There’s something truly special about travelling with your best friend. You share inside jokes, support each other through awkward travel moments, and create memories that last forever. Whether it’s a short weekend getaway or a month-long escape, finding the best trips for best friends can turn an ordinary vacation into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
The perfect best friend trip doesn’t need to be expensive or far-flung. What matters most is the experience laughing over street food, chasing sunsets, and trying something new together. From tropical beaches to lively cities and peaceful nature escapes, the best trips for best friends offer something for every kind of travel duo or group.
In this guide, we’ve picked 20 amazing destinations that guarantee fun, bonding, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. These best trips for best friends are full of excitement, connection, and unforgettable adventures. So pack your bags and get ready for the ultimate friendship journey.
Top 20 Best Trips for Best Friends
| Destination | Type of Trip | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Bali, Indonesia | Culture + Wellness | Beach lovers, yoga fans |
| Santorini, Greece | Scenic + Chill | Wine tasting, sunsets, relaxed luxury |
| New York City, USA | Urban Adventure | Museums, nightlife, food lovers |
| Barcelona, Spain | Beach + City | Art, food, dancing |
| Tokyo, Japan | Modern + Historic | Culture, tech, exploration |
| Goa, India | Budget + Beaches | Parties, affordable stays, laid-back vibe |
| Cape Town, SA | Nature + Wine | Adventure seekers, beach hikers |
| Queenstown, NZ | Adrenaline + Nature | Bungee jumping, lakeside views |
| Paris, France | Art + Romance | Museums, pastries, scenic walks |
| Tulum, Mexico | Wellness + Beach | Yoga, food, stylish eco-travel |
| Amsterdam, NL | Bikes + Canals | Chill vibe, tulips, cafes |
| Phuket, Thailand | Island Escape | Beaches, nightlife, relaxation |
| Rome, Italy | History + Food | Culture fans, foodies, sightseers |
| Dubai, UAE | Luxury + Adventure | Shopping, safaris, iconic landmarks |
| Banff, Canada | Mountain Escape | Hiking, lakes, snow |
| Reykjavik, Iceland | Nature + Lights | Hot springs, auroras, road trips |
| Marrakech, Morocco | Exotic + Cultural | Markets, hammams, architecture |
| Lisbon, Portugal | Laid-back + Culture | Seafood, music, sunsets |
| Seoul, South Korea | Trendy + Urban | K-pop, skincare, shopping |
| Sydney, Australia | Coastal + City Fun | Beaches, city life, sightseeing |
1. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is one of the best trips for best friends who love a mix of wellness, beaches, and culture. Spend your days exploring Ubud’s rice terraces, indulging in spa days, and sipping coconut water on serene beaches. Take a sunrise hike up Mount Batur or meditate together at a yoga retreat.
Whether you’re dancing at beach clubs or enjoying traditional Balinese food, every moment is a memory in the making. Bali offers that perfect mix of calm, charm, and connection.
- Explore rice terraces in Ubud
- Relax with beachside spa treatments
- Hike Mount Batur at sunrise
- Unwind in jungle yoga retreats
2. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is a dream for friends who crave beautiful views, chilled vibes, and classy experiences. Watch the famous sunset in Oia, take boat rides to volcanic hot springs, or sip local wine in cliffside tavernas. The blue-domed churches and whitewashed streets offer endless photo ops.
As one of the best trips for best friends, Santorini lets you slow down, reconnect, and enjoy peaceful luxury. It’s a top choice for besties who love aesthetics and unforgettable Mediterranean sunsets.
- Catch sunsets in Oia
- Sip wine in cliffside taverns
- Explore white-washed villages
- Swim in volcanic hot springs
3. New York City, USA
New York City delivers high energy and nonstop action, making it one of the best trips for best friends who love buzz and variety. Explore art at MoMA, shop in SoHo, and grab pizza in Brooklyn. At night, hit rooftop bars or catch a Broadway show.
Whether you’re strolling through Central Park or riding the subway to a secret speakeasy, NYC brings excitement at every corner. It’s a city where memories are made, one fast-paced moment at a time.
- Visit world-class museums
- Eat iconic New York pizza
- Shop in SoHo and Fifth Ave
- Party at rooftop bars
4. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is where beachside relaxation meets architectural wonder, making it one of the best trips for best friends with a love for culture. Visit Gaudí’s iconic Sagrada Família, roam through the colourful Park Güell, and unwind on Barceloneta Beach.
