Sharing adventures with friends is one of the most rewarding experiences in life. The inside jokes, shared adventures, and unforgettable memories all come together when you choose the right destination. Whether you’re seeking thrilling nightlife, beautiful beaches, cultural exploration, or budget-friendly escapes, the world is full of opportunities for the best places for holidays with friends.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the top holiday destinations with friends, give tips on budgeting and timing, and reveal the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for your next getaway. So, gather your crew, pack your bags, and get ready to explore these best places for a friends trip that promise fun, laughter, and stories to last a lifetime.
Why Friends Holidays Are Unforgettable
A trip with friends is about more than sightseeing. It’s about connection. Unlike solo travel, exploring with your best buddies allows you to share costs, experiences, and priceless memories. From cheap holidays to go with friends to luxury getaways, the journey is always special when shared.
Here’s why planning a best friends holiday is always worth it:
- Shared expenses make even exotic trips affordable
- Group energy adds excitement to every activity
- Different personalities bring new perspectives
- Adventures are more fun with laughter and camaraderie
- You’ll return home with stories you’ll never forget
With so many places to go with friends on holiday, the key is finding one that matches your group’s vibe.
1. Bali, Indonesia – Exotic Adventures & Relaxation
Bali is one of the most popular places to go abroad with friends, offering a mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and vibrant nightlife. From stunning rice terraces to vibrant beach parties, Bali offers experiences you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Affordable villas for group stays
- Nightlife in Seminyak & Kuta
- Surfing, hiking, and temple tours
- Instagram-worthy waterfalls
Best time to visit: April – October
Average Budget: $700 – $1,200 per person (excluding flights)
Bali stands out as one of the best places for a friend vacation, where you can split costs and still enjoy luxury. It’s also great for those looking for cheap holidays to go with friends without compromising on comfort.
2. Barcelona, Spain – Beaches, Culture & Parties
For groups that want beaches, history, and nightlife all in one place, Barcelona is among the top places to travel with friends. The mix of tapas, Gaudí’s art, and Mediterranean vibes makes it ideal for everyone.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Tapas hopping in Gothic Quarter
- Beach days at Barceloneta
- Clubs & rooftop bars
- Day trips to Costa Brava
Best time to visit: May – June, September – October
Average Budget: $900 – $1,500 per person for a week
Barcelona is one of the best trips with friends because it offers a balance of fun and culture. Whether you want a party weekend or a laid-back holiday, it fits all moods.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Canals & Nightlife
Amsterdam is a city where culture meets fun, making it one of the good places to travel with friends in Europe.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Canal cruises & bike rides
- Van Gogh Museum & Anne Frank House
- Cozy cafes & nightlife in Leidseplein
- Quirky shopping streets
Best time to visit: April – May, September – November
Average Budget: $1,000 – $1,600 per person for 7 days
This city is a dream for those searching for vacation spots for friends that are both scenic and exciting. With affordable hostels and activities, it’s also ideal for cheap holidays to go with friends.
4. Goa, India – Beaches & Budget-Friendly Fun
For travelers looking for holiday destinations with friends that don’t break the bank, Goa is unbeatable. Its beaches, parties, and affordable prices make it one of the best friends holidays destinations.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Stunning beaches & water sports
- Beach shacks & clubs
- Night markets & music festivals
- Relaxed vibe with budget stays
Best time to visit: November – February
Average Budget: $300 – $700 per person for a week
Goa is the ultimate choice for those seeking fun places to go with friends without spending a fortune.
5. Bangkok, Thailand – Nightlife & Street Food
Bangkok is a buzzing city that’s ideal for group travel destinations. Whether your crew loves temples, shopping, or nightlife, Bangkok has it all.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Temples & floating markets
- Street food & night bazaars
- Shopping at Chatuchak Market
- Legendary Khao San Road nightlife
Best time to visit: November – March
Average Budget: $500 – $1,000 per person for 5–6 days
It’s one of the best places to vacation with a friend who loves both culture and nightlife. Bangkok ensures your group trip is filled with food, fun, and excitement.
6. New York City, USA – Big City Energy
NYC is one of the most exciting best places for holidays with friends, offering endless activities for every type of traveler.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Times Square & Central Park
- Broadway shows & comedy nights
- Trendy food tours
- Shopping in SoHo & Fifth Avenue
Best time to visit: April – June, September – November
Average Budget: $1,500 – $2,500 per person for 5–7 days
From rooftop bars to sightseeing, New York is one of the best places for a friends trip that never disappoints.
7. Santorini, Greece – Beaches & Sunsets
Santorini is among the vacation spots for friends who love beauty and relaxation. Featuring iconic blue domes and stunning vistas, it’s the perfect destination for picture-perfect holidays.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Sunsets in Oia
- Catamaran cruises
- Black sand beaches
- Wine tours & luxury villas
Best time to visit: May – September
Average Budget: $1,200 – $2,000 per person for a week
It’s one of the best places for a friend vacation where relaxation meets style. For small groups, Santorini feels like a dream come true.
