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The 9 Best Party Destinations in the Caribbean

See recent posts by Lara Grant

While the most alluring aspects of Caribbean destinations are the year-round warm weather, beautiful sandy beaches abutting blue water, and water-based activities ranging from paddleboarding to scuba diving, many travelers also want a healthy dose of partying on their vacation. From buzzing nightclubs and casual beachfront bars, to strong rum cocktails and all-inclusive drink packages, there are some Caribbean locales that offer a plethora of party-minded pros for visitors. Keep reading for our top party-centric spots in the Caribbean.

1. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

College kids and young-at-heart travelers head to Cancun for the free-flowing margaritas, Caribbean sunshine, and rampant nightlife spots. Though visitors should expect lots of Americanized restaurants and bars, as well as some rowdy behavior, there’s no denying it’s a great spot to let loose while overlooking the beautiful white-sand beach . Resorts in the Hotel Zone can provide all the party essentials, plus the area is packed with popular spots like Señor Frog’s, Carlos’n Charlie’s, and Coco Bongo dance club, all of which are close together for easy bar-hopping.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Hard Rock Hotel Cancun

The all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel Cancun is a fantastic pick for party-minded guests, thanks to its gorgeous infinity pool with ocean views and two popular swim-up bars, lovely beachfront, five restaurants serving international cuisine, and live entertainment, plus a great spa to rejuvenate after a night of dancing and imbibing.

Pricing for Hard Rock Hotel Cancun

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a fun, colorful, and vibrant country with tons to do, and nowhere is that more apparent than the capital of San Juan . On Puerto Rico’s northern coast, San Juan has gorgeous Colonial-style buildings and cobblestone streets, which contrast the casinos , nightclubs , and bars found throughout. Start your night with refreshing pina coladas, then pop into one of the many spots for salsa and flamenco dancing, such as the popular La Factoria. For more sand-filled fun, head to Isla Verde Beach and grab a cocktail at Alambique Beach Lounge.

Our Part Hotel Pick: San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino

The upscale San Juan Marriott resort and Stellaris Casino is a 527-room property with direct access to a scenic stretch of Condado Beach. Extensive features include a pool complex with swim-up bar and waterslide, attractive guest rooms with flat-screen TVs and balconies, multiple restaurants and an ocean-view bar, popular casino, and full-service spa.

Pricing for San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

You won’t find a ton of massive all-inclusive resorts or areas packed with nightclubs in Aruba , but the small island is still a worthwhile party spot, particularly for those looking to do some gambling. Drinking and gambling at one of the several casinos is legal for 18 year olds, plus the casinos are often open until late at night and have some form of entertainment. Visitors can find a hotel with a swim-up bar for day drinking, and head to the Palm Beach area at night, which is home to popular Gusto night club, Soprano’s Piano Bar, Saloon Bar, and Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill. For more authentic culture, drive 20 minutes south to Oranjestad to the highly frequented rum shop, Local Store, and Cafe Chaos, a pub that attracts both locals and tourists.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club

The lively Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club is a mid-range property in Aruba’s popular beachfront High Rise district. Rooms with kitchenettes, or apartment-style units with full kitchens are available, and many have wonderful views of the pool and ocean. The highlight here is the series of pools with a Lazy River, waterslide, and swim-up bar.

Pricing for Marriott's Aruba Surf Club

5. Negril, Jamaica

Travelers looking to experience more local culture than the average Caribbean island — without sacrificing party-filled activities — should head to Negril, Jamaica . Although it’s not nearly as culturally immersive as the capital of Kingston , it offers a lovely blend of stunning beaches , seaside bars and restaurants serving jerk chicken and Red Stripe, and live entertainment from Jamaicans. Cliff-jumping at Rick’s Cafe, fresh seafood along Seven Mile Beach , and dancing to DJ-led music at spots like The Jungle Night Club are not to be missed.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Hedonism II

The all-inclusive Hedonism II is an upper-middle-range nudist resort, popular with couples looking to spice up their vacation, fun-seeking groups, and some singles. This adults-only resort is tucked into a quiet, secluded section of Negril’s Seven Mile Beach in Jamaica. There are both a “nude” and “prude” side here to accommodate guests of different comfort levels, in addition to sexy theme nights, a risque playroom, and shop for lingerie and toys.

Pricing for Hedonism II

6. Cartagena, Colombia

You may know Cartagena from its plethora of Instagram-worthy facades in vibrant hues with climbing greenery, but this coastal Colombian city is home to a wide array of day and nighttime attractions . After spending a day exploring the colonial architecture within the historic Walled City , travelers can head to nearby spots such as Cafe Havana for cuban music and salsa dancing, Alquimico for fancy craft cocktails, and Via Apia for tapas. For more nightclubs, beaches, and modern buildings, take a quick taxi to the Bocagrande neighborhood.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Hotel Casa del Arzobispado

Set within the historic Walled City, across the street from Cartagena’s famous Catedral de Santa Catalina, Hotel Casa del Arzobispado is an upper-middle-range boutique that’s charming and elegant. The property has just 10 spacious, individually decorated rooms, a beautiful pool and courtyard, and free Wi-Fi. All rates include breakfast and there’s a small spa and sauna for relaxing.

Pricing for Hotel Casa del Arzobispado

Albeit smaller than its neighbor Aruba, the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao still has a great spread of hopping bars and clubs. Close to the cruise terminal is Mambo Beach , which houses Wet & Wild Beach Club offering happy hour and live DJs, and Madera Ocean Club, featuring well-priced cocktail and food menus. The more central Willemstad area has 27 Bar & Terrace, a popular live music venue, and Sopranos sports bar. The great windsurfing conditions, photogenic colonial architecture, and rampant beautiful beaches are just cherries on top of the piña coladas.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Santa Barbara Beach & Gold Resort, Curacao

The 350-room Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort is an expansive luxury property that draws both couples and families with its array of features such as a lovely spa, kids’ camp, and three pools. The wide, white-sand beach and protected swimming area are highlights, as is an 18-hole golf course. The all-inclusive package covers all meals at the restaurant and pool bar; select beers, house wines, and cocktails

Pricing for Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort, Curacao

8. Barbados

Known for pink-sand beaches , observable British influence, and shipwreck diving , Barbados is a spirited Caribbean nation with nightlife to match. The most popular area for drinking and dining is St. Lawrence Gap , a strip of restaurants, bars, clubs, and hotels near Dover Beach . The Cove is a bustling club there that plays a variety of music including calypso and reggae, while nearby Old Jamm Inn has a dance floor, cheap drinks, and a mix of locals and tourists. For those closer to the capital of Bridgetown , the open-air Harbour Lights is a well-regarded nightclub, while visitors to the Holetown area often make a stop of Red Door Lounge and Drift Ocean Terrace Lounge.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Yellow Bird Hotel

The mid-range Yellow Bird has a great location across from a beach in the popular St. Lawrence Gap area, within walking distance of nightlife, restaurants, and several beaches. There are 22 rooms here with contemporary decor, kitchenettes, and furnished balconies overlooking the sea. A small outdoor pool with loungers and an all-day, open-air restaurant and bar also provide ocean views.

Pricing for Yellow Bird Hotel

9. Trinidad and Tobago

Our Party Hotel Pick: Courtyard by Marriott Port of Spain

To be near the Carnival hub, we recommend staying at Courtyard by Marriott Port of Spain. This upper-middle-range property has 116 clean, contemporary rooms with mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and balconies in some. The hotel offers an outdoor pool set in a spacious sundeck, a fitness center, and all-day restaurant, plus free Wi-Fi.

Pricing for Courtyard by Marriott Port of Spain

What to Bring on Your Trip: Blowfish for Hangovers

As the only FDA-approved hangover cure, you’re going to want to pack some Blowfish in your bag for your next party-filled vacation.

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Things To Do for Your Birthday in Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the dreamiest destinations in the world, and it’s the perfect place to celebrate your birthday. There’s A LOT to do and see when you’re in paradise, so I created a list of the top things to do for your birthday in Hawaii.

101 Things To Do in Hawaii

I’ve grouped these activities by island so you can plan an epic Hawaii itinerary, whether you’re going to one island or all four.

Here are the best things to do for your birthday in Hawaii!

Know Before You Go

A car is essential on all four of the main Hawaiian Islands – Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Renting cars saves you money because rideshares and hired drivers are expensive. Plus, a rental car gives you flexibility over your itinerary and room to store and transport your belongings.

I drove all over the Hawaiian Islands, but I only had to fill up my tank once on each island because the islands are so small.

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The Big Island of Hawai’i

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What would you add to this list of things to do for your birthday in Hawaii? Share with us in the comments!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can i spend my birthday in hawaii.

The Top Activities To Celebrate Your Birthday in Hawaii:

1. Hike the Diamond Head Summit Trail

2. Go ziplining at Kualoa Ranch

3. Visit the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

4. See a luau

5. Sail along  the  Nā Pali Coast

6. Do the scenic drive through Waimea Canyon State Park

7. Visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

8. Go surfing or take a surf lesson

9. Snorkel or dive

10. Do a no-doors helicopter tour

Where can I get free stuff on my birthday in Hawaii?

Some restaurants will give you a free appetizer or dessert on your birthday, and some hotels will give you a complimentary gift, perk, or discount for your birthday.

How much money do you need per day in Hawaii?

The average price of a one-week trip to Hawaii is around $2000 for a solo traveler, $3000 for a couple, and $4500 for a family of four.

What activities can I do for my birthday?

The Best Birthday Activities in Hawaii:

What is the number one attraction in Hawaii?

Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head are the most-visited places in Hawaii.

Is Hawaii expensive?

Yes. Hawaii is a relatively expensive destination. You can save some money by doing free activities, cooking your own meals, traveling on weekdays, and visiting during the shoulder months.

What is the most beautiful part of Hawaii?

All four of the major Hawaiian islands – Oahu, Kauai, Big Island, and Maui – are stunning! I couldn’t choose the pretties because they all have unique and breathtaking landscapes.

When should I go to Hawaii?

Hawaii is made up of micro-climates, so the weather varies significantly from island to island and from one side of an island to the other. The year-round warm weather (rarely going below the mid-70s or above the mid-80s) means Hawaii is a great destination any time of the year. So Hawaii doesn’t have an off-season.

April – September is the most popular time to visit Hawaii because these are the warmest and driest months. The ocean is calmer, giving you access to more water activities with better sailing conditions. Be prepared to pay the highest prices during these months. The islands will also be crowded, so book accommodation, tours, and rental cars in advance.

The weather in Hawaii is marginally cooler from October – March, and these are the wettest months of the year. Pro Tip: the islands’ west coasts are significantly drier than their east coasts.

October – March is whale-watching season, and the crowds and prices will be lower (though not significantly). These months have some of the largest swells of the year, so surfers will swarm the beaches.

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Book your flight, get travel insurance, book your accommodation, make sure you're traveling with the best credit card to earn travel points and avoid international fees, find out if you need a visa and get one here, pin this guide.

This list of things to do for your birthday in Hawaii is not a sponsored post, and the thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own. Some of the links in this list of things to do for your birthday in Hawaii are affiliate links, and, at no cost to you, I may earn a small commission from this list of things to do for your birthday in Hawaii.

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22+ Best Birthday Travel Destinations To Mark the Time Of Your Life

Wondering where you should travel to on your birthday? Don’t worry; our Best Birthday Travel Destinations list will give you all you need! We will cover it all, from when, where, and what to do.

Travelling on your birthday might be an excellent choice to mark a meaningful timestamp of your life. As long as you prepare for it beforehand, all you need to do is relax and enjoy.

This list will recommend destinations based on their best time of the year. So, search for your birth month and get ready to pack your bags.

Tasmania, Australia

Phuket, thailand, lofoten islands, norway, rio de janeiro, brazil, madrid, spain, delhi, india, paris, france, tokyo, japan, munich, germany, bali, indonesia, mykonos, greece, edinburgh, scotland, hoi an, vietnam, provence, france, riga, latvia, tallinn, estonia, hanoi, vietnam, kyoto, japan, berlin, germany, antananarivo, madagascar, suzhou, china, michoacan, mexico, lapland, finland, vienna, austria, calling all january children.

If you love trekking, you must come to Tasmania. Photo by Blue Planet Studio - stock.addobe.com

If you are an explorer, then Tasmania is the place you should visit on this birthday trip! With many national parks and wild animals, you can go for a walk to explore the diverse ecosystem here.

During the year's first month, you can go white water rafting in the Franklin River or hang gliding in the beautiful blue sky. This is also the perfect time to go trekking through Tasmania’s mountains. You might see various animals, such as wombats, seals, etc.

Tasmania is in summer at this time of the year. The temperature is around 16-18 °C, warm and dry, perfect weather for hiking.

Phuket is a perfect tourist city. Photo by Mike Swigunski on Unsplash

Phuket is a tropical city in Thailand with a long beach and a vibrant lifestyle. You can visit this place all year round. But to choose the best time, it will be January when the weather is cool and there is a lower rainfall level than in other months.

This city is perfect for tourism, offering everything from spiritual activities to geological exploration and other entertainment. Some destinations you don’t want to miss are Phang Nga Bay, Big Buddha, and Chalong Bay Rum Distillery.

Phuket is in winter at this time of the year. The temperature is around 23-29°C.

For The Fabulous February Crew

You will get sunshine and cold weather simultaneously in Lofoten Islands during February. Photo by SYLVAIN IBARRA on Unsplash

February is the best time to visit Lofoten Islands when the day and night lengths are balanced. The weather is not too cold like in winter, but everything will still be covered in snow to allow you to experience the Arctic atmosphere. Lofoten Islands is in spring at this time of the year. The temperature is around 1-3°C.

There is a high chance to catch Nothern Lights if you visit Lofoten in February. You can ask for more information from the locals or join in tours to go Aurora chasing. You should also visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, the Lofoten Aquarium, and the Fishing Village Museum Å.

If you want to have a joyful experience on your February birthday trip, then Rio de Janeiro is the perfect place!

The city is covered in colourful costumes, lights and music with various carnivals such as Rio Carnival, Salvador Carnival, etc. You can dive into the festive season while enjoying the food, the dances, or parties with the locals.

February is considered the hottest month in Rio de Janeiro. The city is in summer, with temperatures varying from 24°C to 30°C.

March into Fun with Us

Madrid is lively and not too crowded in March. Photo by Florian Wehde on Unsplash

If you want to enjoy the lively breezes on your birthday, visiting Madrid in March is an excellent way. The city is less crowded than Easter week or summer, and you can enjoy plenty of activities.

You can go picnic in Retiro Park as a family activity during the trip . The first thing to admire this season is the almond and cherry blossom. The park is filled with the sweet scent alongside the pink and white colours of flowers.

Another event you should attend is the Festival de Arte Sacro, which usually takes place in late February and early March. This is an art festival with many music, poetry, etc. performances in churches.

Madrid is in spring at this time of the year. The temperature is around 6-16°C.

You should visit the famous India Gate when coming to Delhi. Photo by shalender kumar on Unsplash

If you want to have beautiful Instagram pictures for your birthday, then Delhi is the place to go in March! You can also visit countless spiritual relics in the city, such as Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, Akshardham Temple, Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, etc.

The most extraordinary event this month is Holi - the Hindu spring festival in late March. People will throw colour powder at each other during the festival, representing love and harmony.

Delhi is in spring at this time of the year. The temperature is around 16-30°C.

Attention April Superstars

Paris has always been a dream city for romantic souls. Photo by Alexander Kagan on Unsplash

What better place to celebrate your birthday than the City of Lights ? April is an excellent month to visit Paris because the weather is warm and there aren’t as many tourists.

The city has many popular destinations, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Versailles Palace, etc. But be aware that some places will close sooner than usual during March.

If you are looking for special events in Paris this month, there are some that you should keep in mind. First is Macaroon Day on the 20th, and the second is National Cheese Day.

Last but not least is the Wine Fair of the Independent Winemakers (Salon des Vignerons Indépendants), usually hold on from the 17th to the 19th.

Paris is in autumn at this time of the year. The temperature is around 8-25°C.

April is when you can view the Sakura in Tokyo in all its glory. Photo by picture cells - stock.adobe.com

April is the best time to visit Tokyo if you want to celebrate your birthday with an endless view of Sakura (cherry blossom) in one of the best cities in Japan .

There are many places you can go to watch cherry blossoms in Tokyo. In the morning, you can go for a picnic in the local park, such as Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Ueno Park, or Chidorigafuchi, etc. In the evening, you should visit Rikugien Gardens, where the view will be lightened gorgeously.

During March, there are also many traditional festivals you can participate in. You should remember the Japanese Doll Festival on the 3rd, the Jindaiji Temple Daruma Doll Fair on the 3-4th, the Mt. Takao Fire-Walking Festival on the second Sunday of March, and many more.

Tokyo is in spring at this time of the year. The temperature is around 5-12°C.

Shoutout to May Cuties

The Siegestor (Victory Gate) is a must-visit place when coming to Munich. Photo by tichr - stock.adobe.com

May is an excellent time to visit Munich due to the pleasant weather. This time of the year is less crowded than other seasons. So the hotel prices , along with other services, will be lower. Yet, you can still experience many exciting events this month.

The first to attend is Auer Dult, a traditional festival that occurs three times a year with hundreds of local stalls offering food toys, clothes, etc. The one that opens in late April and early May is called Maidult and will last for about 9 days.

Besides, don’t forget to visit popular attractions such as Frauenkirche, Münchner Stadtmuseum, the Residenz, etc. Or simply take on a Grand Circle tour to admire the city's beauty.

Another reason why people visit Munich is its nightlife. the city boasts a great collection of beer halls, upscale bars and clubs to party the night away. Let’s enjoy one of the most vibrant nightlife destinations in all of Europe.

Munich is in spring at this time of the year. The temperature is around 7-18°C.

Bali is not crowded during May. Photo by Alen Ajan - stock.adobe.com

If you want to spend your birthday enjoying the tropical sunshine and turquoise beach , then Bali is the perfect place in May.

This month highlights a variety of spiritual events for you to join. First is Waisak Day on the 7th to celebrate the birth of the Buddha. On this day, remember to visit a Buddhist temple early in the morning to see the special rituals.

Next is Saraswati Day, celebrated by Balinese Hindus to honour the god of knowledge, music, art and wisdom. However, this celebration occurs on different dates each year, depending on the Balinese calendar. In 2023, it is on the 20th of May.

And don’t forget that many other activities are waiting for you, such as going hiking in Mount Batur, going dolphin watching in Lovina, etc. The peak season usually starts in June, so take time to have beautiful photos in popular attractions to mark your milestone.

Bali is in the dry season at this time of the year. The temperature is around 24-33°C.

June Jetsetters, Let's Celebrate In Style

Mykonos is filled with beautiful streets and beaches. Photo by Johnny Africa on Unsplash

If you are ready to rock the night parties while celebrating your birthday, then Mykonos in Greece is your best choice.

The city is famous for its beautiful beaches and endless nightlife activities. June is not the peak season, so all the prices will be much more affordable and more room for you to experience the vibe to the fullest.

Spend your daytime laying by the beach, swimming in the clear blue water, or exploring the nearby Island Of Delos. Then, when the night comes, prepare yourself for a variety of alcohol and partying. You can visit famous clubs on the island like Jackie O’, Cavo Paradiso, etc.

Mykonos is in summer at this time of the year. The temperature is around 21-27°C.

Edinburgh is a city with a long history. Photo by Jörg Angeli on Unsplash

The best place for movie nerds in June might be Edinburgh. This month is when the famous Edinburgh International Film Festival takes place, with many world premieres presented.

Another event you shouldn’t miss is The Royal Highland Show, which highlights the best agricultural food and rural living. Participants will be able to experience rural life at its most vibrant while having delicious food, and watching performances and competitions.

There is also a long list of attractions to explore in the city. Spend a day exploring historical sites like Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, or natural landmarks like Arthur's Seat.

Edinburgh is in summer at this time of the year. The temperature is around 9-17°C.

Summer Fun With July Rockstars

Lanterns are signature decorations in Hoi An. Photo by BUSARA - stock.adobe.com

Hoi An is a famous tourist city in Vietnam due to its ancient view and long history of being Southeast Asia's 16th-century busiest port.

The entire city is covered in a peaceful vibe, emphasised by the ancient buildings and historical sites. You should visit the My Son Sanctuary, Quan Cong Temple, or Tan Ky Old House and experience the local food.

Hoi An is in the dry season at this time of the year. The temperature is around 22-39°C.

The romantic Lavender farm in Provence in July. Photo by Léonard Cotte on Unsplash

Dreaming of a romantic birthday trip in July? Then Provence is the number one option.

Famous for the view of lavender fields blooming to their fullest, the picture of the city is filled with purple and dotted with turquoise from clear beaches.

You can sunbathe, wander through lavender farms to take beautiful pictures or explore the city. You should visit Calanques National Park, the Castle of Marquis de Sade, etc.

Provence is in summer at this time of the year. The temperature is around 18-29°C.

All About August Adventurers

Riga is the place to visit if you are finding a lowkey destination. Photo by Ivars Utināns on Unsplash

If you want to celebrate your birthday in a brand new destination that not so many people know, then Riga, the capital of Latvia, is the place.

Riga is a lowkey city which combines the new and old styles. It stands out with beautiful architecture. Some destinations you should visit are the Corner House, the Castle of Light, the House of the Blackheads, the Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral, etc.

Riga is in summer at this time of the year. The temperature is around 22-28°C.

Tallinn has many historical sights to explore. Photo by Karson on Unsplash

The capital of Estonia, Tallinn, is a city with a long history, distinguished culture, along with amazing things to do and see. 

You can start your trip by visiting the stunning Jagala Waterfall. Then check out the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, explore the Toompea Castle, etc.

Moreover, remember to experience the traditional taste of Estonia. You should try Eesti Kartulisalat (potato salad), Mulgipuder (the traditional porridge), or Kiluvõileib (sprat sandwich).

Tallinn is in summer at this time of the year. The temperature is around 12-22°C.

September Wanderers Join the Party

Flower bikes in Hanoi during autumn. Photo by Adli Wahid on Unsplash

September marks the most beautiful season in Vietnam’s capital: Autumn. Not as visual-shock as the autumn in Canada, this season in Hanoi is all about the vibe, with a harmony of lifestyle, food and scent. The temperature of Hanoi in September is around 24-31°C.

Coming to Hanoi in September, the first impression will be the distinguished smell of Dalbergia tonkinensis Prain. The whole city will have a poetic view with golden sunshine and rows of flower bikes lined on the streets. 

You can search for green sticky rice in the old quarter area to taste Autumn in Hanoi. Persimmon and moon cake are also Hanoi specialities at this time of the year.

During September, Kyoto has many historical festivals to participate in. Photo by Richie Chan - stock.adobe.com

Kyoto is in autumn at this time of the year. The temperature is around 20-29°C. Visiting Kyoto in September, you will have the chance to celebrate your birthday along with many traditional Japanese festivals.

Some events you should spend time participating in are Seimeisai Festival, Kushi Matsuri and Meigetsu Kangensai Festival. Each one will have its special activities such as court dance, parade, etc.

Calling All October Champions

Visit Berlin in October to join the festival of light. Photo by Florian Wehde on Unsplash

If you have a taste of art, then celebrating your birthday this October in Berlin might not be a bad choice at all. Though not as festive as in summer, Berlin in October still has a variety of events and exhibitions to enjoy without the crowd.

First and most impressive must be the Festival of Lights, when many light arts will be presented on different landmarks of the city by projection mapping technique. Then, you can visit different exhibitions throughout the month, or cheer with the locals at Berlin Autumn Carnival.

Berlin is in autumn at this time of the year. The temperature is around 12-20°C.

Antananarivo is famous for its nature. Photo by Sandy Ravaloniaina on Unsplash

The capital city of Madagascar is undoubtedly a good choice if you want to visit the wildlife in Africa on this birthday trip.

Book a day trip to Mantadia National Park to get along with various wild animals here, or visit Parc de Tsarasaotra to go bird-watching. You should also visit The Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Antananarivo is in spring at this time of the year. The temperature is around 12-24°C.

November Squad, Let's Gather

Suzhou still manages to preserve its ancient look. Photo by THINK b - stock.adobe.com

With a long history of 2500 years, Suzhou is a signature ancient city of China with historical and cultural richness.

The city has distinguished architecture, with houses built on canals and 9 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visiting this city, you can not miss out on its stunning gardens with different designs and plants, along with its ancient towns preserved almost perfectly.

Suzhou is in autumn at this time of the year. The temperature is around 9-17°C.

Morelia Cathedral is also a famous destination to visit in Michoacán. Photo by Josué Soto on Unsplash

If you are finding a place with beautiful beaches and incredible wildlife to celebrate your November birthday, consider Michoacan.

Michoacán has varied scenery, including stunning beaches, volcanoes, and rolling hills. Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve is a must-visited place during this month because the that’s when butterflies' migration start

And also, remember to attend a famous celebration featured in the movie CoCo, Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) . It’s a great chance to experience the Mexicans' spirit, food and tradition.

Michoacan is in the dry season at this time of the year. The temperature is around 22-27°C.

December Dreamers, Unleash Your Inner Holiday Magic

Chasing after the light phenomenon at the birthplace of everyone’s favourite grandpa. Photo by Roman Babakin - stock.adobe.com

What better way to celebrate your birthday in December than visiting the hometown of Santa Claus?

This will be one of the best magical trips of your lifetime, but remember to pack carefully to cope with the extreme weather. 

Coming to this place, you should stay in the igloos to fully experience the environment. Some activities you must try are Reindeer Sleigh Ride, hunting the aurora or visiting Santa’s Village.

Lapland is in winter at this time of the year. The temperature is from -16°C to -3°C.

Vienna has an antique vibe perfect for Christmas. Photo on Austria.info

Vienna is an excellent option to consider on your birthday travel at near-Christmas time. It’s one of the most charming places in Austria .

