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Holiday with friends – TOP 25 places to visit

A Holiday with friends can offer you priceless experiences that you will cherish for the rest of your life. However, you are probably asking yourself “Where can I go on holiday with friends?“. I will show you some wonderful places to visit with a group of friends that were recommended by travel bloggers from all over the world.

Whether you want to explore NYC at night or take some Siesta in Spain during a hot day, those places are the finest to enjoy with your best friends. The variety of choices from spotting wildlife in the Galapagos Islands to surfing in one of the best spots in the world will make you fall in love with all of them.

Choose one of those amazing destinations for your next trip and make a stronger bond with your friends. There is nothing better than discovering new things together and talking about them for years to come.

This post may contain affiliate links. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. As an Amazon Associate, I get a small commission from qualifying purchases.

The best place to go on holiday with friends in Canada

1. Tofino

Tofino in Canada ©Planes, Trains and Karcz

By Kaidon of Planes, Trains, and Karcz

Tofino in Canada is known for its laid-back and outdoor-centric culture, making it a popular holiday destination for friends. Chipping in on accommodations can stretch your money further since you won’t be spending much time indoors – if you’re exploring this little town the right way, you’ll only be in your room for the night, before taking off to explore one of the many, many things to do in Tofino.

Surfing in Tofino, Canada

While you and your friends are in Tofino, make sure you experience why Tofino is the surfing Capital of Canada. Even if you have never tried surfing, hundreds of first-time surfers learn to surf in Tofino every year! Ample shops offer surfing equipment rentals (and most offer bulk discounts for friends) and group surfing lessons. You’ll be catching real waves in no time!

Other things to do in Tofino with a group of friends

The Pacific Rim National Park is a short drive from Tofino. It has some excellent hiking trails for you and your friends to experience. Pack a few lunches and make it a group outing! Hiking in numbers is always safer, as there is wildlife on Vancouver Island.

At the end of the day, there’s nothing better than having a few pints or cocktails with your best friends. Unwind, grab a meal, and share a few drinks with each other. If it’s a different buzz you’re after, Tofino is very cannabis-friendly. Recreational use of cannabis is legal in Canada. Visit a dispensary, and unwind after a busy day with some of Canada’s finest herbs.

The best places to stay in Tofino, Canada

Hotel Zed is a comfortable, trendy option for rooming-in Tofino that lies close to Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay if you intend on clocking in some serious hours at the beach.

Tofino Resort and Marina is in the centre of Tofino, with ample dining and grocery options within walking distance. There is also an ocean tour centre and Restaurant in the lower parking lot. It is perfect for those who want to fish or whale-watch.

The best places to go on holiday with friends in the United States

2. New York City

New York City ©newenglandwanderlust

By Kelly of Travel New York Now 

One of the best places to go on holiday with friends is the New York City. After all, NYC is easily one of the most expensive cities in the entire world.

What are the benefits of traveling to NYC with friends?

If you travel to NYC with friends, you’ll be able to split the cost of a taxi, hotel room, and more, thereby making the city infinitely cheaper to visit.

Additionally, you’ll feel a whole lot safer walking to and riding on the subway in the evening if you have a few friends with you. Plus, New York City always has something new and exciting to do.

Accordingly, you and your friends will never run out of fun activities to enjoy – regardless of your interests. There is something for everyone in the city that never sleeps.

The best things to do in New York City with friends

So, during your NYC itinerary, be sure to enjoy delicious personal pizza, artisanal drinks, and exquisite views from inside a vintage subway car at Gallow Green atop the McKittrick Hotel.

Next, solve a fun, interactive puzzle at the Escape Room NYC before walking across the Brooklyn Bridge and taking a copious amount of selfies.

Afterward, enjoy some decadent pancakes at Clinton Street Baking Company in Time Out Market before exploring DUMBO and Brooklyn Bridge Park.

