Whether it’s to get away from your job or your kids, everyone needs a girl trip every now and then. It’s a time to get away and let the weight of the world melt off of your shoulders. It doesn’t matter if you prefer balmy beaches or brisk mountains, there is a girl’s trip destination to fit every personality. Here are 15 of the best girl trip destinations in the world:
1. New York, USA
New York is so much more than New York City, although the city is a great place to spend a girl’s weekend. Take in museums, and sites like the Brooklyn Bridge or High Line. Or go on a tour such as the Friends or Sex and the City Tour that takes you to different locations that the shows were filmed.
If the city is not your idea of a good time don’t worry. You can take in the beaches of the Hamptons for a relaxing getaway or head a few hours north to charming towns such as Sleepy Hollow or Kingston which are filled with history and small-town art and scenery.
2. Iceland
You might think of Iceland as a barren land that is barely inhabitable, much less worth the visit. You could be more wrong. Iceland has the capability of not only being fun, but it can also be extravagant.
Taking a trip down to relax in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon or taking a snowmobile ride on an ancient glacier are just two of the things this country has to offer. Stay at the Hotel Ranga for the chance to view the northern lights or take a trip out to Thingvellir which is the site of the oldest democratic parliament in the world.
Here’s a great video of Iceland for first-timers you should check out:
3. New Orleans, USA
There is more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras, although Mardi Gras is a great reason to visit this southern wonderland. No matter what time of year you choose to go, New Orleans has a lot to offer you and your friends.
You can take in the architecture and history of the French Quarter with its wrought-iron balconies and Creole cottages, take a walk through the garden district, or tour through the historic cemeteries and see the grave of the infamous voodoo priestess Marie Laveau.
When you are done take in a brunch of beignets which are similar to donuts and then drown in powdered sugar.
You can also try traditional gumbo or attend a crawfish boil to get the real feel of the local cuisine. At night the city is filled with live music coming from the various dives on Frenchman Street. No matter where you turn in this city there is something new for you to see.
4. London, UK
London is a city packed full of history, having been around since the first century AD, so this trip might be best for a week instead of a weekend. But whether you have 24 hours or 24 days to spend in London with your girlfriends, you will always have something new to see and experience.
You can take in historic sites like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey. Or you can take a ride on the London Eye to take in a bird’s eye view of the city. Having afternoon tea, taking in a show at the theatre, and spending the afternoon shopping at one of the city’s many markets are just a few other things that London has to offer.
5. Croatia
Croatia is a little island nestled between Slovenia and Bosnia, across the Adriatic Sea from Italy. There are thousands of islands – such as Korcula – on Croatia’s coastline, making it a great place to explore for an all-girls getaway.
Croatia is a sunny getaway full of beaches and nightlife. You can also visit the remains of Diocletian’s Palace, whose ruins not only provided the backdrop for Game of Thrones, but it also hides bars, restaurants, and shops for you to experience. The best part of Croatia is that it is an affordable European destination, so you can have a lot of fun for not a lot of money.
6. Mexico
If you are wanting to visit the beach on a budget Mexico is a great destination. It’s easy to get to if you live in Canada or the United States and has something for everyone.
One of the best ways to visit Mexico is to do an adults-only all-inclusive trip. Hit up a resort where you are covered for everything from room service to your late-night drink cravings. Make sure to take into account how many people are coming so that you reserve an adequate amount of rooms, many resorts only allow three people per room.
7. Italy
Italy is a country known for its beauty and romance, but it can be a great adventure for a girl’s trip too. Hit up Rome to take in St. Peter’s Basilica or the Sistine Chapel. Enjoy pizza in Naples or tiramisu in Venice.
And if you want some time to relax while taking everything in, consider hitting up the Amalfi Coast, where you can relax on the beach or take in the history of cities like Pompeii and visit the UNESCO World Heritage site with a Pompeii reserved entry ticket.