Snack on tapas, sip sangria, and enjoy vibrant nightlife in the Gothic Quarter. From stunning street art to Mediterranean sun, Barcelona gives you a perfect balance of adventure and downtime. It’s a city that speaks to every friend duo.
- Admire Gaudí’s architecture
- Chill on Barceloneta Beach
- Dine on tapas and sangria
- Dance in Gothic Quarter clubs
5. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a playground of contrasts ancient temples meet futuristic tech, and that’s what makes it one of the best trips for best friends who crave new experiences. Enjoy matcha lattes in quirky themed cafés, shop Harajuku fashion, or visit the peaceful Meiji Shrine.
Try karaoke late into the night or explore vibrant street food scenes. Tokyo is clean, efficient, and endlessly interesting. Whether you’re into anime or tea ceremonies, you and your bestie will never run out of fun.
- Sing karaoke into the night
- Sip matcha in themed cafés
- Visit ancient temples
- Shop Harajuku fashion
6. Goa, India
Goa offers sun, sand, and soul. It’s one of the best trips for best friends looking for an affordable beach escape with rich culture and vibrant nightlife. Relax on Anjuna Beach, shop handmade jewellery at flea markets, or dance barefoot at a beach party.
Eat delicious seafood and watch the sun melt into the Arabian Sea. Whether you’re meditating in the morning or bar-hopping by night, Goa is about freedom, friendship, and fun with no rules attached.
- Dance at beach parties
- Shop at Anjuna flea market
- Try Goan seafood dishes
- Watch sunset by the sea
7. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a scenic gem and an adventure-packed destination, perfect for those planning the best trips for best friends. Hike or cable-car up Table Mountain, explore penguin colonies at Boulders Beach, and take wine tours in Stellenbosch.
The mix of mountains, sea, and city keeps things exciting. Enjoy fresh food, cultural fusion, and some of the best sunsets in the world. Cape Town is ideal for active, curious duos who want their holiday to be both bold and beautiful.
- Hike or cable up Table Mountain
- Visit penguins at Boulders Beach
- Sip wine in Stellenbosch
- Explore coastal drives
8. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is made for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. It’s one of the best trips for best friends who want excitement and epic views. Go bungee jumping, jet boating, or skydiving for a rush like no other. In winter, ski down snowy peaks; in summer, kayak on Lake Wakatipu.
Then relax with local wine and a good laugh about your daring adventures. Queenstown is the kind of place that brings friends closer through shared thrills and jaw-dropping scenery.
- Go bungee jumping or skydiving
- Kayak on Lake Wakatipu
- Enjoy local wine by the lake
- Ski during winter months
9. Paris, France
Paris might be called the City of Love, but it’s also one of the best trips for best friends who adore style, art, and pastries. Stroll along the Seine, visit world-class museums like the Louvre, and enjoy a picnic under the Eiffel Tower.
Share buttery croissants in charming cafés or go vintage shopping in Le Marais. Paris inspires creativity, connection, and a touch of glamour. It’s a friendship fantasy that blends chic vibes with heartfelt chats.
- Picnic under the Eiffel Tower
- Explore the Louvre and museums
- Stroll through charming streets
- Shop and café-hop in style
10. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is where boho vibes meet beach bliss, making it one of the best trips for best friends who value relaxation and wellness. Lounge in beachfront cabanas, enjoy healthy eats at organic cafés, and float in turquoise cenotes.
Explore ancient Mayan ruins or book a jungle spa day. Tulum balances chill with adventure. With its earthy elegance and calming energy, it’s ideal for friends who want to recharge while soaking up Mexico’s natural magic.
- Swim in cenotes and lagoons
- Visit Mayan ruins by the sea
- Lounge in beachfront cabanas
- Enjoy organic, healthy cafés
11. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam charms with canals, flowers, and art. It’s one of the best trips for best friends who want laid-back fun mixed with cultural depth. Cycle around the city, visit the Van Gogh Museum, or grab pancakes by the water.
In spring, walk through tulip gardens; in autumn, cosy up in quirky cafés. The vibe is open, friendly, and beautifully balanced. Whether it’s your first visit or fifth, Amsterdam makes every friendship feel lighter and brighter.
- Cycle along scenic canals
- Visit Van Gogh Museum
- Snack on Dutch pancakes
- Explore tulip gardens in spring
12. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is a tropical paradise for friends who want to let loose. As one of the best trips for best friends, it’s packed with beach clubs, boat tours, and tasty Thai street food. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore Phi Phi Islands, or party at Patong Beach.
After dark, enjoy vibrant nightlife or a relaxing massage. Whether you crave adventure or downtime, Phuket delivers both with a tropical twist that keeps the good times rolling.
