mediterranean girls' trip

Italy Girls Trip Destinations: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Getaways for Every Friend Group

Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Michela

You’ve narrowed down your ideas for a girls trip and Italy is calling out to you! Now the big question is, where do you and your besties go for the best time? Thankfully, I’ve traveled up and down the peninsula to tell you the perfect places to host a girls trip that has the vibe you’re going for. Discover the ultimate Italy girls trip destinations and plan your ideal getaway with ease using my top tips and location guide!

The beauty of Italy is in its variety of landscapes and blended cultures from the North to the South.

You can be skiing in the Alps one day and dipping your toes in Mediterranean waters on the Amalfi Coast the next!

It’s the perfect place to plan a girls trip because it can cater to so many different groups of girlfriends.

Jump over to my Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Italy and read over my favorite Italy Train Travel Tips when considering your transportation.

And make sure you’ve packed everything for your getaway! This cute and helpful Italy packing list is a fun way for you & your girlfriends to get excited about your trip!

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The Best Italy Girls Trip Destinations

Wellness & Outdoors: The Dolomites

If you’re after the most relaxing, energy-renewing retreat for you and your girlfriends, the Dolomites are where you need to be. One breath of the alpine air is an instant refresh and the beauty of the outdoors is oh-so-good for the soul.

Where to Stay

The Dolomites offer lodging from small mountain-top cottages for hikers to the most luxurious five-star ski and wellness resorts in the world. Your budget and your priorities will help narrow down which is perfect for you.

I have a complete guide on where to stay in the Dolomites , but here are some of my top suggestions.

For hikers, consider Rifugio Auronzo near Tre Cime di Lavaredo, famous peaks to hike any time of year. For wellness lovers, consider something more luxurious like Hotel Hubertus or the new Forestis Dolomites that place emphasis on their spas and relaxation.

Girls who want to enjoy the outdoors but also take time to kick back and relax, consider resorts like Hotel Scherer that are mid-range in price, offer amenities and meals inclusive, plus dedicated relaxation space like a sauna and swimming pool.

The Dolomites are full of stunning locations, perfect for your next Instagram pic or to make use of that polaroid you got for Christmas years ago and capture memories with your friends.

The most adventurous of your girlfriends can enjoy skiing, hiking, and adventure sports in the area (Cortina D’Ampezzo is a famous town for its ski resorts.) The laidback nature-lovers will enjoy lake strolls and tiny alpine towns like Val di Funes, Bressanone , or San Candido.

Read my other posts to get more details on what to do in the Dolomites if this sounds like the perfect spot for you and your girlfriends to get away:

• 3-Day Dolomites Itinerary: How to Explore Trentino-Alto Adige
• The Best Tips for Visiting Lago di Braies
• How to Visti Val di Funes

Dreamy & Picturesque: Venice

If you girls are dying to tick the boxes of must-see Italy, then you have to go to Venice. Not only do you have endless options for your next Instagram post , but you’ll also be experiencing one of the most unique cities in the world. While Venice’s fate is in slippery hands, the liveliness and beauty of this geographical labyrinth of a city is more apparent than ever.

The islands of Venice are fit very tightly, so a large group of girls may struggle to find an Airbnb or apartment large enough for the whole group to stay in. It may be better to opt for a hotel or stay on one of the outer islands, like Giudecca, to have more space for yourself.

It will also favor your budget to stay outside the center of San Marco, which is walking distance from any of the other nearby neighborhoods like Dorsoduro or Cannareggio.

Besides your cliché (but worthy) gondola ride, Venice has much more to offer underneath its surface attractions. I have an entire post dedicated to unique things to do in Venice that will spice up any future girl’s trip.

Some of my favorites from that list are a rooftop terrace , visiting the outer islands of Burano and Murano, and the royal gardens.

Rustic Charm & Wine Indulgence: Tuscany & Umbria

Girlfriends looking for a relaxing retreat but are not the mountain types should skip the Dolomites and head to the idyllic region of Tuscany. Almost every hillside town comes with picturesque views of the seemingly never-ending valleys. To top that, everyone knows Tuscany is world-famous in wine-making, so cheers to this being one of the best Italy girls trip destinations.

Nearby, the region of Umbria echoes some of Tuscany’s beauty with its peaceful hills and charming villas. Make it your countryside escape and enjoy the quiet luxury.

Choosing where to stay in Tuscany and Umbria can be overwhelming – we are talking about two entire regions after all. However, it’s overwhelming more so because of all the incredible retreats and agriturismo stays on offer. The babes that vacation here are looking to live the slow life and enjoy a relaxing, quiet escape.

Agriturismo is what Italians call farm stays. They are charming locales where you can experience local life and an authentic take on Italian culture. (Don’t worry, you won’t actually be working on the farm.) Some are more expensive than others, but if split between your girlfriends, you can even get away with the pricier agriturismo like stunning Villa Cozzano.

If you are all seeking a bit more refinement, luxe villas are on offer in the countryside. You may have seen their photos popping up on Instagram, but these villas offer quiet luxury and are refreshing for the soul. Villa Chiara is one of these stunning luxury stays and comes with a smaller price tag than you may assume.

Creating a litany of things to do in these regions seems hypocritical, as the entire atmosphere begs you to relish in its natural beauty and peacefulness.

But for those who can’t sit still, even on a relaxing retreat, there is plenty to see and explore. From any part of the regions, you are not far from Florence, so a day trip there is a must. In the same breath, you are also near countless gorgeous hillside towns with ancient Etruscan history to appreciate, like Pienza, Lucca , and Siena .

If you’re making Florence your home base, discover my guide to 2 days in Florence and the best Tuscan towns to visit as a day trip .

Being one of the most famous regions of Italian wine, visiting a vineyard is a must. I’ve personally visited Castello di Verrazzano , however, these fattorie are almost everywhere you turn.

Fast-Paced La Dolce Vita: Rome

I can’t skip Rome if I’m talking about Italy girls trip destinations. The city has been immortalized in countless classic and romantic movies, marking it a city where you and all of your girlfriends can live out your own “la dolce vita.”

Rome can be the most flexible city of all to stay in. Because it is the largest, there are infinite options. Some neighborhoods are nicer than others, but you can be picky if your budget allows.

If you’re opting for an apartment rental or mid-range hotel, opt for the historic and charming neighborhood of Trastevere. It is a favorite of visitors and locals alike.

Rome is the grandest city in all of Italy. There are many areas to explore from the eclectic neighborhood of Trastevere to the centuries-old Vatican City. Must-dos on my list are the traditional tourist boxes to tick – the Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps.

From there, I suggest roaming the center freely and diving into the heart of Italy!

Beach Babes: Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is no doubt on everyone’s bucket list. Picturesque villages delicately stack their houses atop grand, imposing cliffs looking over the endless Mediterranean sea.

How beautiful does that sound? It’s the ultimate Italy girls trip for those who love the beach and want to live in a bit of luxury.

If you are planning a getaway to Italy in summer , the Amalfi Coast is the place to go!

I mention luxury, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to stay on the Amalfi Coast.

Discover nearby towns and have an incredible experience taking a boat to the famous towns of Positano and Amalfi. Villaggio Nettuno’s colorful bungalows are hugged by mountains overlooking a sea inlet marina, and come with a much cheaper price tag than stays in the famous cities.

But if you’re thinking of going all-out on luxury for this trip of a lifetime, I don’t blame you. The coast is littered with five-star resorts with incredible views. Consider Caruso, A Belmond Hotel in Ravello , Hotel Covo dei Saraceni in Positano or Santa Caterina Hotel in Amalfi . These are high-end and promise stunning views and upscale services.

If you’re skipping resorts and want a more private stay, villas like this Conca dei Marini in Amalfi are truly incredible (and sleeps up to 12!)

For middle-ground budget stays, I would suggest searching Airbnbs. You’re more likely to find a space with a nice view or great location for much less money than a stay at one of those premier resorts.

