closer to home?

Now is the perfect time to start planning your 2023 friend getaway. With travel continuing to rebound, securing the best dates and rates early can make all the difference. Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend escape or an extended international adventure, this guide will help you discover the perfect destination to create unforgettable memories with your favorite people.

Best Places To Travel With Friends in the U.S.

Las Vegas, Nevada: Entertainment Capital with Natural Wonders

Las Vegas has earned its reputation as one of the most popular—and surprisingly affordable—destinations for friend groups, particularly those in their twenties. Beyond the flashy reputation, Vegas offers an impressive range of activities to suit nearly any group interest.

The Las Vegas Strip itself provides endless entertainment with world-class shows, casinos (complete with complimentary drinks while gaming), and unique attractions. The thrill-seekers in your group might enjoy ziplining over Fremont Street or riding the heart-stopping rides atop the Stratosphere Tower.

What many first-time visitors don’t realize is that Las Vegas also serves as an excellent base for exploring natural wonders. With a rental car, your group can take memorable day trips to:

• The engineering marvel of Hoover Dam
• The breathtaking depths of the Grand Canyon
• The stunning red rock formations at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
• The otherworldly landscapes of Valley of Fire State Park

Vegas truly delivers that rare combination of vibrant nightlife, entertainment options, and access to some of America’s most spectacular natural scenery.

Hawaii: Paradise for Every Type of Friend Group

For groups seeking the ultimate beach vacation within the United States, Hawaii consistently ranks at the top of the list. The islands offer an abundance of lush green scenery and photo opportunities that will fill your social media feeds for months.

Consider island hopping to experience the diverse beaches and environments each island offers:

• Oahu for the perfect balance of city amenities and natural beauty
• Maui for road trips along the Road to Hana and upscale resorts
• Kauai for the most pristine natural landscapes and outdoor adventures
• The Big Island for active volcanoes and astronomical observatories

Hawaii’s unique attractions include beaches with white, red, or even black sand, locations featured in blockbuster films, and the chance to taste the freshest pineapple you’ll ever experience. The islands accommodate various travel preferences, from luxury resorts to more authentic local experiences, making it ideal for friend groups with diverse tastes.

New Orleans: Culture, Cuisine, and Celebration

Known affectionately as “The Big Easy,” New Orleans delivers an experience unlike any other American city. This vibrant destination combines incredible food, lively music, rich history, and an atmosphere of perpetual celebration.

While Bourbon Street and the French Quarter are iconic must-visits, they’re just the beginning of what makes New Orleans special. The city’s legendary culinary scene ranges from traditional Creole and Cajun cuisine to innovative fusion restaurants. Music seems to pour from every doorway, with jazz clubs, street performers, and venues offering live performances nightly.

For an elevated experience, consider timing your visit with one of the city’s famous festivals. While Mardi Gras in February gets the most attention, events like Jazz Fest, French Quarter Festival, and countless food festivals happen throughout the year.

The city’s waterfront location adds another dimension to your visit, with riverboat cruises and waterside dining options. Few destinations offer the same concentration of unique experiences to share with friends.

Napa Valley: Wine, Dine, and Unwind

For a more refined friend getaway, Napa Valley offers an idyllic setting focused on life’s finer pleasures. This picturesque region of Northern California has perfected the art of relaxation and indulgence.

Vineyard tours and wine tastings form the backbone of any Napa visit, with hundreds of wineries ranging from intimate family-run operations to grand estates with spectacular architecture. Many offer educational experiences that make wine appreciation accessible to everyone from novices to connoisseurs.

Beyond the wines, Napa boasts an impressive culinary scene with restaurants helmed by world-renowned chefs, farm-to-table experiences, and artisanal food producers. For the complete experience, consider booking accommodations at one of the area’s luxury spas or resorts.

A significant advantage of choosing Napa Valley is its proximity to San Francisco—just about an hour’s drive away—allowing for a two-in-one trip that combines wine country relaxation with urban exploration.