- Island hop to Phi Phi Islands
- Party at Patong Beach
- Relax with Thai massages
- Enjoy fresh street food
13. Rome, Italy
Rome is timeless, chaotic, and full of flavour perfect for the best trips for best friends who love history and food. Toss coins in the Trevi Fountain, eat gelato by the Colosseum, and share pasta under the stars. Wander cobblestone alleys, visit ancient ruins, and soak in Italian charm.
The city invites long talks, loud laughs, and deep appreciation for beauty and carbs. Rome fills your soul (and stomach) in the most unforgettable way.
- Toss coins in Trevi Fountain
- Eat pasta under the stars
- Explore ancient Roman ruins
- Share gelato in cobbled alleys
14. Dubai, UAE
Dubai shines like a desert jewel, offering a mix of glamour and adventure. It’s one of the best trips for best friends who crave luxury, innovation, and wow-factor experiences. Visit the Burj Khalifa, ride dune buggies, or shop in massive malls.
Chill at beach resorts or dine in sky-high restaurants. Dubai, UAE, is fast, fun, and flashy in all the right ways. Perfect for friends who want to live large and capture every moment on camera.
- Visit the Burj Khalifa
- Ride desert dune buggies
- Dine at sky-high restaurants
- Shop in luxury malls
15. Banff, Canada
Banff is pure magic, no matter the season. Think turquoise lakes, snowy peaks, and forest trails making it one of the best trips for best friends who love the outdoors. Hike to Lake Louise, soak in hot springs, or rent a cosy cabin in the woods. In winter, go skiing; in summer, take scenic drives through the Rockies. Banff is peaceful and powerful, offering quiet moments and wild landscapes that strengthen any friendship.
- Hike to Lake Louise
- Soak in natural hot springs
- Drive scenic mountain roads
- Ski or snowboard in winter
16. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is a tiny capital with big adventures. From geothermal spas to northern lights, it’s one of the best trips for best friends who crave wonder. Drive the Golden Circle, eat fresh seafood, and relax in the Blue Lagoon.
Iceland’s raw beauty is unlike anywhere else, and sharing it with a friend makes it even more special. Whether it’s whale-watching or waterfall-hunting, you’ll bond over every freezing, thrilling, beautiful second.
- Soak in the Blue Lagoon
- Chase the Northern Lights
- Explore waterfalls and geysers
- Eat fresh seafood by the sea
17. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is bold, colourful, and endlessly intriguing. As one of the best trips for best friends, it takes you into a world of spice markets, mosaic palaces, and hidden courtyards. Get pampered in a hammam, drink mint tea on rooftops, and haggle in the souks.
The energy is rich and warm, and the culture feels alive. Every turn tells a story, making it a trip you and your friend will talk about for years.
- Wander colourful souks
- Sip mint tea on rooftops
- Relax in a traditional hammam
- Visit stunning palaces and gardens
18. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is light-hearted and lively. With pastel buildings, ocean views, and fado music, it’s one of the best trips for best friends who want to unwind in a colourful coastal city. Ride old trams through winding streets, eat custard tarts, and enjoy fresh seafood at sunset. Lisbon invites laughter, long walks, and spontaneous moments. It’s ideal for besties who want meaningful downtime with a splash of adventure.
- Ride vintage trams through hills
- Eat pastel de nata by the sea
- Watch sunsets from a viewpoint
- Listen to soulful Fado music
19. Sydney, Australia
Sydney is sunshine, surf, and skyscrapers rolled into one. From climbing the Harbour Bridge to soaking in Bondi Beach, it’s among the best trips for best friends who want it all. Catch a show at the Opera House, kayak in the harbour, or brunch in Surry Hills. Sydney mixes adventure with leisure in a way that brings out your best friend energy. It’s fresh, fun, and always photogenic.
- Surf or sunbathe at Bondi Beach
- Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Kayak in the sparkling harbour
- Enjoy brunch in Surry Hills
20. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul pulses with life, style, and flavour. For friends who love shopping, culture, and street eats, it’s one of the best trips for best friends. Explore K-pop hubs, try Korean BBQ, and browse beauty stores till midnight. Wander through traditional hanok villages, hike to city views, or relax in a jjimjilbang spa. Seoul blends tech and tradition seamlessly, giving you memories that feel modern and magical.