There are so many things to do at this Italy girls trip destination that within itself can appeal to so many different types of friends.

Some cool examples of what you could (and must!) do on the Amalfi Coast are:

• Swim on the Beach in Positano – Rent beach chairs so you can avoid the small and crowded public beach!
• Visit the Blue Grotto & Island of Capri
• Boat to the Islands of Ischia and Procida
• Taste famous Amalfi Lemons & Shop in the Amalfi town center
• Party at Africana – A famous club made from a cave in the town of Praiano

Island Life: Sicily

When you’re beginning to think of potential Italy girls trip destinations for you and your gals, I’m sure Sicily doesn’t come to the top of your mind. That’s because to foreigners, it’s not the most famous or attractive place to see in Italy. Or, so you thought.

The reality is, Europeans from all over the continent flock to this southern gem for summer break. The island is homely and peaceful while offering some of the most stunning beaches and coves in the Med.

Discover more reasons to visit Sicily in my in-depth guide.

Sicily is small enough of an island that you can tour around the whole thing in less than a week. Where you stay will depend most on what you want to see. For me, Sicily’s highlights are its beaches, small towns, and geographical wonder, Mt. Etna.

Ideal vacation spots are Taormina, tucked in the shadow of Mt. Etna and perched upon the striking blue water of the Med. On the west side of the island, Trapani is an attractive city that’s not far from Palermo if you’re seeking a cultural day trip and desire to be right on the beautiful water.

To the north, Cefalu is my favorite seaside town to explore – narrow pathways below the cliffs lead to grand vistas of the sea. To the south, characteristic towns like Noto and Siracusa are idyllic and, again, not far from the sea.

Besides the beach, Sicily has some of the most interesting spots to see due to its significant location throughout history.

Sicily is an island of conquest – it has passed through the hands of many territorial groups and has been under the thumb of several foreign reigns. From the Normans to the Muslims to the Greek, this is reflected in much of its blended architecture.

Agrigento is notable for the Valle Dei Templi, the best-preserved site of ancient Greek Temples. It is also near to La Scala Dei Turchi or “Stair of the Turks,” a natural wonder of cascading sedimentary rock symbolizing the encroachment of the Turks entering the island from its southern coast centuries ago.

Check out my pocket guide to visiting La Scala dei Turchi if those dreamy white cliffs are calling out to you!

As I mentioned, Mt. Etna is also a significant site in Sicily as it’s the highest volcano in Europe and one of the world’s most active. You can hike the volcano for a truly unique experience.

The SGTD Take

In the end, you can’t go wrong by picking any of these Italy girls trip destinations over the other. If you have the budget and time, you can even pick and choose a few!

It’s what makes Italy a great country for a girls trip – the transportation and geographical diversity allows you to see so much and can be customized to your group of friends’ individual desires of the perfect getaway.

Italy Trip Planning Resources

• Accommodation : For Italy, I mainly use Booking.com to search and book places to stay.
• Booking flights : I like to search for flights through Skyscanner , but I also book direct depending on the airline.
• Activities & experiences : For things to do that require a ticket, and for more unique trip activities, I use Musement .
• Road trip : For renting a car, I get the best prices by comparing companies with AutoEurope . I then use ViaMichelin to estimate road trip costs and Autostrade.it to find gas stations/have live updates on traffic.
• Transportation : Traveling by public transportation is a great way to see Italy. I use Trenitalia or Trainline to book tickets for trains and Flixbus for long-haul bus trips.
• Accessories : I always travel with this portable charger to stay connected and with a universal adapter to accommodate Italy’s plug types.
• Need help planning an itinerary? Fill out my form for a custom itinerary request !

Share these Italy girls trip ideas on Pinterest!

A girls trip is a bucket list item – why not cross two off by doing it in dreamy Italy? Don’t wait any longer and get your girls together to start planning!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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27 of the Best Girls’ Trip Destinations in Europe

From big beautiful cities to scenic regions worth exploring by car to dreamy islands, this list will introduce you to some of the best girls’ trip destinations in Europe.

Whether you love brunches and shopping, relaxing on a serene beach, partying all night, or adventurous activities, Europe has got you covered with more than enough places to visit with your friends.

Here are the top ones selected by myself and fellow travel bloggers.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Best Girls’ Trip Destinations in Europe: City Breaks

Paris, france.

By Sarah from CosmopoliClan

The French capital may be known as the city of romance, but did you know that Paris makes for an excellent girls’ trip destination too?

It’s where old-fashioned bakeries produce the most sumptuous croissants, where the elegant boulevards are lined with exclusive boutiques, where the list of captivating museums is pretty much endless, and where summer nights are spent at one of the trendy rooftop bars.

In between visits to the artistic hubs and department stores, unwind at one of the enchanting parks with a glass of wine and a box of macarons.

Spend your night out in one of the restaurants with Eiffel Tower views or take a stroll or cruise along the Seine. If you want to take day trips, it’s also quite convenient to travel through France by bus or train.

When it comes to finding a  fabulous place to stay in Paris , you’ll find yourself spoilt with choice.

Prague, Czech Republic

By Baia from Red Fedora Diary

The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, is a fantastic girls’ trip destination in Europe. With its impeccable cultural and historical landmarks, amazing nightlife, and lots of fun things to do, you won’t feel bored here.

To start your trip, take a  self-guided walking tour of Prague  to see the iconic and most famous sights within a day so that you leave the rest of your time for other things to do.

Prague has a wide variety of restaurants to dine at, whether you are looking for a luxury experience, the one with the view, or a simple traditional Czech restaurant.

Hire a limo to pick you up after dinner to drive you around for an hour. You can order drinks with the company or bring your own. The limo will have a few stops, one at the riverside and one at the Prague Castle – both ideal during the sunset.

On warmer days, you can also opt for a river cruise along the Vltava to admire the gorgeous architecture of Prague from a different angle.

And the great nightlife of Prague, with a wide variety of bars and clubs to dance to till the dawn, will make your girls’ trip to Prague quite memorable.

Barcelona, Spain

In a city like Barcelona, Spain , which offers hundreds of things to do and see, anyone can find something to enjoy.

From quirky Gaudi buildings, medieval architecture, and historic districts to beaches, nightlife, and amazing places to eat, you need a never-ending trip to experience this city to the fullest.

On a girls’ trip to Barcelona, your itinerary should include a bit of everything.

You can visit Gaudi’s most beautiful creations like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, wander through the charming Gothic Quarter, and take the funicular to the Montjuïc Castle.

In addition, make time to do some shopping, relax on Barceloneta Beach, take a stroll in the Parc de la Ciutadella, unwind at the city’s cozy cafes, go on a tapas crawl, and discover Barcelona’s hidden gems .

By Cristina from My Little World of Travelling

If you are looking for a fun trip with your girlfriends, you will love London.

The British capital has plenty of activities to do – from  having brunch at one of the instagrammable cafes  to visiting London’s main attractions like Big Ben and the London Eye.

No matter what type of traveler you are, there is something for you in the city. In addition to this, London hosts many big events, theatre shows, and concerts all year round, so it’s worth checking out the event calendar before you go.

Another thing that makes London a great destination is that it changes with the season.

If it’s spring, you will see how cafes and bars set floral displays, and if it’s late November, you will enjoy the beautiful Christmas Lights. Every season has something to offer.

Regardless of the activities you and your friends plan to do, make sure you book attractions and accommodations in advance to avoid any disappointments.

Turin, Italy

If you are looking for non touristy girls’ city break destinations, you have to visit Turin. Steeped in history, it was the capital city of several kingdoms ruled by the House of Savoy.

You’ll find five of the monarchs’ UNESCO-listed royal residences in the city itself, and the others are scattered in the region of Piedmont and are reachable by public transport.

From the famous Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) to the stunning Villa della Regina, it’s pretty impossible not to enjoy visiting photogenic palaces dating back to the 16th-18th centuries.