If you have time, head out to the Bushwick Collective and admire all of the stunning street art here before heading back into Manhattan and enjoying a fabulous Broadway show.

You can use the TodayTix App to save 50% on tickets to iconic shows like The Lion King, Wicked, and Phantom of the Opera.

Then, at the end of the show, head to Junior’s and share an incredible slice of authentic, New York style cheesecake.

Where to stay in New York City with friends?

Finally, end your night by heading back to a luxurious room at the Hilton Garden Inn New York Times Square South.

After all, this hotel is well located and well priced, with sleek rooms that have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

3. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe ©Fox in the Forest

By Meg of Fox in the Forest

Hidden away in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is easily one of the best places to go on holiday with friends.

Not only is it a stunning, alpine getaway filled with gorgeous beaches and the incredible hot springs, but it has an inviting community that will openly welcome both you and your besties.

There are also a ton of scenic hikes here that feature some of the best views in Lake Tahoe.

However, because of safety concerns, it’s always better to venture into the great outdoors in a group – making this a fantastic, super adventurous getaway for friends.

Rent a boat and spend a fun day out on the lake before booking a tour with Lake Tahoe Balloons. You can ride in a hot air balloon and marvel at Lake Tahoe from above.

Next, go on some incredible hikes through Emerald Bay Park. This is a place where you and your friends take in some of the best views in the area before heading to Squaw Valley.

In fact, this is one of the best ski areas in the region. However, you can always just take the cable car an incredible 2,000 feet in the air to enjoy some great panoramas from High Camp.

The best restaurants and bars to visit in Lake Tahoe with your best friends

Then, make reservations for a luxurious meal at The West Shore Café and Inn. It not only sits right on the water but this restaurant has an excellent, seafood-focused menu and an incredible wine list that an on-site sommelier can help you navigate.

However, if you and your friends are looking for something more low key, indulge in some craft beer at the Basecamp Beer Garden. Then, enjoy some more local brews at the Hangar taproom and bottle shop.

Where should you stay in Lake Tahoe with friends?

Check into the Coachman Hotel, chic, motel-style accommodation in south Tahoe that is well-priced. Together with your group, you can meet other travelers in a pool, hot tub, and various communal areas.

4. St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg in Florida ©Lez Travel For Life

By Sam & Courtney of Lez Travel For Life

When planning a holiday with friends, the first big decision in planning is figuring out where to go. St. Petersburg in Florida is the perfect place to explore on your next trip. It has the best of both worlds, beach and city life. Its year-around sunny weather and gorgeous beaches have made it a popular vacation destination for people of all ages. It has attracted an artistic population that has made it a beautiful city full of art, and unique shops and restaurants.

When planning your trip here, you have a variety of options for accommodations. You can pick a place right on the beach and wake up to the sound of waves crashing, or you can stay in a boutique hotel in the heart of downtown St. Pete where all the restaurants, bars, and shops are. Either way, both areas have tons of restaurants, shops, and bars to choose from. It makes it easy to walk, rent a scooter, or uber.

The most popular things to do in St. Pete include:

  • Catching a tan on the beach at Treasure Island Beach
  • Exploring downtown by bike or scooter
  • Taking a food tour
  • Kayaking with Manatees at Crystal River Springs
  • Walking around the St. Pete Pier
  • Going to the Dali Museum

While exploring downtown you can find tons of specialty cocktail bars, dive bars, and large murals painted by local artists.

Where to stay in St. Petersburg, Florida?

A popular hotel downtown is the Hollander. It is close to the waterfront, and right downtown surrounded by popular cocktail bars like The Mandarin Hide. Check out Wild Child for brunch, and Brick and Mortar for dinner.

5. Sedona

Sedona, Arizona ©Buddy The Traveling Monkey

Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey

One of the best places to go on holiday with friends is Sedona, Arizona. There are a lot of fun things to do in Sedona so you and your friends are sure to make lasting memories. Sedona is known for its picturesque red rocks. The best way to appreciate them is by going on a hike with your friends. Most of the trails are easy, but if you choose to do a more difficult one, you and your friends will be able to keep each other motivated.