- Try Korean BBQ with your bestie
- Shop K-beauty and fashion trends
- Visit palaces and hanok villages
- Chill in a Korean spa (jjimjilbang)
Bonus Tips and Ideas for Best Friend Getaways
1. Make a Travel Bucket List Together
Before choosing a destination, sit down and create a shared wishlist. Whether it’s swimming with dolphins, riding hot air balloons, or visiting all seven continents, it brings excitement to planning. This simple step lays the foundation for the best trips for best friends, turning ideas into unforgettable memories.
2. Create a Joint Travel Budget
Agree on spending limits ahead of time. This helps avoid awkward moments on the road and ensures no one feels pressured to overspend.
3. Pick Roles Based on Strengths
Is one of you great at navigating and the other at finding restaurants? Divide responsibilities like bookings, maps, and snacks to make travel smoother and more fun.
4. Prioritise ‘Me Time’ Too
Even best friends need breaks. Schedule some solo moments to explore your interests. You’ll reconnect with new stories to share at dinner.
5. Choose Experiences Over Expensive Stays
Stay at a modest Airbnb and save money for zip-lining, food tours, or a spa day. The best memories often come from moments, not money.
6. Match Destinations to Your Friendship Style
If you bond over wellness, pick a yoga retreat. If you’re foodies, go on a culinary adventure. The best trips for best friends match your shared passions.
7. Pack a ‘Friendship Survival Kit’
Bring along a small kit with games, snacks, a speaker, sunscreen, meds, and emergency cash. It’s helpful and a sweet symbol of thoughtfulness.
8. Document the Journey Creatively
Start a joint travel journal, vlog your experiences, or make a shared photo album. You’ll relive those memories for years to come.
9. Set Travel Traditions
Choose a quirky tradition for every trip like trying local desserts or collecting matching souvenirs. It adds meaning and consistency to every new journey.
10. Talk About Travel Boundaries Early
Before you fly, chat about sleep habits, nightlife preferences, and personal space. Being upfront avoids surprises and strengthens trust.
| Tip | Idea | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Make a Bucket List | Plan shared dream activities before the trip. |
| 2 | Set a Travel Budget | Avoid overspending with a clear spending plan. |
| 3 | Divide Roles | Split tasks like bookings and navigation. |
| 4 | Schedule Solo Time | Give space for personal time and recharge. |
| 5 | Spend on Experiences | Save on hotels, splurge on fun activities. |
| 6 | Match Your Vibe | Pick places that suit your shared interests. |
| 7 | Pack a Travel Kit | Bring essentials like snacks, meds, and cash. |
| 8 | Capture the Memories | Journal, vlog, or create a shared photo album. |
| 9 | Start a Tradition | Create a ritual like matching souvenirs. |
| 10 | Talk Boundaries | Align on habits to keep the trip stress-free. |
Final Words
Friendship is built on shared memories, and there’s no better way to strengthen that bond than travelling together. The best trips for best friends don’t need to be extravagant. They just need to match your vibe, whether that’s chilling by the beach, climbing mountains, or getting lost in a buzzing city.
Choose destinations that reflect both of your personalities and allow time for spontaneous fun. Laugh often, try new things, and capture the moments that matter. With the right destination, any trip becomes a story worth telling. So go ahead, plan that epic escape, and tick off one of these best trips for best friends from your bucket list.
Also Read: Why Group Hiking and Adventure Tours Are the Travel Trend
FAQs
What are the best types of trips to take with your best friend?
The best trips for best friends vary based on shared interests. Beach getaways, city breaks, adventure holidays, and cultural retreats all make great options. Whether it’s relaxing in Bali or exploring Tokyo, choose a vibe that suits both personalities.
How do I plan a successful best friend trip?
Start by discussing budgets, travel styles, and destinations early. Make a list of must-dos for each person and leave space for spontaneity. Good communication and flexibility are key to a fun, drama-free trip.
Are best friend trips only for duos?
Not at all! Many of the best trips for best friends can be enjoyed by small groups. Just ensure everyone agrees on the destination, pace, and budget to avoid conflicts.
What are budget-friendly destinations for best friend trips?
Places like Goa, Lisbon, Phuket, and Bali are known for offering amazing experiences without breaking the bank. Affordable accommodation, food, and local travel make them ideal for budget-conscious friends.
What should we pack for a best friend adventure?
Pack light but smart. Include essentials like comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate outfits, a camera for memories, shared chargers, and maybe a playlist of your favourite songs. Don’t forget a positive attitude!
Why are trips with best friends so memorable?
Traveling with your best friend deepens your bond. You share laughs, overcome challenges, and build stories that last a lifetime. These experiences often become defining moments in your friendship.