The entire city will be decorated with lights and stunning decorations matched with elegant palaces. There are also concerts, light-hunting events, etc., to celebrate this special event.

Vienna is in winter at this time of the year. The temperature is around 0-5°C.

Best Places To Celebrate With Your Family And Friends

Above are some of our recommendations on the best birthday travel destinations based on each month. Hope that this list has helped you decide where to celebrate your memorable milestone.

Claire Thuc

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7 Places to Celebrate a Big Birthday, According to T+L's A-List Advisors

Planning a celebration for a milestone birthday? Consider one of these amazing destinations for a trip to remember.

No matter your age or stage of life, every birthday can be celebrated with a big trip. Some exciting destinations are perfect for visiting in your 20s , like backpacking through Southeast Asia or road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway. Others, like a relaxing beach vacation in Hawaii or Thailand, might be better suited to those in retirement .

We asked our trusted A-List of top travel advisors for their recommendations on the best places to celebrate a milestone birthday, whether you want to go alone or with a larger group, stay in one place or visit multiple locations. Here are their suggestions for over-the-top destinations to celebrate your big day.

Cayo Espanto, Belize

Three miles off the coast of Belize, this private luxury Robinson Crusoe-style island offers just seven villas. Each one is luxuriously furnished with hardwood floors, mahogany beds, and crisp white bed linens. Enjoy panoramic views from your private pier and plunge pool, and world-class diving and snorkeling. — Will Bolsover, Natural World Safaris

Havana, Cuba

Start with a sunset convertible car ride through breezy Old Havana, soaking in the culture, colors, and sounds of this enigmatic island destination. Then, have dinner at a private table at the city's best rooftop restaurant with 360-degree views of the city—start with a rum and cigar tasting then dive into fresh fare caught locally. After dinner, head to the Tropicana nightclub for a taste of 1950s-era cabaret, or ask for front-row seats to a sold-out live local music concert. — Chad Olin, Cuba Candela

Renting an authentic Patagonian estancia with gauchos and all, and crossing the Andes on horseback, is a once-in-a-lifetime thrill. — Maita Barrenechea, Mai 10

A private ranch in Kenya hands down would be my recommendation, something like Ol Jogi or Arijiju. They provide the clients with everything they need at their fingertips, from tennis courts, wildlife interactions, and ATVs, to private chefs. You name it, they have it here.— Leora Rothschild, Rothschild Safaris

Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

There's nothing better than going all-out for a travel-related birthday bash! The Jackson Hole area in Wyoming, right near Grand Teton National Park and not far from Yellowstone National Park , is an incredible destination — it's rugged yet still luxurious. If the birthday adventurer is really looking for a once-in-a-lifetime bash, they would enjoy a private helicopter ride between the Tetons and Yellowstone. Who all can say they've flown into Yellowstone on a private helicopter? On a trip like this, they can travel to multiple locations with their group to get the best of what the Rockies have to offer. Hike, bike, maybe a little fly fishing near Grand Teton National Park, and a private air balloon ride at dawn for an unforgettable bird's-eye view! The accommodation options are quite lavish in this famous ski hub, and the celebrated traveler can enjoy modern or more historic downtown bars and restaurants for their special night in Jackson. — Dan Austin, Austin Adventures

Tanzania and Rwanda

I suggest a Tanzania/Rwanda combination. Land at Sasakwa Airstrip and transfer directly to Singita Serengeti House, set at the base of Sasakwa Hill overlooking the 350,000-acre Grumeti Reserve. Settle in, with all private services and your very own four-suite villa in the heart of game-rich terrain. Laid-back luxury with various outdoor living areas including outdoor sala, 25-meter lap pool, private tennis court and pavilion, a tented wellness suite, and a full fitness center as well as access to the Singita Boutique and Gallery at nearby Singita Sasakwa Lodge. And if you're keen to add another aspect to this trip, private charter from Sasakwa Airstrip to Kigali, Rwanda, and travel onwards to Singita Kataza House, set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park. Relish in the exceptional views, the privacy, heated pools, food and wine journey, and in-villa cinema. And, of course, location, location, location, as you're within easy access to gorilla trekking. — Tamsyn Fricker, Travel Artistry Africa

Monsaraz, Portugal

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

The perfect birthday trip in Portugal would include heading out to the deep countryside to the very small town of Monsaraz. Here, depending on the size of the group, we would do a buyout of the luxury countryside retreat São Lourenço do Barrocal and plan quite a few special activities: a hot air balloon ride at sunrise overlooking the Alentejo's rolling hills and castles; a private horseback riding lesson along the streets of the 12th-century castle of Monsaraz; a private stargazing session in complete darkness led by one of the leading Portuguese astronomers. A weekend full of activities, tranquility, and authenticity! — Gonçalo Correia, Tours For You

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12 Stunning Places to Travel for Your Birthday in 2022

ASAPtickets travel experts have created a list of ideas for your birthday vacation! Celebrate your birthday in one of most beautiful places on Earth!

Don’t want to organize a birthday party and spend a fortune on food and drink? Skip the usual celebrations by picking one of 12 stunning places to travel for your birthday vacation.  Because let’s be honest, your birthday is all about YOU!

The experts at ASAP Tickets have created a special list of 12 top places to travel for your birthday! Because what can be more exciting than popping a bottle of champagne or blowing out candles in one of the most beautiful places on Earth?

#1 Palau, Oceania

Palau is a small independent island between Guam and the Philippines. It is a floating wonderland for divers and snorkelers! The island is well known for so many reasons! Spectacular landscapes, limestone rock islands, pristine colorful reefs, a lake of stingless jellyfish , exotic forests, and sky-blue lagoons. Heading to Palau would be the best birthday vacation idea!

#2 Namib Desert, Namibia

The Namib is the world’s oldest desert. It stretches along the Atlantic Ocean and is the closest thing to Mars that we have on Earth. The desert charms travelers from all over the world with its ever-changing orange dunes, the shadowplay at sunset and sunrise, its unique nature, and its surreal landscapes. You can enjoy watching the shadowplay around Sesriem or the famous Dune 45 and capture some scenic views at Deadvlei and Sossusvlei .

#3 Zhangjiajie, China

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a part of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Its pristine forests and thousands of sandstone hills – some even taller than the Empire State Building – make for an impressive skyline. The view over the national park is incredible. It’s one of the most beautiful places in China. The scenic Zhangjiajie landscape inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the movie Avatar . Among all birthday vacation ideas, this might be one of the most exotic!

#4 Palawan, Philippines

The Philippines are home to 7,107 exotic islands , of which Palawan is one of the most popular destinations. The island will take your breath away with its limestone cliffs, pristine lagoons, and white sandy beaches . On Palawan, you can find dozens of iconic landscapes and spectacular wildlife. It’s an exciting adventure.

[Read: 15 Fun Things To Do in The Philippines ]

#5 Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to walk on water, you can experience this magical feeling in Bolivia. Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat . In the rainy season (roughly from December/January till April) it turns into a beautiful landscape like Salvador Dali’s artwork, making anyone standing on it look as if they’re part of an enormous mirror.

#6 Mù Cang Chải, Vietnam

Mù Cang Chải is a rural district of Yen Bai province, northeast Vietnam. It’s popular for its majestic rice terraces and mountainous landscapes. Mù Cang Chải is one of most attractive destinations in Vietnam, and it is most beautiful during the grain season in September and October.

#7 Santorini, Greece

Santorini is officially one of the most stunning islands in the world and our top pick among all the picturesque places to travel for your birthday. Its local charm, magnificent ocean views, pristine beaches and unique architecture will make your heart skip a beat. The island is famous for one of the world’s best scuba diving and snorkeling spots, exquisite vineyards, and scenic ocean views, as well as the beautiful white Santorini villas.

[Read:   Should I Use a Travel Agent to Book Flights? ]

[Read:  5 Ways How to Book Cheap Flight Tickets ]

#8 Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan is an ancient city in Myanmar. The city’s skyline gives everyone goosebumps, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the sunlight illuminates more than 4,000 ancient temples . Bagan is well known for hot-air balloon festivals. When hot-air balloons fill the sky over the stupas and temples of Ancient Bagan, the view is one of the iconic images of Myanmar.

#9 Trolltunga, Norway

Trolltunga is one of Norway’s most scenic cliff faces. The famous Trolltunga ledge lingers 700 feet above the beautiful Ringedalsvatnet Lake. The views from here are breathtaking – you can take in the gorgeous blue lake, the towering fjords, the snow-capped mountains, and the unforgettable landscape. Trolltunga is one of the top hiking spots in Norway. Tourists from all over the world come to see the spectacular Trolltunga ledge, Pulpit Rock, and Kjerag  “face to face”.

#10 Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is well known for its ancient Mayan wonders and untouched beauty. The beautiful town on the Caribbean coast is home to one of the best beaches in Mexico. Tulum charms travelers from all over the world with its eco-parks, its magical underground caves and cenotes, its tropical forests, and its jade-green freshwater pools.

#11 The Rainbow Mountains, China

The surreal Rainbow Mountains are part of the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park . This natural artwork is more than 24 million years old . The Rainbow Mountains are most beautiful at sunset and sunrise when the sunlight brings out the red and orange colors in the rocks that form the mountains’ surface. Zhangye is one of the most beautiful places in China.

[Read:  How to Book Multi-city Flights? ]

#12 Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Costiera Amalfitana (or the Amalfi Coast) in Campania is one of the most scenic coastlines in the world . Its beauty rests in the craggy cliffs, the brightly-colored sea, and the thirteen magical villages terraced into the coast’s hillsides. The Amalfi Coast is a place for everyone – charming, romantic, and adventurous.

Plan Your Birthday with ASAP Tickets

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This list of places to travel for your birthday is surely incomplete and miss some amazing spots. Comment with your favorite destinations below so we could add them too!

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11 Best Places to Go for Your Birthday

Blowing out cake candles is one thing—but what really matters is making those wishes come true, especially when you're dreaming of fabulous places to go for your birthday. And that's even more important when it comes to those milestone years that are truly worth celebrating.

Whether you're a parent marking your young one turning a precious six years old, a newly minted teenager choosing an epic adventure with your family, or you are heading into the golden years ready for the most epic of adventures, one thing’s for sure: the  gift of travel never gets old.

Here are some of our favorite ways to ring in each birthday, from a formative trip to Alaska and a stolen-off-the-silver-screen European adventure, to a centering mountain wellness retreat and a once-in-a-lifetime safari .

After all, no matter your age, birthdays that require a travel itinerary and change of scenery are always guaranteed to be most memorable.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article has been updated since its original publish date.

6th birthday: Alaska

It's never too early to instill a love of travel in kids—and celebrating your child's graduation from kindergartener to elementary schooler is worth a memorable getaway. Mix learning and immersive experiences with a trip through Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Global Explorers Program , which guides kids and teens up to 18 years old on adventures around the world through the lens of science. Certified instructors mentor young ones, inviting them to record observations in a field notebook. While offered in places from Antarctica to Baja California, set your six-year-old's sights north to Alaska, which for most kids will offer scenery they've only seen in science books. Choose from itineraries like six-day Wild Alaska Escape to explore icebergs and fjords or the 8-day animal-themed Voyage to the Great Bear Rainforest , with chances to spot bears, orcas, golden eagles, and river otters.

13th birthday: Costa Rica

The transition from tween to teen years is the perfect time to introduce the joys of international travel. Intrepid offers a line of fun family vacations specially designed with kids ages 10 and older in mind. The 9-day Costa Rica Family Holiday with Teenagers (with 10 percent off for kids 17 and younger) combines just the right amount of high-adrenaline adventure (like rafting on the Balsa River and traipsing on a sky walk high above the Monteverde Cloud Forest ) with chill down time. Relax in the hot springs near Arenal Volcano National Park , overnight in a tented cabin in the rainforest, and keep those eyes peeled for animal antics—there are toucans and sloths in La Fortuna, and spider monkeys and armadillos in Manuel Antonio.

15th/16th birthday: Paris

Whether it’s a Quinceañera or a Sweet 16 you’re celebrating, the coming-of-age birthday is a time of wonderment—and that’s exactly what you’ll find in the French capital . A city-based getaway is the right primer for a proper European vacation , giving teens the opportunity to navigate a foreign-language environment while gaining critical cultural perspective. Give them a taste of travel planning by letting them stitch together a custom itinerary through GetYourGuide : They can choose from a rooftop tour of the Arc de Triomphe , teen-centered shopping tour , macaron-baking class , and more. If that doesn’t fill the hours, consider a Louvre treasure hunt with ThatMuse and an evening stroll through Montmartre’s Place Dalida. (As any Emily in Paris fan knows, pics or it didn’t happen.)

21st birthday: Memphis

Beale Street’s bars and clubs thrum nightly with hip-hop and live Delta blues, but Paula & Raifords Disco is the best spot to really dance up a storm on your big 2-1. The morning-after plan: Stroll Big River Crossing , the Mississippi’s largest pedestrian bridge, or the 4,500-acre Shelby Farms Park . Make a date with the King at Graceland , then steer your crew over to the South Main Arts District, where Wiseacre Brewing Company , Old Dominick distillery, and Ghost River Brewing Co. sit within walking distance of Arrive Memphis . The 62-room boutique hotel serves as the perfect home base, no matter how late your partying goes .

30th birthday: European Adventure

Let's face it, at this point in your life, the rise and grind is starting to get static—and there's no better way to rip yourself away from it all than with a totally over-the-top trip, straight off the silver screen. Bespoke luxury travel adventure company Black Tomato has leaned into the set-jetting trend with thrilling limited-edition 12-day James Bond 007-themed itinerary simply dubbed The Assignment . Among the possible experiences: a high-speed boat chase down the Thames River and a training session with Bond stunt coordinator Lee Morrison in London; a tour of Cote d'Azur with Bond Girl Carole Ashby; and special access to Venice's Glass Museum to see the Coppa Barovier, as highlighted in 1979's Moonraker .

40th birthday: Naples, Italy

At this age, pedigree matters—and you couldn’t ask for a dreamier team than Atlas Obscura and Culinary Backstreets for help designing the ultimate insider food trip . The six-day Culinary Naples: Producers, Purveyors, and Pizzaioli tour covers everything from street food and bakeries to countryside feasts of mussels, wine, and buffalo mozzarella. Good news for home cooks: The itinerary includes hands-on cooking lessons , so you can learn how to make authentic Neapolitan pizza where the dish got its start.

50th birthday: The Galápagos

Classic Journeys’ 8-day land-based multisport itinerary brings you closer to the Ecuadorian islands’ unique wildlife (marine iguanas, warm-water penguins, blue-footed boobies) than most liveaboards. After swimming and kayaking alongside sea lions and sea turtles, trek eight miles to the rim of Sierra Negra, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Then head over to Santa Cruz Island, where you'll be greeted by 500-pound giant tortoises and manta rays swirling just below the water's surface.

60th birthday: The Berkshires

By this age you know the importance of taking time for yourself. At the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Western Massachusetts’ Berkshires, no yoga experience is required to partake in a Zen retreat. Instead, choose your own adventure at the 100-acre hilltop property overlooking Lake Mahkeenac: taking a reflective walk through the meditation garden or communing with nature on a network of surrounding wooded trails; observing presentations about ancestral healing or creative expression; and tucking into healthy legume- and veggie-centric meals at the Ayurveda-inflected Buddha Bar.

70th birthday: Botswana

Toast your seventh decade with the trip of a lifetime. Rothschild Safaris ' 10-day Classic Botswana Explorer packs equal parts adventure and luxury, two things you need more of in life. Enjoy game drives in the Chobe National Park, the Moremi Wildlife Reserve, and Okavango Delta, keeping your eyes peeled for elephant herds and perhaps even the zebra migration (depending on the time of year). Also on the agenda: leopard tracking and elephant bush walks. Then, reach for the skies with a helicopter ride to see the delta's winding waters from above, perhaps even catching an aerial view of hippos.

80th birthday: Himalayas

Whether or not you've been around the world, it's time to go the distance. There's no better way than with the three-nation, 20-day Himalayan Odyssey through Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan with Nomadic Expeditions , specialists in luxe Asian travels. Among the bucket list items you'll check off: Tibet's Gyantse Kumbum's storied shrines, Nepal's World Peace Pagoda, and Bhutan's Paro Taktsang. And, perhaps most impressively, you'll even set your very own eyes on Mount Everest from a private plane.

100th birthday: Mississippi River cruise

Of all the places to go for your birthday, we say hit a few at once by sailing into your twilight years with a tour of the Big Muddy. Last year, Viking Cruises unveiled Viking Mississippi , a new vessel with 193 state rooms. The eight-day Heart of the Delta itinerary runs between New Orleans and Memphis, with stops in Darrow, Baton Rouge, St. Francisville, Natchez, and Vicksburg. Optional excursions include a canoe tour of the Atchafalaya Basin and a visit to one of the Civil War’s most pivotal battlefields.

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Which hawaiian island is the best to visit our 2024 ranking.

Though it can be easy to assume the six most visited Hawaiian Islands offer similar experiences, they are more diverse than you can imagine. From Waimea Canyon to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii’s wealth of natural beauty (think: cerulean waters, verdant vegetation and stunning white sand beaches ) is just waiting to be explored. To help you decide which Hawaiian Island is ideal for your next vacation, U.S. News took into account sights, expert opinion and reader input to determine the best Hawaiian Islands to visit. Vote for your favorite island below to have a say in next year's list. 

Kaua'i

Hawaii - the big island, honolulu - oahu.

Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for both couples and families looking for variety in their vacation. Away from the sand, you can drive the Road to Hana, enjoy a bird's-eye view during a helicopter tour , see one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes at Haleakala National Park and get up close to marine wildlife while snorkeling in Honolua Bay or around Molokini. Then, for an experience you won’t forget, relax on the volcanic coastline of Wai'anapanapa State Park, where jet-black sands meet vibrant sapphire waters.

With a more easygoing environment than other islands like Oahu and the Big Island, the Garden Isle lets its wild, natural beauty speak for itself and is perfect for an adventurous getaway. The main attractions here are Koke'e State Park and Waimea Canyon, otherwise known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." But you also won’t want to miss Kaua'i’s breathtaking Wailua Falls or dreamy Po'ipu Beach. And if a challenging hike is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more scenic than the Kalalau Trail along the rugged Napali Coast. Just remember to pack galoshes and a rain jacket – Kaua'i is one of Hawaii's rainiest islands.

The island of Hawaii's bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions and family-friendly activities makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed itinerary. Not only does the Big Island offer white and black sand beaches , including the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, it is also home to lush rainforests and two active volcanoes at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. History buffs will love visiting Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site (home to one of Hawaii's largest restored temples) and Kealakekua Bay (where British explorer James Cook first arrived in 1779). Or, head to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to see petroglyphs, ancient Hawaiian fishponds and green sea turtles.

The least-developed island on this list, Moloka'i was made for those who don’t mind going off the beaten path. With lush rainforests, miles of beautiful beaches and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world, Moloka'i is a great place to reconnect with nature, whether you’re staying overnight at one of Moloka'i’s quiet oceanfront cottages – there is only one hotel on the island – or visiting on a day trip from one of the other Hawaiian Islands. Top activities here include soaking up some sun on secluded Papohaku Beach, snorkeling Moloka'i's 28-mile reef or joining a guided cultural hike through Halawa Valley.

Dubbed The Gathering Place, Oahu is home to plenty of famous sites and a great jumping-off point for first-time visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. On the South Shore, you'll find Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay, Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Le'ahi (Diamond Head) State Monument, all in or near the capital city of Honolulu. Meanwhile, the North Shore is home to a more laid-back vibe, as well as the renowned waves at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, which host major surfing competitions every year. After exploring along the coast, head inland to the tranquil Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a Buddhist temple in Uji, Japan.

For a secluded, nature-centric escape, set your sights on Lana'i. Centrally located between Maui and Moloka'i, this remote hideaway makes a great home base for inter-island travel. Travelers can take a four-wheel-drive vehicle to spots like Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach) and Kaunolu Village, a prehistoric fishing village that was once frequented by King Kamehameha I, or spend their days sunbathing on Polihua Beach. In winter, head to Hulopo'e Bay for terrific whale-watching opportunities. Then, make your way to Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), an enchanting rock garden that was once part of a native dryland forest, for a breathtaking Lana'i sunset. 

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22 Extraordinary Places to Go for Your Birthday

By Suzie Dundas, James Ellis

Last updated: June 4th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

Birthdays are a time to celebrate, and luckily for us, we get one every year. Traveling can be a fantastic way to spend a birthday, especially if it’s the start of a new decade—turning 40 or 50 is certainly a reason to celebrate!

Getting away on your birthday can be about more than just having a good time. It’s a chance to reflect on the last year, look forward to the next one, and take a few days to focus on yourself.

Even if your birthday is months away, it’s never too early to start thinking about birthday trip ideas. Here are some romantic, exciting, and beautiful places to go for your birthday all around the world.

Barcelona, Spain

Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain

Ask world travelers what cities they love the most, and Barcelona will often be top of mind. This Catalonian city has it all: beaches, history, amazing food, romance, fantastic architecture, art, and more. This is not a city where you have to work very hard to fill your days.

Barcelona is one of the best places to go for your birthday to fit many activities in one trip. You could start your day with a sightseeing tour past the most famous buildings from architectural genius Antoni Gaudí, including Casa Battló, Park Güell, and La Sagrada Familia.

Gothic Quarter

Or, you may choose to spend the morning relaxing on the beach, or leisurely strolling through the historical Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter.) When it’s time for lunch, take a tapas-and-wine-pairing tour, or swing by one of the small cafes on Las Ramblas. The options are endless, so if Barcelona tops your list of birthday trip ideas, here’s the perfect way to spend three days in Barcelona .

Venice, Italy

Gondola ride in Venice

Romance is always in the air in Venice ; after all, is there anything more romantic than a sunset gondola ride on the city’s famous canals?  If your ideal birthday revolves around a romantic getaway with your spouse or partner, consider planning a getaway for two to the Italian city. Of course, you’ll also be drawn to this beautiful city if you’re a history or art lover.

Be sure to visit Doge’s Palace, a 14th-century palace once owned by the leader of the Venitian Republic. Then, walk through the hidden and twisting streets of Venice, exploring centuries-old glass-blowing studios, before heading to St. Mark’s Square.

The city feels as though it was custom-designed for people in love. Of course, it’s hard to find a more romantic place for dinner than a candlelit cobblestone street in the heart of Italy.

Jobson’s Cove Beach, Bermuda

Perfect for east coasters looking for a quick tropical getaway, Bermuda is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. Thanks to the blend of British influence and tropical surroundings, it feels more luxurious than other destinations.

While amazing shopping and dining experiences are a given, Bermuda is one of the best birthday trips for another reason: it’s signature pink sand. Some of the best Bermuda beaches are famous not just for their beauty—bright blue water and rocky coves assure that nearly all the island’s beaches are stunning—but for the pink sand you won’t find in too many other places in the world.

Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda

One of Bermuda’s most famous beaches is Horseshoe Bay, which beckons travelers with its gentle waves and picture-perfect vistas. In Bermuda, you can spend your birthday relaxing on the beach with a rum swizzle in hand, then spend the next day exploring an underground crystal cave or touring the coastline on a catamaran.

Vancouver, Canada

Stanley Park, Vancouver

If you live in California or the PNW and are looking for great birthday trip ideas, put away the tropical clothing and consider heading north to jaw-droppingly beautiful Vancouver .

The seaside city is bordered by the beach on one side and mountains on the other, with an actual tropical rainforest not too far away. That makes it an excellent blend of urban elegance and outdoor adventure—perfect for anyone who likes to hike during the day and enjoy a gourmet tasting menu at night.

Capilano Suspension Bridge, Vancouver

Crossing the Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of British Columbia’s most memorable experiences and a must if you’re visiting the city. The long suspension bridge hangs more than 100 feet above the rainforest floor and offers a chance to get a bird’s-eye view of the lush surroundings. It’s suitable for nearly all ages and ability levels, so it’s a fantastic way to connect with Vancouver’s nature without a strenuous hike.

Another excellent way to experience Vancouver’s wild side is to take the Sea-to-Sky Gondola, which rises more than 2,000 feet into the air in the mountains of nearby Squamish. If you have time, visit nearby Shannon Falls, where a short walking path will take you to one of the most impressive (and roaring) waterfalls in western Canada.

Key West, Florida

Duval Street in Key West, Florida

Florida’s Key West is one of the best places to go for your birthday if you’re traveling with a group of friends. In the Keys, you can have a great time and enjoy the finer things in life, with low-key bars located just steps away from upscale spas and cafes.

Though the colorful seaport area near Duval Street is lively and happening, it’s actually a National Historic Landmark once frequented by famous Key West locals like Ernest Hemmingway.

Bottlenose dolphins in Key West, Florida

Since Key West is one of the most tropical places in the U.S., be sure to get out on the water for your birthday. If you’re spending time with family, some of the best things to do in Key West with kids include snorkeling and swimming with dolphins. Dozens of tours and boat rentals are available, ranging from catamarans sails to see dolphins in the wild to snorkeling tours that will guide you across Key West’s best coral reefs.

Read: What Is Key West Known for?

If you love snorkeling or scuba diving, you should strongly consider a trip to Bonaire, an island recognized as one of the best diving locations in the world. There are more than 50 spots on the island where you can scuba dive or snorkel right from the beach. Grab your gear and swim out to get face-to-face with some of the most colorful creatures in the Caribbean .

What’s a more exciting place to go for your birthday than a coral reef? There’s plenty to do out of the water, too. Some of the best things to do in Bonaire include kayaking through a mangrove river, learning to windsurf, and spotting flamingos in the wild.

Bonaire is a small island, so whether you want to spend your birthday riding an ATV, relaxing on the beach, or cruising on a catamaran, you’ll find a place to do it within a few minutes of Kralendijk, the capital.

Cozumel, Mexico

Chichen Itza in Yucatan, Mexico

If you only have a few days to celebrate your birthday, consider heading to Cozumel . The always-popular beachside city in Mexico is affordable, welcoming, and filled with opportunities to explore Mexico’s rich heritage and culture.