That said, there’s a lot more to do in Turin on a girls’ trip. You can roam the historic center (packed with beautiful streets and Italian piazzas ), discover the city’s markets, and take in the views at scenic lookout points.

You can also indulge in a cup of a local coffee-chocolate drink (called Bicerin) at fabulous historic cafes , stuff your face with northern Italian food, immerse yourself in the  aperitivo  tradition, visit the city’s best chocolate shops , and enjoy Turin’s nightlife scene.

All of these fun activities prove that Turin is one of the best places in Italy for a girls’ weekend getaway.

• Reasons to visit Turin
• Long weekend in Turin
• Turin travel tips
• Where to stay in Turin
• Things to do in Turin in winter
• Hidden gems in Turin
• Milan or Turin

By Nikki from Best Things to Do in York

York, England, is a fantastic destination for a girls’ trip. To start with, although York is a city, it’s actually quite small and very easy to get around the city center by walking. It’s a friendly place and feels very safe.

There are lots of places of cultural and historic importance in York, such as York Minster – one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals. You could also visit the Jorvik Viking Centre or take a walk around the city’s Medieval walls.

If fun is more your thing, then York caters to you too. Why not try ax throwing, cocktail making, a sunset cruise, a ghost walk, or a bottomless brunch during your trip? Make sure you also visit the world-famous Betty’s Tea Rooms for a Yorkshire Fat Rascal.

Warsaw, Poland

Poland might not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking of the best girls’ trip in Europe, but its capital, Warsaw, is a lot more modern and inviting than people think. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, so it’s definitely worth visiting .

Sure, it’s also a place that preserves its history, and there are more than enough ways to learn about WWII and the communist era, but Warsaw has so much more to offer (including many budget-friendly activities ).

You can stroll through the colorful, fairytale-like Old Town, explore the city’s beautiful parks, have breakfast at cozy cafes, and admire Polish landmarks like the magnificent Wilanow Palace, Royal Castle, and Krasiński Palace.

Head to the unusual Praga district if you love urban art, concept shops, unique museums (like the Neon Museum and Vodka Museum), and quirky bars.

Warsaw is also a fantastic shopping destination, as you can find internationally famous brands alongside affordable yet stylish local brands.

End your day at the unique complex of Pawilony, a group of small pavilions housing the coolest drinking joints.

Budapest, Hungary

I have heard it time and time again and have witnessed it with my own eyes, so as cliche as it may sound, Budapest really is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Preserving its history while embracing modernity, Hungary ‘s capital is well worth a visit .

It’s also one of the best European cities for a girls’ trip because it offers plenty of fun things to do, yet it’s a budget-friendly destination, so you can enjoy it without breaking the bank.

Start by visiting its most famous landmarks (which are also jaw-dropping photo spots) like the Fisherman’s Bastion, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and the fairytale-like Vajdahunyad Castle.

Next, explore the Jewish Quarter, home to countless breakfast and brunch places , colorful murals, and of course, Budapest’s infamous ruin bars – neglected buildings turned into the coolest bars and pubs.

You can also include some hidden gems on your Budapest itinerary , like the Museum of Sweets & Selfies.

Last but not least, you have to unwind at one or more of the city’s internationally famous thermal baths, including Szechenyi Baths, Gellert Baths, and Lukács Baths.

Lyon, France

By Leyla from Offbeat France

There’s a city in France that seems designed specifically for visitors who love food, silk, art, cobbled streets, and  larger-than-life murals  that look so real you may have to blink to make sure they’re actually paintings – and you can see it all in a weekend.

That city is Lyon, France, and there’s so much to do here that it is hard to know where to begin.

Lyon is known as France’s gastronomic capital, so going out for a meal is a real treat – from the local traditional bouchon restaurants to the magnificent Bocuse indoor market to the city’s starred Michelin eateries, perfect for a splurge.

The city sits at the confluence of two rivers, hence the name of its newest museum, Confluence, which tries to understand and explain nothing less than… humanity.

Lyon was once the silk capital of Europe, and while most of the workshops are gone, you can still see silk being woven, visit a silk museum and workshop, and buy silk scarves in one of the many shops around the city.

Take a ride up the funicular to the basilica that towers above the city and admire the panorama below. And when dusk falls, head to one of the innumerable cafés in the Old Town for an aperitif before going out on the town.

Vienna, Austria

Austria ‘s elegant capital is often described as a city for history and culture buffs due to the number of museums and historical landmarks you’ll find here, but it can also be a destination for a light, fun girls’ trip to Europe.

Start by roaming Vienna’s lively city center, and be sure to visit its regal historic coffeehouses like Demel and Cafe Central. Along with your cup of exquisite Viennese coffee, have some apple strudel or scrumptious Austrian cakes.

Your Vienna itinerary should also include at least one picture-perfect palace, so explore the 18th-century complexes of the Schönbrunn Palace or the Belvedere Palace and their stunning gardens.

If you’re visiting Vienna in winter , you’ll fall in love with its Christmas markets and magically decorated streets.

From April to October, you can ride the Vienna Heurigen Express, which will take you to the city’s vineyards and wineries (surprising, right?).

You can also wander through the lovely Spittelberg Quarter, enjoy the historic Prater amusement park, visit the Butterfly House, and unwind at the dreamy Stadtpark (City Park).

For a winter trip, here are the best areas to stay in Vienna for Christmas markets .

Lisbon, Portugal

Perfectly combining its traditional and modern sides, Lisbon is an easy-to-love laid-back yet vibrant Portuguese city .

Thanks to a wide range of attractions and activities , you can have an incredible girls’ weekend in Europe’s westernmost mainland capital.

Some of Lisbon’s must-visit districts include Belem, Alfama, and Baixa. Alongside historical landmarks like the São Jorge Castle and Belem Tower, you’ll find cobbled streets, shops, cozy cafes, colorful murals, Fado venues, and scenic viewpoints.

Your Lisbon itinerary can also include points of interest like Parque Eduardo VII, the quirky leisure complex of the LxFactory, the indoor Time Out Market, and the popular sunset spot, Cais das Colunas.

You can also take a boat tour on the Tagus River, soak up the sun on nearby beaches, or book day trips to dreamy places like Sintra, Obidos, and Arrábida Natural Park.

Related post: What to pack for Lisbon .

Madrid, Spain

The vibrant Spanish capital is an incredible European girls’ trip destination.

With its lovely neighborhoods, historical landmarks , enchanting parks and gardens, world-class culinary scene, and buzzing nightlife, it’s impossible to get bored in this city.

Every neighborhood in Madrid offers shopping opportunities, cozy breakfast and brunch places , trendy rooftop bars, and picturesque green spaces, but each has its unique vibe.

Go to Los Austrias (the city’s oldest district) to see some of Spain’s top landmarks like the Royal Palace, devour lots of tapas and sip some wine at La Latina, wander through the bohemian-hipster Malasaña, and absorb the literary charm of Barrio de las Letras.

You should also stroll through the gorgeous Retiro Park, walk along Gran Via street, shop at El Rastro market, and visit the insta-worthy Sweet Space Museum (though this is just the tip of the iceberg).

Fun day trips from Madrid include Segovia, Toledo, Aranjuez, or even the off-the-beaten-path Sierra de Guadarrama National Park.

• Hidden gems in Madrid
• Fun facts about Madrid
• Madrid packing list
• Free museums in Madrid
• 2 days in Madrid
• 4 days in Madrid
• Madrid travel tips
• Walking tours in Madrid
• Is Madrid worth visiting
• Long weekend getaways in Spain

Other Girls’ Trip Ideas in Europe

By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Ireland is home to incredibly beautiful nature that encompasses rolling hills of green dotted with fluffy sheep. Add in friendly locals and a charming personality, and Ireland is an amazing girls’ trip destination in Europe.

One of the best ways to see the country is by road trip.  Driving in Ireland , whether it’s through the countryside or in the cities, with your friends, is an idyllic way to spend a vacation.

