Looking for some cool places to travel with friends? This article will give you some fun vacation ideas with your best friends in the US and around the world.
Whether you’re planning a bachelor/bachelorette party, a girls/guys weekend, or a best friend getaway, there are tons of cool places —both in the US and abroad — that will pique your interest. Vacations for friends can include getting lost in nature, relaxing on the beach, or partying in the city. Hanging out with friends doesn’t have to break the bank either. Consider a camping trip or volunteering abroad. These days, you certainly can’t run out of fun ideas and places to go with friends!
This article covers all the bucket list destinations you’ll want to see with your best friends. So pack your bags and get excited for the trip of a lifetime.
Without further ado, here are the 19 best places to travel with friends that will make for an unforgettable getaway!
Also read: Unique Tips for Traveling as a Couple
1. Las Vegas, Nevada
Gambling, shopping, drinking, and eating are some experiences you and your best friends can look forward to in Las Vegas. It’s a place where you can live the high-life for not a lot money, which makes it an attractive destination for young adults. Hotels are ridiculously cheap, and you can get free drinks at many of the casinos. It’s no wonder Las Vegas is a popular pick for bachelor and bachelorette parties.
Hang out around the Las Vegas Strip, which is a giant party scene during all hours of the day. Be sure to make your way up to a rooftop pool party or hit the casinos. It’s easy to lose track of time as you’re partying the night away. They don’t call Vegas “sin city” for nothing!
For the outdoorsy types, I recommend doing a day trip to Valley of Fire State Park or Red Rock Canyon. The fresh air and beautiful scenery will also help you treat your hangover.
If you’ve never been to Las Vegas with your friends before, be sure to add this to your bucket list!
Read next: Top Road Trip Destinations in the US
2. Cartagena, Colombia
Party and adventure await you in Cartagena de Indias. This Colombian city, which hugs the Caribbean coastline, is known for its fun party atmosphere. The vibrant architecture and lively nightlife are enough to entertain you for days, and the prices are cheap, too. This makes Cartagena a popular choice for bachelor and bachelorette parties.
Stay at a five-star hotel on a budget, or a cool and quirky Airbnb with a pool. It’s one of the best places to travel with friends because you can do just about anything inside the city’s colorful colonial walls: throw a pool party, eat and drink all day, and explore the unique cultural and historical attractions. In Cartagena, the opportunities are endless, and you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank. What more could you want in a trip with your best friends?
Read next: Top Reasons to Visit Bogota, Colombia
3. Nashville, Tennessee
Music lovers rejoice! As the birthplace of country, Nashville is a city that beats to its own drum. It’s home to the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and a myriad of bars and restaurants with live music. It’s certainly a top place to visit in Tennessee, and it’s easy to see why.
Nashville is a magnet for those seeking a mix of country charm and modern attractions. To accommodate the hordes of bachelors and bachelorettes, you’ll find new boutiques and restaurants every time you go. There are also lots of greenspaces, where you can enjoy the outdoors in a cool city setting.
Start your day by going for a bike ride through one of Nashville’s 100 urban parks, and spend your afternoon and evening eating, drinking, and dancing to live music. You won’t want to travel with your friends any other way!
Read next: Best Underrated Vacation Spots in the US
4. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Vacations for friends truly don’t get any cooler than Amsterdam. As the capital and biggest city in the Netherlands, Amsterdam is a cultural center perfect for just about anyone. History buffs are drawn to the historic riverfront buildings and world-class museums, while outdoorsy types enjoy the vast network of bike paths and canals.
Be sure to check out the top museums in the city, including the Anne Frank House, Rijkmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum. Beer lovers won’t want to miss a visit to the Heineken Experience, one of my favorite interactive brewery museums. Hanging out with friends outdoors? Be sure to ride bikes like the locals do, have a picnic in the Vondelpark, and do a canal cruise.
Amsterdam takes fun with friends to a whole new level with its drinking and dining scene. The nightlife in the city is among the best in all of Europe, and it won’t take long to see why. Whether you’re looking for party, history, or art, Amsterdam is certainly a best vacation for friends.
5. Bali, Indonesia
Looking for some of the best places to go with friends? Meet Bali! I recently visited this Indonesian island and was blown away by the raw beauty and endless things to do.
