18 Best Vacations for a Group of Friends

We are all aware of the fact that destinations like Paris and Venice are ideal for couples and that Washington D.C. and Rome are perfect for families, but where should a group of friends go? What are the ideal vacations for a group of friends?

People are often asking this question related to group travel. Despite the popularity of group travel, planning vacations for a group of friends is not easy.

You have to find a destination that everyone will love, pick a hotel that everyone can afford, and close in on a place that will meet the travel preferences of each individual.

Best Places to Go on Vacation with Friends

Here are best destinations and places to go with friends that will cover all traveler personalities and will ensure that each member of the group has a wonderful time.

1. Napa Valley, California

One can never go wrong with this wine country. You can enjoy bike tours and wine tastings that are specially designed for large groups. It remains one of the best vacations for a group of friends in the US.

When you are not sipping on vino, you can relax at one of the villas in the area or take a hike to the surrounding hills.

If you want to enjoy metro living, head to nearby San Francisco or Sacramento. Napa Valley is not only known for wine, it has a long-standing nightlife and spa scene. 

You can relax, chill with your friends and make the most of the colorful nightlife.

Napa Valley is also an ideal destination for foodies with its excellent fine dining options. This also makes for an excellent girls’ trip from San Francisco where you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Grab an easy tour straight from San Francisco and visit wine country and Muir Woods.

Like what you are hearing? Check out our full guide on the best things to do in Northern California.

Where to stay:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Silverado Resort and Spa, A Dolce Wyndham
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Wine Country Inn & Cottages Napa Valley
• Best Budget Hotel: Best Western Plus Inn at The Vines

See Related: Best California Road Trips to Take with Friends

2. Montreal, Canada

Those who do not have adequate time to take a complete European vacation, opt for Montreal. It is a popular destination for group trips.

The beautiful city will make you feel like you have hopped across the pond and it is perfect for those who only have a few days to get away.

Montreal is one destination that will be loved by foodies and history buffs equally. Quebec is a cosmopolitan province that has a mix of modernism and the old European charm. It is one of the most visited cities in Canada and is known as the Paris of Canada.

Montreal is one of the liveliest cities in North America. Walk around Old Montreal, listen to jazz, explore the Old Port, head to Mile End, and enjoy the stunning food scene of the city. 

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton Montreal
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Le Square Phillips And Suites
• Best Budget Hotel: La Loggia Art B&B

See Related: 9 Cell Phones That Can Be Used in Canada

3. Nashville, Tennessee

A hot spot for vacations for a group of friends in recent years, Nashville is a must-have on your friend’s travel bucket list.

Nashville has exceptional food, music, and a happening nightlife scene. This is one destination that will please every type of traveler’s personality.

The bustling city is overflowing with live music venues and restaurants. It will also be an opportunity for you to learn more about music’s influence. Known as the Music City, Nashville remains at the top of everyone’s bucket list.

Whether it is your first time in Nashville or you are revising the destination, you will never be disappointed. You will be able to learn about the rich history of the place. It also has several cute boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. 

Plan a friend’s trip with Getaway to explore Nashville like a country music star.

Check out these top things to do in Nashville, Tennessee to build your travel itinerary.

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: The Hermitage Hotel
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Drury Plaza Hotel Nashville
• Best Budget Hotel: Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown

See Related: Scott’s Cheap Flights Review

4. Reykjavik, Iceland

One of the most beautiful places in the world, Iceland gained popularity in 2017. It is at the top of world destinations for a group of friends. If you have not ticked it off your bucket list yet, gather your friends and head to Iceland.

It is perfect for nature lovers and the great outdoors who want to do a lot more than a basic camping trip. Iceland cannot be beaten at the Blue Lagoon, sand beaches, Ring Road, and, of course, the Northern Lights.

Rent a car in Iceland and you can see an entire country in a matter of a few days. 

When in Reykjavik, you can enjoy concerts, art galleries, museums, shopping, relax in the swimming pools and enjoy whale watching. It’s literally the land of fresh air with limited pollution.

This destination has something for every type of traveler’s personality. Image seeing the Northern Lights with some of your closest friends. It doesn’t get much better than that.

Check out this Iceland itinerary to find the best places to explore during your stay.

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Sand Hotel By Keahotels
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Central Hotels Plaza
• Best Budget Hotel: Hótel Múli

See Related: Best Credit Cards for Overseas Travel

5. New York City

The largest city in the US, New York City, is a great idea for a friends’ trip and is another city that needs to be on your friend travel bucket list. Talk about a city that has something for everyone.