The larger cities of Dublin and Galway provide nonstop entertainment for any traveler, whether it’s the history in Dublin Castle or Lynch’s Castle, the live music radiating from pubs on every corner, or the locally sourced food at most restaurants.

The countryside and smaller towns of Kinsale, Adare, and Dingle provide an intimate look to the people of Ireland with colorful houses and small shops.

The coastline of Ireland is home to breathtaking views from every angle, from the Cliffs of Moher on the west coast to the Slieve League mountains in the north and Tramore Beach in the south.

No matter where you end up on your Ireland road trip, you’ll be glad you spent some time exploring the Emerald Isle.

Read more: Best non touristy pubs in Dublin .

Alsace, France

If wine and fairytale villages are more up your alley, the Alsace Wine Route in northeastern France will surely win you over.

From sprawling vineyards and mountainous scenery to rainbow-colored half-timbered houses and intriguing German-influenced culture, France’s oldest wine route has it all.

The stunning town of Colmar is a great base for your Alsace itinerary , as you can take day trips to places like the city of Strasbourg, Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, and photogenic villages such as Eguisheim, Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, and Ribeauville.

You’ll find dozens of wineries in and around these villages, so wine tasting is another must-have experience in the region. If you’re in for something more active, there are plenty of hiking and cycling routes in the area.

While the scenery is incredibly beautiful in spring and early summer, Alsace is also a popular winter destination thanks to the famous Christmas markets of Strasbourg, Colmar, and the surrounding villages.

Hvar Island, Croatia

By Martina from PlacesofJuma

Hvar Island  is a truly fabulous place for an unforgettable girls’ trip!

Thanks to its beauty, stunning beaches, and plenty of party options, Hvar is often dubbed the St. Tropez of Croatia. Thus, perfect for vacationing with your girls, going out, and enjoying life. 

Unique is the romantic old town of Hvar, with its many alleys and grandiose bars. There are also great hotels, like the Adriana Spa Hotel in an ideal location directly at the harbor.

For you and your friends, there is a wide range of activities on the island of Hvar! Really beautiful and unique are the beaches, so you can spend wonderful days by the sea from May to October.

You can also visit one of the many cool beach clubs near the old town, where you can have drinks and relax.

In the evening, it’s best to go to the center, where you’ll find fabulous nightlife with top restaurants and clubs for dancing all night long.

Another fun activity is wine tasting with the girls because the many wineries on the island are among the best in Croatia.

Ibiza, Spain

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

If you’re looking for a fun destination for a girls’ trip, you can’t get better than Ibiza!

This Balearic Island has so much to offer, including a stunning coastline, bohemian bars, fun outdoor markets, and exciting nightlife.

You can spend your days soaking up the sun on the island’s famous beaches, taking a sailing tour to nearby Formentera, or partaking in water sports; and your nights dancing to the world’s best DJs.

Or, if the party scene isn’t your style, choose to stay in one of the quieter towns and villages where you’ll appreciate the more laid-back island life that’s ideal for rest & relaxation.

Some of the  best places to stay in Ibiza  combine the best of both worlds.

Sant Antoni de Portmany has a vibrant restaurant and bar scene, as well as plenty of daily excursions available, yet it’s also close to some of the loveliest small quiet coves, such as Cala Gracioneta, with its funky beach bar serving up some of the freshest flavors in Ibiza!

Aeolian Islands, Italy

By Kate from Adventurous Kate

If you like your girls’ trip with a side of adventure, beaches, boat trips, and dolce vita, why not head to the most spectacular islands in Sicily?

The  Aeolian Islands  are a volcanic archipelago off the northeast coast of Sicily and a delicious feast for the eyes. These islands are a brilliant place to enjoy summer Italian sunshine with your girlfriends.

Spend your days lounging on black sand beaches, exploring remote Alicudi and Filicudi by boat, motorbiking around the villages of Salina, shopping and dining in Lipari, or simply sitting at a cafe on a piazza with a glass of Malvasia wine.

For an only-in-the-Aeolians experience and a rewarding challenge, hike the volcano on Stromboli, which continuously spews red-hot lava during the night.

Is hiking not your thing? Enjoy the lava view from the volcano-side Osservatorio Restaurant or an evening cruise!

While many travelers visit the Aeolian Islands for a few days as a coda to a Sicily trip, you’ll have an even better time if you stay for a week.

There’s so much to do here! Spend most of your days on the green island of Salina, but plan two nights in Stromboli to enjoy the lava to the fullest.

Cornwall, UK

By Lowri from Many Other Roads

Europe is filled with many cities, islands, and countries that are great destinations for a trip with your friends. But with its blue waters, unique places to eat, and stunning fishing towns, there is no place like Cornwall , UK. 

Cornwall is in the South West of England, famous for its incredible beaches, and there are so many reasons why it is one of the best destinations for a girls’ trip in Europe.

Not only is it a safe, welcoming area, but there is so much to do here. For the ultimate girls’ trip to Cornwall, these are a few things you should do:

• Explore the bespoke shops surrounding Padstow Harbour.
• Have your favorite tipple after strolling the cobbled streets at Port Isaac.
• Check out the art scene and the endless spots to grab lunch in St Ives.
• Visit the most unique theatre on the cliffs – The Minack Theatre.

With its welcoming locals, sea views, and rustic countryside, Cornwall really has something for everyone.

If you are looking for girls’ trip destinations in Europe that you will never want to leave, add Cornwall to your bucket list and check out this comprehensive Cornwall travel guide .

Ayia Napa, Cyprus

By Paulina from ukeveryday

There is no better girls’ trip destination than Cyprus, which is known as the birthplace of Aphrodite.

The island is full of wonderful tales about the Greek goddess of love and beauty. Beautiful scenery, crystal clear water, and incredible legends will make you fall in love with Cyprus.

Ayia Napa is, in particular, one of the best places to visit on the island. On the southeast coast of Cyprus, you will find some of the most beautiful beaches.

Nissi Beach is an idyllic place with a beach bar and a small island – Ayia Napa Island. It is the perfect location for taking incredible photos or swimming in turquoise water.

There are many amazing  things to do in Cyprus  on a girls’ trip. Whether it’s exploring Ayia Napa Sea Caves or visiting Cape Greko, both locations offer picturesque views.

By Moumita & Sankha from Chasing the Long Road

Malta is a small island country in Europe, famous for stunning beaches, Mediterranean climate, historic attractions, and delicious regional delicacies. There are plenty of fun  things to do in Malta  on a girls’ trip.

Start your Maltese holiday with a visit to Valletta – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the capital city of Malta. Wander around the winding streets of this historic city to marvel at the lovely photogenic architecture. 

A visit to St John’s Co-Cathedral is a must in the city. Founded in the 16th century, the heavily ornated interior of the cathedral is one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Europe.

For a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Afterward, take a small traditional Maltese boat to reach the Three Cities across Valletta.

One of the main attractions of Malta is its gorgeous turquoise, sun-kissed sandy beaches.

Head towards the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island or the Golden Bay on the mainland – both are fantastic spots for taking a swim or simply soaking up the sun. The crystal clear water here is perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and other water-based sports.

Valletta’s city center is an excellent choice for a place to stay in Malta .

• 3 days in Malta
• Malta travel tips
• Reasons to visit Malta

Tenerife, Spain

By Alejandra from Tenerife-Is

The Canary Island of Tenerife  is the perfect place for a trip with girlfriends. The weather is excellent all year round, so you don’t have to worry about the best month to fly here.

Women need a vacation that will be a total reset. In Tenerife, you and your girlfriends can take a break from life and enjoy a trip that you will remember for a long time.

All girls love the beach and beach parties. Tenerife has miles of beautiful beaches with black and white sand that every girl will adore. For beach parties, head to Las Americas.

Also, is there anyone who doesn’t love shopping? In Tenerife, you and your girlfriends can get a lot of good experiences while shopping.

You can try on new looks, dramatically change the closet, or assemble a fashionable ensemble in the local stores with Spanish brands.