Best Places To Travel With Friends Outside the U.S.

International travel with friends creates especially powerful memories, and these destinations might be more accessible than you think. With careful planning and budget management, these world-class locations can provide exceptional value.

Paris, France: The Classic European Destination

Consistently ranked among the best places in Europe for traveling with friends, Paris delivers on its romantic reputation while offering countless activities for groups. The city’s blend of history, culture, art, and cuisine provides something for everyone.

Beyond the must-see historical landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe, Paris rewards visitors who explore its distinctive neighborhoods (arrondissements). Each area has its own character, from the artistic legacy of Montmartre to the trendy boutiques of Le Marais.

Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the range of options, from the luxury brands along the Champs-Élysées to unique finds at flea markets like Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen. Art lovers can spend days exploring the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and smaller galleries throughout the city.

Perhaps most importantly, Paris excels at creating spaces for friends to simply enjoy each other’s company—sidewalk cafés, picturesque parks, and evening river cruises all provide perfect settings for those meaningful conversations that make friend trips so special.

Iceland: Adventure in the Land of Fire and Ice

For friend groups seeking adventure and otherworldly landscapes, Iceland offers an unmatched experience. This island nation’s compact size makes it possible to experience a remarkable variety of natural wonders in a single trip.

Iceland’s diverse natural attractions include:

• Dramatic waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skógafoss
• Massive glaciers that can be explored on guided tours
• Volcanic black sand beaches contrasting with the Atlantic Ocean
• Geothermal hot springs, including the famous Blue Lagoon
• The opportunity to witness the Northern Lights (during winter months)

What makes Iceland particularly appealing for friend groups is that it can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering different experiences. Summer brings endless daylight and accessibility to highland areas, while winter offers snow-covered landscapes and the aurora borealis.

The country’s well-developed tourism infrastructure makes group travel relatively straightforward, even for those who haven’t ventured far internationally before.

Barcelona, Spain: Mediterranean Magic

Barcelona consistently ranks as one of the best global travel destinations, and for good reason. This Mediterranean city seamlessly blends stunning architecture, world-class food, rich history, and energetic nightlife.

The city’s architectural treasures, particularly Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces like the still-under-construction Sagrada Família and the whimsical Park Güell, provide unforgettable backdrops for group photos. The Gothic Quarter offers narrow medieval streets to explore, while the beach provides a place to relax after active days of sightseeing.

Barcelona’s food scene deserves special mention—from traditional tapas bars to innovative restaurants, culinary experiences bring friends together. The city embraces late dining, with meals often starting after 9 p.m. and flowing naturally into evening entertainment.

What makes Barcelona particularly appealing for friend groups is its walkability and excellent public transportation, combined with reasonable prices compared to other major European destinations.

Costa Rica: Nature’s Playground

Costa Rica remains somewhat of an untapped playground for friend groups, offering the perfect combination of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation. This Central American country packs remarkable biodiversity into a relatively small area, making it possible to experience multiple ecosystems in a single trip.

The country’s abundant natural attractions include:

• Pristine beaches on both Pacific and Caribbean coasts
• Lush rainforests teeming with wildlife
• Active and dormant volcanoes
• Cloud forests with unique flora and fauna

Adventure activities abound, from zip-lining through forest canopies and white-water rafting to hiking active volcanoes and surfing world-class waves. For those seeking relaxation, the country’s “pura vida” (pure life) philosophy encourages slowing down and appreciating life’s simple pleasures.

Costa Rica’s well-established ecotourism industry means you’ll find accommodations ranging from basic hostels to luxury eco-lodges, often with a focus on sustainability that appeals to environmentally conscious travelers.

Italy: Something for Everyone

Italy remains a must-see European destination for friend trips, offering an unrivaled blend of history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. The country’s regional diversity means each area provides distinctly different experiences.