If you are traveling with new friends, the Big Apple can be a great place to learn more about each other as there are great food options for even the pickiest of eaters.

A friend’s trip to NYC can include excursions to the main tourist attractions if you and all of your friends haven’t seen the hot spots like the Empire State Building, Times Square, World Trade Center, and the Statue of Liberty. Or, you can visit MoMa or the Met Gallery.

New York features some of the best museums in the United States.

The good news about all those landmarks is that you can grab a New York Pass to get exclusive access to all the historical landmarks for one flat fee. This is a great way for you and your friends to all get on the same page for the sights you want to see.

Alternatively, if your group getaway is more oriented around nightlife or culture, consider spending time staying somewhere outside of Manhatten to get a feel for the boroughs.

Check out the boutique hotel, Ace Hotel Brooklyn, where you’ll be within walking distance to shopping, dining, and all the hottest bars in the area.

Like what you are hearing? Check out some of these other guides to the Big Apple:

• CityPASS New York vs New York Pass
• New York Pass Review: Is It Worth It?
• Best Parks in New York City

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Conrad New York Downtown
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Lotte New York Palace
• Best Budget Hotel: Hi Nyc Hostel

See Related: Best Places to Travel for Your Birthday

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you are a “Game of Thrones” fan, you will love Dubrovnik. You can explore “King’s Landing” here as it was the main film location for the show.

This is a great destination across the world and makes for a great spot for best friends to travel together (since you may be heading into a culturally different environment).

Dubrovnik has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe for you to explore. Croatia is surprisingly affordable and is a great option to visit in Europe if you’re looking to save money while on your trip.

Besides soaking in the exceptional view of the beaches, you can visit Fort Lovrijenac, head to Gornji Ugao Tower, or visit Lokrum Island.

You can also head to the Old Town and explore the ancient city walls, walk through the restaurant and store lined Stradun.

If you are a party lover, you will thoroughly enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Dubrovnik. This destination also offers an opportunity to indulge in wine, consider visiting Primorska Hrvatska wine country as a day trip or road trip excursion outside of the city.

Check out these other top cities in Croatia with our travel guides:

• 48 Hours in Zagreb, Croatia
• 48 Hours in Split, Croatia

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Villa Dubrovnik
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Dubrovnik Palace
• Best Budget Hotel: Hotel Royal Neptun

See Related: Best Midwest Roadtrips in the U.S.

7. Munich, Germany

Head to Munich for Oktoberfest and you will find yourself at the world’s wildest parties. If you cannot make it in September, do not worry. Munich is an exciting city with history, art, and beer that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Bring your best friend along to see both sides of the city. The one for the beer lovers and the one filled with history and old churches.

There are glaciers and mountains for biking, skiing, and hiking and it has stunning lakes to laze during the months of summer.

When in Munich, head to Marienplatz Square, Munich Residenz, BMW museum, and shop at Maximilianstrasse.

Munich has some of the finest restaurants and cafes for you to explore. The nightlife in Munich will not disappoint you. It’s one of the top party cities in Europe.

Check out these top Munich breweries on your trip. 

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Beyond By Geisel
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Motel One Muchen-Parkstadt Schwabing
• Best Budget Hotel: Cocoon Stachus

See Related: Hotel Tonight Review

8. Tamarindo, Costa Rica

The tiny town of Tamarindo has several activities for you to engage in. It is an ideal destination for vacations for a group of friends.

Splash in the clean, turquoise water at this destination. There is fishing, surfing, zip-lining, diving, boating, horseback riding, white water rafting, and gorgeous beaches to lay out on.

Check out this full one-week in Costa Rica itinerary. There’s no shortage of options. Tamarindo is an ideal place for a getaway with a group. Do not forget to visit Las Baulas National Marine Park.

Tamarindo comes to life when the sun goes down. You can enjoy live music and let your hair down at one of the crazy party spots.

The bars are usually packed with tourists and locals. If you avoid the tourist season, this destination is pretty cheap as compared to many others and Costa Rica as a whole is a pretty safe place to visit.

Like what you are hearing? Check out these other best places to visit in Costa Rica to make the most of your trip.

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Capitan Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Wyndham Tamarindo
• Best Budget Hotel: Tamarindo Blue Apartments

See Related: Best Credit Cards for Travel Perks

9. New Orleans, Louisiana

If you are looking to party, there is Bourbon Street but that is not the only thing New Orleans has to offer. It is known as the top destination in USA vacations for groups of friends.