History buffs may want to spend their birthdays exploring the pyramids, temples, and tombs of Chichen Itza, the Mayan Empire’s former capital. Or to experience Mexico’s modern culture, sign up for a couple’s or small-group cooking class.

If you want to spend your birthday in Cozumel’s warm water, snorkeling and catamaran tours are always on offer. If you want to challenge yourself to try something new for your birthday, you could sign up for an intro to scuba class or try an underwater trek, wearing an astronaut-style helmet that supplies air from the surface as you stroll along the ocean floor.

Quebec City, Canada

Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City

For the charm of a European city, consider visiting Old Quebec on the shores of Canada’s St. Lawrence River. Distinctly more French than the rest of Canada—and one of the things Quebec is known for —don’t be surprised when you’re greeted with bonjour instead of hello, and menus come in both Francais and Anglais. Old Quebec is stunning and perpetually covered in white lights, flower boxes hanging from windows, and outdoor seating in front of every cafe.

Some of the best things to do in Quebec City include taking a funicular down to wander the old city’s cobblestone streets, or taking a romantic horse-drawn trolley ride through the heart of the city.

Old Quebec City

A food tour is a great way to experience something new on your birthday, especially as Quebec City is known for its unique and modern blend of French and Canadian cuisines. Make sure to try poutine if you never have.

Read: Why Visit Quebec City in the Fall

Willemstad, Curaçao

Curaçao is a slightly more metropolitan version of Bonaire—in fact, the islands are right next to each other. While Curaçao still has the fabulous beaches and amazing watersports of Bonaire, it also has a bit more of a downtown area in Willemstad, the capital city.

Some of the best things to do in Curaçao include taking Caribbean food cooking classes (perhaps to host a belated birthday party when you get home?), visiting an ostrich farm, or touring the 300,000-year old Hato Caves.

Curaçao isn’t nearly as popular as other islands, so it’s one of the best places to go for your birthday if you want to be a bit off-the-beaten path and enjoy an excellent mix of beachside relaxation and unusual discoveries.

Costa Maya, Mexico

Mahahual Beach, Costa Maya

If your upcoming birthday is all about letting off steam and trying to de-stress from a challenging year, Mexico’s Costa Maya is the perfect place to celebrate. The small town is south of Cancun and doesn’t attract nearly the same crowds—which is good for people who love smaller villages and more laid-back travel experiences.

The port at Costa Maya isn’t a big city, but it does have a swim-up bar and pool, local boutiques, and a few excellent bars and restaurants. Some of the best things to do in Costa Maya are within walking distance to town, like dolphin encounters and educational sessions with practitioners of Mayan traditions.

Just a few minutes from town are the beaches of Mahahual, where you can do everything from fly fishing to diving and snorkeling on the world’s second-largest reef. If you take just a short drive inland, you’ll have access to newly discovered Mayan ruins , river tubing, or ATVing through the jungle. The town may be small, but there are plenty of activities to make your next birthday an incredible experience.

Cayman Islands

Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman

For the perfect birthday celebration not far from home, consider a trip to the Cayman Islands to celebrate your most recent trip around the sun. Grand Cayman is where you’ll find the world-famous Seven Mile Beach, a fabulous stretch of soft, sandy beach that offers some of the Caribbean’s best recreation.

Seven Mile Beach is a wonderful place to give scuba diving a try if doing something adventurous tops your list of birthday trip ideas. If that’s a little too daring, you can go on your own Grand Cayman snorkeling adventure, whether it’s above a shipwreck or the island’s reefs. When it’s time for a celebratory cocktail, head to one of Grand Cayman’s modern Caribbean restaurants, or watch the sunset from a low-key beachfront grill.

Reykjavik, Iceland

View from Reykjavik, Iceland

For an otherworldly experience to celebrate an upcoming landmark, one of the best places to go for your birthday has to be the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik .

Set among a craggy lunar landscape of solidified lava fields as part of one of the world’s great geothermal locations, the city always seems to be swathed in an atmospheric haze rising from the various fissures and naturally heated pools that surround it.

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

A dip in the milky, steamy Blue Lagoon offers the kind of birthday bathing experience that just has to be captured for social media—especially when the lake’s natural mineral mud can provide such an image-friendly face mask.

Depending on the time of year, other natural experiences are high on the agenda, too. During summer in Iceland , there’s near 24-hour daylight, while winter brings super-short days and the chance to perhaps spot the northern lights.

Thingvellir National Park, Iceland

A drive to see Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park on a Golden Circle Tour is another unmissable thing to do in Reykjavik . Those looking for a birthday meal should pay a visit to Perlan, the city’s iconic domed fine-dining restaurant with 360-degree views of the city and its surrounds.

Tokyo, Japan

Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo, Japan

The bustling capital of Japan offers a unique mix of traditional culture combined with hyper-modern life. It’s the kind of place where neon-lit skyscrapers sit side-by-side with historic temples, and bustling fish markets contrast with stores packed to the brim with the latest gadgets and gizmos.

For those looking to splash the cash on some new gear as a birthday treat, there are chic boutiques in Omotesando and cutting-edge fashion houses on the streets of Harajuku.

Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, Japan

Traditionalists can take in the historic Meiji Shrine and the ornate Senso-ji Temple, while thrill-seekers will love the Akihabara neighborhood in Tokyo , with its gaming arcades and comic shops.

Tokyo is a hit to the senses and no more so when it comes to places to celebrate a significant birthday. From the street food stalls of Asakusa, to high-end dining (Tokyo is the city with the most Michelin stars), the city really does cater for all tastes.

Rome, Italy

Colosseum in Rome, Italy

For art, culture, and history lovers, Rome is the one of the best places to go for your birthday, steeped in more than 2,500 years of history. A stroll around its bustling streets is like a walking checklist of iconic sights: the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Roman Forum.

Rome is a world of ancient ruins, art-filled churches , and incredible Renaissance architecture. Once you’ve marveled at the art treasures in the Vatican Museums and gazed at St Peter’s Basilica, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, contributing to the €3,000 collected here daily for charities.

Later, wander the lively neighborhoods of Trastevere and Monti, and tuck into birthday treats such as pizza bianca, carbonara, and gelato at a piazza-side café.

Sydney, Australia

With its unique, sail-inspired Opera House and majestic Harbour Bridge, Australia’s largest city hosts one of the world’s greatest skylines , perhaps only matched by those of New York and Hong Kong.

One of the best places to see the Sydney skyline for an unforgettable birthday experience is from the BridgeClimb, a thrilling tour to the apex of its famed arch, from where there are views stretching from The Rocks (where the original city stood) as far as famed Bondi Beach.

Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia

Visit Darling Harbour for incredible food , the Queen Victoria Building for exciting shopping, and aforementioned Bondi for its gorgeous beach and surfer-chic culture.

It’s unlikely boredom will set in, but for a break from urban life, head to the nearby Blue Mountains for hiking and the chance to see kangaroos. There’s also the Hunter Valley for wine tasting.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

La Boca in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital simply smolders with passion. Famed for its European architecture, historic neighborhoods , and amazing cuisine, it’s the kind of place you go to live the good life.

While in Buenos Aires , you can learn how to tango, wash down thick steaks with fruity Malbec at a classic parrilla grill restaurant, cuddle up on a park bench in Palermo, or head to La Recoleta Cemetery. Famed as one of the most beautiful in the world, it’s the resting place of famed freedom fighter and national heroine Eva Perón.

Elsewhere you can visit Feria de San Telmo for antiques and artisanal goods and, if you’re staying overnight, try late-night cocktails at the speakeasies of Florería Atlántico.

Santorini, Greece

If you’ve ever gazed at images of the Greek islands with whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and infinity pools seemingly dropping over the edge of a cliff with a backdrop of deep ocean blue, it was probably taken on Santorini .

To say this horseshoe-shaped island in the Cyclades group is photogenic is an incredible understatement. Set around a sunken caldera, the buildings of the main town Fira and a number of other villages along the coast seemingly cling to the edge of the clifftop as two volcanic islands smoke away in the bay below.

Oia in Santorini, Greece

The winding streets of the island capital are lined with goldsmiths and silversmiths, while there are hip bars and restaurants looking over those incredible views. Santorini’s beaches are unique too, some with black or bright red sand, thanks to the volcano.

The volcanic nature of the island also makes for a unique terroir, and the local Assyrtiko wine has been made here for more than 3,000 years. Little wonder it’s been perfected and is a great choice to toast another turn around the glaring sun.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The unique (almost) anything-goes party feel of Amsterdam makes it an excellent party place for a unique birthday.

But there are more sedate ways to celebrate too. Visit some of Amsterdam’s best museums , such as the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, and Rijksmuseum, or you can hop on a private boat for a tour of the many canals.

Outside the city itself, there’s also much to see: take in the windmills of Zaanse Schans, or in spring, head to the tulip fields of Keukenhof for fabulous displays of Holland’s famous flower.

Istanbul, Turkey

Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey

Sitting at the crossroads of Europe and Asia and with a foot in both camps, storied Istanbul is rich in culture and history.

Icons are seemingly on every corner here thanks to incredible Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks, but there’s also a vibrant street life with a buzz unlike that of many other cities.

Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey

No visit is complete without exploring Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace, some of the best places to visit in Istanbul , all world-renowned for their architectural beauty. Or bartering for souvenirs and spices in the Grand Bazaar or the Egyptian Bazaar.

Bosphorus cruises offer the best views from the water, while the colorful Balat district offers a taste of old Istanbul. Head to a rooftop restaurant for a meze platter of freshly grilled kebabs, washed down with raki, the local firewater that’s guaranteed to add a spark to any birthday party.

Read: Best Neighborhoods in Istanbul

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Old Town Dubrovnik, Croatia

A favorite of Hollywood movie location scouts, the coastal Croatian city of Dubrovnik is one of Europe’s best places to go for your birthday.

The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stroll along the city walls with their panoramic views is the best way to take it all in. Or take a walk around the charming, cobbled streets to explore and discover the main sights such as the baroque St. Blaise Church, the Renaissance Sponza Palace, or the Gothic Rector’s Palace.

The city’s seaside location adds to the allure and if the weather is too hot, there are great Dubrovnik beaches at Banje, or Lokrum Island to cool down. The city’s seafront restaurants offer incredible sea food and great wines, too.

Lisbon, Portugal

The coastal capital of Portugal is one of Europe’s most underrated destinations—but it’s a perfect spot to celebrate a special anniversary.

Set on the scenic Tagus River, Lisbon is known for its colorful architecture, historic sites, and its famous azulejo tiles, some of which date from the 15th century.

Lisbon is the kind of city that begs to be explored. Wander through the picturesque old neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto. Ride historic Tram 28 in a 1930s streetcar as it winds through the main tourist district. Visit Jerónimos Monastery, or take the Santa Justa Lift for city views.

Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, Portugal

Shopping in Lisbon is amazing: the city is home to the Bertrand Bookstore, said to be the oldest in the world still operating, while markets such as LxFactory push the boat out with hipster designer gear.

The city’s Belém Tower, overlooking the Tagus, offers great views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge (at eight miles long, Europe’s longest) and also gives its name to Lisbon’s iconic custard tart. Sitting in the Time Out Market with a strong coffee and a Pastéis de Belém is one celebratory birthday treat you’ll never forget.

Copenhagen, Denmark

New Nordic cuisine has been all the rage in culinary circles for the last decade and there’s no greater place in which to choose a celebratory birthday meal than in the Danish capital.

Copenhagen is home to some of the greatest restaurants in the world. Geranium is by former world’s best chef Rasmus Kofoed, while Alchemist offers a 50-course tasting menu. Naturally, they book out in advance, so it pays to plan well ahead of a visit for a birthday treat.

The celebrations don’t end with food though. Whimsical Tivoli Gardens is an old-style amusement park with rides and shows. There’s world-class shopping on Strøget and incredible architecture to discover.

Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, Denmark

Some of the best things to do in Copenhagen include visiting the 18th-century rococo district Frederiksstaden, the royal family’s Amalienborg Palace, the Christiansborg Palace parliament building, and the Renaissance-era Rosenborg Castle, where the crown jewels are housed, to get the best highlights.

Then finish off a birthday visit with a walk around Nyhavn harbor, lined with colorful buildings and boats, and a stop for pictures at the city’s wistful Little Mermaid statue.

Read: 50th Birthday Trip Ideas

George Town, Grand Cayman

No matter how you choose to celebrate your birthday—or where you ultimately decide to go—just remember what’s important: spending your day surrounded by the person or people that make your life special.

Celebrate your next birthday with an incredible cruise vacation to one of these unforgettable destinations. Browse cruise itineraries online and book your birthday trip today.

Suzie Dundas

Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and photographer. Her work has appeared in Business Insider, Forbes, Outside Magazine, TripSavvy, the San Francisco Chronicle, Frommer’s Fodors, and many more. She was a contributing author on Lonely Planet’s Sustainable Travel and is the upcoming author of a trail guide to the northern Sierra Nevada. Follow her on Instagram at @hikeupyourskirt or explore more of her work at suziedundas.com.

James Ellis

James is a freelance travel writer who has visited more than 80 countries. A keen ultramarathon runner, he spends his time between his adopted home of Greece and his real home in the UK’s Yorkshire Dales.

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15 Best Birthday Trip Ideas For Every Age

Blow out the candles in an exciting Southern destination.

21st Birthday Trip Ideas

30th birthday trip ideas, 40th birthday trip ideas, 50th birthday trip ideas, 60th birthday trip ideas.

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Parties can be more work than they’re worth, but birthday trips are always worth the time and energy. If you’re looking for the best places to go on your birthday, the South has plenty of great destinations where you can celebrate in style. Whether you want to splurge on a 21 st birthday getaway with your friends or are seeking a quiet couple’s weekend for your 50 th birthday, we’ve got ideas for travelers at every stage of their lives. For those with loved ones approaching milestone birthdays, forget the surprise party. Ditch the guest lists, streamers, and Publix grocery store cake , and give them a birthday experience they’ll remember forever. Here are the best birthday trip ideas for every age.

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashvegas may be known as bachelorette party central, but the city’s mix of Honky Tonks and swanky bars also makes it a great place to ring in a 21 st birthday. Treat yourself to a shopping day in the 12 South neighborhood, where you’ll find a healthy collection of boutiques like Reese Witherspoon’s Draper James alongside national retailers. Make dinner reservations at new East Nashville hotspot, Noko , or at Sean Brock’s acclaimed tasting menu-only restaurant June . Then, gear up for a big night out on Broadway. If you can snag a reservation to the Dolly Parton-inspired bar atop the Graduate Nashville hotel, there’s not a better, pinker, or more over-the-top spot to celebrate the occasion. A picture with the giant Dolly statue at White Limozeen is reason enough to go. The bar is 21+ after 7 p.m., so you’ll have a perfect opportunity to show off your newly legal license.

Austin, Texas

Gabrela Herman

There’s a palpable energy that runs through this college town that’s famous for keeping things weird. Cheers to turning 21 by sipping on a giant margarita on Joe T. Garcia’s colorful and often-crowded garden patio. If the weather is warm, spend the day swimming, lounging, and people watching on the grassy hills around Barton Springs, or rent a paddleboard and see the city from a different vantage point on Lady Bird Lake. Austin’s dining scene leaves nothing to be desired, whether you’re in the mood for authentic Tex-Mex, real-deal Texas barbecue, or want to sit down at a stylish restaurant for dinner. The city developed its reputation as a music town, so seeing a live show is a must. A visit to the Continental Club , often called the “granddaddy of live music venues” is a rite of passage befitting of your 21 st .  

New Orleans, Louisiana

Nathan Steele / EyeEm / Getty Images

Every day is a celebration on Bourbon Street, so why not make the party that much better by bringing your big day to the Crescent City? The great thing about New Orleans is that it has range. From the grittiest of dive bars to the nicest white-tablecloth establishments, New Orleans is a city that does it all—and a place where you can experience it all. Simply strolling up and down Royal Street in the French Quarter, with its excess of shops, galleries, restaurants, and street performers, is an adventure. The birthday girl or boy can embark on tasting tour around town to sample some of the city’s many signature drinks. Frozen Irish Coffee at Erin Rose , a Hurricane at Pat O. Brien’s , and a Pimm’s Cup at Napoleon House are just a few to whet your whistle. And of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to New Orleans without eating your way through town . For a special night out, make reservations at a classic spot like Brennan’s or splashy newcomer like Wild South . You can’t go wrong either way.

It’d be a missed opportunity to turn the big 3-0 and not celebrate at a place that literally has the number 30 in its name. Named for the Scenic Highway that runs for 24 miles along Florida’s Gulf Coast, this idyllic vacation destination is known for its unique beachside communities that each have a style of their own. From the stunning upscale architecture of Alys Beach to the charming Mayberry feel of the town square in Seaside , there’s a beach town to suit every personality. Of course, the gorgeous sugar-white sands and turquoise waters are the big draw here–and there’s plenty of room for you and your closest friends to park your chairs for a day of chatting and relaxing in the sun. When the sun starts to go down, all you’ll have to do is decide which of 30A’s excellent restaurants you want to dine at. You can’t beat the views from Bud & Alley’s first-come-first-serve upstairs deck, but on the other hand there’s no place livelier or more ready for a party than The Red Bar .

Miami, Florida

Miami's energy is electric, which makes it the ideal place to ring in a milestone birthday. We guarantee that not a single second of your birthday trip will be boring if you spend it in this colorful, multicultural city. Start your day by getting the perfect 30 th birthday Instagram picture in front of a bright and bold mural at Wynwood Walls , the city’s original outdoor street art museum. For lunch, sit down at trendy KoKo for authentic Mexican cuisine in a beautifully designed space, or spend time in the vintage dining room at Versailles Restaurant , known for its Cuban sandwiches. Feed off the city’s unmatched energy by spending the day at a beach club on South Beach, where you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to a tropical island in the Caribbean. Not in the mood for a crowd? Charter a private boat to take you and your pals for a cruise.

Texas Hill Country

Grape Creek Vineyards

A trip to Napa’s wine country is a classic birthday trip that’s especially popular for those in the 30s and 40s crowds. If flying across the country to California feels a bit out of reach (or maybe like a little too much), the high concentration of excellent wineries in Texas Hill Country are a compelling alternative. Book a couple nights in one of the Hill Country’s many plush resorts ( Camp Lucy and Miraval Austin are both great options), then spend your days sipping wine in the company of some truly stunning scenery. Let Texas’s rolling hills, green countryside, and famous wildflowers create the perfect backdrop to an unforgettable birthday trip.

St. Augustine, Florida

SeanPavonePhoto / Getty Images

Compelling history meets unbeatable Florida sunshine in this small town that was voted as our readers’ favorite in 2023. There’s no better place to reflect on the passing of time, as one often does on landmark birthdays, than in one of the country’s oldest destinations. And St. Augustine proves that good things come with time. Take a tour of the sizable but entirely walkable downtown to see striking Spanish Renaissance architecture represented on Flagler College’s stunning campus and at the Lightner Museum . Stop to refuel at Boat Drinks , a colorful tiki-inspired bar and eatery centrally located on George Street. The great thing about St. Augustine is that is essentially two destinations in one. When your dogs are barking and you’re ready to trade city strolling for sun-kissed skin and an ocean breeze, head to Anastasia State Park , a 1,600-acre nature preserve with deserted beaches that’s less than 10 minutes from downtown.

Charleston, South Carolina

There’s no denying our love for this classic Southern destination. After all, our readers vote Charleston as their favorite city year after year. If you haven’t been yet, use your 40 th birthday as an excuse to check this bucket list destination off your list. And if you have had the pleasure of visiting before, a birthday is an equally good reason to plan a return trip. To do Charleston right for your 40 th , book a stay at a grand hotel like The Mills House or Hotel Bennett , both of which are located in walking distance of favorite attractions like King Street (for unbeatable shopping) and Rainbow Row. Then, plan a dream trip based on your interests. History buffs should check out the brand-new International African American History Museum . Art lovers will want to pop into local galleries and visit the Gibbes Museum of Art . And everyone will agree to dedicating several days to making a dent in the incredible dining scene

Highlands, North Carolina

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands

If a quiet weekend away sounds like just the way to jumpstart a new decade of life, consider Highlands. The charming mountain town nestled within the Nantahala National Forest, which means gorgeous vistas and opportunities to explore and enjoy the great outdoors abound. However, that’s far from the only thing Highlands has going for it. Treat yourself to a stay at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa , a far cry from a rustic cabin in the woods. The luxury resort is the pinnacle of mountainside elegance. Find excellent farm-to-table cuisine at the resort’s many restaurants like Madison’s and Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar, and definitely book an appointment at the European-inspired spa. The last thing you should have on your birthday is a worry, and Old Edwards, it’s hardly possible.

Savannah, Georgia

Amy Luo/Moment/Getty Images

This beloved Southern city is as timeless as you, and that’s saying a lot. As the state of Georgia’s oldest city, Savannah has had a long and colorful history, but one thing that’s remained stayed consistent throughout the years is the city’s undeniable charm. Walk the cobblestoned River Street, where you can get great views of the Savannah River while popping into some the destination’s most iconic spots like River Street Sweets , which coincidentally celebrated its 50 th birthday in 2023, and Wet Willie’s , where frozen daiquiris await. If your sweetie (good bless ‘em) has suffered a fair share of missing the mark when it comes to picking out gifts, buy your own birthday gift at the 5,200-square-foot dream store known as The Paris Market and Brocante .

The Greenbrier

Located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, The Greenbrier has more than earned its moniker as America’s Resort over the past 200 years. The National Historic Landmark, which encompasses 11,000 sprawling acres that contain not only the main resort, but also estate homes, cottages, four world-class golf courses, 19 dining options, and a shopping village where you can find everything from handmade jewelry to designer clothing. If you’re feeling lucky (and who wouldn’t be on their birthday), you can take a spin on the slots or sit down at a blackjack table in the Casino Club. If your birthday happens to fall around Christmas or Easter, you’re in for a real treat as the resort dresses up extra special for both occasions.

Marco Island, Florida

This laidback island on Florida’s Paradise Coast is so picturesque you might mistake your visit for a dream. Marco Island, along with its sister island Sanibel, is known for its unspoiled beaches, abundant wildlife, and a healthy collection of oceanfront resorts where you can set up home base for the weekend. Part of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands, a string of isles that pops up at the meeting point of the Everglades and the Gulf of Mexico, there’s no better place to commemorate half a century of living. When you’re not searching for shells on favorite Tigertail Beach, head into the town’s historic district to explore shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in brightly colored coastal shanties. For an unforgettable birthday meal, snag a table on the patio at Snook Inn or at the beachfront Kane Tiki Bar & Grill .

Alexandria, Virginia

Grace Cary/Getty Images

Old-school charm is the name of the game at this waterfront town that’s known for its colonial era contributions. For a blast from the past, visit Gadsby’s Tavern , a fine dining restaurant that’s been open since 1770 and was a favorite spot for all five of the U.S.’s first presidents. Find modern-day stars up and down King Street, a mile-long thoroughfare that’s home to unique local boutiques, farm-to-table restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. Spend time soaking in the sparkling Potomac riverfront and check into one of the city’s many charming boutique hotels. If you’re a spring baby, you may even be able to make your visit coincide with the area’s famously beautiful cherry blossom season.

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

The lovely thing about this coastal Mississippi town is its just quiet enough, without ever teetering toward boring. This means you can have a relaxing day on the beach without having to worry about staking out your sliver of sand, but when night falls, you won’t be stuck inside with nothing to do. The hotels and stays in Ocean Spring are decidedly stylish. Treat yourself to a floating cabin at The Beatnik , a posh room in downtown’s The Hemingway boutique hotel, or a spacious suite at longtime favorite inn The Roost . Artsy folk will love visiting the Walter Anderson Museum , the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Arts Center , and the many galleries and workshops of local artists that span downtown. The best place to have your birthday dinner is Vestige , owned by James Beard-nominated chef Alex Perry. There you’ll have the opportunity to savor a creative five-course tasting menu that you’re guaranteed to think about for many birthdays to come.

Blackberry Farm

A birthday as momentous as your 60 th calls for an equally significant celebration trip. And there’s no place that screams special occasion like Blackberry Farm. Located in Walland, Tennessee, Blackberry Farm is the gold standard when it comes to not only Southern resorts but luxury resorts everywhere. Its stunning 4,200 acres in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains offers a host of activities from fly fishing in nearby Hesse Creek to horseback riding to paddle sports to cycling. If you’re hoping for a more relaxing trip, the award-winning Wellhouse Spa is the place to be pampered. The farm is perhaps most well-known for its outstanding food and beverage program that brings together the immense talents of first-rate butchers, foragers, cheesemakers, chefs, master gardeners, bakers, and sommeliers. This is the kind of trip you plan for years, then relive in your head for years after you’ve returned home.

Related Articles

8 Getaways for Celebrating the Big 4-0

A private pool at one of the hotel villas. Photo courtesy of Paradise Beach Nevis.

Getting your favorite people together for a destination birthday extravaganza doesn't have to be a logisitical nightmare. We've thought it through for you. 

You made it! Time to celebrate the big 4-0. Instead of throwing a birthday bash at home, may we suggest gathering your nearest and dearest someplace far, far away? Chances are there will be a handful of spouses and children in tow, so you'll need a few classy (but comfortable) hotels and baller (but relaxed) house rentals with plenty of space to spread out and a range of activities to span all ages. 

Celebrate your 40th at one of these 8 awesome retreats.

Paradise Beach Resort Nevis

Where: Nevis, Caribbean

What's to love: With seven villas (two to four bedrooms), the new beachfront resort is ideal for large groups looking for individual accommodations or close-knits crew who wants to pile in together. Each villa comes with a full kitchen, personal butler, private pool, and wild monkeys as neighbors. Spend your days lounging by the beach or head into town for a glimpse of perfectly preserved 18th-century buildings, including Founding Father Alexander Hamilton's birthplace .