And there’s good news for those who like to save money: VAT does not exist in Tenerife, which means you can buy all clothes, shoes, accessories, and other items for 20 percent less.

If you want a new cultural experience, visit La Laguna, Tenerife’s first historical and university town with luxurious 17th and 18th-century houses. You’ll see the Cathedral and La Concepción Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Then head to the capital city of Santa Cruz. There you can take a fascinating walk through the old town and visit the famous market – Señora de Africa.

By Shannon from Adventuring With Shannon

If you’re looking for one of the best girls’ trip destinations in Europe, then Iceland definitely needs to be on your list!

Iceland is nicknamed “The Land of Fire and Ice” because of its incredible volcanic landscapes and beautiful glaciers. Iceland’s scenery is like nothing else you have ever seen and makes for a beautiful location for any trip. 

Iceland has a lot to offer every type of traveler in your group. If you are adventurous, you can explore ice caves or kayak on a glacier lagoon. If you are a photographer, you can check out the beautiful and incredibly photogenic waterfalls.

If you like feeling like you are in a movie, you can ride Icelandic horses on the black sand beaches of Vik.

Finally, if you like the party scene, you can enjoy the nightlife in Reykjavik. Iceland truly has something to offer everyone, which makes it the ideal location for a girls’ trip. 

One of the most common things to do while visiting is to go on a  road trip around Iceland . This allows you to see all that the country has to offer. If you’re feeling adventurous and looking for a unique experience, you might want to look into these campervan rentals in Iceland .

However, if you are on a girls’ weekend getaway and only have time for a few things, make sure to check out the famous Blue Lagoon, which is located very close to the airport! Iceland is a beautiful location for you and your friends to enjoy together.

By Iris Veldwijk from Mind of a Hitchhiker

Out of all the Mediterranean countries in Europe,  Albania is most often overlooked . Not only does it have everything from beaches to mountains, city life to history – it’s also incredibly cheap.

If you don’t want to fight about the trip’s expenses and do a variety of activities to make everyone happy, Albania is an excellent choice.

The capital, Tirana , is a good place to start. Here you can ease into the unique Albanian culture and start calmly by drinking lots of coffee.

If you’re able, make sure to climb the steep slopes of the Pyramid of Tirana – a vestige of communist times.

For history, head to Dürres to visit the Roman amphitheater. If you prefer Greek, head to Orikum. Along the coastal road further south, you’ll also find some of Albania’s best beaches.

Are none of you beach lovers? Then the best hiking can be done in the far north in the Valbona Valley.

If you can’t travel all the way there, the south also has beautiful natural areas around the Benjë hot springs, where you can enjoy a soak.

As you can see, in Albania, it’s possible to tailor a girls’ trip that makes everyone happy.

Algarve, Portugal

By Alya of The Algarve Family

The Algarve province in the south of Portugal is a great place for a girls’ trip. It is a good destination for a beach holiday combined with adventure activities and parties.

The area is famous for its stunning sandy beaches surrounded by rugged limestone cliffs. Surfing, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and diving are some of the most popular outdoor activities in Algarve .

Lagos is one of the best towns for a girls’ holiday in the Algarve. It is relatively small and easy to get around walking, using public buses or Uber.

There are many amazing beaches within the city like Praia do Porto de Mós,  Dona Ana Beach , and Praia do Camilo. The old town has many bars and restaurants with live music and a great holiday vibe.

The best time to visit the Algarve is between May and October when it’s warm and sunny every day. Note that July and August are the busiest months in the region.

It’s recommended to book accommodation and activities in advance. The best way to get to the Algarve is to fly to the International Airport in Faro. From there take a bus or a train to the chosen town.

Lugano, Switzerland

By Zoe from Together In Transit

For some laughter and fun for a girls’ trip destination, head to the beautiful location of Lugano in Switzerland.

Located in the Southern canton Ticino,  Lugano is the perfect place  to soak in some sun and have a good time with a group of girls!

As well as shopping in the car-free center, it’s the perfect place for enjoying the Mediterranean weather while walking along the promenade next to Lake Lugano. Here you can walk all the way along the water’s edge from the base of Monte San Salvatore to Monte Bre. 

Both of these mountains are also reachable by local funiculars to the top, providing stunning views of Lugano from above.

You can hike many routes around each mountain or back down to the bottom if you wish. Perfect for girly groups who love exploring outside! 

For more fun activities, the group can enjoy exploring the water with either a local boat tour of the area or to the next spot like Gandria. 

Gandria is the perfect place to try local restaurants and walk along the coast, away from the bigger tourist groups. You can also rent pedal boats from many locations, which is great fun!

Tip: Check the boat times in advance via Google Maps and their website. Depending on when you go, they are not so frequent in certain seasons, so you don’t want to miss them! 

Santorini, Greece

By Dymphe from Dym Abroad

One of the best girls’ holiday destinations in Europe is Santorini, Greece, a Mediterranean island that is part of the Cyclades island group. It is an extremely beautiful place, and you’ll find many photogenic places in Santorini .

What makes the island great for a girls’ trip is that there are a lot of different types of activities to do there. For example, there are great places for partying, sightseeing, shopping, and much more.

Going to Oia is one of the most fun things to do on the island. This is the most famous village, where you can find the iconic blue domes. Taking photos here is a must!

Another fun thing to do in Santorini on a girls’ trip is taking a boat tour in the island’s caldera, during which you get to enjoy amazing views.

Kotor, Montenegro

By Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

Kotor, Montenegro, is a fantastic destination in Europe for a girls’ trip. It is inexpensive and easy to reach with lots of amazing bars and restaurants on plazas fantastic for people viewing. Make sure you fly into Tivat airport for a short ride into town.

Kotor is also a very interesting and beautiful destination. It is a medieval coastal town located on the Bay of Kotor built between the 12th and 14th centuries. Kotor Old Town has a fortified wall completely surrounding it and is a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Inside the Old Town is a pedestrian-only zone filled with cobblestone paths, hotels, restaurants, and stores tucked around every corner.

Beyond the walls of Old Kotor, there are also lots of fun things to do. Book a speed boat with a captain for a half-day and  explore the Bay of Kotor and the Adriatic Sea .

You’ll visit beautiful little towns like Perast and discover hidden caves and beaches. Most allow you to bring your own drinks or stop off for cocktails wherever you want. 

Planning a ladies’ trip to Europe? Here are more travel tips:

• Best European spring destinations
• Best winter city breaks in Europe
• Beautiful European squares
• Virtual castle tours in Europe

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

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Luxury Properties and Destination Reviews

Italy Girls Getaway

Of all the European countries , Italy is by far the most fun and friendly to visit. There, I said it. Sorry France , Switzerland, even Ireland which is a brilliant island with delightful people and pubs at every corner. But nowhere do I feel more welcome than Italy – the people are beautiful, the food is legendary and lives up to its mangia reputation, and the wealth of sightseeing in this small country is extraordinary. In a word: bellisimo .

So for our girls’ getaway, a mother and daughter celebration in our case, Italy was the choice. For our itinerary, Florence is a must for museums and history, then Tuscany with a night in Siena for the classic countryside, Cinque Terre for the Italian Riviera to relax on our otherwise busy touring agenda, and finally Milano – the fashion capital since my daughter is a fashion designer textiles grad.

1.Florence – Must see on a Girls’ Trip to Florence:

Climb the Duomo when it opens at 8:30 am – ahead of the crowds. Its 463 stairs to this crown of Florence in bright sienna colored tile, for an amazing view of the city and the distant hills. On your trip up and down inside the circumference of the Dome, see Brunelleschi’s amazing (neck-straining) ceiling fresco as well.

De signer resale shop Street Doing on Via dei Servi 88 between the Duomo and the Academia is brimming with vintage Prada, Gucci and Pucci. This fun boutique is a fashionistas’ fantasy, clothing is sorted by occasion and era, with reasonable prices given the fabulous labels.