You can enjoy an unrivaled culinary experience here and for those who are keen to know more about history, there is the French Quarter. If you are into music, there are jazz clubs at each corner.

When it comes to the best group vacation destinations, there is no place like New Orleans. If you love partying until the night’s end, you’ll want to plan your trip around Fat Tuesday.

Ensure you book your hotel’s location near the French Quarter and book it early as it’s one of the biggest Mardis Gras festivals in the world.

Do not miss out on the Mercedez-Benz Superdome which is the highlight of the skyline in New Orleans. 

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Windsor Court Hotel
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Holiday Inn New Orleans-Downtown Superdome
• Best Budget Hotel: The Quisby

See Related: Best Road Trips in the United States

10. Amsterdam, Netherlands

No place can beat Amsterdam when it comes to vacations for a group of friends. This destination will offer a unique experience to every traveler’s personality. There is a Golden Age canal lined by buildings which is a backdrop for the treasure-packed museums.

You will find several shops, creative drinking, dancing, design, and dining scenes. When it comes to the nightlife, Amsterdam stands out.

The Van Gogh Museum is highly popular in Amsterdam and it has the largest collection of works by Vincent Van Gogh. It is a must-visit on your getaway.

There is the Stedelijk Museum, Anne Frank House, Herengracht, and Jordaan District. There are ample photo opportunities at these must-see places in Amsterdam.

Check out the best things to do in Amsterdam from the ViaTravelers YouTube channel.

15 Best Things to do in Amsterdam, Netherlands [4K UHD]

Watch this video on YouTube.

Whether you are a group of history buffs, party lovers, or art enthusiasts, you will not be disappointed here.  Heading there on a girls’ trip? Check out how to plan an epic girls’ trip to Amsterdam.

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Hotel Twentyseven
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Hyatt Regency Amsterdam
• Best Budget Hotel: Hotel Dwars

See Related: How to Spend 2 Days in Amsterdam

11. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is an absolute delight for foodies with its endless street vendors and markets.

There is a vibrant nightlife for those who want to go out and there are excellent springs and beaches for those who want to sit back and relax. You will have one of your best friends’ vacations.

There are several unmissable things to do when in Taipei including visiting Taipei 101, Shilin Night market, National Palace Museum, Beitou Hot Spring, and several temples.

Taipei will showcase a unique culture to you and the experience will be worth it. 

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Mandarin Oriental Taipei
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Grand Mayfull Hotel Taipei
• Best Budget Hotel: Ceasar Park Hotel Banqiao

See Related: Delta Airlines Review

12. London

London is an ideal destination for vacations for a group of friends. It is one destination that can give you every experience you are looking for. Whether you are a history buff, foodie, adventure enthusiast, or explorer, London will not disappoint you.

If you have lived in London, you can never imagine living elsewhere. London has something for every traveler, and one visit to this beautiful city is never enough.

If you happen to be in London during Christmas, you can visit one of the famous Christmas markets and enjoy the festival. Besides the castles, museums, and parks, there is so much more to do and see in London. You will enjoy an unmatched culinary experience here and the nightlife is worth mentioning.

There are several restaurants, pubs, and cafes for you to explore. You can also head out to the beautiful, charming villages in London that will give you a glimpse of the relaxing and peaceful countryside. 

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: London Marriot Hotel County Hall
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: The Savoy
• Best Budget Hotel: Travelodge London City Road

See Related: London vs New York

13. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

A lesser-known destination, Punta Cana will give you an opportunity to relive your college glory days. It is a Spring break-esqe holiday with dozens of hotels to choose from. It has some of the best beaches in the world and they are less crowded.

You will find luxurious resorts in Punta Cana. You can indulge in zip lining, snorkeling, speed boats, cave exploration, and more.

This beautiful beach destination is ideal for those looking to relax or engage in fun adventure activities. 

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Iberostar Grand Bavaro – Adults Only
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Bahia Principe Fantasia Punta Cana
• Best Budget Hotel: Whala! Urban Punta Cana

See Related: Best Affordable Overwater Bungalows

14. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is an obligatory addition as one of the best friends’ vacation ideas and is one of the best destinations in all of the Southwest United States. This city is known for its nightlife and debauchery, so if that’s what you want on a friend’s trip, that’s exactly what you will get.