Picture emerald-green rice terraces that seem straight out of a dream, ancient temples shrouded in mystery, and sun-kissed beaches caressed by turquoise waves. Bali is a playground of wonders that promises an unforgettable experience like no other.
First, let’s talk about the vibrant energy that pulses through this island paradise. From bustling markets brimming with colorful treasures to the lively nightlife that sets the stage for endless revelry, Bali knows how to keep the good times rolling.
But that’s just the beginning! Bali offers a smorgasbord of adventure for the thrill-seekers among you. Strap on your hiking boots and conquer the mighty Mount Batur, an active volcano that rewards your efforts with breathtaking sunrise views. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Or, test your surfing skills on the world-famous waves that grace Bali’s shores.
For the foodies in the group, get ready to embark on a culinary journey. Balinese cuisine is a symphony of flavors, from succulent satay skewers to aromatic nasi goreng and mouthwatering babi guling (suckling pig). The fruit here is also out of this world – so fresh and nutrient-rich!
Lastly, Bali is a place that nurtures friendships and creates unbreakable bonds. Embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Balinese people, who welcome you with open arms and contagious smiles. Share laughter, embark on new adventures together, and you’ll see why Indonesia is one of the best countries to visit with friends.
6. Boston, Massachusetts
Trips for groups come in all shapes and sizes, but visiting Boston is a fun idea for just about anyone. Though it isn’t as big as NYC or as rowdy as Nashville, there are many compelling reasons to visit. Here are a few that cement Boston’s reputation among places to go with friends.
History lovers will enjoy visualizing this country’s founding at the Freedom Trail, Boston Tea Party Museum, and Old North Church. Take a stroll through old and scenic public parks, including the Boston Common and Public Garden. Plus, you won’t have to drive far to find some amazing mountains for skiing, fishing villages for shopping and eating, and nature reserves for exploring. Regardless of your interests, Boston will not let you down as one of the best places to go on vacation with friends.
Take advantage of Boston’s multicultural restaurant scene and it’s mouthwatering desserts that include everything from Italian to Asian specialties. There’s also a fun nightlife here, made even better by all the world-class universities that call Boston their home. With so much charm and personality, this city is definitely among the places to go with friends on holiday.
Read next: Top Day Trips in New England
You may also like: Boston Travel Advisories + Restrictions
7. Paris, France
Paris is a magical European city like no other. The French capital has lured people with its charm and romance for centuries, and today it’s definitely one of the best places to travel with friends.
It’s easy to fall in love with Paris. Enjoy a picnic on the lawn next to the Eiffel Tower with a baguette, cheese, and champagne in hand. Shop til you drop on the Champs-Élysées, marvel at the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and admire the world’s largest art museum, the Louvre Museum. There’s so much to see and do in Paris, making it the perfect place for a friend’s trip.
Read next: Prettiest European Cities to Visit in 2022
8. Hawaii, USA
Hawaii is a top place to visit with friends who are beachgoers. This tropical paradise is filled with pristine beaches, lush forests, and epic otherworldly landscapes.
Though Hawaii can be on the pricey side, it’s worth every penny. Check out the beach clubs and resorts on Maui, explore the jungles on the Big Island, or get a more authentic experience on the untouched island of Molokai. There’s truly something for everyone in Hawaii.
Looking for some R&R? Relax on a black, white, or red sand beach with a cocktail in hand, and you’ll see why Hawaii is among the best places to travel with friends.
Read next: Best Islands to Visit around the World
For further reading: Molokai Travel Itinerary
You may also like: Local things to see and do in Oahu
9. Iceland is a top place to travel with friends for adventure seekers
Iceland is a dreamy destination for outdoor lovers. It’s jam-packed with precious scenery, including everything from geysers and hot springs to glaciers, fjords, and black sand beaches, making it the ideal destination for road trips.
Unlike other places on this list, which may be more seasonal, Iceland can be enjoyed on a friends trip any time of year. In the winter months, you’ll have the aurora borealis to look forward to each night, while in the summer, you can go backpacking across the dramatic Icelandic landscapes.
Chase waterfalls, eat delicious local delicacies, and go horseback riding across one of the most breathtaking islands imaginable. Is Iceland one of the best places to travel with friends? Absolutely!