A friend trip to Italy might include:

• Exploring ancient history in Rome, from the Colosseum to the Vatican
• Marveling at Renaissance art and architecture in Florence
• Sailing or lounging on glamorous Lake Como
• Taking Instagram-worthy photos along the colorful Amalfi Coast
• Experiencing the unique canal-based lifestyle of Venice

What makes Italy particularly special for friend groups is how the culture itself celebrates togetherness. Long, leisurely meals, evening passeggiatas (strolls), and vibrant piazzas (public squares) all facilitate the kind of quality time that makes friend vacations memorable.

The country’s excellent train network makes multi-city itineraries relatively straightforward, allowing your group to experience several of Italy’s distinct regions in a single trip.

Best Places To Travel With Friends Under 21

Finding destinations that offer great entertainment for travelers under 21 requires a bit more planning, but these locations provide unforgettable experiences without age restrictions.

Disney World: Nostalgia and New Adventures

Orlando’s Disney World offers the perfect opportunity for friends to revisit childhood joys while creating new memories together. The complex includes four main theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom), two water parks, and Disney Springs shopping and entertainment district.

Beyond Disney, Orlando offers numerous other attractions including Universal Studios (featuring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter), SeaWorld, and countless entertainment options throughout the city. The area’s warm weather year-round makes it especially appealing for friends escaping colder climates.

What makes Disney particularly appealing for under-21 groups is the complete experience it offers—from themed dining to immersive attractions to evening entertainment—all without centering on alcohol.

New York City: The Ultimate Urban Adventure

Known as “the city that never sleeps,” New York offers endless possibilities for under-21 friend groups. The city’s iconic status means first-time visitors will want to check off famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Times Square, but the real magic happens when you explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

Broadway shows provide world-class entertainment accessible to all ages, while Central Park offers everything from rowboat rentals to free concerts depending on the season. The city’s museum scene ranges from the comprehensive Metropolitan Museum of Art to specialized collections like the Museum of Modern Art and the American Museum of Natural History.

New York’s food scene is legendary, with options ranging from dollar pizza slices to some of the world’s finest restaurants. The city’s public transportation system makes it relatively easy for groups to navigate without needing to drive.

No matter when you visit, you’ll find events, performances, and activities happening around the clock, making New York an energizing destination for friend groups of any age.

Best Cheap Places To Go on Vacation With Friends

Budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy exceptional experiences at these value destinations.

Cancun, Mexico: All-Inclusive Paradise

Consistently ranked as one of the most affordable international beach destinations, Cancun offers an appealing combination of stunning Caribbean beaches, water activities, and nightlife. The city’s infrastructure is well-developed for tourism, making it accessible even for groups with limited international travel experience.

Cancun excels at offering value through its all-inclusive resorts, where one upfront price covers accommodations, meals, drinks, and often activities. This model makes it easier for friend groups to budget effectively and avoid the awkwardness of constantly splitting bills.

Beyond lounging on white-sand beaches, visitors can enjoy snorkeling, sailing, swimming, and various water sports. Day trips to nearby attractions like the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum or Chichen Itza or the natural swimming holes called cenotes add cultural and adventure elements to a beach vacation.

Dominican Republic: Caribbean Value

The Dominican Republic has established itself as one of the best budget destinations for travelers in their twenties seeking Caribbean beauty without premium prices. The country offers a winning combination of gorgeous beaches, mountain landscapes, and all-inclusive resorts that make group budgeting straightforward.

Punta Cana, on the eastern tip of the island, is particularly popular for its extensive beaches and resort options at various price points. For more adventurous groups, areas like Samaná offer opportunities to hike to waterfalls, explore national parks, and experience local culture beyond tourist zones.

The Dominican Republic’s size allows for diverse experiences, from the historical sites of Santo Domingo (the oldest European settlement in the Americas) to the mountain scenery of Jarabacoa, known for hiking and river rafting.