To celebrate a job well done out on the trails, you should next visit one of the many wineries in town. Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery is a great option. You can do wine tasting and enjoy snacks while taking in the surrounding views. Another option for wine tasting is Made in Arizona Wine and Gifts in Uptown Sedona. While you’re there you can also do some shopping. They have great items that would be perfect reminders of your trip together.

Sedona also has a lot of great restaurants. The great thing about traveling with friends is being able to order multiple dishes and then share it all! Two top restaurants to consider are Mariposa and Pump House Station. Both have excellent food.

Hotels can be a bit expensive in Sedona, but if you’re sharing the cost with friends it won’t hurt your wallet too much. The Views Inn Sedona is a great option for your trip. It’s in a great location and offers free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a continental breakfast.

6. Napa Valley

Winery Castello di Amoroso ©Travel Today Work Tomorrow

By Alisha of Travel Today Work Tomorrow

Napa Valley in California is the perfect destination to escape to for an unforgettable holiday with friends. The picturesque views of rolling hills, the world-renowned wine, and numerous Michelin Starr restaurants are some of the many reasons people seek out Napa Valley from around the globe.

The best things to do in Napa Valley with your friends

What better way to enjoy this incredible location than with a group of your best friends? The top thing to do when in wine country is to go wine tasting! With over 400 wineries in Napa Valley, there are many wine tasting experiences for you to choose from.

A favorite that will surely not disappoint is a wine tasting at Castello di Amoroso. Transport yourself to Tuscany for the afternoon as you sip wine in Castello di Amoroso’s 13th century Tuscan-inspired castle. The winery and grounds feel like you have stepped into a fairytale.

While visiting Napa Valley, you can’t forget about the food! Besides tasting world-class wine, Napa Valley also offers a spectacular array of restaurants. Brix is a farm-to-table restaurant serving Californian fare. Be sure to book your table outside in their magical gardens.

Another must-visit is Bouchon Bakery, a French-style bakery by worldwide acclaimed chef Thomas Keller. At Bouchon, there is always a line out the door. However, the macaroons and croissants are so delicious and worth the wait!

Where to stay in Napa Valley?

The Meritage Resort and Spa is the perfect hotel to book during your stay in Napa Valley. The grounds at The Meritage Resort and Spa are breathtaking. The resort has 9 acres of gorgeous vineyards and is close to shopping, tasting rooms, and restaurants in downtown Napa.

Napa Valley is a one-of-a-kind location! You will not regret visiting this magnificent destination with your group of friends.

The best place to go on holiday with friends in the Philippines

7. El Nido

El Nido in The Philippines ©Not Another Backpacker

By Lena aka Not Another Backpacker

Are you looking for a holiday destination to visit with your girls or lads? Look no further: El Nido in the Philippines is just the ticket for your trip together!

This small town is located on the island of Palawan and is easy to reach, as it hosts its airport. Here, you’ll find various things to do with your friends. The main attractions in El Nido are the small surrounding island, which you can visit on four different El Nido Island Hopping Tours.

These tours take you to magnificent, white sand beaches with turquoise-blue water and amazing snorkeling spots with hundreds of fish. Plus, the gorgeous limestone formations that you can find on almost every island make the perfect background for your holiday photos!

However, make sure to also explore the mainland of Palawan, as it’s home to some beautiful waterfalls, amazing beaches with countless palm trees, and gorgeous hikes. One example is the “Taraw Cliff Hike” up a 230-meter-high limestone, which provides a jaw-dropping view of El Nido and the bay!

The best place to watch sunsets and enjoy the nightlife in El Nido

To top it off, El Nido also has some great nightlife to offer. There are numerous bars in town turning nights into days while serving delicious cocktails and hosting events with upbeat DJs or local cover bands!

