20 BEST Group Trip Ideas with Friends (My Favorite Places)

by Jon Miksis
Best Places to Travel with Friends Featured Image
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After visiting 69 countries, I can say one thing for sure…traveling with friends brings a whole new level of fun. I’ve done everything from epic city breaks and beach escapes to bachelor parties. Whether you’re looking for a wild weekend in a major city, a cozy cabin getaway, or the ultimate camping trip under the stars, this list has you covered.

Here are 20 incredible destinations around the world that are perfect for a group adventure, each bringing something unique to the table. So if you’re planning a girls trip, guys weekend, or a big group getaway, these spots are bound to make it memorable.

At a Glance: 20 Incredible Destinations to Visit with Friends

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into all these amazing spots to visit with friends in 2025.

Awesome places to visit with friends

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.

Las Vegas is a top vacation destination for groups of friends.
Las Vegas is a top vacation destination for groups of friends.

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!

Las Vegas welcome sign

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

Light show in Vegas.
Light show in Vegas.

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.

Palenqueras in Cartagena
Palenqueras in Cartagena

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.

Cartagena

In Cartagena, the opportunities are endless, and you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank. It’s easily one of the prettiest places in Colombia, too. What more could you want in a trip with your best friends?

Read next: Top Reasons to Visit Bogota, Colombia

The vibrant streets of Cartagena are among the best places to travel with friends
The vibrant streets of Cartagena

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. Nashville is also home to tons of cool free things to do. It’s certainly a top place to visit in Tennessee, and it’s easy to see why.

New Years Eve is a great time to visit Nashville with friends
New Years Eve is a great time to visit Nashville with friends

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 unique restaurants every time you go. There are also lots of greenspaces, where you can enjoy the outdoors in a cool city setting.

Nashville

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!

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Streets of Nashville, TN. This city is one of the best places to travel with friends, especially for bachelorette parties
Streets of Nashville, TN

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.

Amsterdam is among the top places to go with friends.
Amsterdam is among the top places to go with friends.

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 museum

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.

Enjoy a cruise of Amsterdam's canals while hanging out with friends.
Enjoy a cruise of Amsterdam’s canals while hanging out with friends.

5. Bali, Indonesia

Looking for some of the best places to go with friends? Meet Bali! It’s got everything: wild adventures, peaceful retreats, amazing food, and nightlife that goes until sunrise. And best of all? It’s affordable once you get there. I recently visited this Indonesian island and was blown away by the raw beauty and endless things to do.

Bali is a tropical paradise and one of the most fun trips imaginable
Bali is a tropical paradise and one of the most fun trips imaginable

Start your trip in Canggu, where beach clubs like The Lawn and Finns serve cocktails with a sunset view, and scooters are the go-to way to cruise between cafes, surf spots, and boutiques. It’s the perfect place to vibe out with your crew and ease into island life.

Bali Indonesia

Next, head inland to Ubud for a change of pace. Walk through the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, hike to Tibumana Waterfall, and visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. For something truly amazing, book a sunrise trek up Mount Batur…you’ll hike in the dark and catch the sun rising over volcanic peaks with your friends by your side.

Round it out with a few nights in Uluwatu, where you can catch epic waves, explore cliffside temples like Uluwatu Temple, and hit the Sundays Beach Club for bonfires on the sand.

Pro tip: Rent a private villa with a pool…it’s cheaper than you think and makes for the ultimate shared experience. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, beach-hopping, or just hanging out under the stars, Bali is built for unforgettable group trips.

Running through the streets of Bali with one of my best friends
Running through the streets of Bali with one of my good 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.

Boston public area
Hanging out with friends and taking pictures on Acorn Street is a popular activity in Boston
Hanging out with friends and taking pictures on Acorn Street is a popular activity in Boston.

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.

Boston is a sprawling city that is among the best vacations for groups
Boston is a sprawling city that is among the best vacations for groups

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.

Stroll the Charles River Esplanade where you'll encounter breathtaking views of the Boston Skyline.
Stroll the Charles River Esplanade where you’ll encounter breathtaking views of the Boston Skyline.

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.

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
Eiffel Tower view from afar

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.

The Seine River in Paris
The Seine River in Paris

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.

Hawaii is truly a paradise on Earth. It's easily among the best places to travel with friends.
Hawaii is truly a paradise on Earth.

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.

Hawaii surf area

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.

Hawaii is a top place to go to with friends.
Hawaii is a top place to go to with friends.

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.

Epic canyon in Iceland
Epic canyon in Iceland

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.