Read next: Coolest Instagram Spots in Iceland
For further reading: West Iceland Travel Bucket List
You may also like: The Ultimate Iceland Itinerary
10. New York City, NY
NYC is nicknamed the “city that never sleeps.” It’s easy to see why amid this urban sprawl packed with world-class restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
Get lost in Central Park and the concrete jungle, before heading into a dim sum restaurant (or just about any other international restaurant imaginable!). For unbeatable views of the Empire State Building and the rest of the NYC skyline, head up to Top of the Rock observation deck. Or catch a Broadway show at one of the 41 theaters near Times Square.
New York City is an urban oasis that you won’t find anywhere on Earth. It’s totally a place where you’ll want to bring your best friends! For a more nature-oriented experience in NY, consider making a trip to the Adirondacks, the Finger Lakes, or Lake George. It’s no wonder that New York is among the coolest places to go with friends.
Read next: Coolest Stays in the Adirondacks
11. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is where coastal charm meets world-class culture. This city draws people from around the world with its vibrant architecture and amazing food, but there’s so much more than meets the eye in Barcelona.
By day, discover Barcelona’s cool cultural and historic attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell. And by night, experience Barcelona’s spirited nightlife, where you’ll be tempted to stay out all night just in time to catch sunrise at the beach.
Barcelona has a modern cosmopolitan vibe with a unique Catalan heritage. The prices for most attractions are reasonable, and it’s easy to gain free entry at nightclubs if you do some research. This affordability, coupled with fun things to do at every turn, makes Barcelona a solid idea for a best friend trip. It’s truly a must-see when you’re visiting Spain.
Read next: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Barcelona
For further reading: Most Beautiful Instagram Spots in Spain
12. New Orleans, Louisiana is among the best places to travel with friends who like to party
Looking for one of the best places to go with friends? Don’t sleep on New Orleans. This city is heaven on Earth for those looking for a fun party atmosphere.
For a particularly joyous occasion, be sure to visit during Mardi Gras in February. Mardi Gras (“Fat Tuesday” in French) is the climax of weeks of carnival celebrations, filled with drinking, colorful parades, and loud music. Though Mardi Gras is a bucket list experience, you really can’t go wrong visiting New Orleans any time of year.
As a hub of hedonism, New Orleans draws bachelors and bachelorettes from around the country. With so many restaurants, bars, and a mix of Afro/Caribbean and European influences, it’s no wonder New Orleans is a popular place for a best friend trip.
Read next: Coolest Bucket List Ideas in the World
13. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you’re thinking about places to go with your best friend, but it should be! As the capital of Portugal, it’s
With amazing food, coastal scenery, and postcard-worthy sights at every turn, Lisbon deserves a spot on your best friend travel bucket list. Foodies are drawn to the fresh seafood and Michelin-starred restaurants, while party animals are electrified by Lisbon’s world-class nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars.
The colorful buildings, lofty hills, and waterfront views are nothing short of extraordinary, and you’ll want to share all of it with your best friends or significant other.
Read next: Underrated European Cities to Visit in 2022
For further reading: Coolest Airbnb Rentals in Europe
14. Disney World in Orlando, Florida
Do you ever find yourself reflecting on the good old days with your lifelong friends? Relive your childhood with your best friends by visiting Disney World!
It’s quite different visiting Disney World as an adult versus a kid, but it’s no less enjoyable. Go on some of your favorite rides before eating candy and ice cream until you get a stomach ache. Drink and eat around the world at Epcot by trying a different drink and snack at each of the countries.
Disney is magical at any age, as long as you bring the right company!
Read next: Coolest Vacation Rentals in Florida
15. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
While most spring breakers head to Mexico and Florida, this Caribbean destination feels more authentic, yet no less beautiful. Punta Cana is known for its world-class beaches and luxurious hotels, which won’t break the bank. It also offers lots of fun outdoor adventures, including snorkeling, zip lining, boating, and so much more. It’s no wonder, then, that it’s considered among the top vacations for friends.
Stay at an all-inclusive beach resort like the Hard Rock Hotel or Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa. Soak in the sun from gorgeous beaches including Bavaro Beach and Playa Macao. Whether you’re into watersports, sunbathing, golfing, or all the above, it’s not hard to see why Punta Cana is one of the coolest places to go with friends.
16. Austin, Texas is among the most fun places to go with friends
Visiting the Lone Star state is always a great idea, and if there’s one place you should go to with your best friends, it should be Austin!