If you’re looking for a sundowner, head to “The Beach Shak” at Vanilla Beach, which is the best spot in town to watch the sunset. Conveniently, they serve happy hour drinks right around this time! As the night moves on, I recommend checking out “Tuko”, which always has a great vibe, or “The Pangolin” where you dance all night long.

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in El Nido with friends – no matter, whether you’re looking for wild party nights or adventurous days in nature!

The best place to go on holiday with friends in Mexico

8. Oaxaca

Oaxaca ©packing-up-the-pieces

By Megan of packing-up-the-pieces

Oaxaca Mexico is a fantastic place to travel to with friends. The city of Oaxaca, or Oaxaca de Juárez, is filled with culture, and charming streets, and boasts its unique cuisine. There are so many things to do in Oaxaca and this colorful destination has everything from:

  • Street art
  • Cooking classes
  • Bustling markets
  • Ancient ruins
  • Mezcal tours
  • Hip neighborhoods
  • Incredible nature

The city and nearby valleys are a delight to tour with a group of friends, or it’s super easy to join diverse day trip tours. End the day at a hip restaurant and unwind at one of the many rooftop bars.

The best places to eat in Oaxaca

The food scene in Oaxaca is superb. One of the best places to eat is at one of the many lively markets. To best sample, the Oaxacan cuisine, order a bunch of typical dishes and share them “family style.” Then, visit Pitiona which has the perfect rooftop patio and delicious food. For something more intimate, indulge in the tasting menu at Teocintle, which serves Indigenous cuisine from the Mixteca region. There are endless places to stay in Oaxaca. Those on a budget can find private rooms at Azul Cielo Hostel while Hotel Parador de Alcalá has a roof-top swimming pool in the heart of the historical centro.

The best things to do in Oaxaca with friends

The state of Oaxaca is just as diverse as the city. After a few days of falling in love with Oaxaca City, head to the wild Pacific coastline. Then, try surfing, hiking, or exploring “pueblos magicos” like Mazunte. Afterward, break up a trip to the coast with a stop in the small villages of the Sierra Sur. In the mountains, sit in an authentic “temazcal,” or sweat lodge. Also, catch a spectacular sunset in the cloud forest, hike through the pine forests, or maybe dabble with the famous Oaxaca Magic Mushrooms. From the city to mountain villages, to the coast, Oaxaca is a fantastic place to travel with friends.

The best place to go on holiday with friends in the Middle East

9. Egypt

Egypt ©Together In Transit

By Zoe of Together In Transit

For a beautiful place in the Middle East to visit with friends, head to Egypt as your next destination!

Group of friends can do a lot of amazing things in Egypt. It is better to stay in one place, even if you wish to travel around the country. There are many benefits of traveling with friends to a few locations. You can swim in the beautiful Red Sea or visit historic locations such as:

  • The Valley of the Kings
  • Luxor Temple
  • The Giza Pyramids

The Valley of the Kings site is the burial ground for royal Ancient Egyptian from the 11th and 16th century BC and to this day discoveries are being made. There are 62 tombs discovered before 1922, but the best ones are always to visit on a daily basis. So, this is amazing for those who love history.

The Giza Pyramids, are a must-see when in Cairo of course, where most flights arrive at and from so it’s easy to get to. With friends, it’s great to experience as you can then also join a local tour together. Also, split the costs and have much more fun for the day while exploring!

Else a perfect spot for a group of friends to enjoy Egypt is in Hurghada. From Hurghada, you can also enjoy many day trips for:

  • Scuba diving
  • Snorkeling
  • Quad-biking
  • Visit the historical centre for local shopping

The best hotel I can recommend while staying in Egypt is the Steigenberger hotel. It is one of the many beautiful hotels in Hurghada with delicious food, luxury swimming pools, and private beach areas. They also have the largest pool in Hurghada with 5000m²!