Good to know: Birthday partiers heading to Nevis may want to plan their travel around the island's many festivals. From the annual Nevis Blues Festival to the Nevis to St. Kitts Cross-Channel Swim , there are a plenty of ways to amp up the celebration.

Sun Valley Lodge

Where: Sun Valley, Idaho

What's to love: Skiers of all ages will appreciate a few days of varied terrain and killer views. Ketchum, a nearby mining town, has excellent restaurants, plenty of shopping, and galleries featuring works by local artisans. The iconic lodge recently underwent a refurbishment to include modern amenities but still has the old-world character that drew famous names like Ernest Hemingway, Marilyn Monroe, and Clint Eastwood.

Good to know:  Advanced skiers can apply for Ski Patrol 101, a lottery program that allows a limited number of guests to attend a ski patrol team meeting and hit the freshly powdered slopes hours before the mountain opens.

Read more on Fathom: The Only Guide You'll Ever Need to Sun Valley, Idaho

Tcherassi Hotel + Spa

Where: Cartagena, Colombia

What's to love: With only seven rooms, a group could easily take over the entire 250-year-old colonial mansion and turn it into a private retreat. Colombian-born fashion designer Silvia Tcherassi is responsible for the eclectic and refined decor and named each guest room for one of the fabrics used in her collections. Four swimming pools, a full-service spa, and an elegant Italian restaurant create an environment that is hard to leave, but you will be inspired once you get a taste of your surroundings. Stroll the charming cobblestone streets with an artisanal gelato pop from La Paletteria , or book a big group dinner beneath the pineapple chandeliers at María .

Good to know: Guests are greeted with a refreshing glass of yerba buena-infused lemonade; the gorgeous vertical garden is home to over 3,000 species of local plants.

Le Guanahani St. Barth

Where: St. Barth, French West Indies

What's to love: The 30-year-old boutique beach hotel recently underwent a $40 million renovation that includes a new colorful look for the bright turquoise, yellow, and lavender guest cottages. The elegant but laid-back retreat has a residential feel with the amenities of a top resort — two generously sized swimming pools, gorgeous beaches, water sports , tennis courts , and complimentary children's programs . Explore all the island has to offer (secret beaches, hidden coves, shopping in Gustavia) with one of the onsite Mini Coopers, available as needed.

Good to know: In honor of its 30th year, Le Guanahani has scheduled themed weekends with special events and guest visitors, including a fashion weekend in May, a family weekend in July, and gastronomy weekend in November.

Read more on Fathom: How Do I Love St. Barth? Let Me Count the Ways

Riad Mena & Beyond

Where: Marrakech, Morocco

What's to love: The six-room riad is a serene and spacious retreat from the frenetic pace of Marrakech. Book rooms according to the size of your party or rent out the whole property. Palms, citrus, and banana trees make for a tranquil escape. Cool off in the pool or spend evenings watching films screened on the terrace.

Good to know: Cap off your visit with a few days of poolside lounging, yoga, and farm-fresh food at the hotel's country outpost, a two-acre farm located at the base of the Atlas Mountains.

Read more on Fathom: Fathom's Marrakech Guide

Somerleyton Hall

Where: Suffolk, England

What's to love: Take over two floors of a functioning 5,000-acre English estate. The twelve recently refurbished bedrooms have new bathrooms and stunning views of the countryside. Head across the lake to The Fritton Arms for an estate-sourced birthday dinner prepared by chef Stuart Pegg and retire to the cupboard under the stairs — which has been transformed into a bar.

Good to know: The gardens at Somerleyton are considered some of the country's most beautiful. Spend an afternoon getting lost in the hedge maze and taking in iron-and-glass houses designed by 19th-century English gardener and architect Joseph Paxton.

Alesia Art Chic

Where: Paris, France

What's to love: Everyone deserves a chic Parisian getaway on their birthday, don't you think? Treat yourself and the ones you love (or have them treat you) to a stay at the stunning five-bedroom apartment in the bustling fourteenth arrondissement. The big windows, abundance of sunlight, and sleek white and silver decor will leave you refreshed and ready to explore all the city has to offer.

Good to know: The lush private garden has plenty of seating, an outdoor gas grill, and room for hosting up to twenty guests at the birthday bbq you've always dreamed of.

Read more on Fathom: Fathom's Paris Guide

Shu'mata Camp

Where: Amboseli, Tanzania

What's to love: For an unforgettable birthday adventure, join the nomadic Maasai tribe at a safari camp based at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. Five en suite Hemingway-era safari tents fit up to four people each, complete with veranda looking out on the bush. Activities include game drives through southern Amboseli, a visit to a traditional Maasai homestead, and a naturalist walk to learn about the herbs and medicines used by locals.

Good to know: Depending on the season, you'll have a chance to observe large herds of elephant, eland, zebra, lion, and wildebeest in their natural habitat.

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We make every effort to ensure the information in our articles is accurate at the time of publication. But the world moves fast, and even we double-check important details before hitting the road.

21 best places to go for a 21st birthday

Written by Sebastiaan

Your 21st birthday should be one to remember. The perfect way to celebrate this milestone is by treating yourself with a 21st birthday trip. Now your teenager years are far behind you and you’re starting to have a budget for your travels, this is the moment to splurge on this special birthday. We teamed up with other travel bloggers to give you some inspiration for the best places to celebrate your 21st birthday. From bucket list festivals to off the beaten path city trips and from tropical beaches to must-visit islands, these are the best 21st birthday travel ideas.

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21 destinations to travel for your 21st birthday

By Jin & De Wet from Museum of Wander

Macau is an exciting city, and if you’re looking for somewhere unique and exciting to celebrate your birthday, this tiny former Portuguese colony in southern China has it all. Visiting Macau is easy as almost everyone speaks English and most visitors don’t need a visa. Flights are often offered for a very competitive price .

Whether you’re planning to gamble in the luxurious casinos, explore its mix of European and Chinese culture, tuck into its  exceptional cuisine , or party, Macau has an incredible variety of things to do.

Turning legal, there is no better place to try your hand and blackjack, poker, roulette, or slot machines than in the Las Vagas of the East. Macau’s casinos make more revenue than those in Vegas, and the Kotai Strip has all the big names such as The Venetian, MGM, Wynn Palace, City of Dreams, Studio City, and The Galaxy amongst the most famous.

All these casinos have entertainment venues, shows, concerts, bars, and clubs to keep you and your friends on cloud 9 until kingdom comes (or your money runs out).

Being a former Portuguese colony, Macau has fantastic European and Chinese sights to explore. When you need some cultural distractions, head over to Senado Square to see the Baroque churches and colonial architecture. Foodies and Instagrammers will want to stuff themselves with Macau’s famous egg tarts and other delicious street food in Taipa village.

Stay at the Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre and save your money for fun things to do, rather than splurging on a casino hotel.

Spend at least 3 full days in Macau to enjoy it to the fullest. It’s also easy (and recommended) to combine a trip to Macau with Hong Kong where you should spend at least another 3 days. 

#2 Savannah in Georgia, US

By Victoria from Southern Trippers

Savannah, Georgia is easily one of the best places to celebrate your 21st birthday! The city is so historic and cute and has a lot of European flair. It is a relaxed and refined city with tons of southern charm. Think Spanish moss dripping from trees, tons of little squares, dream homes lining streets, fountains everywhere, and a cute river walk!

Savannah is very compact and walkable, so if you want to drink for your 21’st birthday, you won’t have to worry about driving as most places are an easy walk from many hotels in the historic district . The food and drinks in Savannah are truly amazing and you won’t want to miss them! One of the best places to eat is Zunzi’s for sandwiches and bowls and it is vegan and vegetarian friendly too. If you go for lunch, make sure to reserve in advance so that you don’t have to wait in a long line. Don’t forget to stop at E Jones Street for some cute Instagram photos and to admire the gorgeous homes that run along with it. It is said to be the prettiest street in America!

Finally, end your night with a ghost tour, one of the  best things to do in Savannah , especially if you love spooky things! Savannah is one of the most haunted cities in the USA and a ghost tour is a great way to learn about the history while you are visiting!

You can visit Savannah either by car or by plane .

#3 Barcelona in Spain

By Carley from Home to Havana

If you’re looking for a mix of both relaxing on the beach and enjoying all that a big city has to offer, look no further than Barcelona for the perfect 21 st  birthday destination. From most places, you can easily find cheap direct flights to Barcelona. Combining both the beauty and cosmopolitan energy of Europe’s great cities with its distinctly Mediterranean feel, you’ll never have to look far for the perfect way to celebrate with friends or family.

Looking for  where to stay in Barcelona , it can be challenging especially as a first-time visitor to narrow down the city’s many unique neighbourhoods, but if you’re looking forward to visiting the beach definitely consider staying in the Barceloneta neighbourhood . Here you’ll find a distinctly seaside, even small-town feel, but with all the city amenities you could want, including paddleboard rental, surf lessons, and more.

Make sure to explore the nearby Gothic Quarter with all its beauty and history, as well as taking a self-guided tour through the neighbouring El Born neighbourhood of some of the city’s best tapas bars. This is the perfect way to explore both the culinary scene and enjoy a night out with friends, sampling the best local wines or cava at each bar. El Born favorites include La Plata, El Xampanyet, and Tapeo.

Plan on spending at least a long weekend, or up to four or five days, enjoying this incredible city and all it has to do – you won’t want to miss any of its beautiful sights and the incredible experiences visitors can have here.

#4 Bali in Indonesia

By Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Bali might just be the best place to travel for your 21st birthday. It perfectly combines nightlife with plenty of things to do plus it’s super budget-friendly. Try to spend at least a week in Bali to see the main sights although longer is better of course. We found the best flight deals to Bali here . Some countries might require a visa, You can easily get a visa for Indonesia online .

For the best nightlife experience stay somewhere close to Kuta which is the neighbourhood with the most clubs and cheap bars. Canggu is a lot more laidback although there are plenty of beach clubs and hip bars to explore.

A great way to celebrate your 21st birthday is to head to the nearby Gili Islands which are a lot smaller than Bali and located just a quick boat ride away. Gili Trawangan is especially lively with lots of beach bars and parties. Go on a boat ride and have a BBQ on the boat as you enjoy the sunset. There are also party boats available in Gili Trawangan with lots of drinks and other travellers whom you can get to know. Back in Bali make sure to take a day trip to Ubud to get back in touch with nature and get to know Bali’s fascinating culture. There are lots of rice fields and yoga retreats which are the perfect way to relax after a busy week.

#5 Mardi Grass in New Orleans, US

By Kerry Hanson from VeggTravel

If you’re looking for somewhere to go for your 21st birthday celebration, then look no further than New Orleans (NOLA). Not only do you have a beautiful city, with stunning architecture, interesting history and lots to do, but you also have amazing nightlife.

If your 21 st  birthday falls during February, then  Mardi Gras Carnival in NOLA  would be the party of a lifetime. During the day, you can check out the spectacular parades and grab handfuls of colourful beads. But, at night head to Bourbon Street in the French Quarter to get the party started. 

There are several bars, clubs, restaurants, and takeouts in the area that will keep you entertained into the early hours. Try the infamous local cocktails, the Hurricane, and the Hand Grenade to start the celebrations. The whole street is one big party, with many revellers on the decorated balconies, throwing beads to passers-by. Whether you’re visiting during Mardi Gras or not, the French Quarter is the place to be and recommended area to stay.

However, a birthday trip to New Orleans isn’t complete without a trip to Frenchmen Street for the full jazz experience. Walking by you will hear the mesmerizing sounds of the talented singers and musicians that fill all the bars in this area. Several jazz events and festivals take place throughout the year, and you will undoubtedly see fantastic talent when you drop by.

If you want to visit NOLA, you can check flights price here . Just be sure to plan at least 3 nights for your trip.

#6 Napels in Italy

By Lineke from Lineke Travels

Italy is a dream destination! It has beautiful cities, inviting people and great weather. Not to mention delicious food… La Bella Italia has a lot to offer, but to me, Naples and the Amalfi Coast are a winning combination. Definitely a great place to celebrate your 21st birthday!

Why? Well, first of all because Naples shows you the real Italy. With working-class neighbourhoods where laundry blows proudly in the wind and where scooters buzz through narrow streets like bees. In addition, here you’ll eat the tastiest pizzas ever and everything is dirt cheap. I recommend spending at least 3 days on your Naples city trip and to stay in the old town.

Combine your visit to Naples with the beautiful Amalfi Coast. You can easily take the train from Naples to Sorrento or Salerno. In little over an hour, you can already drive your rented Vespa scooter over the famous Costiera Amalfitana. This is the coastal road that connects all the small towns. Take your Vespa and go on your own little road trip. Eat ice cream in every town you visit and enjoy the view over the glittering seawater along the coastline. My favourite place on the Amalfi Coast? Ravello! This place really is picture-perfect and a lovely town to spend the night. I found it to be the perfect jumping-off point to explore the entire Amalfi Coast.

If you’re short on time, you can take a day trip from Naples to the Amalfi Coast. But I’d rather spend the night there and take at least two days to enjoy la dolce vita! If you’re interested in this amazing trip, you can easily check out the best prices for flights to Naples and start planning!

#7 Hanoi in Vietnam

By Trisha and Modi from Try Wandering More

Hanoi in Vietnam is a fantastic place to visit for your 21st birthday. It is lively, the culture is fascinating, the food is delicious, the architecture is mesmerizing, the lakes are serene, the nightlife is super fun and best of all – it is all very inexpensive.

It takes two to three days to see  Hanoi’s best attractions (check what a ticket will cost you). Start your trip by exploring the Old Quarter. You could spend an entire evening or two here just walking aimlessly- sampling street food and soaking in the Hanoi vibe. Make sure you visit the Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy the street art on Phung Hung Mural Street. Also, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, an imposing memorial; the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university; The Imperial Thang Long Citadel, a UNESCO world heritage site; and the Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest Pagoda. If you love nature and its wonders, you could stay an additional two days to take day trips to Ninh Binh and Halong Bay.

Bring in your birthday at Bia Hoi Junction (Beer Junction) – the quintessential nightlife area in Hanoi. Think tons of beer (try Bia Hoi), food, hookah, and all kinds of music! Want something more mellow? Try the Binh Minh Jazz Club.

Stay in an apartment in the old quarter to be close to everything. Apartments are inexpensive and great for a group of friends. If not travelling in a group, you could also opt for a hotel, La Storia Ruby Hotel , or a hostel, Hanoi Amazing Hostel .

Continue reading: this is the perfect travel itinerary for Vietnam .

#8 Melboure in Australia

By Bec from Wyld Travel Family

Melbourne voted the most livable city in the world numerous times would have to be one of the most epic places to celebrate your 21st birthday.

There are  so many things to do in Melbourne  on so many different levels that you will be struggling to fit it all in on any length holiday Down Under. If you like nightclubs, there is a plethora within the Melbourne CBD, all within easy walking distance.

If you prefer culture and history you can visit the NGV (National; Gallery of Victoria) or the Melbourne Museum to see the current and permanent displays that are on show there. you can see a top theatre show at Her Majesty’s Theatre and then dine at an amazing restaurant to really make sure you celebrate well. China Town and South Bank are both wonderful places to get some of the best food in Melbourne. 

You can visit the Melbourne Zoo to have a look at the amazing and very unique Aussie animals. Sometimes the Zoo also offers a Keeper for the day program which would be an epic way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Melbourne.

If thrills are for you then a short tram ride out to Luna Park should be top of your list. Walkthrough the big wide mouth of the park and channel our inner kids to have an amazing time at this brilliant old-time theme park.

Melbourne also has some of the best day trips that will also add to your amazing trip to Australia. You can spend the day touring the Yarra Valley to sample some of the best wines in Australia and some of the magnificent food. You can take a day trip to the world-famous 12 Apostles and see what else the Great Ocean Road has to offer. You can visit the untamed wilderness of Gippsland by visiting the gold rush town of Walhalla or going further to Raymond Island to see koalas in their natural habitat.

It doesn’t matter what you like Melbourne is the very best place in the world for you to spend your unforgettable 21st birthday. Tickets are often reasonably priced, you can find the best deals here .

#9 Tulum in Yucatan, Mexico

By Cynthia & Alexander from Travel your Memories

If you’re looking for a great birthday trip idea, Mexico is a great country and tickets are often cheap . Here you will find beautiful beaches, fun parties, authentic villages, Maya buildings, and more. One of the best places to find all these things is Tulum!

Tulum is located in the popular province of Yucatan. All types of travellers can indulge themselves because Tulum has for everyone something to offer. Whether you’re looking for parties, beaches, or want to swim in cenotes, you’ll find it here.

What are the best  things to do in Tulum ? There is a lot to do in Tulum! There are several cenotes to discover of which the Grand Cenote and Choo-Cha are the best. You also have a Mayan ruin along the coast that is beautiful because of its location. It’s on a cliff. In Tulum you can enjoy typical Mexican beaches, Playa Paraiso is the best public beach to visit. You can do a lot of day trips from Tulum, such as visiting the world wonder Chichen Itza.

We recommend staying 4 nights in Tulum, so you have enough time to do the best things in and around Tulum.

Assuming that you don’t have a big budget before you turn 21, it is recommended to stay in the centre of Tulum instead of on the beach. Casa Almendro is a good option. It is just off the main street so you can do walk through everything. With a roof terrace, clean rooms and a good price, this accommodation is recommended.

Continue reading: these are the best travel tips, travel itinerary and places to go in Yucatán, Mexico .

#10 London in the UK

By Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best places to visit for your 21st birthday is London, the capital city of the United Kingdom. There are many reasons why this is the perfect destination when you are turning 21. One of the reasons is because there are many cute places in the city for your birthday. For example, there are many  pretty cafes in London . These cafes have beautiful decorations, are often pink, and serve cute food, such as cupcakes.

Besides that, London is amazing because of its nightlife. If you want to party for your 21st birthday, it is definitely an amazing place to be. You can find great pubs and clubs in the city Moreover, London is a large city with many famous sights. For example, you can find the Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye in the city. It is very fun to see these sights, and this makes it even more fun to visit the city.

Also, it is very fun to go shopping in London for your 21st birthday. You find many places that are great for this. For example, Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden are perfect for shopping. One of the best places to stay in London is the hotel Shangri-La in The Shard . From this hotel, you have an amazing view of the Tower Bridge. Moreover, the ideal number of days to stay in London is 4 days, as this allows you to do and see most of the things in the city. You can often fly directly and for a great price to one of London’s airports, or take the Eurostar train as we did .

#11 Queenstown in New Zealand

By Jennifer Parkes from Backyard Travel Family

Queenstown, New Zealand is an epic destination for a 21st birthday. While you might think ticket prices will be high, you can often find great deals . Whether you are looking for an adventure-filled holiday or a classy place to live it up, there are a plentiful amount of things to do in Queenstown . If you are up for an adventure-packed vacation that you will never forget, head to the sky. Start off your trip with a skydive over the Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu. Incredible views mixed with adrenaline will have you literally floating on air. Or head indoors to I-Fly for an indoor flying experience. Then head to the water for one of the most unique experiences: a hydro attack shark boat. This shark-shaped boat will have you ducking and diving on this incredible waterfront. The Skyline Gondola has incredible views, but at the top, an epic group activity, the luge go-karts. For an even more memorable experience, try a spot of heli golf where your own helicopter will take you to the most picturesque holes you’ve ever played.

Those looking for a classy affair could try the incredible wine tasting in the Gibbston Valley and the magical hot pool experience at Onsen Hot Pools. Finish off your day with a fine dining experience at Rata or the Botswana Butchery.

Queenstown has a great range of accommodations ranging from budget to luxury. Big groups on a budget, looking for a great time will enjoy the Queenstown YHA in the centre of town. Nightlife is abundant and all within walking distance in this close-knit township.  Millbrook Resort is a luxury option on a world-renown golf course that will give you the space to relax in style.

#12 Hvar Island in Croatia

By PlacesofJuma

Hvar Island  is a real travel highlight in Croatia, and a real insider tip to celebrate a 21st birthday! Often called the St. Tropez of Croatia, Hvar has become a real scene island. On a birthday vacation, you can expect a unique flair, countless dream beaches, romantic coastal towns and a wide range of activities. And of course not to forget the lively nightlife, which is just perfect for celebrating your life.

Hvar is located in Dalmatia and thanks to its central location, it is easy to reach by ferry from Split or from the neighbouring islands! Really worth seeing is the historic old town of Hvar, which inspires by its Dalmatian stone houses and the romantic cobblestone streets. Here you go on a kind of time travel and you enjoy an ambience like from a postcard. Really cool are also the many beach clubs which enchants with amazing flair!

But also the rest of the island with the small fishing villages and the beautiful landscapes is fantastic! A real highlight, however, are the countless dream beaches that invite you to spend unforgettable summer days by the sea. Croatia connoisseurs even count these among the most beautiful bathing bays in the country.

Lovely and worth seeing are also the small, romantic villages like Stari Grad, Vrboska and Jelsa in the north of the island. They are less touristy and therefore promise quiet flair. Here, by the way, you can try some delicious local wines, which are grown on this part of the island. Convinced? Check out what a ticket will cost you.

#13 Sydney in Australia

By Cassie from Cassie The Hag

Sydney is one of the world’s most iconic spots to spend your 21st birthday. From world-famous beaches to a birthday drink overlooking the Sydney Opera House, make your 21st one to remember in this fantastic Australian city. Just like Melbourne, you will probably have to book a flight to get there.

In the morning, have brunch at the fabulously photogenic The Grounds or Cuppa Flower. For something more lowkey, head to one of the beachside cafes at Bondi. From here, you can stroll along the famous Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. This is a great way to enjoy Sydney’s famous white sand beaches with unbeatable views over the Pacific Ocean. 

In the afternoon, you can relax at one of the city’s many beaches or take on an adventurous activity. If you’re not afraid of heights, you can take on the BridgeClimb at Sydney Harbour Bridge. If ocean depths are more your thing, go snorkelling or scuba-diving, or take a dip in one of Sydney’s ocean pools such as the Bondi Icebergs. Finish your evening at one of the historic pubs in The Rocks, celebrate in style at The Opera Bar (right outside the Sydney Opera House itself!), or check out one of the city’s rooftop bars. 

If you have more time, why not celebrate your birthday over a weekend, and enjoy one of Sydney’s best day trips such as the Blue Mountains or Palm Beach? Or for an alternative itinerary, head to Sydney’s North Shore and enjoy Curl Curl Beach Pool, snorkelling at Shelly Beach, and dinner in Manly. Enjoy!

#14 Istanbul in Turkey

By Emily from Wander-Lush

The most beautiful place in Turkey  and one of the world’s great cities, it’s hard to imagine a destination more apt for celebrating a 21st birthday than Istanbul. History, culture, nightlife, incredible food: Istanbul has everything you need to mark this milestone in an unforgettable fashion.

Istanbul’s history goes back to 660 BCE. This is the kind of city where places you’ve read about in novels and characters you’ve met during history class come to life before your very eyes. There’s nothing like a trip to Turkey’s capital to put world history into context. Must-see landmarks include The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower, and the Basilica Cistern.

Foodies will adore Istanbul’s culinary scene. Feast on a classic Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi in Beyoglu, then gorge on Turkish delight, baklava and chewy Turkish ice cream at Hafiz Mustafa, one of the city’s oldest cafes. Take a boat trip on the Bosphorus to see the point where two worlds – Europe and Asia – collide, roam the colourful neighbourhood of Balat, climb the 5th century Walls of Constantinople for a city view, and don’t leave without partaking in a traditional hammam bath treatment.

After spending your days immersing yourself in history and culture, when night falls, it’s time to soak up Istanbul’s world-renowned nightlife scene. Go bar hopping on Istiqlal Street or head to Ortakoy. Anise-flavoured Raki is the drink of choice in Istanbul, so do what the locals do and order a cocktail made with the strong spirit.

Istanbul is a budget-friendly destination, which makes it perfect for young people. Flights are reasonably cheap and there’s a great hostel scene if you want to meet other travellers, and more than a few affordable boutique accommodations if you’d prefer to treat yourself. Social travellers will love Hostel Le Banc , conveniently located in bustling Taksim and with a gorgeous rooftop terrace. If your budget permits, a few nights at the heritage Ayramin Hotel is the perfect place to spend your birthday in luxury.

Speaking of treating yourself: Where better to go shopping for a birthday present than at Istanbul’s iconic Grand Bazaar. A traditional Turkish coffee set, a peshtemal towel, jewellery or spices all make for great souvenirs.

#15 Ibiza in Spain

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

The most lively of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Ibiza is a destination that has it all for a 21st birthday celebration. Well known as a party island, you’ll have your pick of the best clubs to visit, with a stellar lineup of DJs to dance the night away. The world-famous superclubs such as Ushuaia and Hï Ibiza allow you to party until the sun comes up in their new open-air space, Palmarama. Or you can club hop your way around the island on the dedicated Discobus.

If superclubs aren’t your scene, there are plenty of quieter places to stay in Ibiza than the hedonistic capital (although you should spend at least a day exploring the old town – Dalt Vila – with its cobblestone lanes and hipster cafes). Instead, head along to Portinatx or Cala de Sant Vicent on the northeastern end of the island where you’ll find dreamy beaches and a more laid-back atmosphere. Spend your days visiting the famous hippy markets, eating succulent fresh food in seaside bistros, partaking in the many watersports on offer, or jumping on a sailboat cruise to Formentera. You’ll need at least 5 days in Ibiza to truly sample a little of everything the island has to offer, but a full week would be better. Take the boat from Spain, or book a cheap flight to get there.

#16 Milos in Greece

By Mal from Raw Mal Roams

The Cycladic Island of Milos is an excellent location to spend your 21st birthday. Milos is located off Greece’s mainland. You can either fly from Athens or get here by ferry from one of the ports of the Greek capital. Milos is an up and coming destination, and if you love nature and looking for something less pretentious than Vegas or Ibiza, look no further.