Austin is considered the “live music capital of the world,” hosting two annual music festivals including the Austin City Limits Festival and SXSW. But even if you don’t attend one of those, you’ll be treated to live music every night at the city’s best bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Enjoy a good old fashioned Texas barbeque before heading out on the town to dance the night away. There’s no place quite like Austin!
Aside from its music and gastronomical scene, Austin’s urban parks and southern charm are hard to resist. Chat up locals and you’ll be amazed by their kindness and hospitality. It won’t be long until you and your best friends fall in love with this city.
17. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a city of superlatives, boasting the best beer, oldest castle, and largest nightclub in Europe. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe, where you’ll find vibrant and historic architecture on every street. It’s easy to see why this city is also among the best places to visit with friends.
Experience Prague like a local bohemian by drinking Pilsner Urquell. Party all night at Karlovy Lázně, a five-story club that offers different music on each level. Take pictures on the iconic Charles Bridge, and don’t miss a visit to the 9th-century hilltop castle. From art and architecture enthusiasts to beer lovers and party animals, there’s something for everyone in Prague.
To make things even better, the prices are super cheap in Prague, especially when compared to Western European cities. It’s no wonder that Prague is a top pick for best trips with friends.
Read next: The Best Cities to Visit in Europe
For further reading: Cheapest Places in Europe
You may also like: Coolest UNESCO Sites around the World
18. Napa Valley, California is among the best places to travel with friends who love wine
If you’re into fine wines and stunning scenery, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect place to go with friends than Napa Valley.
Napa Valley is among the top wine regions in the world, and is a popular vacation getaway within reach of San Francisco. Napa is a bit pricier than nearby Sonoma Valley, but it’s totally worth it for the amazing wine and picturesque views.
Tour some of the many vineyards in Napa Valley, doing wine tastings and maybe even joining a wine club or two. Then, at night, head into Downtown Napa for some amazing restaurants (and more wine). Stay at a boutique hotel in the heart of Wine Country, and you’ll never want to leave. But if you do, at least San Francisco — another great place to visit with friends — is right around the corner!
Read next: Coolest Wine Regions to Visit
You may also like: Top Treehouse Rentals in CA
19. London, UK
Looking for fun places to go with friends? Add London to your vacation bucket list. This bustling cosmopolitan city also has many historic attractions, providing so many things to do in groups. Here’s what makes London the ultimate destination for hanging out with friends.
Stroll the River Thames, take a ride on the London Eye, and go for a pub crawl around Piccadilly Circus. And after a day exploring this amazing city, enjoy the nightlife that’s among the best in Europe. Friendcation ideas truly don’t get any better than this.
Rainy days come quite often in the United Kingdom, but that’s no reason to worry. The city is home to many museums and historic sites, such as the British Museum, Tower of London, Natural History Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and much more. Is this top among the fun places to travel? It sure is!
Read next: Coolest Getaways in the UK
You may also like: Top Photo Spots in the United Kingdom
20. Miami, Florida
Last, but certainly not least, on this list of the coolest places to travel with best friends is Miami. This beach destination in South Florida is filled with life, charm, and beauty. It boasts a vibrant nightlife and restaurant scene that is arguably unrivaled in the US. But if that isn’t enough to convince you, South Beach and Miami Beach, will.
Stay at a luxury villa or mansion overlooking the beach, or a boutique hotel embodying the tropical charm of the Caribbean. You won’t want to visit anywhere else!
Read next: Top Airbnb Mansions in Miami, FL
You may also like: Coolest Vacation Spots on the East Coast
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about places to visit with friends
Are you looking for more interesting ideas and fun trips to take with friends? Here are some popular questions (and answers) that will get the creative juices flowing:
What places should I go to with my friends?
Curious about local places to go with friends? Let’s dive into some fun activities that you can do in your own backyard:
- Retro game night: Dust off your classic gaming consoles or fire up an emulator, and challenge your friends to epic battles in Super Mario Kart, Street Fighter II, or Pac-Man.
- Picnic potluck in the park: Gather your friends, pack a basket full of delectable treats, and venture to a picturesque park nearby. Spread out your cozy blankets and bask in the warm sunlight. Share stories, play frisbee, and savor the simple pleasures of good company amid nature.
- Mystery room escape adventure: Unleash your problem-solving prowess and test your wits. Unravel enigmatic puzzles, follow clues, and work as a team to unlock hidden secrets and emerge victorious within the allotted time.
