Let’s be real – traveling with friends hits different than solo adventures or family trips. After spending the last five years hopping between continents with various friend groups, I’ve learned that some destinations just work better for group travel. Sure, Paris and Rome are nice, but when you’re with your crew, you want places that mix good times with practical details – spots where you can split costs, find group-friendly activities, and make memories without breaking the bank.
From hostel-hopping across Southeast Asia to sharing beach houses in Mexico, I’ve discovered that the best friend trips happen when the destination fits the vibe. Sometimes that means picking places with night markets and street food for late-night hangs, other times it’s about finding cities with enough space for everyone to do their own thing during the day before meeting up for dinner. Here’s my carefully tested list of international destinations that were made for friend groups.
- Best for beach parties: Koh Phangan, Thailand
- Best for road trips: New Zealand South Island
- Best for food adventures: Barcelona, Spain
- Best for backpackers: Bali, Indonesia
- Best for city hopping: Amsterdam to Paris route
- Best for nature lovers: Costa Rica
Bali, Indonesia
Planning a friend getaway to Bali? This Indonesian island paradise offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. From chilling at beach clubs in Seminyak to temple-hopping in Ubud, you’ll find endless ways to bond with your crew. The island’s laid-back vibe makes it easy to split your days between surfing lessons in Canggu, exploring emerald rice terraces, and sharing family-style Indonesian feasts at local warungs.
Interesting Fact:
Did you know that Bali’s traditional calendar system only has 210 days in a year, with each week being just 5 days long based on ancient Balinese beliefs? The island is home to over 10,000 temples, which explains why it’s often called “The Island of a Thousand Temples,” though that nickname clearly undersells the actual number.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona brings together everything that makes Mediterranean culture so special – from long, lazy lunches in sunny plazas to impromptu street festivals where locals dance until dawn. The city’s mix of Gothic architecture and Gaudí’s whimsical buildings creates a playground for friends to explore together, whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter or picnicking in Park Güell. It’s a place where the party starts at midnight and beach days stretch well into the evening hours. Sure, you’ll want to hit the main sites like La Sagrada Familia, but the real magic happens when you and your friends get lost in local neighborhoods, sharing tapas at corner bars, and living life on Spanish time.
This is interesting:
Barcelona’s wildly imaginative architect Antoni Gaudí left his mark all over the city, with his most famous work being the still-unfinished Sagrada Familia basilica that began construction in 1882 and isn’t expected to be complete until 2026. Speaking of quirky architecture, you can visit Park Güell where Gaudí created a fantastical public park filled with mosaic-covered buildings and structures that look like they belong in a Dr. Seuss book.
Phuket, Thailand
Soak up the sun on Phuket’s white sand beaches while sipping fresh coconuts with your crew. This Thai island offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure – hop between beach clubs during the day, then head to Bangla Road at night for some of Southeast Asia’s best parties. Get your group together for a boat trip to nearby islands like Phi Phi, where you can snorkel in clear waters and spot colorful fish. For a taste of local culture, explore the night markets in Old Town, where you can sample street food and shop for souvenirs at prices that won’t break the bank.
Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza might be famous for its clubs and beach parties, but this Mediterranean island offers so much more for groups of friends. Located off Spain’s eastern coast, the island blends beautiful beaches and hidden coves with charming old towns and hilltop villages. During the day, you can explore Dalt Vila (the historic district), lounge on Playa d’en Bossa beach, or take a boat trip to the crystal-clear waters of Formentera. When night falls, world-class DJs spin at legendary venues like Pacha and Amnesia, making it easy to understand why Ibiza is called the party capital of Europe.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Get lost in the charming canals and historic streets of Amsterdam, a city that feels like a living storybook. Hop on a bike to explore like a local, weaving through neighborhoods filled with tall, narrow houses and flower-lined bridges. Head to the Museum Quarter, where you can see Van Gogh’s masterpieces up close or learn about Dutch history at the Rijksmuseum. For a unique evening out, take a canal cruise with your friends – many boats offer wine and cheese tastings as you float past the city’s famous architecture. End your night at one of the cozy brown cafes, where you can share stories over local beers and traditional Dutch snacks.