8. Dubai, UAE – Luxury & Adventure
Dubai blends luxury with adventure, making it one of the best group travel destinations. From desert safaris and dune bashing to exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa and shopping at the world-famous Dubai Mall, the city offers a perfect mix of excitement and glamour for friends.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Desert safaris & dune bashing
- Burj Khalifa & futuristic skyline
- Shopping festivals & souks
- Nightlife at beach clubs
Best time to visit: November – March
Average Budget: $1,000 – $2,000 per person for 5–6 days
Dubai is a glamorous option for those seeking the best trips with friends that include both fun and luxury. From iconic landmarks to must-see places in Dubai, the city promises an unforgettable travel experience.
9. Prague, Czech Republic – Fairytale Europe
Prague is one of the most affordable places to go abroad with friends, perfect for a European getaway.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Old Town Square charm
- Affordable nightlife & beer culture
- Charles Bridge & castles
- River cruises
Best time to visit: March – May, September – October
Average Budget: $700 – $1,200 per person for 6–7 days
Prague is among the fun places to go with friends if you’re looking for history, nightlife, and budget-friendly options.
10. Tokyo, Japan – Tech & Culture
Tokyo is a fascinating destination for places to go with friends on holiday who love tech, anime, and unique cultural experiences.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Anime & gaming in Akihabara
- Food tours with sushi & ramen
- Shibuya nightlife
- Temples & cherry blossoms
Best time to visit: March – May, October – November
Average Budget: $1,500 – $2,500 per person for a week
Tokyo is one of the top places to travel with friends who want culture, technology, and endless fun.
11. Phuket, Thailand – Island Vibes & Party Nights
Phuket is one of the most exciting places to go with friends on holiday, offering sandy beaches, affordable stays, and buzzing nightlife. It’s perfect for groups who want relaxation during the day and parties at night.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Patong Beach nightlife
- Island-hopping tours to Phi Phi Islands
- Snorkeling & water sports
- Thai food & affordable resorts
Best time to visit: November – April
Average Budget: $600 – $1,200 per person for a week
Phuket is also one of the cheap holidays to go with friends, giving you great value without missing out on fun.
12. Paris, France – Art, Romance & Group Fun
Though famous for romantic city, Paris is just as enchanting for a best friends holiday. Exploring its art, culture, and nightlife together makes it one of the best places for a friend vacation in Europe.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Eiffel Tower & Louvre Museum
- Seine River cruises
- Trendy cafes & bakeries
- Nightlife in Montmartre & Latin Quarter
Best time to visit: April – June, September – October
Average Budget: $1,200 – $2,000 per person for 5–6 days
Paris combines iconic landmarks with vibrant culture, making it one of the vacation spots for friends you’ll never forget.
13. Istanbul, Turkey – Culture & Adventurey
Istanbul bridges Europe and Asia, making it one of the top places to travel with friends. The city’s mix of history, shopping, and nightlife gives every group something to enjoy.
Why it’s perfect for friends:
- Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
- Grand Bazaar shopping
- Bosphorus cruises
- Street food & rooftop cafes
Best time to visit: March – May, September – November
Average Budget: $800 – $1,500 per person for a week
Istanbul is one of the most diverse group travel destinations, where history, culture, and fun blend perfectly.
Quick Guide: Best Places for Holidays with Friends
| Destination | Location | Best Time to Visit | Average Budget (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bali | Indonesia, Southeast Asia | April – October | $700 – $1,200 |
| Barcelona | Catalonia, Spain, Europe | May – June, Sept – Oct | $900 – $1,500 |
| Amsterdam | North Holland, Netherlands, Europe | April – May, Sept – Nov | $1,000 – $1,600 |
| Goa | Western India, Asia | Nov – Feb | $300 – $700 |
| Bangkok | Central Thailand, Asia | Nov – March | $500 – $1,000 |
| New York City | USA, North America | April – June, Sept – Nov | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Santorini | Cyclades Islands, Greece, Europe | May – Sept | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Dubai | United Arab Emirates, Middle East | Nov – March | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Prague | Czech Republic, Europe | March – May, Sept – Oct | $700 – $1,200 |
| Tokyo | Honshu Island, Japan, Asia | March – May, Oct – Nov | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Phuket | Southern Thailand, Asia | Nov – April | $600 – $1,200 |
| Paris | Île-de-France, France, Europe | April – June, Sept – Oct | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Istanbul | Northwestern Turkey, Europe/Asia | March – May, Sept – Nov | $800 – $1,500 |
Tips for the Perfect Friends Trip
- Agree on a Budget before booking
- Choose Activities for Everyone to keep balance
- Book Group Stays like villas or hostels
- Keep Flexible Plans so each friend enjoys their style of travel
- Use Apps to Split Costs for hassle-free budgeting
Final Thoughts
No matter your style—luxury or budget—the world offers endless best places for holidays with friends. From beaches in Bali and Goa to big cities like New York and Tokyo, every trip becomes special when shared with your best buddies.
Whether you’re planning cheap holidays to go with friends, looking for the best places to vacation with a friend, or aiming for unforgettable best friends holidays, the destinations above promise fun, bonding, and lifelong memories.
So, gather your crew, pick one of these places to go abroad with friends, and get ready for a journey filled with laughter, adventures, and unforgettable moments.
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