Laying the groundwork for a lifetime of wanderlust, there are certain trips that are well-suited for your 20s when you can endure the hostel lifestyle and party until dawn. Aside from the obvious big-city must-sees like New York, Paris, and London, these bucket-worthy trips may spark your curiosity about a part of the globe you’ve never considered exploring. Offering you a chance to change your worldview and learn more about yourself, these are just a few of the best trips to take in your 20s.
Go Backpacking in Southeast Asia
Rich cultural attractions and a favorable currency exchange rate, Southeast Asia is great for your 20s. Explore the bustling city of Bangkok, the digital nomad hotspot Chiang Mai or attend a Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan. See the historic Angkor Wat in Cambodia or dodge motorbikes in Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh, and if you’ve got extra time, squeeze in a trip to experience the diversity of Kuala Lumpur or the beaches of the Palawan in the Philippines.
Camp in the Sahara Desert in Morocco
Full of exotic sights and sounds, Morocco is the gateway to Northern Africa where you can bargain at its spice souks and marvel at mosaic-covered buildings. Walk around the Marrakech Medina, see the bright blue village of Chefchaouen or sign up for a camping excursion to ride camels at sunset, go on a 4X4 adventure, and camp underneath the stars in a traditional Bedouin village in the Sahara Desert.
Win Big in Las Vegas
While Las Vegas is known for its luxury casinos and world-class clubs where you can party all night, it’s also got plenty of other attractions, from the roller coaster at New York-New York and the famed Cirque du Soleil Beatles LOVE show to its lively pool parties. It’s also one of the best destinations in the U.S. for a solo adventure. A fun-filled night in this city can lead in a thousand directions, from dining at Top of the World at Stratosphere or finding Jim Morrison’s mug shot in Hogs & Heifers Saloon, while you can also kick back at spa resorts and enjoy a wealth of incredible restaurants that range from budget-friendly to fine dining.
Test out the Coffee Shops in Amsterdam
Considered a rite of passage, visiting the coffee shops in Amsterdam offers a memorable experience. The city also features 800 years of history to explore, showcasing a beautiful collection of ancient churches, excellent museums and quaint cobbled streets. Take a bike tour of the city, then explore the Van Gogh Museum or visit the Anne Frank House. Walk along the postcard-perfect streets of Jordaan, take a canal cruise or stop and smell the flowers at Rembrandtpark.
Experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans
New Orleans is a party mecca, home of the world-famous Mardi Gras celebration where travelers come from around the world to sip grenades and collect beads. It’s not all about the party though, as the melting-pot of culture offers enticing Cajun cuisine and a jiving live jazz scene. Enjoy a night on Bourbon Street, then recharge with deep-fried pastries at Cafe Du Monde or po’ boys at Bevi Seafood Co.
Explore the Lush Landscapes of Bali
Bali is an exotic island paradise that will appeal to those in their 20s, from the vibrant nightlife of Kuta to its ancient monuments and lush landscapes. Visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, go surfing at Kuta Beach and marvel at the jaw-dropping views at Tanah Lot Temple. If you want a challenge, hike Mount Batur at sunrise or visit the cheeky monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest, while traditional dance performances offer a dose of culture.
Step Into a Fairytale in Prague
It’s hard not to be charmed by the “city of a thousand spires”, as Prague offers views of domed churches and has one of the best-preserved historic city centers in Europe. The city is perfect for your 20s, where you can walk along the beautiful Charles Bridge, explore the Jewish Quarter, then step back in time at Prague Castle which dates back to 970 AD. Before you leave, catch the hourly Astronomical Clock display in Old Town Square.
Relax on the Beaches of Mexico
With the perfect combination of rich cultural heritage, stunning scenery, endless sunshine, and beautiful sandy beaches, it comes as no surprise why Mexico is a top vacation destination for sun-seekers. You can visit world-class museums in Mexico City, relax along the beaches in Tulum or enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling excursions in Playa Del Carmen. While Cabo San Lucas and Cancun are hotspots for resort-loving travelers, Oaxaca is a great place to experience authentic Mexican traditions with its annual festivals and flavorful cuisine.
Experience the Nightlife in Barcelona
The delightful Mediterranean climate of Barcelona lures in visitors from around the world with its stunning architecture, flavorful cuisine and cosmopolitan ambiance will have you wanting more. Make sure to see Gaudi’s Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, then gaze across the city at Parc Guell. Walk along the famous La Rambla promenade, explore the medieval maze of squares in the Gothic Quarter, then take a break in the tranquil Parc Ciutadella before indulging in the city’s famous nightlife scene.
Go Island-Hopping in Croatia
A great place to enjoy outdoor adventures and natural splendors, Croatia boasts spectacular shorelines and beautiful vistas from charming coastal towns, where you can explore historic landmarks and admire the Adriatic Sea. Head to Hvar to admire yachts bobbing on its sun-soaked shores, enjoy the golden shores of Zlatni Rat beach on Brac or discover Croatia’s version of Ibiza at Pag Island. If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, head to Rab Island.
Sip Guinness in Dublin
Dublin is the small capital in Ireland with a big personality known for its museums, eateries, and of course, historic pubs. Start at Phoenix Park before making your way to the medieval streets of Temple Bar. Sip a pint (or two) of Guinness before heading to Trinity College or get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Guinness Storehouse. Even if you’re not a drinker, you can shop along Grafton Street, see the historic Book of Kells that dates back to 800 AD, and admire the colorful floral displays in the National Botanic Gardens.
See a Glacier in New Zealand
If you want to see some of the world’s most stunning scenery, book an epic trip to New Zealand. If you can handle the long journey to this incredible destination, you’ll have the chance to see an array of natural wonders that are worthy of being at the top of any traveler’s bucket list. Natural beauty is the star attraction in this country, where you can spend your vacation marveling at the jaw-dropping landscapes. Prepare to see glaciers, mountains, islands, and lakes as well as fascinating glowworms.
Get Close to Nature in Costa Rica
With its tropical beaches, lush rainforests, and friendly locals, Costa Rica is often considered the crown jewel of Central America. It’s the perfect destination in your 20s, as you’ll find sun, surf, and lots of adventure at your fingertips. From never-ending outdoor activities to a plethora of diverse wildlife and some of the best gourmet coffee and local cuisine in the world, you’re spoiled for choice in what you want to put on your itinerary. You can hike near a volcano, sign up for a surf lesson, or just bask in the sunshine on the pristine shoreline.
Catch the Sunset in Santorini
One of the top destinations in Greece for a reason – the volcanic island of Santorini is best known for its dramatic vistas, inspiring sunsets, and colorful pebble beaches. Set high along the cliffs, there are several villages on Santorini Island with traditional architecture, ancient ruins, and authentic wineries. You can explore the capital city, Fira, to explore the white cobblestone streets, shops, taverns, hotels, and cafes. However, if you want to catch the famous sunset views, head to Oia, a town along the Ammoundi Bay with whitewashed walls and majestic blue domes. The most popular time to visit Santorini is between May and October, and you can reach the island by airline charter or ferry.
Hike to Machu Picchu
If you’re in your 20s and looking for a real adventure, you can add hiking to Machu Picchu to your bucket list. Set high in the Andes Mountains, this site is the setting of an ancient Inca city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s often considered one of the most impressive collections of ruins in the world. One of the most popular things to do here is to hike the Inca Trail, although you need to prepare ahead and reserve your spot several months in advance. The Salkantay trek and the Inca Jungle trek are also popular among hikers. To add more adrenaline to your adventure, many tour companies operate excursions that involve biking, hiking, rafting, and zip-lining.