The best place to go on holiday with friends in Morocco

10. Marrakech

Marrakech, Morocco ©Conversant traveller

By Heather of Conversant traveller

The buzzing North African city of Marrakech makes a great destination for a holiday with friends. It takes less than 4 hours to fly from London, so you can even go for a long weekend break if you don’t have time for longer.

Where to stay in Marrakech with a group of friends?

Accommodation here is relatively cheap compared to Europe. There are plenty of opulent hotels in the Palmeraie area with restaurants, pools, and bars. For something a bit different, why not stay in one of the luxury Marrakech riads in the heart of the Old Town? Top picks include Riad Assakina and Riad L’Orangeraie, which are perfectly placed for sightseeing. These charming guest houses are constructed around a central courtyard. There is usually a small pool and roof terrace for soaking up the sun and enjoying the views out over the city towards the Atlas Mountains. Groups can rent an entire riad for total privacy, and the staff will provide delicious home-cooked meals so you can feast together in the evenings.

The best things to do in Marrakech with your friends

There’s plenty to do in Marrakech, from haggling for souvenirs in the souks and visiting the famous night market, to exploring ancient palaces and even riding camels! If it’s your first time in the city, take a walking tour with a local to help get your bearings as those narrow alleyways can be a little confusing! Exploring alone is fun too, and one advantage of traveling with friends is that there’s safety in numbers. You’ll feel less intimidated and in a better position to deal with any hustler hassle that may come your way. Cooking classes are always good fun in a group, and there are several available in riads and hotels throughout the city. As evening falls, head for a night out in the New Town where glamorous restaurants with live music like La Trattoria and Comptoir Darna are the places to see and be seen.

The best places to go on holiday with friends in Australia

11. Gold Coast

Gold Coast in Australia ©the Aquarius Traveller

By Chris Fry of the Aquarius Traveller

The Gold Coast is located in the south-eastern corner of Queensland in Australia. It’s both the largest non-capital city and one of the biggest tourist hubs in Australia, expecting 10 million visitors each year. Groups of friends are often looking for a beachside destination, which the Gold Coast provides along a 50 kilometer stretch of sandy beach. It’s made up of many different suburbs, skyscrapers, creeks, and canals. In fact, it has one of the longest canal systems in the world, beating both Venice and Amsterdam.

What are the benefits of traveling with friends to Australia?

The increased tourist numbers, high ticket activities, and accommodation escalate the cost of traveling to the Gold Coast. Therefore, visiting with a group of friends will help keep the associated costs down. It’s also great to explore rainforests together, swim in waterfalls, surf, or try out the endless choices of water activities.

Things to do on the Gold Coast with a group of friends

Stopping at the theme parks starts from here, including Dreamworld, White water world, Movieworld, and SeaWorld. Day trips venture into the Lamington National Park rainforests, or off the mainland to places like North Stradbroke Island (the second largest Sand Island in the world). Alternatively, enjoy action-adventure rides with Jet Skiing, bungy jumping, whale watching, helicopter tours, or Jet boating.

Cavill Avenue is the height of entertainment all day long and into the evening. Many different restaurants are available, like the Hard Rock café, Seascape Restaurant, or the quick takeaways like Grill’d. Holiday accommodation lines the beachfront with amazing views. These include the Q1 Building with an observation deck, The Mantra Legends Hotel, Surfers Royale resort, or the Seabreeze Apartments.

This is also your central shopping district with Boutique stores, supermarkets, weekly market stalls, and tourist information. Start your days on the beach with your friends for a morning swim, or watch the sunrise over the horizon.

12. Sydney

Sydney ©Kateabroad

By Kate of Kateabroad

There’s so much more to Sydney than beaches. This city of 5 million offers activities that even your fussiest friend will enjoy. Sydney is known for its sunshine and the injection of vitamin D is bound to set the right mood for a friends’ holiday. Each suburb in Sydney has its microculture so there is something for everyone. Whether you want to go partying on Oxford Street, camping on Cockatoo Island, or sunbathing in Watsons Bay you can do it in Sydney.