But Las Vegas is conveniently located for the great outdoors. Sin City is not just popular for the nightlife, in fact, people from all over the world and cold weather climates, in particular, come here as it’s the closest airport to some of the best national parks in the United States.

Consider renting a car in Las Vegas as this destination is excellent for a classic road trip or day trip destination.

You can do a Grand Circle road trip where you visit Zion National Park, Capitol Reef, Monument Valley, Arches, Antelope Canyon, and Canyonlands.

Or, you can do single-day excursions to places like the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, the Hoover Dam, and Antelope Canyon. The options are endless.

Like what you are hearing? These are the best things to do in Las Vegas.

Check out these guides to all the nearby hot-spots in Las Vegas:

• Best Places to Stay in Zion National Park
• The Ultimate Grand Canyon Packing List

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Encore at Wynn Las Vegas
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Paris Las Vegas
• Best Budget Hotel: Hilton Grand Vacations on the Vegas Strip

See Related: Best Portable Drones for Travel

15. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague will fit the requirements of all of your friend’s personalities. It has everything- the scenery, history, and adventure.

Additionally, it is much cheaper than Europe’s other most popular destinations. It is one of the popular travel vacations for a group of friends.

Prague is a beautiful destination with several unmissable monuments and sites. Explore the history and rich architecture of this destination.

Want to see what the city is like? Let’s go for a tour of Prague Old Town from the ViaTravelers YouTube channel.

Prague Travel Guide: Best Things to do in Prague, Czechia 4K

Watch this video on YouTube.

There are several things to see like the Charles Bridge, Strahov Monastery, Prague Castle, and Old Town Square. 

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Prague
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Hotel Villa
• Best Budget Hotel: Don Giovanni Hotel Prague

See Related: Best Travel Accessories

16. Hoi An, Vietnam

If you are still wondering where should I go on vacation with friends, head to Hoi An, Vietnam which is a charming city and is relatively cheap. If you want to head to an exotic location that fits everyone’s budget, this is it.

The most charming town in Vietnam, Hoi An will leave you asking for more.

One visit to this destination is never enough. Explore the Old Town and click a picture under the colorful lanterns, visit the temples, and the Japanese Bridge.

Head to the Central Market and enjoy the rural surroundings. Hoi An is a peaceful town with beautiful beaches. If you are looking for a holiday to simply relax and soak in the beauty of natural surroundings, this is it. 

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Vietnam
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Sunrise Premium Resort Hoi An
• Best Budget Hotel: Palm Garden Beach Resort And Spa

See Related: London vs Paris: What is Better?

17. Madrid, Spain

Madrid is known for the abundance of art and music, and the outstanding local cuisine. There is a lot of scenery, shopping, and history here. It is one of the top getaways for groups.

A ton of travelers have Madrid at the top of their best friends’ bucket list and it is indeed one destination you should visit before you die.

The picturesque destination is an ideal blend of colors and cultures. It is a pleasure to explore and has everything from an exceptional food scene, to beautiful parks and historical gems.

You can enjoy history, art, and culture in Madrid like no other. It is an architectural delight with some of the most popular buildings. It is also home to some of the best art galleries in the world and will undoubtedly make you plan a second visit. 

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Rosewood Villa Magna
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Eurostars Madrid Tower
• Best Budget Hotel: Hotel Nuevo Boston

See Related: Skiplagged Review

18. Park City, Utah

Park City is one of my best friends’ vacation ideas for the avid skier and snowboarder and is one of the best places to visit in Utah. This ski resort is conveniently located nearby Salt Lake City and features some of the best skiing in the entire world.

This popular destination is home to some of the best skiing in the country which has made it a staple for group vacations with your best friend, new friends or family. It offers excellent powder skiing and steep mountain slopes.

There are also two mountain ranges, each with six distinct resorts to choose from depending on your needs.

Visit this ski resort during Sundance if you’d like more nightlife and want to be in the “see and be seen” culture.

Where to stay?

• Best Luxury Hotel: Stein Eriksen Residences
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Best Western Plus Landmark Inn & Pancake House
• Best Budget Hotel: Hyatt Place Park City

See Related: The Unearthly Mirror of Salar De Uyuni

Final Thoughts: Best Friends Vacation Destinations

Make a list of all these best places to visit with a group and start ticking them off the bucket list.

No matter what you are looking for, these destinations will satisfy your soul and will ensure that every member of the group has an excellent time.

There is so much to see and do at each of the destinations that you will be spoiled for choice. Make the most of your holiday by considering the budget and travel preferences of each member of the group. 

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