Tour the Gucci Museum located in Piazza Del Signoria – a $7 Euro ticket shows you the brilliance and beautiful people of Gucci through the ages. The Ferragamo Museum in the basement of the flagship store on Piazza Sant Trinitia  is not as good as Gucci so just go and browse the fabulous Ferragamo store.

Stroll the Ponte Vecchio , past the many jewelry shops. Imagine you are the Medici family who had a secret passage over the bridge. In those days the Ponte Vecchio bridge was full of fish markets – today’s gold watches and pendants are far less smelly.

Art lovers- ooh and ahh at the Uffizi – home to masterful Italian artists Giotto, da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio, and Titian. Botticelli’s “Birthplace of Venus” is the best, a beautiful ginger in a clam shell (but I am biased). Aside from the paintings, mostly Jesus & Mary, wandering this grand palace is worth the price of admission. Reserve your tickets in advance, and don’t miss the outdoor terrace bar for a cappuccino or vino at the end for great views.

Piazza della Signoria is great people watching, with grand statutes like Neptune on guard, near the Uffizi, but beware of pushy vendors.

The grand Pitti Palace , on the Oltrarno, is home to the beautiful Boboli Gardens outside, and the lavishly decorated Medici family home inside, plus a tasteful costume gallery that spans centuries. Your chance to see how the 1% lived and dressed in the Renaissance to today.

Splurge at Gelateria La Carraia on the Arno River near the namesake Ponte Alla Carraia, west of the Pont Santa Trinita and the Ponte Vecchio. Delicious gelato with a view! It is regarded as a top gelato shop in Firenze!

Shop at La Rinascenti, Italian Macy’s, and head for the 7th floor rooftop terrace for a cocktail – the views of the Duomo are fantastic.

Find the bronze pig in Pizza della Republica and rub his shiny snout for good luck while you are in the ‘hood.

Favorite places to Dine in Florence:

Apertivo at Open Bar Golden View is chic, and relatively cheap. Order a wine or cocktail of your choice, and you are treated to a spread of wonderful happy hour snacks from pizza to pasta and dessert. Florentines make a meal out of it – get a table with a view of the Arno River and Florence – fabulous!

Trattoria 4 Leoni’s in Oltrarno – try the pear ravioli or the spaghetti con vognole (clams). Mamma Mia, its delicious- ask for an outside table in the piazza.

Il Latini is a traditional trattoria on Via dei Palchetti. From the big jug of self-serve Vino Rosso on the table to the family that runs the place – its old school authentic. Go for lunch when its just locals, so authentic and less busy than dinner.

Piazza del Campo is the heart of Siena’s sienna -colored city of brick and tile and marble, see the Torre del Mangia – the Mangia Tower, and Santa Maria Church located in the beautiful center, with sloping brick panels.

Admire the Fonte Gaia (“Fountain of Joy” ) of 1419 here, where the annual Palio di Siena horse race is held in July. You can just imagine the chaos and commotion when 17 horses race around this city’s stone arena as they have annually for centuries.

Visit 1380 Sienna Cathedral and be sure to get a ticket that includes the rooftop archway tower for amazing views and photos.

Restaurant Guidoriccio is splendidly local with delicious Tuscany food – rabbit pappardelle for example.

Stay at Hotel Athena – a four star Siena hotel with a splendid rooftop terrace hwere you can rest your tired touring feet with a glass of wine, just watch out for the pigeons that want your apertivo snacks.

3. Pisa Stop  for a selfie of the Leaning Tower and Duomo in the Field of Miracles if you must… but don’t hang out (too many tourists and tacky vendors) and don’t bother spending the night. Pisa is rather industrial, and tourist trappy, nothing too scenic, and certainly not the best of Italy.

4. Cinque Terre 

Stay in Monterosso – the north western most of the 5 lands -hence the name Cinque Terre, on the Italian Riviera . Beachfront hotels and apartments in Monterosso are convenient to everything. The old town of Monterosso is more charming than the new beach town, they are connected by a pedestrian tunnel or a longer but scenic oceanfront path.

Hike to  Vernazza, Corneglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore – Cinque Terre’sother 4 towns , ride the train, or take a ferry boat that stops at each. The hiking in Cinque Terre is surprisingly aggressive – through the high hillsides and terraced olive groves. Bring good hiking or walking shoes for this sometimes steep slippery terrain.

Get on a ferry for a more scenic relaxing boat – $20Euro (more on weekends) for all the on and off stops you can manage in a day. The best way to see the coast is from the Sea!

Riomaggiore, stroll the Via Colombo to see the shops, sample local squid and sardines/anchovies served in paper cones, or sit at an outdoor cafe for espresso or vino.

Walk the Via dell’Amore – a path connecting Riomaggiore to the next town Manarola, this oceanfront walkway has a romantic history linking the two towns, lovers’ locks line the boardwalk. This Lovers Lane was closed during our visit, Cinque Terre is plagued with flooding and erosion due to the rough hilly terrain, so check ahead with Cinque Terre Park Service.

Vernazza is the next seaside town heading North West with a beautiful harbor. Here you can stroll the streets, visit the castle and church, and picture this pitoresque village flooded in mud in 2011.

Savor a super scenic castle meal – Ristorante Belforte sits high above the bay. Order the antipasti di mare – a seafood plate picked fresh from the sea, before getting the boat back to Monterosso.

Monterosso – walk the boulevard that links the beaches in the “new town” all the way to the Gigantic stone structure. Rent a beach chair at the Spiaggia if you want a relaxing day, and WiFi inlcuded, after hiking up to the cemetery and Friars Church.

Best places to dine in Monterosso

Ciak in the old town has three dining spots – all serving deliciously fresh seafood from open kitchens. Our clam and mussels spaghetti was served in a heaping clay crock – fantastic!

L’Ancora della Tortuga is picture perfect perched on a cliff between the old and new Monterosso with beautiful beach and sea views. It’s incredibly romantic, even if it’s a girl’s night out. They even light candles in the World War pill box on the cliff below. Italians – that’s amore!

Ristorante Il Pozzo in Monterosso serves the best Gnocchi con Gamberini – a pink pasta sauce with shrimp, and delicious seafood risotto.

For lunch on the beach, Bar Gio has oceanfront tables and great pesto trophie (a potato based pasta dish) .

Fast Bar is great late . Two amiable bartenders pump music and mix drinks in this little club in Monterosso village.

The Fashion Capital of Italy is a great last stop of your girls trip– flying out of Malpensa airport. You can also tag on a trip to Lake Como – just a half hour away.

Go to the Piazza Del Duomo – and climb the 223 stairs to the Milano Cathedral rooftop to walk amid the 18th-century marble spires with marvelous views of the city and beyond. The Church is the 4 th largest in Europe, be sure to visit the creepy Crypt below too.

Stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle – Milan’s 1870 four story, glass ceiling shopping pavilion of top designer boutiques, elegant bars and cafes. Prada, Mercedes Benz, LV, YSL, very chic. Sip a Prosecco at Gatto Rosso and watch the beautifully-dressed people pass by.

La Scala is the Italian Opera House right next door – last minute tickets go on sale each afternoon for that night’s opera.

La Brera is where the up and coming Italian designers work and display their fashions in their classic Milanese shops.

The Fashion Quadrilatero , the crisscrossing streets with the big fashion labels is best explored walking up Manzoni from La Scala to Monte Napoleone where you head down this world-famous fashion Ave by all the top designer ateliers and stores. Once you arrive at Teatro Nuovo, head back toward the Duomo on Corso Vittorio Emmanuelle passing trendy affordable shops like Coin, H&M, and a Designer Outlet.

Navigli is a popular place to be in the evening, this riverfront Milan neighborhood is very chic, casual and fun at night. Apertivo at Manhattan Bar is $10 Euro for a cocktail and a spread of Italian-fare happy hour snacks. Outdoor tables are the “it” spot.

How’s that for an Epic Girls Trip to Eataly! See more of our favorite Travel Destinations !