Cancun, Mexico
Perched on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun mixes the laid-back vibe of a beach town with the energy of a modern city. Like many coastal destinations in Mexico, it offers white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, but what sets it apart is how well it caters to groups of friends looking for adventure. During the day, you can hop between beach clubs, try water sports, or explore ancient Mayan ruins nearby. The Hotel Zone stretches along a narrow strip of land, packed with resorts and restaurants where friends can share plates of fresh ceviche and tacos. Because of its position between the Caribbean Sea and Nichupté Lagoon, visitors get the best of both worlds – calm waters for swimming on one side, and perfect conditions for water sports on the other.
Mykonos, Greece
When friends ask me about the best places to visit in Greece, Mykonos is always at the top of my list. Set in the heart of the Aegean Sea, this lively island combines traditional Greek charm with modern beach club culture. The iconic white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches create perfect backdrops for group photos, while the beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise keep the party going from sunset to sunrise.
Las Vegas, USA
Las Vegas is where my friends and I go when we want a guaranteed good time. Located in the Nevada desert, this entertainment capital delivers with its world-famous Strip – a 4-mile stretch packed with themed hotels, endless casinos, top-notch shows, and restaurants by celebrity chefs. From catching Cirque du Soleil performances to trying your luck at the Bellagio poker tables, or dancing at nightclubs until sunrise, Vegas keeps the energy high 24/7.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica was my first foray into Central American travel back in 2018. Located between Nicaragua and Panama, this peaceful nation stands out for its commitment to environmental protection and laid-back “pura vida” lifestyle. Dense rainforests and pristine beaches stretch across both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, while small eco-lodges and surf camps dot the landscape from Tamarindo to Puerto Viejo. The Arenal Volcano area has become a hub for friend groups, offering everything from zip-lining through the forest canopy to soaking in natural hot springs. Local beach bars and hostels create perfect spots for meeting other travelers, while morning surf sessions and afternoon sloth-spotting hikes give friends plenty of chances to bond in nature.
Maldives
Scattered across the Indian Ocean like pearls on blue silk are the Maldives Islands, where water really does sparkle in fifty shades of blue. Unlike typical beach destinations, these islands make you feel like you’ve discovered your own private slice of paradise. Just picture yourself walking out of your overwater villa, down a few wooden steps, and straight into warm, crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish. Because of their unique one-island-one-resort concept, the Maldives has become a favorite among friend groups looking to split their time between underwater adventures and lazy days in hammocks. You’ll find excellent snorkeling right off the beach, and many islands offer diving courses where you might spot manta rays and whale sharks gliding by.
Queenstown, New Zealand
I first visited Queenstown in winter 2019, when the snow-capped Southern Alps created a perfect backdrop for this charming New Zealand town. Nestled along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown has earned its reputation as the adventure capital of the world. The downtown area buzzes with backpackers and thrill-seekers, while local cafes and wine bars dot the waterfront streets. Whether you’re jumping off the Kawarau Bridge (home to the world’s first commercial bungee jump), skiing at The Remarkables, or taking a peaceful boat ride across the crystal-clear lake, Queenstown offers endless ways for friends to create unforgettable memories. The nearby wineries of Central Otago provide a perfect excuse to slow down and savor New Zealand’s famous Pinot Noir after a day of adrenaline-fueled activities.
This is interesting:
If you’re wondering how this adventure capital got its name, it actually wasn’t because of any royal connection – the early settlers simply thought the town was “fit for a queen” when they first laid eyes on it. These days, Queenstown lives up to that praise as New Zealand’s most popular tourist spot, where around 2 million visitors per year come to bungee jump, ski, hike, and soak in those mountain and lake views.
Ko Phi Phi, Thailand
I first visited Ko Phi Phi in 2015, drawn to this cluster of islands nestled between Phuket and the Krabi mainland. Made famous by “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh have become go-to spots for friends seeking that perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Long-tail boats dot the crystal-clear waters, ferrying visitors between hidden lagoons and limestone cliffs that rise from the Andaman Sea. Maya Bay, with its powder-white sand and sheltered cove, remains the crown jewel of the islands, though nowadays you’ll find plenty of company sharing this slice of paradise. The beachfront hostels and bars of Tonsai Village create the perfect social atmosphere for making new friends, while the hiking trails to various viewpoints offer quiet moments away from the crowd.