If you’re wondering  where to stay in Milos  for great nightlife, the island’s biggest town Adamas is the most lively location. Adamas is also the island’s port and the most convenient location for organizing various activities. Santa Maria Village Hote l comes with a pool and a beautiful view of the sea. One week would be the perfect time to explore Milos. 

Hire an ATV and go exploring because Milos has some unworldly landscapes you must see! The most famous beach in Milos is Serakiniko, with its iconic, moon-like scenery. Climb down the ladder to see the Tsigrado Beach or go on a boat trip to see the Kleftiko Beach and caves that are only accessible from the sea. 

In the evening, stroll along the Adamas’ promenade to find the perfect spot for the evening meal. Have a drink in one of the seafront bars and continue into the night in one of the Adamas’ nightclubs. 

Continue reading: these are the 12 best islands to visit in Greece .

#17 Nashville, US

By Michelle from Moyer Memoirs

The best place to celebrate your 21 st  birthday is Nashville, Tennessee so that you can bar-hop along Broadway Avenue, Honky Tonk Highway, the main street in Nashville that is lined with the bright lights of the honky-tonk bars. These popular honky-tonk establishments play free live music all night long along with serving their fair share of alcohol to make the party even wilder. There are bars specializing in every genre of music, to please every sort of music-lover.

Did I mention that there is no cover charge? The bands only play for tips, so this means you can visit many honky-tonks in one evening without going broke paying a cover charge each time. The party can go on into the wee hours of the morning since the entertainment and bar service often lasts that long. 

Nashville is a perfect weekend trip  since there are a lot of sites to see during the day too, including beautiful parks and gardens, artistic wall murals and galleries, and interesting museums like the Country Music Hall of Fame. It has a large supply of shopping destinations for boutique and antique shoppers. On your 21st birthday, you and your party friends can site-see during the day and then start the celebration on Honky Tonk Highway as the sun goes down.

If you’re planning a trip you can either drive there by car or check out prices for a cheap flight . The best place to stay in Nashville is within walking distance of Broadway so that you don’t need to worry about transportation. There are several downtown hotels to choose from to make your party special. If you don’t mind finding a short cab ride home, there are also nice areas outside of downtown.

#18 Cape Town, South Africa

By Katja from Wander Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa’s capital city, is a fantastically fun place to spend your 21st. There are so many adventurous activities in Cape Town , from paragliding and caving on the mountains to free-diving and surfing in the brisk ocean. 

A Cape Town-based 21st birthday with friends – or even solo – is sure to be filled with fun and adventure. It also sits among rich Winelands, so you could spend your birthday wine tasting at the foot of Table Mountain after a morning of surfing or hiking. Or follow up a kayaking experience with a bar-hopping exploration of the many different craft beers and craft gins South Africa has to offer. 

This is also a university city, known to have uncommonly friendly locals, so you’ll find many young people to chat to. If you get invited to follow up a long night of dancing with an early morning hike up Table Mountain, don’t be surprised! 

You will probably have to fly into Cape Town. Luckily flight tickets are often reasonably priced . It’s best to stay central in Cape Town, as the public transport isn’t top-notch. Sea Point , Green Point or the CBD are the best places to stay for safety and convenience. And while you could spend months exploring all the trails and beaches of the beautiful city, it’s best to stay between three days and a week. And then, if you have the time and budget, you can explore the iconically biodiverse Garden Route !

#19 Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

By LeAnna Brown

For Americans, their 21st Birthday means one thing: Booze. And what better place to go to drink than Oktoberfest! Visiting Munich is a memorable trip, no matter the age, but for a truly epic 21st birthday extravaganza, Oktoberfest is the perfect place to celebrate. One should allow for  3 days in Munich  if you plan on doing Oktoberfest. You’ll want at least one day to see the main sights of the city, one day for Oktoberfest itself, and that leaves you with one day for either more Munich Sightseeing or great day trips, like seeing Neuschwanstein Castle. Munich has its own airport and tickets tend to be quite affordable .

Now, Oktoberfest is not to be taken lightly. You have to remember that German beers are much stronger than what other countries produce. And you aren’t just getting a bottle of beer. Oh no, you’ll be lifting up that heavy, 1 liter Maß…that’s over 33 oz of beer per mug! Just because you have thrown back some beers in college does not mean you are ready to down several Maß. So even though this is your 21st birthday, take it easy.

One way to help pace yourself is to make sure to eat all the delicious Bavarian food while at the fest. Things like steak semmel (sandwiches), kase spaetzle (cheese noodles), and of course, giant Brez’n are fantastic ways to sop up the alcohol in your stomach. Staying in Munich during Oktoberfest can get expensive, but luckily there are several hostels throughout the city that can help keep costs down. However, all accommodation, especially the cheaper options book out far in advance, so plan on nailing down a place 9-12 months before going. No matter your age, Oktoberfest is truly a bucket list item! 

#20 Prague in Czech Republic

By C haru Goyal from Travel with CG

Prague is another great destination to visit for your 21st birthday. Home to picturesque castles, cobblestone streets, medieval bridges, and a colourful Old Town; it is a city full of many interesting spots to see. Being an incredible walking city, it is also inexpensive to get around in.

Begin your trip with a walking tour of the Old town and visit the top of the Astronomical clock for a unique perspective. The nearby rooftop restaurant called Terasa U Prince also has gorgeous views of the city’s iconic orange-topped roofs and is a perfect place to raise a toast for your special day.

Now, continue onto Prague castle and spend a few hours exploring the castle complex at leisure. Next, treat yourself to a vintage car tour and then head to the famous Charles Bridge for sunset. Although the bridge itself is free to visit, you can also climb one of the towers for a small fee and get a special seat to see the sky change colours.

Prague is also a destination known for its happening nightlife, music scene, and cheap beer. The Letña beer garden situated in one of the most beautiful parks in Prague is ideal for those looking for a view. Live music is also popular in Prague, so you will probably come across artists performing at touristic sights like the John Lennon wall while there. The most  famous sights in Prague  can be seen in a weekend or three days. The Radisson Blu Hotel located near Wenceslas Square is a beautiful property to stay in Prague. If you’re interested, check out the best flight deals to Prague .

Continue reading: these are the best places to go in the Czech Republic .

#21 Sabah in Malaysia

By Khushboo from Munni of all Trades

Sabah, Malaysia is the perfect destination for your 21st birthday. Admiring the majestic peaks, relaxing on the gorgeous beaches, cultural tours and savouring mouth-watering halal cuisine; there is definitely more to Sabah than meets the eye. There are several things to do in Kota Kinabalu, the state capital of Sabah. You can spend a day enjoying the local handicrafts market, visiting the famous City Mosque, take in the breathtaking views of the Signal Observatory and end your day at the Jesselton Waterfront enjoying live music and a lovely dinner with your friends!

Hiking Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and also the highest mountain is perfect for those who love an adventure. On your hike, you’ll see pitcher plants which are common in the sub-tropical jungle of Kinabalu National Park.

I also recommend visiting the Mari Mari Cultural Village to learn about five different ethnic groups in Sabah: Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut. Each group offers a different experience. For example, in the Dusun house, you can learn how to cook with bamboo, while in the Rungus house, you can learn how to make traditional crafts.

It is widely acknowledged that Sabah has one of the best sunsets in the world. So check out what a ticket will set you back and don’t forget to enjoy one on every day of your stay!

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15 Unforgettable Places to Go for Your Birthday This Year

09/13/2022 by Emily Becker Leave a Comment

Let’s face it, most of us only have a weekend to celebrate our birthdays each year. So for those who love to travel, how do you find places to go for your birthday that are apt for a quick celebration?

Whether you only have a couple of days or perhaps more time to spare, whether you hope to spend your birthday alone or with loved ones, this list is sure to give you some inspo this year:

Table of Contents

Outdoorsy Havens

We’re all about spending time outdoors here at BMTM. If you’re a fellow nature lover, chances are your ideal birthday would be somewhere in the woods, on a lake, at a waterfall, or anywhere else in nature that tickles your fancy. If you can relate, these are the best places to go for your birthday:

1. Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada

One of the greatest things about Lake Tahoe is that it’s a spectacular place to go for your birthday, no matter the season. If you visit in the summer , you can spend time on the water, hiking through the woods, or climbing Mount Tallac. You can also camp and have a birthday barbecue if that’s your jam. If you visit in the winter , you can snowshoe along the trails, or try your hand at skiing or snowboarding. Springtime is another fantastic season for visiting Lake Tahoe, with its azure waters, pristine forests, and rugged peaks.

Lake Tahoe makes a great birthday trip because it’s a fantastic destination for a group of friends, your family, your partner, or even just yourself. I mean, hey, those views are just as stunning if you’re on your own.

Another big plus is that there are many beautiful places to stay , either right on the lake or nearby.

2. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Another place to go for your birthday that is magical during every season is Joshua Tree National Park. Whether you’re down for a summertime getaway to see starry skies or a mild winter weekend to celebrate, Joshua Tree has something in store for you. It’s an excellent place to hike, but you can also go rock climbing or simply catch a sunset view. Find out what else you can do in Joshua Tree here .

Although the spectacular desert scenes here are enough to make anyone’s birthday special, the real reason why it makes this list is the accommodations. From swanky boutique hotels just outside the national park to cool Airbnbs just a short drive away, Joshua Tree has some great options for solo travelers, couples, and groups alike. For example, take this retro Airbnb called The Birdhouse , which sleeps up to six guests but is equally ideal for couples or families.

3. Glacier National Park, Montana

This is more of a late-spring to early-fall kind of place to go for your birthday trip, as many parts of Glacier National Park in Montana close during the winter. However, you can technically visit any time of year, as long as you’re prepared for the weather. It is truly a gem and offers some seriously wild landscapes.

This birthday destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love getting off the beaten path. Montana is famous for its wide-open spaces and rugged terrain, so Glacier is an obvious choice if that kind of thing excites you.

Check out the best things to do in Glacier National Park here . You can tick many of these sites off in just a few days! Plus, read about the best hikes in Glacier National Park .

4. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Who said Texas is all about cattle ranches and endless farmland? A fabulous choice for nature lovers who want to beat the crowds and find their slice of heaven, Big Bend National Park is calling you. The scenery here is breathtaking. You’ll find overlooks with views that seem to go on forever, many that feature river-carved valleys next to towering mountains.

Big Bend is a spectacular place for stargazing, and you can camp inside the park if you’d like. The wide-open skies become dazzling at night, leaving you with a new core memory of your special day. This is easily one of the most unique places to go for your birthday.

Whether you go it alone or bring along a friend or two, Big Bend National Park has plenty to keep you busy for a weekend or longer.

Beautiful Beaches

For those of us who didn’t grow up near a beach, taking a coastal birthday trip feels like an extra special affair. After all, your day only happens once a year, so why not treat yo’self? For the babes who just want to chill on the beach for their birthday, these destinations are just for you:

5. Kauai, Hawai’i

Depending on when your birthday lands, you might want to book your trip to Kauai sooner than later, as it can get pricey if you go during high season . However, chances are you’ll forget all about how much your flight cost as soon as your toes hit the sand on Kauai’s beaches. Here you’ll find golden yellow-to-white sand and dreamy waves that look straight out of a postcard.

In case you don’t want to spend your entire birthday trip soaking up the sun on the beach, there’s plenty else to do on Kauai . From daring hikes to helicopter rides and secret tide pools, the island full of adventure.

6. San Juan, Puerto Rico

A birthday trip to Puerto Rico feels like visiting a distant country, but it’s really only a stone’s throw from the continental US. This makes it the perfect weekend birthday getaway for those of you who want to feel far from home but don’t have a whole week to spend on vacation.

San Juan’s colonial architecture and colorful buildings are enchanting enough to be the star of the show, but let’s face it: you came for the beaches. The ones near San Juan are some of the best in the US and offer quite a variety of scenes.

Head to Atlantic Beach for a party vibe, or Isla Verde for a bougie afternoon in the sun. If you want to escape the crowds, stick to Hobie Beach, which is more laid-back (unless you visit during Noche de San Juan on and around June 23rd). You can also go snorkeling with turtles near San Juan , which is an unforgettable experience perfect for a birthday celebration.

Enchanting Small Cities

For many of us who come from bustling cities, the perfect birthday trip probably involves going somewhere more quiet, chill, and relaxing. Small cities that have a special air of enchantment make a fabulous destination to celebrate your trip around the sun:

7. Mendocino, California

Mendocino’s dreamy coastline offers views over rocky cliffs that plunge into the Pacific beautifully. It’s a longtime favorite destination among poets, novelists, actors, and other creative people because of its moody and enchanting atmosphere. Mendocino is the perfect birthday destination for a girls’ trip, but you can even enjoy it solo or with your partner.

Take a hike through Headlands State Park, see the pygmy forest at Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, or simply spend the afternoon sipping wine on your terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. However you decide to spend your time there, Mendocino has plenty of things to do to make your birthday special.

One of the best places to stay in Mendocino is Brewery Gulch Inn , which has a cozy environment that you’ll appreciate any time of year. Want to see more options? Here’s a list of the chicest boutique hotels in Mendocino.

8. Santa Fe, New Mexico

For a delightful, colorful birthday celebration, head to Santa Fe. This southwestern gem is bursting with culture and is an art lover’s paradise. For such a small city, it sure packs a punch with its abundance of neat museums, impressive gastronomical scene, and head-tilting architecture. Whether you spend your day exploring the eye-popping MeowWolf Museum or strolling down Canyon Road to check out the art galleries and cafés, you’ll find tons of interesting things to do in Santa Fe .

There are also ample opportunities to explore nature just outside of town with your birthday companion(s). You can go rafting on the Rio Grand Gorge, check out an ancient meteor strike at Santa Fe Shatter Cones, or simply get out for a hike at the Santa Fe Canyon Preserve .

Big, Bustling Cities

This is for those of you who have a “go big or go home” mindset when planning your birthday trip. Whether you’re celebrating a big milestone or any other birthday, these big cities will fill you with their infectious energy to ring in another year of your fabulous life:

9. New York City, New York

If you really want to go all-out for your birthday, what better way to do it than spending a weekend in New York? Whether you get excited about the bright lights of Broadway or want to spend your birthday with your closest friends hopping from borough to borough, NYC has endless possibilities.

It’s no secret that the city that never sleeps can be pricey to visit. For that reason, you might want to take advantage of the many free things to do in NYC . After all, if you spend less on activities, you can splurge more on your birthday dinner at that restaurant you’ve been dying to try.

10. Chicago, Illinois

Although many consider Chicago to be the “second city,” there’s nothing second place about the epic variety of things to do here. It’s more affordable than New York, and there are also tons of free things to do in Chicago .

Too many visitors spend too much time in the Loop (aka, downtown) and miss out on all the culturally rich neighborhoods throughout the city. So hop on the L train and explore neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Uptown, Pilsen, or Wicker Park on your own or with your travel buddies.

Throughout, you’ll find museums, parks, and of course, lakeside hangout spots. I recommend doing at least one food tour, like this underground donut tour or this Chinatown walking food tour . What better way to treat yourself on your birthday?

11. Miami, Florida

Particularly if your birthday is in the winter and you live somewhere cold, Miami makes for an awesome trip. Not only will you enjoy the sunny weather, but you’ll find plenty of things to do in Miami to fill your birthday weekend with unforgettable experiences.

The city is an adult playground perfect for a birthday trip with friends. Visit the magical Museum of Illusions to take photos with funky 3-D backgrounds, or eat your way through Little Havana on this food tour . Whatever you decide, Miami is the place to be completely extra on your birthday.

Quick International Getaways

You’ve been dying to go somewhere far away for your birthday but might not be sure how to fit it into your tight schedule. Or perhaps you want to go international without venturing to far from home. These places make it possible for you to have an epic birthday trip in another country:

12. Tulum, Mexico

If you want to feel worlds away from home on your birthday without having to venture too far, consider heading to Tulum. Most major cities in the US have direct flights to Cancún, and then it’s just a couple of hours’ drive or bus ride to Tulum ( find out more about the route here ).

It’s a fantastic place to visit on your own, with your partner, or with a group of friends. The beaches are stunning, the cenotes (swimming holes) are refreshing, and there are tons of unique places to stay in Tulum .

My favorite thing about the town and the rest of the Riviera Maya is that there are dozens of cenotes that are a short distance from Tulum , each with its own character, and visiting one on your birthday is pretty epic. Besides the cenotes and beaches, however, there are plenty of other spectacular things to do in Tulum that make the international trip worth it.

13. Baja California Sur, Mexico

If you’re itching to visit the other side of Mexico, consider road-tripping through Baja California Sur . The skinny peninsula is perfect for that because there’s so much to see in such a short distance. With bright blue lagoons, pristine beaches, flowing waterfalls, and rocky mountains taking over the landscape, Baja is breathtaking.

If you want to take advantage of everything this road trip has to offer, spend a week or two here. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for some solitude on your special day.

Aruba is a small island in the Caribbean that you can easily fly into from most major cities in the US. Here you’ll find the softest white-sand beaches you’ve probably ever seen in your life, along with some stellar snorkeling and diving opportunities. It’s one of the ultimate tropical places to go for your birthday, alone or with friends.

Although there are tons of things to do in Aruba , one of the best is simply chill on the beach. I mean, after all, Aruba’s beaches are stunning. You can also check out the famous Flamingo Beach and see these pink birds up close. Pretty cool way to spend your birthday, right?

15. Quebec City, Canada

Last but not least on this list of the best places to go for your birthday is the magical wonderland that is Quebec City. This is the perfect spot for you if you’ve been dreaming of visiting France for your birthday but only have a weekend. Quebec City has much of what makes small cities in France so enchanting: Old World architecture, adorable cafés, inspiring museums, and of course, people speaking French everywhere.

Besides having a fairytale-like atmosphere overall, Quebec City’s charm doesn’t stop at the sights and sounds. This is one of Canada’s gastronomical capitals, and you’ll find some truly mouthwatering dishes here. Get familiar with Quebec City’s tastes on this historical walking food tour .

For more ideas on how to spend your birthday here, check out this Quebec City itinerary .

You don’t have to feel bad for wanting to splurge on places to go for your birthday. After all, it only comes around once a year!

Which place caught your attention the most?

*Some links in this post are affiliate links for products and services we personally use and love. Any purchase you make through them supports us at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much!

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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I've been to 30 tropical islands. From Bora Bora to Barbados, here are the top 5 I'd visit again.

• I've visited more than 30 tropical islands around the world, but five stand out from the rest.
• Bora Bora and Curaçao's beautiful beaches make them the perfect places for a relaxing vacation.
• Barbados has tons of activities, such as touring a rum distillery and visiting Rihanna's childhood home.

As a travel writer specializing in tropical destinations , I've been lucky enough to have visited 30 islands around the world. Because of my extensive travels, people often ask me which islands I'd return to.

This isn't surprising, considering how many people plan to travel across the globe each year — in a survey at the start of the year, 30% of Americans said they had international travel plans in 2024. But it's not always easy to figure out which tropical destination is the best vacation spot for you.

Each island I've been to has been idyllic and unique, but a few lingered in my salt-spray-tinged memories long after my tan faded. Here are the five islands I always recommend to other travelers.

I couldn't get enough of Bora Bora's beauty and great cuisine.

This South Pacific haven screams "paradise." Though getting there was a long journey — I had to take a 16-hour flight from New York to Tahiti, followed by an hourlong flight to Bora Bora — the island was absolutely otherworldly.

The island, formed by an extinct volcano, is surrounded by a calm turquoise lagoon that's basically a huge wading pool. I remember marveling at rows of romantic bungalows with glass floors and thatched roofs overlooking the water.

The island's Mount Otemanu, shrouded by clouds, was also a postcard-worthy sight from any angle.

The local cuisine combines French and Polynesian cultures. I enjoyed meals such as poisson cru, a ceviche-like dish made with coconut milk, tomatoes, and cucumber. It was truly heaven on earth.

I loved the luxurious vibes in St. Barts.

Glittering St. Barts is full of fancy spots, with a yacht-filled harbor, designer shops along the pristine streets of Gustavia (the island's capital), and luxurious hotels such as the Hotel Manapany and Eden Rock.

I found a lively day-drinking scene at Nikki Beach , a destination that's attracted celebrity guests such as Mariah Carey, and restaurants with menus and wine lists to rival any Parisian hot spot.

But you don't have to be a multimillionaire to soak in the island's beguiling swankiness. During my visit, I spent an afternoon on a catamaran ride and did some window shopping at the home-design store Maison Pélican.

Visitors can also find elevated cuisine at various price points — I had tuna poke and chilled rosé from Ti' Corail on a laid-back beach, and it was one of my favorite meals.

I was most surprised by the many local beaches , such as the sandy Gouverneur Beach and the secluded Colombier Beach, a spot accessible only after a steep (but worth it) hike.

If you're a Francophile who adores fabulous food and an upscale feel, I highly recommend St. Barts.

St. Martin is the perfect destination for plane and food enthusiasts.

St. Martin is split into two distinct French and Dutch sides. I thought the French side had a quiet, relaxed vibe during my visit.

I lay on the beach at Orient Bay (referred to as the Saint-Tropez of the Caribbean ) and shopped at the luxury boutiques in Marigot, the capital of the French collectivity on St. Martin.

I found the Dutch side much livelier as I clubbed at the Soggy Dollar Bar in Simpson Bay and sipped rum cocktails while watching the sunset at The Rusty Parrot.

The island is also the ultimate destination for aviation geeks, as the Princess Juliana International Airport is steps away from Maho Beach. I spent hours watching planes fly directly above me.

Visitors can also island hop to nearby St. Barts and Anguilla, easily accessible by ferry or plane.

I was blown away by Curaçao's beautiful beaches and scenery.

Curaçao is known for having more than 35 beaches, so every sun-worshipper can find their perfect spot.

During my visit, it seemed that some beaches, such as Playa Piskadó, were mainly frequented by locals, so they were uncrowded and relaxed. Others, such as Grote Knip and Playa Kalki, in quiet coves, were very tranquil.

While on the island, I noticed a fun Dutch influence through food such as fried meat snacks called bitterballen. I also encountered an unexpected gin-and-tonic culture , as Dutch genever (a spirit made in Holland and Belgium) is similar to gin.

During my stay, I sipped my way through the gin-and-tonic menu at Zest Restaurant & Beach Cafe on the lively Jan Thiel Beach and, of course, tried the island's namesake bright-blue liqueur.

Handelskade, a row of brightly colored Dutch colonial buildings lining the water in Willemstad (the island's capital), was the perfect photo op.

As an added bonus, Curaçao is part of the ABC islands (the other two being Aruba and Bonaire), which are unlikely to be severely impacted by hurricanes .

I enjoyed Barbados' lively events and rum distillery.

The Caribbean is synonymous with rum, but in my opinion, no island offers as authentic an experience as this destination.

Based in Barbados, the iconic rum producer Mount Gay has been selling the spirit since 1703 . Touring and tasting at the company's distillery is a must-do for any fan of the sugarcane-based spirit.

Visitors can also make their way through Barbados' flavorful cocktails (and cuisine) at lively bars and restaurants. I loved the potent rum punch and local fish cakes at Oasis Beach Bar, as well as the seared jerk tuna and butter beans at Calma Beach Club.

The island was perpetually vibrant — it seemed like a party, festival, or concert was always happening. The snorkeling in Carlisle Bay was also amazing, as I saw parrotfish, hawksbill turtles, and seahorses.

Plus, Rihanna fans can snap a selfie in front of the Barbadian native's colorful childhood home, where her name adorns the doormat.

This story was originally published on August 9, 2024, and most recently updated on August 12, 2024.

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The 20 Birthday Trip Ideas for Every Type of Traveler

Are you thinking about how to make your birthday extra special this year? Well, how about taking a trip that perfectly matches your personality? Imagine celebrating your big day in a place that feels like it was made just for you!

For the adventure-seekers and culture lovers, there’s a whole world out there. Fancy the energy of buzzing cities? Places like Chicago and Las Vegas are calling your name. Or, if you’re more about chilling in nature’s beauty, think about the serene vibes of Maui or Santa Fe.

And hey, if luxury and excitement are your things, why not jet off to somewhere like Ghana or Mexico City? Picture yourself living it up on your special day! But if a laid-back, cultural experience is more your style, you’ve got options like Florence or Zanzibar to soak up the scenery and local vibes.

Maybe you’re the type who loves a relaxed holiday – Europe’s river cruises or a wine tour in Napa Valley could be just the ticket. The best part? These trips are all about what you love, making your birthday not just a date on the calendar, but a truly memorable experience.

So, what do you think? Ready to match your birthday bash with the perfect destination? Let’s make this birthday one for the books!

Birthday Trip Ideas

1. backpack through thailand.

Backpacking through Thailand is an adventure filled with diverse experiences. Begin your journey in the north, in places like Pai, where you can indulge in incredible street food and enjoy a vibrant nightlife with jazz bars and parties.

Explore the rolling hills and visit unique eco-resorts that support local communities. Then, venture to the eastern islands like Koh Samet and Koh Chang, offering a more laid-back vibe compared to the southern islands, with beautiful beaches and opportunities to mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

In Phuket, although the city itself might not be the highlight, the surrounding areas like Khao Sok National Park and Ao Phang-nga National Park are must-visits for their stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.

Finally, head to the southern islands like Krabi and Koh Tao, renowned for their climbing adventures, beautiful beaches, and diving opportunities​​​​​​.

2. Train Journey Through Italy

Imagine traversing Italy by train for your birthday, a journey that combines the joy of exploration with the comfort of scenic travel. Start your adventure in the romantic city of Venice, with its enchanting canals and historic architecture.

Next, head to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, where art and history come alive. Don’t miss the rolling hills and vineyards of Tuscany, perfect for a wine-tasting session.

In Rome, step back in time with its ancient ruins and vibrant street life. Your journey could end in the bustling streets of Milan, Italy’s fashion capital. Each stop offers a unique way to celebrate your special day, from gourmet dining to historical tours, all set against the backdrop of Italy’s stunning landscapes.