Italy’s Cinque Terre Venice Top Travel Tips Italian Cruise of the Adriatic Florence – our Favorite Italian City The Italian Dolomites Ski Vacation

“Travel as much as you can, whenever you can, wherever you can, as long as you can. Life’s not meant to be lived in one place.” – Luxury Vacation Guide  

Heather and Greg Burke

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EUROPE , GIRLS GETAWAY , SUMMER · August 2, 2021 Last Updated on April 3, 2024

THE 14 BEST GIRLS’ GETAWAYS IN EUROPE FOR SUMMER

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Girls’ getaways can obviously be enjoyed all year round, but one of our favorite times of year to go on a girls’ trip is during the warm summer months. And there is nothing quite like a weekend or week-long getaway in Europe with your girlfriends during the sunniest season of the year!

Think of days hiking, drinking wine, relaxing on the beach, exploring cities, dancing warm nights away, or sailing along crystal blue waters.

There are so many fabulous vacation options to choose from so in this article, we round up our top 14 girls’ getaway destinations in Europe to get you excited for a weekend or week away with your girlfriends! 

1) Santorini, Greece

This wouldn’t be a top list of Europe summer girls’ getaways without a Greek island and Santorini is one of the best. Although one of the most popular islands, the white-washed buildings, and blue-domed houses have to be seen to be believed.

Greece is a long-time favorite destination with people from all around the world, and with yacht charters, boat trips, incredible oceanfront restaurants, hikes with picturesque views, and the famous Oia sunset views, it’s easy to see why.

Imagine watching the sunset over the ocean with your girl gang drinking a cocktail or a glass of wine, before heading to a beach club, or getting an early night ready for a sunrise hike.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Santorini, Greece

• Nothing beats getting out onto the water, so join this small group catamaran tour which includes a freshly prepared Greek meal and an open bar!
• Head to Santo Winery to sample Greek wine with an incredible view or join a highlights of Santorini tour that includes wine tasting and sunset in Oia
• Want to see the island in a unique way, then why not by horseback?! On this horse-riding adventure with experienced guides you will ride along the beach and up into the canyons and ravines behind the coastline, following ancient trails before reaching the scenic cliff top.

Accommodation In Santorini, Greece

You cannot really go wrong with accommodation in Santorini as many of the stunning cave hotels overlook the Mediterranean ocean! 

• Dana Villas and Infinity Suites – This hotel offers stunning views and cave suites with private pools.
• Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini – Stay at famous Nikki Beach which offers modern rooms and a beautiful pool with cabanas to relax with your girlfriends.
• Canaves Oia Suites – This highly rated hotel has a variety of rooms to choose from, many with private pools overlooking the water.

2) Stockholm, Sweden

With over 18 hours of sunshine a day, Stockholm is a great summer destination for a girls’ getaway.

A summer trip to Stockholm is filled with outdoor dining, exploring the city on cycling tours or walking tours, and boat trips along Lake Mälaren to see iconic landmarks such as the UNESCO listed Drottningholm Palace .

During the summertime in Stockholm there are many exhibitions, live music events, summer festivals, and outdoor events taking place throughout the city.

On a summer girls’ getaway imagine sitting outside having a cocktail in the sunshine, visiting an all-night club, sitting on the riverfront with a coffee, or taking to the water admiring the incredible architecture.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Stockholm, Sweden

• Visit the Vasa Museum in Stockholm and explore one of the world’s most magnificent shipwrecks, with over 60% of its original parts still preserved. Learn about Swedish culture at Fotografiska Museum which includes a permanent exhibition on photography through history.
• Wander around the Old Town (Gamla Stan), filled with bars, restaurants, and the Royal Palace. 
• Take a tour of Stockholm’s subway stations. Discover the artistic wonders of Stockholm’s subway system on this guided tour . Travel along the red and blue lines to admire fascinating artwork from over 150 artists.

Accommodation In Stockholm, Sweden

• Grand Hôtel Stockholm – A centrally located hotel in the city center close to the Metro Station. The hotel has a full-service spa and indoor swimming pool perfect for a girls pampering day!
• Ett Hem – A historic feeling hotel in Stockholm’s Ostermalm neighborhood. The hotel has plenty of communal areas to relax, including a charming courtyard, a state-of-the-art gym with a traditional Swedish sauna, and a hot stone slab. 
• The Bank Hotel – Part of the Small Luxury Hotels Group and an intimate modern place to stay in Stockholm. 

3) Paris, France

Paris is France’s one-of-a-kind capital city, ideal for visiting any time of the year! A summer girls’ getaway in Paris is full of picnics with views of the Eiffel Tower, sitting outside a cafe drinking coffee and eating croissants, drinking a glass of rosé on the Seine, and watching the city go past with your girl gang.

During the summer in Paris, there are many events and outdoor concerts happening all around the city. Some great events to look out for are Bastille Day (July 14th) and live outdoor concerts in the city’s parks.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Paris

• No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower . Take in the views from the top or marvel at its structure from the ground!
• Take a private tour out of the city to visit beautiful Versailles and Giverny to explore Claude Monet’s former home and breathtaking gardens. 
• Go on a sunset tour along the Seine , marveling at Paris’ stunning architecture from the water with an aperitif in hand!

Accommodation In Paris, France

• Le Cinq Codet – A 5-star hotel on the left bank in Paris, conveniently located close to the Palais les Invalides, the Rodin Museum and the Eiffel Tower.
• The Relais Christine – A 5-star hotel perfectly located on the left bank of Paris. Built on the remains of the Abbey of the Grands-Augustin.
• Treat yourself and stay at the fabulous Four Seasons and enjoy brunch with your girlfriends at Le George restaurant .

4) Zurich, Switzerland

When you think of Switzerland you might not necessarily think of it as a summer destination, with the country often associated with winter sports rather than being a sunshine destination. But that’s not the case, summer in Switzerland is as beautiful (if not more beautiful) and filled with as many things to see and do as in winter.

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and it’s filled with things to do and see. In the summer the city comes alive with outdoor events and concerts, including Caliente (Latin festival), Street Parade (August), Zurich OpenAir music festival (August), and Swiss National Day (August 1st).

Great for summer girls’ getaways, Zurich has something for every group to enjoy, with world-class spas, picturesque hiking trails, and great Sunday brunch spots!

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Zurich, Switzerland

• Take a tour around the city in a private tuk tuk . This is a great way to see the city with the tour starting at the main station and taking you on a journey through Zurich. You will pass the Landesmuseum, visit Zurich’s university quarter, the beautiful old town, and take a walk along Zurich’s popular promenade, the Niederdorf. 
• Head out for a Sunday brunch. Some great spots are Café des Amis , Kafischnaps , or Nordbrücke .
• Visit one of Switzerland’s famous world-class spas, such as the stunning Dolder Grand Spa where you can enjoy treatments and lunch on the deck. 

Accommodation In Zurich, Switzerland

• The popular Widder Hotel is centrally located in Zurich with uniquely designed rooms.  
• The Baur au Lac hotel in the old town is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and one of the finest places to stay in Zurich.
• The Dolder Grand is located in the suburbs but close to the Metro. The hotel also has a full-service spa and a free area shuttle. 

Monaco is known for year-round glitz and glam, but summer is when the small country comes alive with incredible views of the Mediterranean coastline, marinas filled with yachts, world-class bars, restaurants, along with beach clubs, and incredible rooftop bars.

Not only does Monaco have glamorous and famous celebrities, it’s also a great place to participant in water sports, cycle the hills, take to the water on a boat trip, relax on a beach, go diving, play a round of golf, or even go horse riding.

Monaco is a great summer girls’ getaway destination, with the added benefit of being a great base for exploring both France and Italy on day trips.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Monaco

• Head to brunch at Saphir 24 or Horizon – Deck Restaurant & Champagne Bar on the waterfront.
• Take a full day tour exploring the beautiful houses and historic properties along the Côte d’Azur. On the tour you will visit Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a villa inspired by the Venetian renaissance residences and Villefranche-sur-Mer set in a harbour that regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world.
• Get dressed up and put your gambling hat on for a visit to the famous Casino de Monte Carlo.