Budapest, Hungary
Float down the Danube River between the historic Buda and Pest sides of Hungary’s capital city. The majestic Parliament Building sits right on the riverbank, looking especially magical when lit up at night. Stop by the famous thermal baths, like the yellow Széchenyi Baths, where you can relax in warm pools and catch up with friends. For a fun evening out, check out the city’s unique ruin bars – old abandoned buildings turned into cool hangout spots with mismatched furniture and local beer. Make sure to try traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash at the Central Market Hall, where you and your friends can sample local treats and pick up souvenirs.
Malta
Many travelers come to Malta for its famous Blue Lagoon and ancient cities, but this Mediterranean island offers much more than just beach views and history. The small nation packs numerous activities into its compact size – from diving in crystal-clear waters to exploring prehistoric temples older than the pyramids. Friends can spend their days hopping between hidden coves, wandering through the narrow streets of Valletta, or taking in the local scene at lively fishing villages. While summer brings crowds seeking sun and sea, Malta’s mild climate and rich culture make it an appealing destination year-round, with festivals, concerts, and events filling the calendar throughout the seasons.
Split, Croatia
Split sits on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast like a perfect blend of ancient history and modern Mediterranean life. This coastal gem began as Roman Emperor Diocletian’s retirement palace, and today that same palace forms the heart of the old town where locals live and work among 1,700-year-old walls. The city has become a favorite spot for friends looking to mix beach time with culture – you can spend your mornings exploring winding limestone streets and your afternoons diving into the clear waters of the Adriatic. The nightlife here is refreshingly unpretentious, with seaside bars and restaurants where you can share plates of fresh seafood and local wine while watching boats bob in the harbor. It’s the kind of place where you and your friends can wander without a plan and still stumble upon something interesting around every corner.
Goa, India
Goa is where I send friends looking for the perfect mix of beaches and culture in India. This coastal paradise along the Arabian Sea blends Portuguese colonial charm with Indian traditions, offering everything from lazy days on Arambol Beach to dancing at legendary beach parties. You can explore centuries-old churches in Old Goa, bargain at the Anjuna flea market, or just sip coconut water while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Berlin, Germany
Experience history come alive in Berlin, where old meets new at every corner. The East Side Gallery lets you walk along the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall, now covered in colorful murals that tell stories of freedom and unity. Stop by the Brandenburg Gate, an iconic landmark that once divided East and West Berlin, before heading to Museum Island to explore five world-class museums in one location. For a taste of modern Berlin, check out the trendy neighborhoods of Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg, where you’ll find cool cafes, street art, and local markets. When night falls, join your friends at one of the city’s famous techno clubs – Berghain is legendary, though getting in can be tricky.
Cool Fact:
Did you know that Berlin has more bridges than Venice, with over 1,700 spanning its rivers and canals across the city? The city’s famous East Side Gallery, which displays colorful artwork along a preserved 1.3km stretch of the Berlin Wall, stands as the world’s longest open-air gallery and serves as a powerful symbol of freedom and unity.
Cape Town, South Africa
Many travelers head to Cape Town for Table Mountain, the iconic flat-topped peak that dominates the city’s skyline, but this South African gem offers far more than just mountain views. The city sits where two oceans meet, creating perfect conditions for surfing, whale watching, and beach hopping along the Cape Peninsula. Between wine tasting in nearby Stellenbosch, exploring the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, and taking day trips to see African penguins at Boulders Beach, friends can pack their days with varied activities. While summer (December to February) brings perfect beach weather, Cape Town delivers year-round appeal with its food markets, contemporary art galleries, and buzzing nightlife scene.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is where I send friends looking for that perfect mix of beach life and authentic Mexican culture. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay, this coastal town serves up everything from lazy days on golden beaches to lively nights exploring the cobblestone streets of the Zona Romántica. You and your crew can spend mornings sipping margaritas by the pool, afternoons wandering through art galleries in the Old Town, and evenings hopping between local taco stands and beachfront bars.
Santorini, Greece
Perched on the southern edge of the Cyclades islands is the crescent-shaped paradise of Santorini. Like many Greek islands, Santorini has its share of blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. But unlike its neighbors, it sits atop an ancient volcanic caldera, creating those famous cliff-side villages that spill down toward the sea. Just wander through the narrow cobblestone paths of Oia at sunset, watch the cruise ships float by in the distance, and you’ll understand why everyone falls for this place. Because of its volcanic history, Santorini offers black sand beaches and local wines grown in mineral-rich soil, making it perfect for friends who want to mix relaxation with culture and good food.