3. River Cruise Through Europe on U by Uniworld

Imagine celebrating your birthday while gliding through the stunning landscapes of Europe on a U by Uniworld river cruise. This isn’t your typical cruise; it’s specifically designed for the young and adventurous at heart.

Picture evenings spent at the onboard bar, sipping on your favorite cocktail, perhaps the delicious “apple strudel” cocktail which comes highly recommended. The cruise also features a variety of themed parties and events, like 70s, 80s, 90s nights, karaoke, and comedy, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment.

As for dining, you can enjoy high-quality meals in a casual setting, with options ranging from buffet breakfasts to family-style dinners with diverse dishes like ribs, lamb wellington, and salmon. The cruise itinerary often includes picturesque Bavarian towns and cities, providing a blend of historical insights and breathtaking views​​​​.

4. Charlotte, North Carolina

A birthday in Charlotte, North Carolina, offers a blend of outdoor adventure and cultural richness. Kick off your day with some action at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, where activities like rafting and zip-lining await.

For a taste of the local cuisine, indulge in mouth-watering BBQ at popular joints like Noble Smoke. Explore the city’s cultural side by visiting the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art or the NASCAR Hall of Fame for some high-octane fun.

If you’re with a group, Optimist Hall is a great spot for diverse dining options. Charlotte combines the thrill of outdoor activities with the charm of southern hospitality, making it a perfect birthday destination

5. Maui, Hawaii

Celebrating your birthday in Maui is like stepping into a paradise of diverse experiences. Picture yourself taking the scenic Road to Hana, a journey packed with breathtaking views, refreshing stops at waterfalls, and delicious local snacks like Huelo Lookout’s tropical flavored smoothies or Halfway to Hana’s banana bread.

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, how about a thrilling rafting adventure or a leap from Ching’s Pond? And for a true Hawaiian experience, create your own luau with traditional dances, music, and a feast. Maui transforms your birthday into an adventure of scenic beauty and cultural richness​​​​.

6. Tulum, Mexico

Celebrating a birthday in Tulum, Mexico, can be an unforgettable experience. This trendy destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation on its stunning white sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. You can start your celebration with a delightful meal at Ukami, known for its amazing sushi and fresh fruit cocktails.

Tulum is also famous for its upscale Mexican food, with places like Gitano offering a mesmerizing jungle dining experience. For a more lively birthday bash, head over to RosaNegra, where the party vibe is complemented by DJs, sparklers, and a champagne bar.

If you’re looking for a chill end to your night, Mojave offers great cocktails in a cozy outdoor setting. Don’t forget to visit the local favorites like Antojitos La Chiapaneca for authentic tacos and Batey Mojito and Guarapo Bar for their renowned fresh mojitos​​​​​​.

7. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Celebrating your birthday in Santa Fe, New Mexico, can be a culturally rich and relaxing experience. Start your day with a visit to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, where you can immerse yourself in vibrant art.

Then, head to the Santa Fe Farmers Market for a taste of local flavors and artisan crafts. For a unique experience, stroll down Lena Street, a hip area filled with artist studios, quaint coffee shops, and Japanese eateries like Ozu.

Indulge in an elevated dining experience at Terra Restaurant, offering flavors of Northern New Mexico with breathtaking views. In the evening, embrace the local art scene with a visit to the New Mexico Museum of Art Vladem Contemporary or the galleries on Canyon Road.

And for a truly special experience, mix clay and cocktails at Tumbleroot Pottery Pub or catch a captivating flamenco show at El Flamenco Cabaret​​​​.

8. Toronto, Canada

Toronto, Canada, is an excellent choice for a birthday trip, offering a vibrant mix of music, food, and entertainment. You could start your day with a cultural dive into one of the city’s numerous museums and galleries or join a street art crawl to explore its urban creativity.

The city’s dynamic atmosphere ensures there’s always something exciting to do, regardless of the season​​. If you’re visiting during spring or summer, the city’s music and film festivals provide a perfect backdrop for celebration.

And don’t worry if your birthday falls in the cooler months; Toronto comes alive with winter fun and stunning fall foliage, offering experiences like the Toronto Light Festival or cozy winter retreats nearby. 

9. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, is the epitome of Southern charm and a wonderful place to celebrate your birthday. Stroll down the cobblestone streets, shaded by ancient live oaks, and explore award-winning restaurants like The Grey.

Don’t forget to treat yourself to a scoop of Leopold’s Ice Cream. If you’re up for some nighttime adventure, consider a ghost tour for a spooky experience. The Plant Riverside District is another must-visit, offering a plethora of shops, galleries, eateries, and bars.

It’s a vibrant area packed with entertainment, perfect for a memorable birthday celebration. Stay at the JW Marriott Savannah in this district to be at the heart of the action

10. Vail, Colorado

In Vail, Colorado, your birthday can be an adventure-filled celebration. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the local eateries before hitting the slopes for some world-class skiing or snowboarding.

If visiting in the warmer months, hiking or mountain biking through the scenic trails can be just as exhilarating. Relax in the afternoon at a luxurious spa or enjoy a leisurely round of golf surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

As evening approaches, treat yourself to a gourmet meal at one of Vail’s upscale restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. End your day by cozying up near a fireplace, reflecting on a day well-spent in this mountain paradise.

11. New York City, New York

In New York City, the options for celebrating a birthday are nearly endless. Imagine starting your day with a stroll in Central Park, followed by a visit to one of the city’s iconic museums or a Broadway show.

For foodies, NYC is a paradise with its vast array of dining options ranging from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. As the evening sets in, head to a rooftop bar for panoramic views of the city skyline.

If you’re into more lively celebrations, the city’s diverse nightlife, from trendy clubs in Manhattan to cozy bars in Brooklyn, awaits you. And for a unique experience, consider a birthday cruise around the Statue of Liberty, offering a stunning perspective of the city’s skyline.

12. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu in Peru offers an adventurous and mystical way to celebrate your birthday. This ancient Incan city, nestled high in the Andes Mountains, is a wonder of archaeological beauty and historical significance.

You can hike, cycle, kayak, or zip line to reach this iconic destination, immersing yourself in the breathtaking natural scenery and rich cultural history. For a more relaxed approach, consider a scenic train ride from Cusco, which still allows you to experience the grandeur of Machu Picchu without the strenuous trek.

The nearby town of Aguas Calientes provides a range of accommodations, dining options, and the relaxing thermal springs to unwind after your explorations. Alternatively, staying in Cusco gives you a chance to explore this beautiful city with its many lodging options, eateries, and UNESCO-designated buildings​​.

13. Mykonos, Greece

Imagine celebrating your birthday on the stunning island of Mykonos, Greece. Your day could start with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café, followed by a stroll through the picturesque streets of Chora, the island’s main town.

Here, you can explore the iconic windmills and Little Venice, with its colorful buildings and waterfront views. For a touch of history, visit the archaeological site of Delos, a short boat ride away.

As the sun sets, Mykonos comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, offering fresh Mediterranean cuisine, and then head to one of the island’s famous clubs or beach bars for a night of dancing and celebration under the stars.

14. Laguna Beach, California

Celebrating a birthday in Laguna Beach, California, is ideal for those who love the sun, sand, and arts. This picturesque coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing day soaking up the sun or enjoying water activities like surfing and paddleboarding.

Art enthusiasts can explore the numerous art galleries and maybe catch an art festival, depending on the time of year. Culinary experiences in Laguna Beach are diverse, with options ranging from casual beachfront eateries to upscale dining offering fresh, local cuisine.

As the sun sets, enjoy a beach bonfire, a perfect way to end your day in this serene and beautiful location.

15. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, known for its vibrant nightlife and casinos, offers a unique way to celebrate your birthday. Spend your day exploring the famous Las Vegas Strip, home to numerous casinos, luxury hotels, and entertainment venues.

Try your luck at the casinos, enjoy world-class shows, or indulge in fine dining at one of the many top-rated restaurants. Don’t miss the iconic Bellagio fountains and take a ride on the High Roller Ferris wheel for stunning city views.

As night falls, the city comes alive with numerous clubs and bars, perfect for partying until the early hours. For a more relaxed celebration, consider a spa day at one of the luxury resorts or a round of golf at a nearby course.

16. Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík offers a unique and memorable birthday experience. As Iceland’s capital, it’s known for its vibrant culture, stunning natural scenery, and lively nightlife.

You could spend your day exploring the city’s charming streets, visiting landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja Church, and enjoying local Icelandic cuisine at one of Reykjavík’s many restaurants.

The city is also a gateway to Iceland’s incredible natural wonders, such as the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and Northern Lights, depending on the time of year. A birthday in Reykjavík could be the start of an adventurous Icelandic journey, filled with breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences.

17. Napa Valley, California

Celebrating a birthday in Napa Valley is an experience filled with fine wines, exquisite dining, and breathtaking scenery. Start your special day with a Champagne toast at Domaine Carneros, set against a picturesque hilltop chateau.

For lunch, head to Oakville Grocery to enjoy a variety of options like deli sandwiches, fresh pizza, or a mix of cheeses and snacks. Spend the afternoon at Ashes & Diamonds Winery, known for its modern vibe and unique wines.

In the evening, Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar at Archer Hotel offers an incredible view of the Napa skyline, cozy fire pits, and a great cocktail menu, perfect for ending the day on a high note.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, Cambria Hotel Napa Valley combines style, modernity, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for your birthday retreat​​.

18. Alexandria, Virginia

Celebrating a birthday in Alexandria, Virginia, offers a unique blend of history and charm. This city, known for its association with George Washington, has an array of activities that bring its rich past to life.

You can join the George Washington Birthday Parade, a special event showcasing the nation’s largest parade dedicated to America’s first president. The parade route through Old Town Alexandria is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the city’s history.

Additionally, you can explore historic sites associated with Washington and his contemporaries through guided walking tours. Alexandria also offers a range of dining and shopping options in its quaint and bustling Old Town area​​​​​​.

For a more unique experience, consider attending events like the Chocolate with General Washington, where you can enjoy hot chocolate and discussions with a portrayal of General Washington, or the Virtual Birthnight Banquet & Ball, celebrating Washington’s legacy with a touch of historical elegance. 

19. Chicago, Illinois

Celebrating a birthday in Chicago offers a mix of cultural, culinary, and recreational activities. Start your day with a visit to Millennium Park to see the famous “Bean” sculpture and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Explore the city’s renowned museums like the Art Institute of Chicago or take an architectural boat tour along the Chicago River. For food enthusiasts, Chicago’s diverse culinary scene, from deep-dish pizza to gourmet dining, is a delight.

In the evening, catch a show at one of the historic theaters or enjoy live jazz or blues at a local club. Don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the city skyline from the Willis Tower Skydeck or the 360 Chicago observation deck.

20. The Palm Beaches, Florida

Celebrating your birthday in The Palm Beaches of Florida means indulging in a variety of activities in a region known for its luxury and beauty. This area offers everything from relaxing beach days in Lake Worth Beach to vibrant nightlife in Delray Beach and glamorous experiences in Palm Beach.

You can enjoy art and culture, outdoor activities, world-class shopping, picturesque beaches, and diverse entertainment. For an extra dose of luxury, consider a trip on the Brightline train to Miami, or head further south to the relaxed and free-spirited Florida Keys.

The Palm Beaches provide an ideal blend of relaxation and excitement, ensuring a memorable birthday experience.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating a birthday is not just about adding another year to your age, it’s about embracing new experiences, creating memories, and exploring the beauty of our world.

Whether it’s indulging in the historic charm of a city, basking in the natural beauty of a scenic location, or immersing yourself in vibrant cultures, each destination offers its unique way of making your special day unforgettable.

So, when your next birthday rolls around, remember that it’s more than just cake and candles. It’s an opportunity to step out, explore, and celebrate life in all its splendor. Here’s to making your next birthday one of adventure and joy!

Best 40th Birthday Trips: 40 AMAZING Ideas for Adventure and Relaxation

Posted on Published: August 30, 2023  - Last updated: May 6, 2024

Turning 40 is something to celebrate! From relaxing beaches, vibrant cities, bold adventures and underrated destinations, you deserve to have the best vacation. Here are 40 of the very best 40th birthday trips around the world!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Whether you want to go on epic adventures, hang out on the beach for a week and relax or fill your belly and soul with amazing food and rich cultural experiences, this list has a bit of everything for your milestone birthday!

These 40th birthday destinations provide you with options for year-round fun. So depending on whether you’re celebrating on your actual birthday or sometime near it, you’ll be able to find a spot that’s perfect just for you.

Map of 40th birthday destinations

There are so many places to go for a 40th birthday. Whether you’re looking to celebrate with adventure or relaxation, the options are truly endless.

Use this map as a visual to help plan where to go for your 40th birthday trip!

Oh, and since I haven’t been everywhere (yet), I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help me compile this amazing list of 40th birthday trip ideas. Enjoy!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

40 of the best 40th birthday trips

Who knew turning 40 could be so exciting? Here’s an epic list of 40th birthday destinations around the world. Happy planning!

1. Canadian Rockies

• Region:  North America – Canada
• Fly into:  Calgary International Airport, Alberta
• This destination is best for: solo travelers, couples, families or friends trips
• Best time of year to visit: anytime

One of the absolute best 40th birthday trips for the outdoor lover is an adventure through the Canadian Rockies! These stunning mountains are a dream destination, and a bucket list check for sure. The perfect way to spend a milestone birthday celebration!

There are 4 amazing national parks in the Canadian Rockies to enjoy: Banff, Jasper, Yoho and Kootenay. You’ll want to spend at least a week here, but more time would be better to explore the highlights of each park.

The Canadian Rockies are truly a year-round destination. These rugged mountains are some of the most stunning in the world! 

In the winter, enjoy skiing, snowshoeing or ice skating in the mountains. The spring and fall get the least amount of visitors, so if you can enjoy less crowds and reduced pricing on accommodations. 

Summer is the high season, and for good reason! The alpine lakes really shine in the summertime, and with tolerable temperatures from June through August, there’s so much to see and do. Banff in summer is particularly busy, but oh-so-spectacular.

Must-see’s in the Canadian Rockies are Moraine Lake in Banff, the Banff to Jasper drive via Icefields Parkway, Emerald Lake in Yoho, Maligne Lake in Jasper, and Numa Falls and the Painted Pots in Kootenay.

To get to these magical mountains, fly into Calgary and if you have a few days, explore all the best things to do in Calgary Canada . Then take the 1.5 hour drive to Banff to start your adventure. Plan to spend at least one day in each park, but a few days in each would be even better!

The Canadian Rockies are an amazing experience, and amongst the best 40th birthday trip ideas on this list!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels 

2. Egypt (for a truly unforgettable 40th birthday)

• Region:  Africa
• Fly into:  Cario International Airport
• This destination is best for: Solo, couples & families
• Best time of year to visit: October-April

Could there be a better way to spend your 40th birthday than jetting off to Egypt? With beautiful weather, incredible pyramids and so much to see, visiting Egypt will make for the birthday trip of a lifetime. 

Your days there will be spent visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza, exploring the Valley of the Kings and Queens, meandering through Temples in Luxor, and cruising down the Nile River.

You can also make time for relaxation by visiting the stunning beaches in Egypt. The Red Sea is incredible and places like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheik are very popular destinations to enjoy the crystal clear blue waters.

This is the perfect trip for couples, families, and even solo travelers. You should consider booking a guide as this is the most optimal way to see the popular sites and you can avoid scams. To get the most out of your trip, you should plan at least  7 days in Egypt.

The fall and winter are the best times to visit Egypt because this is when the weather will be most comfortable for exploring the Ancient Egyptian sites.

You only turn 40 once, so treat yourself by visiting Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and a Red Sea destination. It’ll surely be a memorable 40th birthday trip.

Recommended by Sam of Find Love Travel

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link .

3. Switzerland

• Region : Central Europe
• Fly into:  Zurich Airport
• This destination is best for:  Couples travel, family travel, trip with friends
• Best Time to Visit: Spring, fall and Christmas / winter wonderland

If you’re looking for one of the best 40th birthday vacation ideas, then a road trip in Switzerland is the best idea to pursue. Switzerland is definitely one of the most beautiful countries in the world and that is one of the reasons why it is the perfect destination for your 40th. 

If you’re someone who loves hiking, then Switzerland is a bucket list destination . You’ll have no dearth of hiking trails and there are also so many adventure activities to do around Switzerland.

We would definitely recommend at least 2 weeks for your dream trip in Switzerland.

Start your getaway by flying into Zurich international airport . Spend the next day or two exploring the city of Zurich. Take a day trip to Rhine falls and surrounding areas.

The next stop on your itinerary should be Interlaken. Explore the villages and magical landscapes of Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen , among others in this region of Bern.

From there, visit Bern, the capital of Switzerland for a day. Next, head to Lake Geneva and choose one of the cities like Lausanne or Geneva or Montreux. Explore the surrounding Vaud region for the next 3 days.

Make sure to save time to visit Zermatt and see the famous Matterhorn Peak. Finally, end your trip in the Lake Lugano region before dropping your car off at Milan airport.

If you do have more time, you could take a ride along the Glacier Express from Zermatt to Chur and back.  

Switzerland can be an expensive destination and this should be kept in mind when you are planning the trip.

Recommended by Soumya of Travel, Books, & Food

4. La Fortuna, Costa Rica

• Region: Central America
• Fly into:  Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose or  Iberia  Guanacaste  Airport  in Liberia
• This destination is best for: couples, solo travelers, families and group trips with friends
• Best time of year to visit: Between December and April

La Fortuna, tucked away in the lush jungles of Costa Rica, is the perfect mix of luxury, adventure and relaxation and a wonderful 40th birthday getaway.

If you’re looking to kick off your birthday by indulging in some self-care, there’s plenty of that available for you in La Fortuna. You can include La Fortuna as a part of an incredible 7 days Costa Rica itinerary , or stay in just this area. There’s so much to see and do, it’s absolutely one of the best 40th birthday trip!

Famed for the Arenal Volcano that towers above the city, the area is absolutely bursting at the seams with geothermal hot springs. Most of the springs are on the grounds of private resorts, many of which are quite luxurious, such as The Springs or Tabacon Thermal Springs Hotel – perfect for celebrating a special occasion!

If you’re, instead, looking for adventure, consider going on a hike through the jungle. You may be able to spot a howler monkey, coati or even a sloth.

The Mistico Hanging Bridges offers an easy stroll along a trail and through a series of suspension bridges, hanging amongst the treetops. For something a bit more intense, head to Arenal Volcano National Park. You’ll find several hiking trails with jaw-dropping views of the massive volcano above.

Additionally, there are so many waterfalls to explore in the area. La Fortuna Waterfall is right in town. Here, you can swim at the base of a 246-foot tall waterfall.

Alternatively, join one of the many  Rio Celeste tours  that depart from La Fortuna . You’ll get to hike through an impossibly green rainforest to the most electric blue waterfall you’ll ever lay eyes on.

Recommended by Jess of Uprooted Traveler

5. Kyoto, Japan

• Region: East Asia
• Fly into: Narita International Airport
• This destination is best for: couples, solo travel, friends trips
• Best time of year to visit: Spring for cherry blossom season, Autumn for fall foliage

Kyoto  is absolutely one of the best places to go for your 40th birthday! You’ve reached this milestone of sophistication, so why not celebrate in one of the most elegant cities in the entire world?

Kyoto itself does not have an airport, and the closest airport is in Osaka. However, most international travelers to Japan will fly into the capital city of Tokyo first and then take a fast and convenient train to Kyoto.

Kyoto is one of the only major Japanese cities whose buildings survived World War II, so the main thing to do in Kyoto is admire the stunning architecture.

There are so many things to see that you might want to hire a tour guide to get to the main attractions. Or, you can explore on your own.

The best times to visit Kyoto are the spring for incredible views of the cherry blossoms , or during fall to witness the colorful leaves. Just be sure to avoid summer (especially July and August), as one of the best tips for visiting Japan is to avoid the rainy season.

Some of the most famous buildings in Kyoto include the Shinto shrine called Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Buddhist temples Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera .

Get away from the crowds in central Kyoto by going to the Arashiyama District and wandering through the famous bamboo grove. While you’re there, take a tour of the Okochi Sanso Villa, which once belonged to a Japanese movie star.

Spend at least three days in Kyoto, and if you have more time, you can take day trips to other wonderful cities like Osaka and Nara. No matter what you choose to do, your time in Kyoto will be a 40th birthday celebration that you will never forget!

Recommended by Stella of Around The World in 24 Hours

6. Fiji (best vacation for 40th birthday at the beach)

• Region:  Oceania
• Fly into:  Nadi International Airport
• This destination is best for:  Everyone! The best thing about Fiji is there are plenty of accommodation options and activities for every type of traveler.
• Best time of year to visit:  May to October

Flying to Fiji is the perfect 40th birthday trip for all types of groups and a wide variety of travel styles.

Fiji is made up of more than 300 islands , and more than 100 of those islands have people living on them. While many visitors opt to stay on Viti Levu, the island that Nadi is on, there are even more options to stay on nearby islands if you are looking for something more remote.

Ferries are the most popular way to travel between the islands in Fiji, though there are helicopter and private plane transfers as well.

Fiji is known for its resorts. The Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa is a fun place to celebrate a 40th birthday without the need to travel too far from Nadi. Intercontinental is one of the few resorts on Viti Levu to have its own beach.

While one of the best things to do in Fiji is lounge by the pool, there are plenty of options for those who would rather explore the islands.

If you are interested in learning more about the Fijian culture while also having the opportunity to snorkel and swim, head out on one of  Robinson Crusoe’s half-day or full-day tours .

The people of Fiji are friendly and welcoming and really help make each visit special.  

Recommended by Lanie of Make More Adventure

7. Alaskan Cruise, USA

• Region: North America – USA
• Fly into: Varies by departure point
• This destination is best for: Couples, friends trips, families, extended family and LGBTQIA+ 
• Best time of year to visit: May through mid-September

Looking for one of the best 40th birthday destinations in the USA? If so then you need to book an Alaskan cruise.

After all, booking a cruise is a quick, easy, and affordable way to see all that this giant state has to offer. Plus, a cruise allows you to see cool spots along the Inside Passage that are just not accessible otherwise.

And if you want to head inland then you can always add a tour to the end of your cruise, to places like Denali National Park. This way you can get the most out of your trip.

Just be aware that cruises are only available between May and mid-September.  In fact, Alaska is one of the best places to visit in August !

In terms of the best cruise lines for a 40th birthday, try Celebrity since the boats are more refined and come with excellent service and great food. Just use this Alaska packing list and you’ll blend right in with the crowd during dinner. 

Now, while there are many different Alaska itineraries, the Inside Passage is one of the best . Sure, you won’t be able to head inland afterward. But this route is usually a week long and allows you to depart from easy-to-reach places like Seattle, Vancouver, and Juneau.

Plus, the waters on this route are usually calm. So, you won’t have to worry about seasickness.

Along the way, you’ll also typically stop at places like Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Haines and Skagway . You’ll even spend a day at sea admiring the scenery in Glacier Bay National Park or Hubbard Glacier. 

So, get ready to marvel at stunning mountains, incredible glaciers, and massive fjords! An Alaksan cruise is by far one of the best 40th birthday trip ideas in the US!

Recommended by Linda of Linda on the Run

Related: Holland America Alaska Cruise review

8. Santorini, Greece (bucket list check and unforgettable 40th birthday ideas)

• Region: Europe; Southern Aegean Sea
• F ly into : Thira Airport
• This destination is best for: Solos, couples
• Best time of year to visit: Late spring or early fall

Santorini is undoubtedly one of the most famous islands in Greece and a great 40th birthday trip idea. It’s also one of the best Greek islands for couples !

Here you will find a mix of romance, luxury and breathtaking beauty that will guarantee an unforgettable birthday. Iconic whitewashed cliff-top buildings overlooking the azure Aegean Sea and gorgeous beaches create a picture-perfect setting.

There are so many unique  things to do in Santorini . The island’s charming villages, such as Oia and Fira, which sit on the edge of the crater, are well worth a visit.

There are also famous archaeological sites to discover such as Akrotiri and Ancient Thera. Another highlight are the beautiful beaches of Santorini , which make for an unforgettable vacation.

To get to Santorini, you can either fly or take the ferry . Once on the island, you can rent a car or use the local buses to explore the stunning coastline, hidden coves and unique black or red beaches.

For the perfect birthday, book the perfect accommodation. A real tip is the  Aspaki by Art Maison  which offers its guests the best views of Oia, and is also a famous spot for taking photos.

The recommended travel time is around 5-7 days, so you have plenty of time to enjoy the magic of Santorini, do some sightseeing, and also visit the beaches.

To enhance the birthday celebration, book a private catamaran ride to explore hidden bays like White Beach.

Travelers should know that Santorini can get crowded during high season, so it is advisable to book accommodations and tours in advance. Another insider tip is to travel in late spring or early fall when the weather is warm and pleasant.

Recommended by Martina of Places of Juma

• Region: Caribbean
• Fly into: Curacao International Airport
• This destination is best for: couples, families, solo travelers, friends, LGBTQIA+
• Best time of year to visit : Year round – with December – April being less windy than other months. Off-peak travel is between May – September.

The Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao is one of the best 40th birthday travel ideas. Situated in the southern Caribbean between Aruba and Bonaire , Curacao offers something for every type of traveler. 

Whether you are planning a trip as a solo traveler, couple, family, or with friends, this beautiful island caters to foodies, history enthusiasts, snorkelers, beach-goers and is an outdoor lover’s paradise!

With over 40 beaches to explore, caves, gorgeous architecture, hiking trails, great snorkeling, and unique natural phenomenon, visiting Curacao for a 40th birthday will surely be a trip to remember. 

Hunt for street art in Willemstad, Curacao’s capital. Be mesmerized by waves crashing against the rugged shoreline at Shete Boka National Park, and mark your 40th birthday by hiking Mount Christoffel in time for sunrise, which is one of the  best things to do in Curacao ! 

