Unforgettable Getaways: The Best Destinations for Traveling With Your Friends
Travel is a great way to connect with the people we love the most, and there is no better way to do this than during a getaway with friends. With 38%* of travelers keen to spend quality time with friends, it’s clear that exploring new destinations together remains one of the most meaningful ways to deepen those bonds. Whether it’s a group of food enthusiasts uncovering local culinary treasures or culture lovers immersing themselves in art and history, the ideal destination awaits to bring friends even closer together, whether traveling in the summer months or looking for an all-year-round travel destination. Based on accommodation search data for the remainder of 2025, we reveal the top destinations around the world which will make for an ultimate group trip**.
Novalja, Croatia
Novalja, nestled on the island of Pag, is a hidden gem on Croatia’s Adriatic coast that blends natural beauty with vibrant energy. Known for its crystal-clear waters, sun-soaked beaches and legendary nightlife, Novalja offers a unique mix of laid-back island charm and electric party vibes. Zrće Beach is a must-visit for lounging while in the area, followed by a leisurely lunch sampling fresh seafood at a family-run konoba while catching up with friends over a glass of rakija. For those wanting to explore beyond the beach, Novalja offers a surprising mix of history and nature. Wander the Roman aqueduct hidden beneath the town, hike the moonlike landscapes of the island, or rent bikes and ride the scenic trails enjoying panoramic sea views. From laid-back weekends away to an unrivaled night on the town, grab your friends and get the good times rolling.
Where to stay: Villa Laverna is a stylish two-bedroom apartment with sea views. Relax on the sun terrace or take a dip in the year-round outdoor pool. With Lokunje Beach nearby and the city center just a short drive away, the wonders of Novalja are within easy reach.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Famous for its beauty, energy and rhythm, Rio de Janeiro is a dream location for friends to experience and explore together. Strolling along the sun-kissed shores of Copacabana or watching locals play football at Ipanema, there’s an undeniable spirit of joy and community that fills the air. Rio’s warmth goes beyond the weather; the locals, known as cariocas, are famously welcoming, making any friendship group feel at home while walking the streets. The awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer statue, the cable car ride to Sugarloaf Mountain or a forest hike through the lush trails of Tijuca National Park, are must-dos while visiting. Beyond the cultural attractions, the spirit of alegria - the deep, cultural embrace of joy, connection and celebration - is what is most memorable about Rio. Dancing with friends in a street bloco, sharing feijoada in a buzzing neighborhood restaurant, or simply swaying to the live music in a beachside bar is what makes this city the perfect destination for a getaway with friends.
Where to stay: Overlooking Jacarepaguá Lagoon, Lagune Barra Hotel is just minutes from Olympic Park and top shopping spots. Enjoy spacious rooms and standout amenities, from a rooftop pool and sauna to a fitness center, sun terrace, restaurant and bar. Perfect for friends looking to relax, recharge and soak up the vibe of Barra de Tijuca.
San Teodoro, Italy
Tucked along the northeastern coast of Sardinia lies San Teodoro, known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and lively atmosphere. The must do’s while in the city include leisurely strolls through the bustling local markets, brimming with fruits including the famous citrus orchards, and fresh pasta made by nonna, and spending a lazy afternoon lounging on La Cinta Beach. San Teodoro’s laidback nature provides a chilled spot for a group of friends to hang out. For travelers eager to immerse themselves in Sardinian culture, rent a car to take the group to Battista where friends can enjoy a traditional cooking class, learn how to make pasta from scratch, and wash their creations down with wine from the local vineyard. If an adventure is on the agenda, the nearby Tavolara Island offers breathtaking boat tours, hiking trails and some of the most picture-perfect views in Sardinia. By night, the town comes alive with music and open-air bars. At its heart, San Teodoro captures the essence of la dolce vita, so grab a group of friends, pack your bags and head for the sweet island life.
Where to stay: Just moments from the stunning Isola di Tavolara and Olbia Harbour, Residenza L’Alzoni is ideal for groups looking for space, comfort and adventure in San Teodoro. Unwind in the garden, soak up the sun on the balcony or explore the area by bike, but first start the day with a delicious continental breakfast. Then return to savor authentic local flavors at the on-site restaurant for lunch and dinner.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, the ‘city where continents collide’, combines centuries of history with modern energy, offering groups of friends a rich tapestry of experiences to enjoy together. Travelers can wander the majestic Hagia Sophia or get lost in the colorful twists and turns of the Grand Bazaar. Don’t skip shopping for Turkish ceramics, kilim rugs and evil eye ornaments to take back home too. Food lovers can share delicious meze platters or indulge in sweet treats like baklava and simit in the many restaurants and cafes dotted around the city centre. For those seeking relaxation, enjoy a cup of Turkish tea alongside the Bosphorus or set sail on a luxury yacht cruise and catch some stunning sunset views of the world's top heritage sites. Exploring the nearby lively neighborhoods while in Istanbul is a must! Karaköy’s artsy streets filled with art galleries and graffitied walls and the thriving nightlife of Beyoğlu, where rooftop bars and live music bring the city to life after dark.
Where to stay: Perfectly located in Istanbul’s Şişli district, Antwell Suites offers modern comfort and easy access to the city’s top sights. Guests can explore nearby attractions including Dolmabahçe Palace, Taksim Square, and Cevahir Mall. With spacious rooms, perfect for a group, and great transport links, it’s an ideal base for discovering both modern and historic Istanbul.
*Research was commissioned by Tripeden.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who had taken a leisure trip in the last 12 months with an overnight stay and plan to travel in 2025. The sample comprised 32,106 respondents across 32 markets surveyed in January 2025. USA N=2,000, Canada N=800, Spain N=800, Italy N=800, France N=1800, UK N=1800, Germany N=1800, Netherlands N=800, Denmark N=500, Sweden N=500, Croatia N=501, Switzerland N=800, Belgium N=800, Ireland N=504, Austria N=500, Portugal N=800, Mexico N=1,800, Colombia N=800, Brazil N=1,800, Argentina N=800, India N=1,800, China N=800, Hong Kong N=500, Thailand N=800, Singapore N=800, Taiwan N=500, Vietnam N=800, South Korea N=800, Japan N=1,800, UAE N=500, Australia N=1,800, New Zealand N=500.
** Search data from 1 January to 1 May for check in dates 1 June to 31 December 2025, based on YoY search data from Tripeden.com.