Small falls in Iceland

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!

Iceland is a bucket-list worthy destination that's among the top places to go to with friends
Mt. Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss in Iceland

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.

New York's endless skyline. This city is among the best places to travel with friends
New York’s endless skyline

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

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

Times Square in NYC
Times Square in NYC

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.

The Sagrada Familia dominates Barcelona's skyline.
The Sagrada Familia dominates Barcelona’s skyline.

By day, discover Barcelona’s cool cultural and historic attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell. And by night, experience Barcelona’s next-level nightlife, where you’ll be tempted to stay out all night just in time to catch sunrise at the beach.

People visiting a tourist spot in Barcelona

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.

Casa Milà was designed by the acclaimed Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí
Casa Milà was designed by the acclaimed Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí

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 and nightlife.

The French Quarter in New Orleans is among the best places to travel with friends in 2021
The French Quarter in New Orleans

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.

Public area in New Orleans

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 in spots like the French Quarter, it’s no wonder New Orleans is a popular place for a best friend trip.

New Orleans is among the best cities to go with friends.
New Orleans is among the best cities to go with friends.

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

Lisbon's vibrant rooftops
Lisbon’s vibrant rooftops

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.

Tourist spot in Portugal

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.

Lisbon, Portugal is one of the coolest places to travel with friends
Lisbon, Portugal is one of the coolest places to travel with friends

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!

Disney World in Orlando, Florida
Disney World in Orlando, Florida

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.

Tree of life at Disney

Disney is magical at any age, as long as you bring the right company!

Read next: Coolest Vacation Rentals in Florida

Disney is a great place to visit with friends, regardless of your age
Disney is a great place to visit with friends, regardless of your age

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.

Huge starfish
Staying at an all-inclusive will show you why Punta Cana is among the fun places to go with friends.
Staying at an all-inclusive will show you why Punta Cana is among the fun places to go with 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.

The beaches in Punta Cana are out of this world.
The beaches in Punta Cana are out of this world.

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!

Paddle boarding in Austin is a must when you're thinking about where to go with friends
Paddle boarding in Austin is a must when you’re thinking about where to go with friends

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!

Bullock Texas History Museum

Aside from its music and unique restaurant 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.

Austin is the capital of Texas, but you wouldn't know it due to the small town charm
Austin is the capital of Texas, but you wouldn’t know it with its small town charm

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.

Prague's colorful skyline, which is among the top places to travel with friends.
Prague’s colorful skyline.

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 always something for young adults in Prague.

Inside of a restaurant 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.

Near the Old Town Square in Prague
Near the Old Town Square in Prague

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.

Ride on a hot air balloon in Napa Valley
Ride on a hot air balloon in 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.

Etude winery and tasting

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!

Vineyards in Napa Valley is among the best places to visit with friends
Vineyards in Napa Valley

19. London, UK

Looking for fun places to go with friends? Add London to your friend’s 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.

London is a best vacation for friends who like city breaks.
London is a best vacation for friends who like city breaks.

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 London’s nightlife that’s among the best in Europe. Friendcation ideas truly don’t get any better than this.

Tower Bridge

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!

Nothing is cooler than hanging out with friends in London.
Nothing is cooler than hanging out with friends in London.

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 an awesome 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.

Miami is a top place to travel with friends in the US
Miami is a top place to travel with friends in the US

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!

Top Deck Dolphin Show
There's always something happening in South Beach, Miami
There’s always something happening in South Beach, Miami
    Best countries to visit with friends come in many forms
    Best countries to visit with friends come in many forms
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    Jon Miksis

    About Jon Miksis

    Award-winning Travel Writer • Founder of Global Viewpoint • 70+ countries visited • 10 Million+ readers

    Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a year, sharing detailed guides that have helped over 10 million readers travel smarter, deeper, and better. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. road trips and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred dining and business-class flights — with honest, independent reviews.

    I’ve been hired by leading tourism boards in 7 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, as well as international travel brands. My travel tips and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ hotels, retreats, and flight experiences — and I never recommend a place I wouldn’t return to myself.

    I also save $5–10K per year on airfare using flight tools and 10+ travel credit cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into personal development through transformational retreats and coaching since 2021.

    When I’m not road-tripping across the Northeast or writing guides for Global Viewpoint, you’ll find me cold plunging in local lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage across New England. I split my time between exploring the world and soaking up life in Boston, my lifelong home base. Some of my favorite places I keep going back to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

    See my latest adventures on Instagram and TikTok.

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