Since Curacao sits below the hurricane belt, the weather remains consistent during the year. The average temperature year-round is 85 degrees Fahrenheit, However, it can be windy at times, but that breeze is a welcome reprieve from the heat!

One of the most fabulous 40th birthday trip ideas for couples, celebrate your milestone birthday at one of Curacao’s great restaurants. Fort Nassau is a great choice as it overlooks Willemstad. It is the best spot to catch the sunset.

Rozendaels, Ginger, and Mundo Bizarro are all fantastic dining options as well, with accommodations for gluten-free and vegan.

The Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort in Willemstad is the perfect base for exploring Curacao. Located in the heart of town, it’s easily accessible to shopping and restaurants, and has its own man made beach – the only one of its kind in Willemstad!

A week is a perfect amount of time to experience the best of what Curacao has to offer. The best option to get around the island is by car, and is easily navigable.

Recommended by Sarah of In Search of Sarah

10. Machu Picchu, Peru

• Region:  South America
• Fly into:  Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima then to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco
• This destination is best for:  couples, solo travel, friends’ trips, families, LGBTQIA+
• Best time of year to visit:  April to November

If you love hiking and trekking and want to do something special for your 40th birthday, then consider completing the  Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu  in Peru.

The Salkantay Trek starts from Cusco, the tourist capital of Peru in South America. To get there, you can fly to Peru’s capital city, Lima. There are regular domestic flights between Lima and Cusco you can take from there.

Since Cusco is located at 3,400 m (11,155 ft) above sea level, make sure to spend a few days in the city first to acclimatise before starting your hike.

The 75 km (46 mi) long Salkantay Trek takes you through the majestic Peruvian Andes to Machu Picchu over the course of 4 or 5 days. You’ll visit the stunning Lake Humantay, hike across the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m (15,190 ft) and walk through the Amazon jungle before reaching the famous Inca Citadel.

Whilst there are many popular ways to reach Machu Picchu, this trek is considered one of the best in the world.

You can opt for a trek where you camp every night. However, if you’re after something unique, then why not pay a bit extra for a company that offers some really cool accommodations like Sky Domes, Andean Huts and Jungle Domes.

The best thing about the Salkantay Trek is that you can sign up on your own, with your friends or family or with your significant other.

Hiking through the Andes and arriving at one of the new Seven Wonders of the World is going to be an unforgettable 40th birthday getaway.

Recommended by Kitti of Kitti and John

More 40th birthday getaway ideas

Can you picture yourself walking among the pyramids of Egypt? Or maybe hiking through the Rockies? How will you ever decide? Keep reading for more of the best 40th birthday trip ideas!

• Region:  Southern Europe
• Fly into:  Luqa International Airport
• This destination is best for:  couples, solo travel, friends trips, families
• Best time of year to visit:  year round but avoid July and August

Malta is a fantastic 40th birthday destination. This small island in the Mediterranean has so much to offer , from some of the oldest structures on Earth to incredible beaches and coves where you can swim in the most stunning water you’ve ever seen.

You can easily spend a week in Malta and not see everything here, even though the island is very small.

Getting to Malta is easy from all over Europe. The island has its own airport very close to Valletta, the capital.

Because of its mild climate in winter, Malta makes a wonderful winter sun escape during the cold months.

One of the best areas to stay in Malta is Sliema and St Julian’s, where most hotels are. For a unique stay, choose the Hilton , which overlooks the sea and has its own marina.

Nearby, you will find some of the  best restaurants in St Julian’s , such as Gululu, where you can try some delicious traditional Maltese food.

Don’t miss spending one day in Comino, swimming in the Blue Lagoon, snorkeling, learning how to dive, or just enjoying some relaxing time on the boat.

Another great thing to do in Malta is go to the Sunday market in Marsaxlokk when the fishermen bring to the shore the best catch of the day. Whilst during the week they cater to restaurants, on Sunday they open to the public.

Recommended by Joanna of The World In My Pocket

12. Jordan (one of the most unforgettable 40th birthday ideas)

• Region: Middle East
• Fly into: Amman, Jordan
• This destination is best for: couples, friends, solo, families
• Best time of year to visit: Sep – Nov and March – May

If you’re looking for an epic 40th birthday trip idea, look no further than a trip to Jordan. Here, you can swim in the Dead Sea, sandboard in the Wadi Rum Desert, and discover the ancient city of Petra .

A trip to Jordan is a trip through history in one of the most beautiful desert landscapes in the world. It’s a once in a lifetime experience that deserves a special occasion.

Start by flying in Amman, the bustling capital of Jordan and renting a car.

After exploring the city’s ancient Roman ruins and night markets, head to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, where you can literally float on the salty water , looking over to Israel on the other side.

The ancient Nabataean city of Petra is a few hours drive from the Dead Sea. Carved into the red sandstone mountains, Petra is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Spend 2-3 days in Petra and Wadi Musa, hiking through the ancient city and seeing the beautiful landmarks, such as the Treasury and the Monastery.

Finally, spend a few nights in the Wadi Rum Desert , one of the most unreal landscapes in the world, often compared to Mars, before returning to Amman.

Driving yourself is an easy and safe way to get around Jordan. You’ll want to spend between 7-10 days exploring the country, as that gives you time to adequately see most of Jordan’s main attractions.

Lastly, before you arrive in Jordan, be sure to get the Jordan Pass, which covers your tourist visa and access to most historical sites, such as Petra and Jerash to name a few. What a fabulous adventure, not to mention one of the best 40th birthday trips!

Recommended by Chris of Around The World With Me

13. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

• Region:  Caribbean
• Fly into:  Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)
• This destination is best for : singles, couples, groups of friends, families, beach lovers
• Best time of year to visit:  December – May, but possible year-round.

Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic is a perfect place to celebrate a milestone birthday, and one of the best 40th birthday trips! Particularly the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana with all its amenities are a great option, as you can get pampered 24/7 and enjoy unlimited drinks and delicious à-la-carte dinner not only for your birthday but the entire vacation.

The resorts in Punta Cana are perfect when traveling as a couple, with your family, or also when celebrating with friends. It makes for one of the best 40th birthday trips.

Be sure to let the staff know it is your birthday and you will have an amazing and fun-filled birthday with a Caribbean vibe and a constant ocean breeze.

Although the resorts are great (and you make not want to leave), there are a plethora of adventuress in Punta Cana.

Ziplining excursions, catamaran tours, visiting Isla Saona or an ATV adventure are some of the most famous excursions in Punta Cana.

The nightlife is also exciting and never ending. You can hop on a party boat, book an exclusive rum tasting, or visit Coco Bongo Punta Cana , the most spectacular entertainment show and party in town.

With direct flights from more than 35 North American cities, getting to Punta Cana is super easy. Most of the all-inclusive resorts are just a 20- to 35-minute drive away from the airport. You can enjoy your first drinks soon after landing.

Most people spend around 4-6 nights in Punta Cana, but you can stay much longer, especially as there is so much to explore in the entire country.

Recommended by Chris of Punta Cana Travel Blog

14. Cartagena, Colombia (one of the most underrated destinations for a 40th birthday vacation)

• Region: South America
• Fly into: Rafael Nuñez International Airport in Cartagena
• This Destination is Best for: Couples, solo travel, or friends trips
• Best Time of Year to Visit: Anytime

Cartagena, Colombia has to be counted among the most amazing 40th birthday trip ideas around the globe!

This colonial era port on Colombia’s Caribbean coast not only offers gorgeous, charming architecture, a fascinating history, and a vibrant culture, but also year round beach weather! It’s truly one of the top places in Colombia to visit.

Whether you are planning your 40th celebration solo, with your special someone, or doing a group trip, Cartagena has a little something for every type of trip and every type of traveler. 

Touring the historic city center, also called the Walled City for its colonial era walls that are still standing, and neighboring Getsemaní, another colonial neighborhood that is home to lots of great cafes, bars, and street art today, are absolutely musts.

These are also the best areas to stay in Cartagena as they offer easy walking access to many of the best restaurants and nightlife.

Another must is getting out to enjoy the nearby Rosario Islands. These gorgeous Caribbean islands have crystal clear waters.

An especially fun way to celebrate the big 4-0 would be with a private boat rental to tour the islands in style , however there are plenty of other  Rosario Islands day trips  as well as plenty of great resorts and ecolodges if you want to do an overnight stay.

Sunset cruises on the bay and sunset drinks with the gorgeous views from Café del Mar are not to be missed. The café is located on top of the wall looking out to the Caribbean. There’s also a nearby rooftop bar at Hotel Movich that will be the perfect way to end a night.

Depending on if you wanted to spend a night (or three!) in the islands or take any day trips to nearby places like the historic Afro-Colombian free town of Palenque, a Mud Volcano, or a pink sea, you should plan to spend 4-8 days in Cartagena.

It’ll surely be a 40th birthday trip to remember!

Recommended by Adam from Cartagena Explorer

15. Andalucía, Spain

• Region: Europe
• Fly into:  Malaga Airport (AGP)
• This destination is best for:  couples, friends and families
• Best time of year to visit:  Spring and summer

Andalucía in southern Spain is one of the most picturesque regions in Europe and is perfect for a 40 th  birthday trip.

Whether you want to sip cocktails on the rooftops in Malaga, get cultural in the Alhambra in Granada, or go on a road trip to explore all the whitewashed villages, there are unforgettable things to fill your trip with.

Seville is a wonderful city to spend a couple of days. Explore the Real Alcazar of Seville – a stunning Moorish palace, climb the cathedral’s clock tower, see a Flamenco show, and eat tapas on a boat cruise on the Guadalquivir River.

Further, Cordoba is an underrated city well worth seeing. Among the highlights is the magnificent Mosque-Cathedral and of course the beautiful patios, especially in the San Basilio neighborhood where some private patios are open all year round.

This is also the  best area to stay in Cordoba Spain  (if you are lucky, you might even snatch a room in one of the homes with patios.)

If you travel in summer, make sure you spend some days in Costa del Sol, relaxing at the beaches and visiting coastal towns like Nerja, Benalmadena, and Estepona. There are also whitewashed villages in the hillside overlooking the coast like Mijas Pueblo and Frigiliana that should not go unseen.

Recommended by Linn of Amused by Andalucia

16. Seoul, South Korea

• Region : Northeast Asia
• Fly into: Incheon International Airport
• This destination is best for: Anyone! South Korea has adventures for couples and families and it’s a safe country for solo travelers.
• Best time of year to visit : March – June and September – October

Seoul is an incredible destination for a 40th birthday getaway. There are countless things to do in the city with a mix of culture, modern technology and amazing food.

The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains which make for great hikes from easy to hard. The smell of Korean BBQ fills up the streets every evening, especially in the warmer months when locals eat street food.

The best things to do in Seoul are to visit the palaces, parks, and markets and wander around the trendy neighborhoods and hanok villages. Top places to visit include Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwangjang Market, Seoul Tower, Namsan Park, Insa-dong, Myeongdong, Hongdae and a DMZ Tour.

Seoul is so easy to get around thanks to its amazing transport system. There is a metro train that runs from the airport to the city in less than an hour. 

It’s best to spend  5 days in Seoul  to see the main highlights and get to know the city. Seoul is also the gateway to explore the rest of the country such as Busan, Gyeongju and Jeju Island. 

Seoul is a unique experience for anyone, especially if you haven’t visited that area of the world before.

The country is incredibly safe , there’s so much to learn, it’s easy to get around without knowing Korean. It’s the perfect destination for an unforgettable 40th birthday trip!

Recommended by Amy and Dan of The Sunrise Dreamers

17. New England fall foliage road trip, USA

• Fly into : Boston Logan International Airport
• This destination is best for : Couples, solo travel, LGBTQIA+
• Best time of year to visit : Late September to mid-October for fall foliage

Celebrating a 40th birthday by taking an epic fall foliage road trip through picturesque New England is always a good idea!

As a bucket list trip for so many, it’s a wonderful way to celebrate such an important milestone, while immersing yourself into some of the most amazing displays of autumn foliage in the entire world.

Throw in cozy inns, covered bridges, and quaint towns, and it’s sure to be one of your most memorable trips ever. 

The perfect amount of time for this trip is 10 days to see as much of the region as possible, but it can also be done with 1 week.

The best place to start this road trip is in Boston, where you should definitely plan to spend 1-2 days, as this historic city is especially beautiful in the fall season. 

From Boston, you’ll want to head up to the White Mountains region of New Hampshire for incredible hiking, mountains dripping with reds and oranges and impressive scenic drives.

One not to miss is the famous Kancamagus Highway, which is regarded as one of the best things to do in  New England in the fall . In this area, you’ll also want to have Flume Gorge, a ride on The Cog, and the Artist Bluff Trail on your agenda. 

Next, take one of the best fall drives and make your way over to Vermont to enjoy idyllic countryside landscapes and cozy towns. Two of the best for fall foliage are Stowe and Woodstock, and you’ll feel like you’re on the set of a Hallmark movie once you arrive.

Last, make your way through the gorgeous Berkshires region of Massachusetts.

Enjoy farm stands, mountain ranges, and charming towns to visit. Before heading back to Boston, consider making a stop in Salem, Massachusetts, which is one of the most exciting Halloween towns in the entire country.

A New England road trip calls for stays at cozy inns along the way. Some of the best places to book a stay are the Green Mountain Inn in Stowe , VT, and the Sugar Hill Inn in New Hampshire . 

Recommended by Sam of New England Wanderlust

18. Goa, India

• Region: South Asia
• Fly into: Dabolim Airport (Goa International Airport)
• This destination is best for: Solo travelers, couples, friends, vegetarians, vegans and yogis
• Best time of year to visit: November to April (avoid monsoon season)

Goa is the perfect place to visit for a wellness-focused getaway on your 40th birthday.

Located on India’s west coast, along the Arabian Sea, Goa isn’t just a hippie hotspot anymore! Today, Goa is home to many of India’s best all-inclusive yoga retreats and Ayurvedic resorts.

Here, you can ease the transition into your forties with a personalized treatment package including healthy foods, yoga classes, traditional Ayurvedic treatments. Expect massages, skincare treatments, herbal medicines, mindfulness exercises and more.

Most programs also include excursions around Goa. You’ll have a chance to explore the region’s famous beaches, markets, spice plantations and temples with a local guide.

At the end of your visit you’ll feel relaxed, invigorated and inspired . Exactly what you need to tackle the next decade of your life!

As an added bonus, retreats and resorts in Goa are usually a tiny fraction of the cost of similar programs in Europe and North America.

You could easily use the money you saved to add on a few days in the iconic, once-in-a-lifetime Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra (Taj Mahal) and Jaipur. Or go a bit further south to explore the picturesque backwaters of Alappuzha (Alleppey) and the highland tea plantations in Munnar.

If you’re considering great places to go for 40th birthday, Goa should be on your list!

Recommended by Carly of Fearless Female Travels

19. The Great Ocean Road, Australia (amazing adventure and one of the best 40th birthday trips)

• Region: Australia
• Fly into: Melbourne Airport
• This destination is best for: Couples, families, friends
• Best time of year to visit: December to February

Driving the Great Ocean Road is the quintessential Australian travel experience. It’s a road trip that’s regularly voted one of the most scenic in the world.

Tackling this famous route offers up a blend of relaxation and reflection making it perfect for celebrating a 40th birthday vacation! 

Getting to the Great Ocean Road is simple. From Melbourne, it’s just over an hour’s drive to the start point of Torquay .

And from there, you’ll road trip for 150 miles to Allansford, spotting koalas and platypuses, watching surfers at world-famous beaches, sampling crisp wines from local vineyards and witnessing the majesty of the iconic Twelve Apostles.

Due to the relatively short distances, it’s possible to tackle the Great Ocean Road in a single day . But doing so would mean skipping over many of the attractions that make this route so wonderful. 

Two or three days, therefore, will give you ample opportunity to see the main stars of the trip , while also allow you to stay overnight in Port Campbell, close to the Twelve Apostles. Seeing those towering limestone stacks at sunset is a magical experience that’s far superior to battling through the large crowds in the afternoons. 

When it comes to accommodation , Daysy Hill Country Cottages in Port Campbell is the best place for a celebration. The staff are warm and welcoming, the location is just a few minutes from the best restaurant in town (12 Rocks), the gardens are beautiful, and the large decks perfect for enjoying a glass of champagne.

Recommended by Lauren of Everything Victoria

20. Iceland

• Region: Northern Europe
• Fly into: Keflavik Airport 
• This destination is best for: friends trips, couples, families 
• Best time of year to visit: autumn or spring 

Iceland, or the land of ice and fire, is one of the countries that you have to visit at least once in your life. Nestled between the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, Iceland is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes and incredible once-in-a-lifetime experiences. 

There is no better place to celebrate your 40th birthday than Iceland if you are a nature lover. From relaxing in natural hot springs with both volcano and sea views, to exploring waterfalls or seeing geysers explode, Iceland has it all. 

You can easily find direct flights to Keflavik Airport , right next to the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik. 

We recommend spending at least 6 days here to explore the south of the island, or 12 days to tour it all. There is a circular road, called the Ring Road, that goes all around Iceland and allows travelers to access many landmarks. 

Last but not least, Iceland has the most wonderful 40th birthday experiences one could hope for: private northern lights tours in Iceland  with local guides!

Recommended by Soline of On The Road Diary

40th birthday trip ideas continued…

Well, just half of this list is complete – more amazing destinations to go! Is your bucket list is growing?? Here’s more of the best 40th birthday destinations.

21. Hawaii, USA (one of the absolute best 40th birthday trips in USA)

• Region : North America – USA
• Fly into: varies based on island

One of the absolute best 40th birthday destinations in the USA is Hawaii. The lush scenery and incredible beaches make any milestone birthday extra special.

Each of the Hawaiian islands provides a completely different experience. To see an active volcano at Volcanoes National Park, visit the Big Island, Hawaii. If you’re interested in incredible scenic drives like the Road to Hana and the Kahekili Highway , choose Maui. 

For WWII history of Pearl Harbor and nightlife, a trip to Oahu might be for you. And if you love hiking, mountains and beaches, then you’d welcome a trip to Kauai. 

Take this Hawaiian Island Quiz to help you determine which island to go to!

Planning a trip to Hawaii is doable any time of year, making it one of the very best 40th birthday trips! The low season is typically September – October and April – May, so you may find discounted pricing during that time. 

Beautiful beaches await in Hawaii! And you can pretty much carve out the level of adventure or relaxation you’d like, as a trip to the Hawaiian islands can truly be customized based on your interests and who you’re traveling with!

22. New Zealand

• Region: Oceania
• Fly Into: Auckland, then a domestic flight to Queenstown
• This destination is best for: solo travel, friends, couples
• Best time of year to visit: Summer (December – February)

Queenstown sits on Lake Wakatipu surrounded by mountains in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, New Zealand. If you want to celebrate your 40th with some adventure, then Queenstown is the perfect place to go, and one of the best 40th birthday destinations!

Whatever thrill-seeking activity you can think of you can probably find in Queenstown.

From the relatively tame jet boat rides and luge track, through to the mind-blowing experience of skydiving, this is the place to be. There’s nothing quite as exhilarating and life affirming as falling (safely!) through the sky with a lake and mountains below you.

Once your adrenaline spike has calmed down, head to one of the local wineries to enjoy a tasting. For another day, join a tour to the stunning Milford Sound and try to spot seals and dolphins as your sightseeing cruise guides you around the waterfalls and peaks of the Sound.

You’ll need at least 2 full days in Queenstown, but you could easily fill up a week or more without running out of things to do. It’s also a perfect place to include as part of a trip around  all of New Zealand.

Celebrate this monumental birthday by living life to the max with great food, wonderful wine, and as much adrenaline as you are brave enough to enjoy!

New Zealand is certainly one of the best 40th birthday trips on this list! And it’s especially great over the winter, as it’s one of the absolute best countries to visit in February !

Recommended by Fiona of Following Fiona

23. Patagonia, Argentina (stunning scenery during this 40th birthday trip)

• Fly into: Bariloche Airport
• Best time of year to visit: Year-round destination

If you’re wanting to plan an epic trip for your 40th birthday, consider going on a road trip across northern Patagonia starting in Bariloche!

This corner of Argentine Patagonia is easily accessible via a short 2-hour flight from Buenos Aires and once you arrive, there are a slew of picturesque mountain towns to explore. 

If you want to splurge on a hotel stay during your visit – this is your 40th birthday after all – opt for the Llao Llao Hotel . This iconic 5-star hotel is set on a hill surrounded by mountains and overlooks two different lakes. It’s a great place to pamper yourself. 

Next, pick up a rental car and start exploring the surrounding towns. You can ride the Old Patagonian Express train in Esquel, visit some of Argentina’s southernmost wineries in Trevelin, and hike Cerro Piltriquitrón in the hippie mountain town of El Bolsón. 

While you have your rental car, don’t miss out on driving the  Road of the Seven Lakes .

This is a 107-kilometre road that stretches between the towns of San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura. The route goes through two national parks, Lanín National Park and Nahuel Huapi National Park, and offers spectacular views and scenic stops at every turn.

Be sure to also enjoy the local cuisine which features plenty of Patagonian lamb, wild boar, and trout dishes. Craft breweries are bountiful in this part of the country, as are artisanal chocolate shops, so you certainly won’t go hungry!

Ideally, you’d want to spend at least two weeks road-tripping northern Patagonia and enjoying the rugged beauty this destination has to offer . What a perfect destination for adventure and scenery on this list of 40th birthday getaway ideas!

Recommended by Audrey of the Che Argentina Travel

24. Dublin, Ireland

• Fly into:  Dublin
• This destination is best for  couples, solo travel, friends trips, LGBTQIA+ 
• Best time of year to visit:  From mid March to mid September for a chance of good weather. However, pack an umbrella as Dublin is a rainy city!

Raise a glass to turning 40 in Ireland’s capital Dublin. Lively pubs, friendly locals, interesting museums and lots of music, the city is so compact that you can explore its delights in just a few days.

For one of the best 40th birthday travel ideas, start the festivities in the Guinness Storehouse, where you’ll delve into the art of brewing while sipping on the ‘black gold’ at the Gravity Bar with views over the city. For a dose of fun and frivolity, take the Viking Splash tour of the city.

Should the weather cooperate, get outside of the city to Howth, where you can hike the coastal paths and eat fish and chips. Or, take the Dart along the south coast and hop off at Killiney to see where Bono lives and go for a dip in the Irish Sea.

While traditionally not seen as a foodie destination, these days Dublin’s culinary scene is thriving , with not only innovative Irish food but cuisines from across the globe. Soak up the Mexican vibes of 777, eat Chinese and dance the night away in Hang Dai or try the stunning Woollen Mills for Irish grub.

The famous Temple Bar district is undoubtedly lively, but follow the locals’ lead and explore the bars around South William Street & George’s St. For an authentic taste of traditional Irish music, head to the Cobblestone in Smithfield.

From boutique boltholes like The Hendrick to  luxury havens  like the Merrion, when it comes to resting your head in Dublin, there’s a ton of options to suit. 

Lá breithe shona duit! (Happy Birthday in Irish).

Recommended by Kaz of The Honeymoon Guide

25. African Safari at Kruger National Park, South Africa

• Fly into:  O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg
• This destination is best for:  Couples, solo travel, and families
• Best Time of year to visit:  May to October

If you want to celebrate your birthday in style and have always loved wildlife, a safari in Kruger National Park in South Africa should be at the top of your bucket list!

And if you want to surprise someone, it’s certainly an unforgettable 40th birthday idea for wife, husband or significant other. It does take a bit of effort to get there, but it’s the most visited park in Africa for a reason!

Start by flying into Johannesburg . Then, you can either drive several hours to the park or catch a short flight to one of the three local airports on the outskirts of Kruger (which one depends on which part of the park you visit).

Once you are there, let the game viewing begin!

Kruger National Park is undeniably one of Africa’s best places to see wildlife. They have the Big 5, plenty of accessible roads throughout the park to search for animals, and comfortable, but basic, accommodations within the park.

While you can drive around the park yourself, it is highly recommended that you take a tour with a safari company, at least for one of your days. They will be able to find wildlife you will likely never spot on your own.

Imagine riding in an open-air safari vehicle, turning the corner, and spotting a cheetah on a kill. Or watching a herd of elephants pass by so quietly that all you hear is the sand shuffling beneath their feet. It’s true; they are that quiet when they walk!

But plan on setting those alarms early, as safari tours run at dawn and dusk when animals are most active. Mid-afternoons are yours for a leisurely lunch and siesta.

Wildlife is never predictable and doesn’t show up on your schedule, so staying for at least three days gives you the best chance to see highly elusive animals like leopards. Animals living in their natural habitat are so fascinating to watch. And be sure to look out for the most iconic African Safari trees , too!

Once you visit, “the bush” will keep calling, and you will want to go again and again.

Recommended by Jenny of Traveling In Focus

26. Catalina Island, California, USA (where to go for a 40th birthday weekend)

• Fly into: Los Angeles Airport (take a ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro to reach the island)
• This destination is best for: Couples, friends trips, families, LGBTQIA+, adventurers
• Best time of year to visit: April through October

Catalina Island, nestled off the coast of southern California, is an ideal destination for a memorable 40th birthday celebration. Its unique blend of natural beauty and charming attractions creates an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and relaxed beach atmosphere, you will feel transported to an island paradise that seems worlds away from the busy California coast.

The island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like snorkeling, hiking, and zip-lining. For a more laid-back experience, explore the quaint streets of Avalon, the island’s main town, filled with boutiques, restaurants and spas.

One of the most popular things to do in Catalina is to take a golf cart tour of the island to take in the incredible sights and wildlife .

Another highlight is the Descanso Beach Club, perfect for a beachside birthday bash.

Or, consider taking a glass-bottom boat tour to witness the mesmerizing underwater world. Catalina is a protected environment and has some of the best kelp forests in the world. Summer is the best time to see the kelp forests, although Catalina Island in February also has a lot to offer on a glass bottom boat tour.