- Art Jamming Session: Unleash your inner artist and embark on a colorful journey of self-expression with an art jamming session. Find a local studio or set up your own creative haven at home.
- Food crawl: Embark on a culinary expedition through your city, uncovering hidden gems and savoring a cornucopia of flavors. Designate a day for a food crawl, where each friend chooses a favorite local eatery or food truck to sample.
- Karaoke: Unleash your inner diva or rockstar and hit the local karaoke joint for an unforgettable night. Belt out your favorite tunes, dance like nobody’s watching, and revel in the pure joy of uninhibited singing and laughter.
- Outdoor Movie Night: Transform your backyard or a local park into a magical open-air cinema under the stars. Set up a cozy seating area with blankets and cushions, project your favorite films onto a screen or white wall, and let the silver screen transport you to captivating worlds.
What can you do on vacation with friends?
Planning an epic adventure with your buddies? Get ready for some seriously awesome things to do on your vacation together. Check out these cool ideas that’ll make your trip a blast:
- Go off the beaten path: Get your explorer vibes on and venture into uncharted territory. Hike through lush forests, climb breathtaking mountains, or dive into the deep blue sea. Let your curiosity guide you as you discover hidden gems and conquer the great unknown.
- Foodie frenzy: Get those taste buds buzzing and embark on a mouthwatering food tour. Dive into street food adventures, try out fancy gourmet spots, or even take a cooking class to whip up some local delights.
- Game night: Time to let your inner gamers loose! Challenge each other to epic battles, mind-boggling puzzles, and heart-pounding video game adventures.
- Soak in the arts: Immerse yourselves in the magic of live performances and soak up the culture around you. Catch an amazing theater show, groove to the beat of a mind-blowing concert, or be mesmerized by the elegance of a ballet performance.
- Get creative: Unleash your artistic side and embark on some creative endeavors together. Paint on canvases, mold clay into funky sculptures, or capture stunning landscapes with your cameras. Let your imaginations run wild and embrace the joy of creating something unique.
- Nature retreat: Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find solace in nature’s embrace. Set up camp under a starry sky, go kayaking in serene waters, or simply unwind on a sunny beach. Visiting a retreat center is always a good idea!
- Snap and share: Capture all those priceless moments of joy by taking loads of pictures or making videos. Every click of the camera freezes memories of goofiness and shared adventures.
Why is traveling with friends fun?
Traveling with friends is an absolute blast! It amplifies the fun factor and creates unforgettable memories. Here’s why it’s so great:
- Shared experiences: Every adventure becomes even more exciting when you have friends by your side. From exploring new places to conquering challenges together, the memories you create become stories to cherish.
- Endless laughter: Friends have a unique way of making each moment hilarious. Inside jokes, playful banter, and shared pranks add an extra layer of joy to the journey.
- Support system: When unexpected obstacles arise, friends provide unwavering support. Whether it’s navigating language barriers or offering a comforting hand, you can rely on each other.
- Broadening horizons: Each friend brings their own interests and knowledge, opening up new possibilities. You might try new activities or discover hidden gems you wouldn’t have found alone.
- Stronger bonds: Traveling together deepens friendships. The shared adventures and challenges create a profound connection and form lasting bonds.
- Authenticity: Traveling with friends allows you to be your true self. It’s a safe space where you can let your guard down and embrace your quirks without judgment.
Are road trips fun with friends?
Absolutely! Road trips with friends are an absolute blast! It’s like embarking on a thrilling adventure filled with laughter, memorable moments, and a playlist of epic tunes.
Buckle up and get ready for a journey packed with inside jokes, scenic views, spontaneous detours, and the joy of shared experiences. From the open road stretching out before you to the wind in your hair and the camaraderie that grows stronger with every mile, road trips with friends are the perfect recipe for an unforgettable adventure. So grab your buddies, pack some snacks, and let the road be your playground as you find unique places to travel with friends.
Unique places to go with your best friends in 2022
Due to the pandemic, traveling is still going to look a bit different this year. However, let’s remain hopeful that better days—and our best trips with friends— are yet to come!
Hopefully, this article has given you some interesting bucket list ideas to enjoy with your best friends. Have you been to a special place with your friends that you feel should be included? Send me a message on Instagram or email me at jon(at)myglobalviewpoint.com. I’d love to hear from you!
Happy (and safe) travels! – Jon