8. Aruba
Aruba is a great island destination that offers something for everyone. You can take in a spa during the day, or beach hop to soak in some sun. Scuba diving in Aruba allows you to experience the beauty of underwater life firsthand. Don’t forget to take a good diving mask that doesn’t compromise visibility underwater and allows you to take everything in.
If the water isn’t your idea of fun, you can go on an off-road tour of the island during the day. At night you can spend your time wining and dining on the island’s cuisine, and dancing until the sun comes up the next morning.
9. Bali, Indonesia
Whether you like to surf, shop, or relax, this Indonesian Island of the Gods has it all. Enjoy a 24k gold facial at the Gold Dust Beauty Lounge or shop the day away in Seminyak. To get away from the traditional hotel experience, Bali offers several villas for you and your friends to stay in the lap of luxury. You can even book a villa with a car and driver included so that you can get out and explore even more of Bali.
Wanna know the best part?
Not only Bali is a dream girlfriend getaway spot, but it is also an excellent destination for solo female travel and a luxury girls trips paradise! Check this vlogger’s experience:
10. Paris, France
If you had to sum up Paris in one word, it would be glamorous. This is why it’s one of the best places to visit with your girlfriends. Check out Gumbo Yaya for a bit of Parisian-style soul food, or head to Les Papilles if you are wanting cuisine that is a little more traditional to the city.
Make sure to get a museum pass as well, so that you can check out attractions such as the Louvre and the Notre Dame Towers without paying a separate fee for each tour. If you are looking for a place to stay, check out the Hotel Esmeralda, this charming hotel has great views of Notre Dame.
11. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo might take you a while to get to, but it is so worth the travel time. This city is vibrant and lively but still holds tight to its old roots. You can go shopping in Harajuku for one-of-a-kind pieces no one will have back home, or you can visit Asakusa, which is a quiet neighborhood that holds Sensoji, the city’s oldest temple.
There are also a lot of themed cafes to try out in Tokyo. You can have an entire meal in the shape of Hello Kitty at one cafe or get up close and personal with cuddly hedgehogs at another.
12. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is full of the rich and diverse culture that encompasses Spain. The city also boasts the ability to be both a mountain and beach getaway at the same time!
So, you can go mountain biking or hiking in the morning, and spend your afternoon lounging around the beach if you want.
Make sure to check out the Sagrada Familia and relax at one of the restored Arab baths that sit throughout the city. Of course, you can’t go to Barcelona without doing a bit of shopping. Check out the districts of Gracia and Ciutat Vella, to find both designer labels and small local boutiques.
Em Sheldon posted a great vlog about her Barcelona trip:
13. St. Lucia
St. Lucia, which sits in the Eastern Caribbean, might be small in size but it is not lacking in fun. Everywhere you turn you will find attractions, experiences, and beautiful scenery that will help you fall in love with this island paradise.
Stay at the Hotel Chocolat for a chocolate-making experience where you can learn not only how chocolate is made, but also how it is grown and processed. But don’t forget to get out and climb the Gros Piton, which will allow you to take in the unforgettable views of Soufriere Bay.
14. Santorini, Greece
The turquoise waters and white sands make Santorini a paradise, the white Cycladic houses lining the cliff tops just add another layer to the island’s beauty. Go in June, when the peak tourist times of July and August haven’t suffocated the area.
During your visit make sure to hike the infamous Fira-Oia trail, which takes you along the caldera cliff.
You can also check out one of the winery tours offered throughout the island and watch this great vlog on Fira, Oia, Persia, and Kamari:
15. Monterey, California
Monterey isn’t the biggest city in California but this Bay Area oasis packs on the charm in ways that you couldn’t imagine. Walk or bike around the town to see all the bits and pieces it has to offer or take a tour of the Folktale Winery which often offers girls’ night out events.
Get a bite to eat on the boardwalk, where you are often greeted by sea lions basking on the rocks in the bay. You can also walk around downtown Pacific Grove California, only a few miles away from Monterey, whose bright Victorian houses will make you feel like you’re walking into a postcard.
Where will you head first? As someone wise once said: The world is your oyster!