A long weekend is ideal for the best 40th birthday vacations on Catalina Island . It provides enough time to explore the island’s attractions and unwind in the serene ambiance.

For an intimate stay, consider the Hotel Atwater , offering beautiful ocean-view rooms . Be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons. 

Visiting Catalina Island for a 40th birthday promises a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a destination where you will create cherished memories to last a lifetime!

Recommended by Janelle of Make The Trip Matter

27. Paris, France

• Region: Western Europe
• Fly into: Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
• This destination is best for: couples, friends trips
• Best time of year to visit: shoulder season (spring and fall)

Paris, France is one of the best places to go for 40th birthday.  The City of Light is at the top of countless travel bucket lists , so why not spend your special day in this special destination? 

It’s a romantic 40th birthday idea for couples, or make memories and share laughs with a group of close friends.

Most visitors to Paris fly into the Charles de Gaulle airport.  If you’re traveling on the lighter side, you can take the RER into the city and use the metro to reach your hotel. 

Stay in the charming Rue Cler neighborhood at the Hotel de Champ du Mars .  This cozy hotel is perfectly located halfway between the Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides.

You’ll want to spend at least three days in Paris , and even this will let you just scratch the surface of iconic attractions in Paris. 

See famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, visit world-class museums such as the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, and take a relaxing stroll through lovely lush parks such as the Luxembourg Gardens.

Paris at night is stunning with its illuminated monuments, so be sure to head out for a second round of sightseeing after dark. 

There are many  amazing night tours in Paris  to choose from to ensure you don’t miss any highlights.   A dinner cruise on the Seine is the perfect way to celebrate your birthday, and comes with phenomenal views!

Recommended by Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

28. Exmouth, Western Australia

• Region:  Western Australia
• Fly into:  Perth, Western Australia and then connect to Exmouth or take a road trip
• This destination is best for:  couples, solo travel
• Best time of year to visit:  March to July

With turquoise waters and pure white sand beaches contrasted against a backdrop of the rich red earth, visitors to Exmouth Western Australia will be stunned when they have these spots all to themselves. Truly one of the very best 40th birthday trips!

Throw in an opportunity to swim with whale sharks, humpback whales or manta rays (or all of them -known as the ‘Big 3’), you’ll have one of the most memorable 40th birthday destinations in the world! 

This area is for the adventurous traveler who has seen a lot, yet still thirsts for new places. 

That’s right, this remote spot on the Western Australian coast is hard to get to and if you are going for a week (our minimum recommended time) it’s going to be expensive. 

A far better idea would be planning a month-long road trip from Perth to Broome and hitting some of the wildest, most remote landscapes on earth!

Exmouth itself is a small remote town surrounded by stunning beaches and the Ningaloo Reef . You should expect to spend a lot of time snorkeling and the rest of the time exploring the red rocks of the  Cape Range National Park . Here, you’ll find dramatic red landscapes, canyons, and a range of challenging hikes.

If you’d like to splurge, then the luxury safari style tents at Sal Salis Ningaloo Resort open right onto the beach…  bliss!

Recommended by Ariana of Western Australian Travel

29. Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam

• Region: Southeast Asia
• Fly into: Nội Bài International Airport, Hanoi
• This destination is best for: Solo travelers, couples, or a group of friends
• Best time of year to visit: October, November, March or April

What better 40th birthday present than a motorcycle trip on some of the world’s most scenic and isolated roads?

In the far north of Vietnam, there’s a region so isolated that it feels almost like a separate country , alien and authentic. The Ha Giang Province is beautiful and diverse. Awesome views, winding roads, horizon-touching rice fields, and a ton of history reward those that travel the 7 or so hours from Hanoi.

There are more than 40 ethnic groups in Ha Giang all with different ways of life, traditional clothing, local traditions and customs and bizarre markets.

The passionate road-tripper s can rent a motorcycle in Hanoi and reach Ha Giang in a day or two of driving , although most travelers rent a motorcycle in Ha Giang city.

The standard Ha Giang Loop circles the region passing through Yen Minh, Sa Phin, Dong Van, Meo Vac and back via Du Gia.

It is most awesome to  drive the Ha Giang Loop by yourself.  But, if you can’t ride a motorcycle or don’t have the necessary documents, it’s easy to hire an “easy rider”. This is an experienced driver who’ll tour you around the Loop on the back of his motorcycle.

The Ha Giang Loop takes between 3 and 5 days to complete.

Definitely visit the Palace of the Hmong Kings, the traditional weekly markets in Dong Van and Meo Vac, the Lung Cu flagpole – Vietnam’s northernmost point, as well as the stunning Ma Pi Leng Pass with one of the best vistas in the world!

It’ll make for one of the very best (and adventurous) 40th birthday trips!

Recommended by Simon of Backpack Moments

30. Krabi, Thailand (a favorite on this list of best 40th birthday trips)

• Fly into: Bangkok or Krabi
• This destination is best for: Couples, friends, solo
• Best time of year to visit: December-March

If you’re looking for an epic 40th birthday travel idea, Krabi Thailand is an excellent place to explore!

Thailand itself is an amazing destination, and there are plenty of places to visit. But, Krabi is always one of the best. One of the reasons why visiting Krabi is so special is because of the mix of amazing beaches, cultural experiences and delicious Thai food. 

Krabi has relaxing retreats during the day, like the blue lagoon, where the waters are always a perfect temperature due to the hot springs that run through, to the many historical Wats in town.

For those looking for a workout, history lesson, and magical views, the Tiger Cave and hike is the perfect place to check out. 

Or for beach lovers, a short 20-minute, 100 Baht ($3) long-tail boat ride will take you to the magical island of Railay. This island looks like Avatar used it as inspiration . There are beautiful green sea stacks shooting up from the ground surrounded by the clearest waters. 

And the nightlife in Krabi is perfect for celebrating your 40th birthday.

You’ll find everything from oceanside luxurious restaurants with the freshest seafood, to night markets in the center of town serving up the best street foods. And there’s nothing like the Ao Nang Strip, lined with bars and clubs so you can celebrate the night away.

If you have time, a one-hour boat ride from Krabi will take you to the beautiful Koh Phi Phi and the stunning Maya Bay. You could spend just a day touring this world-famous beach, or extend your trip a night or two and explore all the best things to do in the Phi Phi Islands .

The best way to get to Krabi would be to first fly into Bangkok. Enjoy a brief Bangkok itinerary for a day or two, and then catch a very inexpensive flight down to the Krabi airport.

Most days these flights should only cost about 30 dollars. There are also buses you can take, but the journey can take up to 10 hours, so a flight is recommended if you are only traveling to Thailand for a short trip!

You can do everything and more by spending  3 days in Krabi ! 

Recommended by Abbey of Trips on Abbey Road

Still more fun 40th birthday vacation ideas

We STILL aren’t finished. What an epic list! Have you chosen a favorite 40th birthday trip yet?

31. Scotland

• Fly into: Glasgow, Edinburgh or Inverness
• This destination is best for: Couples, families, extended family, outdoor lovers and LGBTQIA+
• Best time of year to visit: May to September

When thinking of Scotland what comes to mind is castles, whisky and amazing scenery. And that is exactly what you get by exploring beyond the main cities.

For anyone looking for a birthday with a difference, this is it. What better places to spend the day than one of the castle hotels such as Glenapp or Inverlochy Castle!

Glasgow and Edinburgh are great for a few nights but what is special about Scotland is the highlands and the islands. It requires a bit more effort to get there and the best way to travel there is by car. To get to the islands you also need to take a ferry.

Skye and the islands of the Outer Hebrides are some of the most interesting places to visit.

With a range of activities from hiking and exploring white sandy beaches to visiting famous castles and distilleries, there is something for everyone.

Driving to Skye is easy since a bridge connects it to the mainland. On the way you pass Eilean Donan Castle, one of the prettiest in Scotland. And at Skye see the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing and stop for a tasting at Tallisker or Isle of Raasay distilleries.

The highlands can be visited within a week.

To include the more remote parts of Scotland in your itinerary consider adding a few days in the Outer Hebrides and stay at one of the  best hotels on North Uist . A ferry runs between North Uist and Skye making it easy to combine these two destinations for an unforgettable 40th birthday.

Recommended by Kristin of Scotland Less Explored

32. Boracay, Philippines (one of the most beautiful places to go for 40th birthday)

• Region:  Southeast Asia
• Fly into:  Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), Clark International Airport (CRK), Mactan-Cebu Airport (CEB)
• This destination is best for:  couples, solo travelers, friends trips, families, extended family, LGBTQIA+
• Best time of year to visit:  March to May for sunny weather, August to December for slightly cooler temperatures

Experience a tropical paradise on your 40th birthday in Boracay, Philippines.

Boracay consistently ranks among the world’s top beaches with its powdery sands, crystal-clear waters, and refreshing breeze . It offers an idyllic escape for every type of traveler, whether on a solo journey of self-discovery, bonding with your partner or family, or reuniting with friends.

During the day, the beach is serene and laid-back, and at night, it transforms into the Philippines’ party capital!

Looking for some adrenaline rush? Boracay has you covered. Embark on thrilling rides like the banana boat or UFO, or take to the skies with exhilarating parasailing.

And to top all your adventure – experience Boracay’s unique  paraw sailing  – a private sunset cruise on a paraw sailboat, where you’ll witness panoramic views of the island on a spectacular sunset. Then, end your day with a local seafood feast at D’Talipapa Market. 

Boracay is also one of the best leisure vacation destinations. It’s a fabulous getaway for healthy food selections, massages, spas, and even yoga sessions.

You’ll get to Boracay by flying into any international airport in the Philippines then to Caticlan Airport, and taking a short boat ride to the island. A 4-5 day trip strikes the perfect balance to explore and unwind.

Embrace the island’s laid-back vibe and let Boracay gift your birthday with shades of paradise! What an unforgettable 40th birthday trip!

Recommended by Gladis of Happiness On The Way

33. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

• Region:  North America – Mexico
• Fly into:  Querétaro International Airport or Guanajuato International Airport
• This destination is best for:  Couples, Friends, Solo Travel
• Best time of year to visit : November through April

When wondering where to go for 40th birthday weekend, the gorgeous colorful streets, world-class restaurants and swoon-worthy rooftop cocktail bars, San Miguel de Allende is the perfect place to celebrate. Tucked away in Central Mexico, a few hours north of Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende is a truly magical destination that feels authentic yet effortlessly chic.

The heart of this small city is marked by the stunning and Disney-esque Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel which is a must-see during the day and when lit up at night surrounded by the sounds of Mariachi bands and happy visitors.

In addition to beautiful architecture, discover incredible restaurants with mouthwatering dishes like the truffled esquites tostada at Tostévere and the house made spiced tomato soup with toasted parmesan at Mi Bistro 300.

Spend the day shopping the boutiques and artisan market while café hopping or explore further afield with one of San Miguel de Allende’s best day trips.

The quirky Chapel of Jimmy Ray Gallery is perfect for art lovers while the nearby hot springs are the best place to relax. History buffs will also love this area as neighboring Dolores Hidalgo is the birthplace of Mexican Independence.

San Miguel de Allende is the perfect place for a long weekend to scratch the surface but for those who want a deeper dive, five or six days will fly by in this charming gem.

It’s an underrated destination, and one of the best places to go for 40th birthday with friends, too!

Recommended by Ashlea of She Roams About

34. Dubrovnik, Croatia

• Region: Southern Europe
• Fly into: Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)
• This destination is best for: couples, solo travel, friends trips, LGBTQIA+
• Best time of year to visit: May-June, September-October

Dubrovnik, Croatia is an incredible place to go for a 40th birthday. It’s a charming historic city on the coast of the Adriatic Sea . 

Dubrovnik is worth visiting , as it is an incredibly beautiful place with many things to do. You could easily spend a few days to a week just in Dubrovnik.

The old town of Dubrovnik is surrounded by impressive medieval walls, and one of the most popular things to do is to walk the walls just before sunset.

After walking on top of the city walls, explore the charming old town and check out a wine bar. Other great ways to spend your time in Dubrovnik include taking a Game of Thrones Walking Tour , relaxing at Banje Beach, or visiting the nearby Lokrum Island. 

A must-do when spending a 40th birthday in Dubrovnik is making dinner reservations at Panorama, Dubrovnik’s most popular restaurant.

To get to Panorama, you’ll take the cable car up to the top of Mount Srd. At the top, you will find absolutely breathtaking views of Dubrovnik’s old town and the beautiful coastline.

It’s a perfect way to celebrate a birthday, and Dubrovnik is one of the very best 40th birthday travel ideas!

Recommended by Amber of Get Lost in Wanderlust

35. Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina

• Fly into:  Foz do Iguaçu (IGU) in Brazil or Cataratas del Iguazu (IGR) in Argentina
• This destination is best for:  couples, families and solo travelers
• Best time of year to visit:  all year, in particular April to October

Located between Brazil and Argentina,  Iguazu Falls  is the world’s largest series of waterfalls. As one of the seven wonders of nature, this bucket list-worthy destination is one of the most spectacular places you’ll ever see.

Plus, it’s full of exhilarating activities, luxury resorts, and picturesque natural surroundings, making it one of the best 40th birthday getaway ideas.

Of course, the falls themselves are the main highlight, made even more special by the many vantage points from which you can see them. You should aim to spend at least 3 days here and visit both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides, as they both offer different views and experiences.

On the Argentinian side, there are multiple trails through lush forest which take you to a series of breathtaking viewpoints. This includes a viewing platform right at the top of the largest waterfall – Devil’s throat – where you can feel the spray and hear the force of the water.

Whereas, on the Brazil side, you will see a complete view of 80% of the falls. Here there’s the opportunity to do activities, such as a panoramic helicopter flight over the falls, a boat ride down the Iguazu River and visiting the fascinating bird park. These all make for a particularly memorable birthday!

There are airports on both sides of the falls, which have regular flights from nearby major cities, including Buenos Aires, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, which are all great places to start or end an unforgettable trip.

Recommended by Chanelle Chasing Chanelle

36. Bora Bora (one of the best 40th birthday getaway ideas for the beach)

• Region:  South Pacific
• Fly into:  Papeete, Tahiti and take a small plane on to Bora Bora
• Best time of year to visit:  Dry season (May to October)

If you’re looking to celebrate your milestone 40th birthday in style, there’s no better place than Bora Bora, regularly named one of the most beautiful islands in the world. 

This spectacularly scenic island in the South Pacific country of French Polynesia is known for its  motus , islets surrounding the main island, with a beautiful turquoise lagoon in between .

Many of the hotels on these motus offer the opportunity to stay in an overwater bungalow and walk down the stairs from your balcony right into the lagoon.

Bora Bora has something for everyone. Active travelers can take a jeep tour of the island or  go snorkeling with sharks and sting rays .

Or, if you prefer to relax at the hotel, there will be plenty to keep you busy there, from water sports like jet skis and paddle-boarding to romantic candlelit dinners on the beach

If you’re traveling all the way from the United States, you’ll likely want to visit for at least a week. With 10 days or more, you could spend the whole time in beautiful Bora Bora or you could add a second French Polynesian island like Mo’orea or Raiatea to your itinerary. There are also cruises that sail between the islands.

French Polynesia is by far one of the more unforgettable 40th birthday ideas for husband, wife, or partner, if you’re looking to surprise your loved one!

Recommended by Adrienne of Destinations and Desserts

37. Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

• Region:  Middle East
• Fly into:  RAK, Sharjah or Dubai
• This destination is best for:  couples, friends trips, families, but also solo
• Best time of year to visit:  winter, (ideally November to February)

Ras Al Khaimah is a lesser-known but fantastic destination in the UAE. It offers a range of activities, from relaxing on a boat trip in the mangroves to zip-lining 10,000 feet down a mountain at 80mph.

In a nutshell, there’s something for everyone, and it’s one of best 40th birthday destinations, not to mention underrated!

For the less adventurous, a trip to the only Pearl Farm in the UAE is perfect to add to your itinerary. After taking a boat trip amid breathtaking scenery, your guide will explain all about the culturing of pearls. This is a popular trip, so book ahead.  

Ras Al Khaimah has some stunning hotels to book for your special occasion. Enjoy the luxury of the Waldorf Astoria or the more discreet and charming Cove Rotana . Both have gorgeous white beaches and pools overlooking the crystal clear sea. 

No trip to Ras Al Khaimah is complete without a trip to  Jebel Jais , the tallest mountain in the UAE. Take a gentle hike or a more challenging one with beautiful views, have breakfast at the top, soar down on the world’s longest zip-line, the Sky Flight, or try the slightly less challenging Sky Tour. 

For even more adrenaline flow, do the Via Ferrata or book a survival course at Bear Grylls Camp.  

You can enjoy an action-packed weekend, but a week will allow you to see much more of this beautiful emirate and fit in a hot air balloon ride or a desert safari. Whether you’re going solo, with friends or as a couple, Ras Al Khaimah is a fabulous 40th birthday vacation!

Recommended by Alison of Glimpses of the UAE

38. Marrakech, Morocco

• Region:  Northern Africa
• Fly into:  Marrakech Menara International Airport
• This destination is best for:  couples, solo travel, friends trips, adult families
• Best time of year to visit:  March-April, October-November

Marrakech is an awesome city for a 40th birthday trip as it’s vibrant, fun, and offers so much to see and explore. As the tourism hub of Morocco, travelers will experience the inspiring culture of Morocco . Stay there for at least two full days to experience the highlights.

Most visitors will stay in or around the medina, which is a word for an older walled city in Northern Africa. The medina is filled with narrow streets and public squares.

In Marrakech, visitors should see the grand Bahia Palace, a 19th century palace decorated in impressive stuccos, paintings, and tile mosaics. The building has gorgeous courtyards and beautiful gardens.

The Majorelle Gardens are also a must-see when visiting Marrakech. These stunning gardens are built over two acres and are landscaped around a pond, museum, and café.

For dinner and a show, visitors can dine at Dar Essalam, which is centrally located in the medina. Patrons are treated to traditional Moroccan music and belly dancers in a lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect 40th birthday night out on the town!

Alcohol isn’t consumed much in Morocco but this restaurant, as well as other sites that cater to tourists, offer a selection of alcoholic beverages.

To get to Marrakech, fly into Marrakech International Airport (RAK) . From RAK, take a transfer to your riad in the heart of the medina (15 minute drive). 

Recommended by Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes

39. Chicago, Illinois, USA (amongst the best 40th birthday destinations USA)

• Region:  North America – USA
• Fly into:  O’Hare or Midway International Airports
• This destination is best for:  Couples, solo travel, friends trips, families, LGBTQIA+
• Best time of year to visit:  June – Mid-October

When planning a memorable 40th birthday trip, Chicago is the perfect destination. With its stunning skyline, incredible food scene, world-class museums, and  intriguing ghost tours , the Windy City has something for everyone.

Dive into the vibrant atmosphere by visiting the iconic Art Institute of Chicago , home to an impressive collection of artworks including some Vincent Van Gogh originals!

No trip to Chicago is complete without a visit to Navy Pier. This bustling waterfront destination offers a plethora of entertainment options, from thrilling rides and attractions to scenic boat tours along Lake Michigan.

Take a leisurely stroll along the pier, indulge in delicious street food, and soak up the lively atmosphere that encapsulates the spirit of Chicago.

Embrace the eerie side of Chicago with a ghost tour of one of the most haunted cities in the USA . Then indulge in the city’s fabulous food and local beer scene, like deep dish pizza and the famous 312 Brewery. Make sure to also explore historic attractions like Millennium Park, Willis Tower and Tribune Tower.

You can even attend a comedy show at Second City, which has been the starting point for many famous comedians including John Belushi and Stephen Colbert.

A long weekend, like a Chicago 3 day itinerary is perfect for your 40th birthday trip to the Windy City.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

40. Sri Lanka

• Region:  South Asia
• Fly into:  Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport
• This destination is best for:  Solo travel, couples, trips with friends
• Best time of year to visit:  December to March 

No matter what your interests, Sri Lanka makes for one of the best 40th birthday trips.

If you just want to relax on a gorgeous, palm-lined beach, that is certainly an option! For a more active vacation, learn to surf in Weligama, go scuba diving on the south coast, or hike in the mountains of Ella or Kandy.

Wildlife safaris are another popular activity, as several of Sri Lanka’s national parks are home to elephants, crocodiles and leopards.

In the “Cultural Triangle,” you can explore ancient cities , admire intricate cave art, and climb the famous Sigiriya rock fortress. 

Three weeks is the perfect amount of time to take in the ancient cities, hill country, wildlife, and beaches. However, a month is ideal to see  Sri Lanka’s major sights  at a more leisurely pace.

If you have less time, though, don’t worry! The island’s relatively small size makes it easy to pack a lot into a short amount of time. Travel between the main places of interest typically only takes a few hours. Even if you only have a week or two, you can still get a great taste of Sri Lanka. 

Hiring private transportation is a popular way to travel around the country . Buses and trains are a great way to get around the island for those on a tighter budget, and each trip is often an experience in itself!

For the best chance of sunny and dry weather along Sri Lanka’s south coast and in the central provinces, aim to visit from December to March. 

Sri Lanka is one of the best 40th birthday trip ideas, and perhaps one that wasn’t previously on your radar!

Recommended by Ellie of This Remote Corner

Best 40th birthday trips recap

Wow! What an amazing list! From marveling at the sparkling Eiffel Tower to skydiving in New Zealand, staying in an overwater bungalow or seeing ancient pyramids in Egypt, the possibilities are truly endless!

Here’s quick recap of the 40th birthday destinations, in a much quicker fashion…

40th birthday destinations

• Canadian Rockies
• Switzerland
• La Fortuna, Costa Rica
• Kyoto, Japan
• Alaskan Cruise, USA
• Santorini, Greece
• Machu Picchu, Peru
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
• Cartagena, Columbia
• Andalucia, Spain
• Seoul, South Korea
• New England fall foliage road trip, USA
• The Great Ocean Road, Australia
• Hawaii, USA
• New Zealand
• Patagonia, Argentina
• Dublin, Ireland
• African Safari at Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Catalina Island, California, USA
• Paris, France
• Exmouth, Australia
• Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam
• Krabi, Thailand
• Boracay, Philippines
• San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina
• Ras Al Khaimah
• Marrakech, Morocco
• Chicago, Illinois, USA

Related content you might like: 101 Travel Bucket List Ideas 20 Big Adventure Vacation in the US 100 Most Romantic Vacations in the United States

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Wednesday 25th of October 2023

Such a fantastic list of destinations for all ages!

Thursday 26th of October 2023

Glad you found some inspiration here, Monica :)

I celebrated mine in Lisbon and never left! Getting some great ideas for the next milestone as well!

Love this! Such a fun way to celebrate...just move there! 🤣

Gabby Leopard

Most of these destinations are on my bucket list :) Costa Rica looks perfect

Oh I love to hear that. Costa Rica has been one of my very favorite countries to visit!

Such great trips to take for ANY big birthday! We're heading to Bora Bora for my a little bit past 40 ;) birthday.

Oh yayyyyyy! That's such a dreamy destination. Have the BEST time!

Some incredible city breaks, island destinations and adventure ideas here. Very cool list that can be used for any milestone.

Yes yes yes! Whether you're nearing 40 or you've seen it come and go, this can be used as a bucket list :)

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Life-size dinosaurs, a candy store tour and more to do this weekend

Take a road tip to Wiscasset for art, food, car racing and a gargantuan amount of candy.

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One of many dinosaurs that will be at Cross Insurance Arena in Portland. Photo courtesy of Jurassic Quest

Make no bones about it, it’s going to be a great weekend, starting with  Jurassic Quest at Cross Insurance Arena . Animatronic dinosaurs will delight the kids, who will also get a kick out of digging for fossils and riding on a baby dino. Another option in our weekly roundup is “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” at the Maine State Music Theatre in Brunswick.

‘Beautiful’ at Maine State Music Theatre, Pet Rock in the Park and Jurassic Quest

Some of the candy available at the Granite Hall Store in Round Pond. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

For an even sweeter experience, we’re sending you candy shopping. We’ve shined a light on five shops  with something extra to offer and created a nifty guide of 18 to look you can find  all around southern Maine and the Midcoast. From giant shops like Sweetz & More in Wiscasset to charming places like the Granite Hall Store in Round Pond, there’s a candy shop out there calling your name.

These 5 unique Maine candy stores are a real treat

The Brackett’s Market 4-Cylinder Pros compete Saturday at Wiscasset Speedway. Anna Chadwick/Morning Sentinel

Should your sweets-seeking adventure bring you to Wiscasset, we clue you into  several other things to do  in town, including car races at the Wiscasset Speedway.

A trip to pretty Wiscasset can also include art, history, speed

Bagel sandwich with eggs, cheese and pork roll from Dutchman’s Wood-Fired Bagels in Brunswick. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

Want to hit breakfast right out of the park? Make your way to Brunswick for an egg and cheese sandwich from Dutchman’s Wood-Fired Bagels . We’re particularly partial to the one with pork roll and bodega sauce. Your taste buds can thank us later.

Pork roll and bodega sauce on a breakfast sandwich? We’re not in Brunswick anymore

Ling-Wen Tsai, “Rising/Sinking Study Chair,” wood and milk paint, 12 x 12 x 5 inches. Photo courtesy of Corey Daniels Gallery

Farther south in Wells, check out “Life Forms,” a women’s sculpture collective at the Corey Daniels Gallery. You’ll see works by about a dozen artists as you make your way through the exhibit.

Women’s sculpture collective debuts work in Wells

U.S. Navy Band Country Current performing in Tennessee. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class April Enos

For some Sunday afternoon live tunes, head to Memorial Park in Freeport at 3 p.m. for a free performance by Country Current . The band is the only U.S. Navy country/bluegrass ensemble, and the show should be a foot-stomping good time.

See U.S. Navy band Country Current for free in Freeport

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