The best area to stay is in Surry Hills as it’s very close to the CBD and Central Station where you can catch trains and buses out to Bondi and other suburbs. For a lux experience, there is Paramount House Hotel which has a great rooftop café. Otherwise, there are plenty of Airbnbs in the area that can accommodate a larger group.

When in Sydney, it’s almost mandatory to grab a drink at Opera Bar. It’s right on the steps of the Sydney Opera House with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You can also try the new restaurants that have popped up in nearby Quay Quarter including Grana and Bar Mammoni. Public transport is really good in Sydney so it’s very easy to get around and you can use any credit or debit card to pay for the ride. Don’t miss catching the ferry over to Manly, it’s a cheap harbour cruise and sometimes there are even whale sightings.

The best places to go on holiday with friends in Spain

13. Valencia

Valencia, Spain ©Spend Life Traveling

By Sanne of Spend Life Traveling

There are cities perfect to visit as a romantic couples getaway (has anyone been to Paris?). However, Valencia has always been one of those cities that’s popular to visit with friends.

Some will plan their bachelor party or hen do in Valencia, but mostly it’s friends coming here to enjoy some sightseeing, tapas, or paella (did you know that Valencia is the birthplace of paella?). Drinks on picturesque plazas and a visit to Valencia’s long sandy beach are also amazing things to do there.

As far as sightseeing goes, Valencia’s highlights include:

  • The City of Arts and Sciences
  • The Valencia Cathedral
  • The Silk Exchange
  • The Central Market

A popular activity in the city is to take a paella cooking class. Or rent bicycles with friends to explore the city because Valencia is very bicycle-friendly.

If you want to try an authentic Valencian paella then please avoid the touristy restaurants in the city center. Instead, try Casa Carmela or El Racó de la Paella. And, keep in mind that paella is traditionally a lunch dish. So for a truly unique experience, book a table for lunch, which in Spain is around 2 pm.

As for where to stay, Ruzafa is a neighborhood that’s very popular among friends coming on a holiday to the city. The area is filled with trendy brunch places, bars, and small independent shops. And it puts you within easy walking distance from the city center and most of the main sights.

If you decide to stay in Ruzafa, Petite Palace Ruzafa is a good hotel option.

14. Barcelona

Dragon Statue at Park Guell in Barcelona ©Why Visit Barcelona

By Claire of Why Visit Barcelona

Barcelona is a fabulous destination for everyone, but visit Barcelona with a group of friends and you will have an unforgettable time!  Barcelona is a city that has something to please everyone, so you won’t have any arguments finding things to do in Barcelona.

Whether you spend a weekend in Barcelona or have longer to explore, you will enjoy a Mediterranean climate, expansive beaches, incredible food from tasty tapas to Michelin starred restaurants and plenty of places to drink and dance the night away.

Barcelona is also an excellent place to get a culture fix, and the city is famous for Gaudí’s architecture from the magnificent Sagrada Familia to Park Guell and numerous other buildings to admire.

For group activities, you could consider a paella cooking class or a check out Corpen. It is a small gin distillery in the Poble Nou district that you can visit before heading out for drinks and a club by the beach.  There are also tours to show you around the best of the city. For instance, bike tours or the funky yellow Go Car tours are popular for groups as you whizz around admiring the sights.

Where to stay in Barcelona with friends?

If you like to party, staying on La Rambla is a central and lively location. However, it can be noisy at night, so if you want to ensure a good night’s sleep then check out hotels away from this busy street.  H10 Madison has a rooftop pool with views of the Gothic Cathedral, or Chic & Basic Lemon Boutique is a great budget option.

What should you be aware of in Barcelona?

One last thing you must be aware of is how many pickpockets there are in Barcelona. Tourists are easy targets so be very careful with your belongings, especially in busy areas like La Rambla and on the metro.

15. Malaga



This post first appeared on Travel, please read the originial post: here

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