Atlantic City, New Jersey: Vegas by the Sea

For groups seeking the casino experience without Vegas prices, Atlantic City offers a compelling alternative with the added benefit of beaches. The famous Boardwalk provides the backbone of the visitor experience, lined with casinos, restaurants, and shops with views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Beyond gambling, Atlantic City offers concerts and shows, outlet shopping, and a surprising food scene ranging from high-end restaurants to iconic boardwalk treats. The city’s compact size makes it easy to navigate without a car once you’ve arrived.

What makes Atlantic City particularly appealing for budget-conscious friend groups is its accessibility from major Northeast population centers, eliminating the need for expensive flights for many travelers.

Atlanta, Georgia: Southern Hospitality and Urban Energy

Often overlooked as a friend destination, Atlanta offers a remarkable diversity of experiences at price points well below those of coastal cities. This “diamond in the rough” combines Southern hospitality with cosmopolitan attractions.

Atlanta’s varied attractions include:

• The immersive World of Coca-Cola museum
• The educational Center for Civil and Human Rights
• Outdoor recreation at Piedmont Park and the Atlanta BeltLine
• Hiking opportunities at nearby Stone Mountain
• A thriving music scene with venues showcasing everything from hip-hop to indie rock

The city’s food scene ranges from upscale restaurants led by celebrity chefs to authentic international cuisines to quintessential Southern cooking. Atlanta’s role as a major airline hub often means finding affordable flights is easier than to smaller destinations.

Best Places To Travel During COVID

While the pandemic situation continues to evolve, these destinations have adapted to provide safer travel experiences. Always check current travel restrictions and take personal precautions regardless of destination.

Colorado: Natural Social Distancing

Colorado’s vast landscapes and outdoor focus make it particularly well-suited for pandemic-era travel. The state’s national parks, monuments, and trail systems provide natural opportunities for social distancing while still enjoying memorable experiences with friends.

Winter visitors can enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding at resorts that have implemented comprehensive safety protocols. Summer and fall travelers have endless hiking, mountain biking, and camping options throughout the Rocky Mountains.

Beyond outdoor recreation, Colorado offers charming small towns and cities where outdoor dining and activities are abundant. From the artistic community of Boulder to the Old West atmosphere of Durango, each area has its own distinct character to explore.

Miami: Outdoor Living Year-Round

Miami’s year-round warm weather and outdoor-oriented lifestyle have made it a popular pandemic destination. The city’s beaches, parks, and outdoor dining scenes allow friends to gather while maintaining appropriate distancing.

Beyond South Beach’s famous scene, consider exploring:

• The artistic Wynwood district with its famous murals
• The culturally rich Little Havana neighborhood
• Key Biscayne for more secluded beaches and nature
• Day trips to the unique ecosystem of Everglades National Park

Miami’s value proposition has improved during the pandemic, with many hotels and attractions offering competitive rates to attract domestic travelers.

Antigua and Barbuda: Island Sanctuary

For international travelers seeking a beach destination with effective COVID protocols, Antigua and Barbuda stands out. This Caribbean nation has maintained relatively low infection numbers while welcoming tourists with clear safety guidelines.

The country’s appeal centers on its claim of having “a beach for every day of the year,” with 365 stretches of sand ranging from popular spots with amenities to secluded coves accessible only by boat. Water activities including sailing, snorkeling, and diving allow for natural distancing while enjoying the Caribbean’s beauty.

The islands’ small size and relatively low tourist density compared to more developed Caribbean destinations create a natural environment for maintaining distance while still enjoying tropical paradise with friends.

Final Thoughts on Friend Vacations

Traveling with friends creates a special kind of magic—those shared experiences become stories you’ll tell for decades to come. Whether you choose a domestic weekend getaway or an international adventure, the key is matching your destination to your group’s collective interests, budget, and travel style.

Start your planning conversations early, addressing key questions like:

• What’s our primary goal? Relaxation, adventure, culture, or a mix?
• What’s our realistic budget range?
• How much time can everyone commit?
• What are the non-negotiable experiences for each person?

With thoughtful planning and the right destination, your friend vacation can become the highlight of your year and the foundation for even deeper connections with the people who matter most in your life.