Accommodation In Monaco

• Hotel Metropole, Monte Carlo – Sound proofed rooms mean you will get an excellent night sleep, no matter whether your neighbor is partying until the morning! There are three great restaurants and a full spa to enjoy. 
• Fairmont Monte Carlo – Perfectly located a 3 minute walk from the casino, Salle Garnier Opera House and the Japanese Garden, and around 15 minutes to the harbor. 
• Columbus Monte-Carlo – Hotel offers a slightly more affordable option for visitors.
• Hotel Royal Riviera  – Located in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Hotel Royal Riviera is a 5-star luxury hotel with Michelin-Starred Dining and an exquisite beach club.
• Chateau De La Chevre D Or  – 5-star luxury hotel, perched on a hillside in Old Town Èze, just a 10 minute drive from downtown Monte Carlo.

Related Post:  5 Places You Can’t-Miss In Monaco

6) Biarritz, France

For a quieter and low-key girls’ getaway in France, head to Biarritz. This French coastal town is popular for surfing getaways and beach trips while also gaining an insight into the French way of life.

With warm weather and fewer crowds than other French coastal destinations, Biarritz might be smaller than other French towns, but it is filled with picturesque beaches, family-run restaurants, and friendly locals.

On a summer girls’ getaway imagine shopping at family-run businesses, walking to Rocher de la Vierge, drinking wine, and eating tapas while watching the sunset.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Biarritz, France

• Take a walk to Rocher de la Vierge or “Rock of the Virgin” over narrow bridges and along a seaside path. On top of the Rock of the Virgin is a statue that overlooks Biarritz’s bay. It has been marked as an emblematic monument to this city in France, and from its vantage point, you can see that on one side, there lies “Biarritz Grande Plage” – also known as La Grande Beach – and on another side, The Pyrenees are looming overhead!
• Pack up a picnic and head to the picturesque and very popular beach Plage du Port Vieux for the day. The beach is nestled in the headland, so the water is calmer for a relaxed swim. 
• Take a private guided walking tour of the city , visiting the legendary Hôtel du Palais, the elegant Art Deco-style municipal casino, and the famous Grande Plage.

Accommodation In Biarritz, France

• Le Regina Biarritz Hotel & Spa MGallery – Beachfront hotel that is part of Historic Hotels of the World
• Beaumanoir Small Luxury Boutique Hotel – Located in the city center with a beautiful and relaxing pool to unwind 
• Hôtel du Palais Biarritz, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt – A stunning luxury hotel with a full-service spa and three on-site restaurants. 

7) London, England

London is a hub of activity and this wouldn’t be a top 12 Europe summer girls’ getaway list without including the English capital. London comes alive during the summer season, and whilst it may be known for its bad weather, it doesn’t rain all the time and you can enjoy lovely blue skies and daylight until after 9pm.

Think rooftop brunches, picnics in the park, visiting famous London landmarks, and, of course, stopping for afternoon tea.

There are far too many girls’ trip ideas for things you can do in London, but be sure to read some of our favorite (non-touristy) things to do in London for ideas!

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In London

• Have afternoon tea at one of London’s many hotels such as The Savoy, Mad Hatters Tea at Sanderson, Mr. Foggs , The Mayfair Hotel. Or for a girly afternoon tea try Sketch and accompany your tea with a delicious cocktail!
• Go on a Bustronome tour around London and enjoy a 7-course meal whilst taking in the sights of London from the comfort of a luxury bus!
• Whiz around London in classic mini cars with Small Car, Big City

Accommodation In London, England

There are so many great areas and places to stay in London so make sure to read our complete guide on where to stay in the city when it comes to choosing accommodation for your group. The guide covers 6 different great areas to stay, including Notting Hill, Covent Garden and Shoreditch sharing the pros and cons of the area, what it is close to and our hotel recommendations. 

• Number Sixteen, Firmdale Hotels – A lovely hotel in the center of South Kensington. Number Sixteen offers you access to Hyde Park and museums like The Natural History Museum and Science Museum. Plus, they have their own tree-filled private garden with an Orangery where you can enjoy afternoon tea! You will also find 24-hour room service, valet services, as well as high-speed wireless internet connection at this cozy bed & breakfast.
• Ace Hotel London Shoreditch – Brings 100 Shoreditch High Street into harmony with the neighbourhood of Shoreditch, a hub for galleries, theaters and fashion. Home to Brick Lane Market and an essential canvas for street artists from around the world.
• St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel – Located in St Pancras, Kings Cross. After years of restoration, the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel is now said to be one of London’s most romantic buildings!

Related Post: London As A Local: Best Non-Touristy Things To Do

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8) Hvar, Croatia

Well-known for The Yacht Week , hidden island parties, and all-day clubs, Croatia has been making a name for itself as one of the top girls’ getaways summer destinations.

Hvar is a great destination for a girls’ getaway with lots of things to see and do, including visiting the oldest town in Croatia – Stari Grad, taking to the water on a sailing boat, going on a boat trip, renting a kayak, renting a paddleboard, or just simply snorkeling.

The island even has vineyards, live music events throughout the summer, a bustling nightlife, and great beaches to relax on.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Hvar, Croatia

• Take to the water Hvar Full-Day Sailing Tour , that takes you out to the beautiful Paklinski Islands.
• Go on a private walking tour around Hvar. You will see the oldest public theatre in Europe established in the 13th-century Arsenal building, visit the iconic Spanish fortress on a hill above the old town, see the 15th-century Franciscan monastery, Benedictine Convent, as well as Hvar town loggia, and a clock tower. 
• Hvar is filled with beach clubs and bars; wander along the waterfront and pick one of these for lunch and an afternoon in the sun. Popular spots include Hula Hula, Bonj ‘les bains’ and Carpe Diem.

Recommended Accommodation In Hvar, Croatia

• Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel – The hotel has great panoramic views over Hvar from its rooftop bar, as well as a luxurious Sensorí spa, that offers therapeutic, massage and beauty treatments and a rooftop pool. 
• Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort – Popular among women, this luxury resort is situated on a secluded bay. It has a multilevel freshwater pool, and all the rooms enjoy views of the Paklinski Islands or the well-groomed gardens.
• Heritage Hotel Park Hvar – A charming and historic property that opened in doors in 2020. The hotel is close to many of Hvar’s main attractions and is around 1.4 km from Beach Sirena.

Related Post: A Quick Guide To Hvar, Croatia

9) Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is Ireland’s unique capital city. It is ideal for visiting at any time of the year on a girls’ getaway, but summer offers something special with warmer weather and longer days.

A European summer girls’ getaway in Dublin is filled with beer drinking, afternoon tea with a twist, pub crawls, and countryside adventures.

The Irish city is the home and birth-place of Guinness, and you can visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn all about the history of the famous drink and how its created.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Dublin, Ireland

• Enjoy afternoon tea with a twist – the Hendrick’s Gin High Tea at the Gin Palace Dublin
• Make your own jewelry at the jewelry making class at Silver Works
• Take a trip to the home of Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse

Recommended Accommodation In Dublin, Ireland

• The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection – The Shelbourne Dublin is the hotel that started it all. It’s smart, stylish, and utterly distinctive, with Victorian charm in every corner. A chic spa area features a private pool for relaxing after long days of exploring Ireland’s vibrant capital city!
• The Westbury Hotel – With the Westbury, you don’t have to choose between quality and convenience. This elegant hotel offers an unparalleled location in Dublin’s main shopping district with impeccable service and gourmet food!
• The Dylan Hotel  – This hotel is like having a little piece of heaven in the middle of bustling, hectic city life. The hotel was recently renovated to perfection and boasts unbeatable amenities including luxury accommodations with breathtaking views!

10) Kotor, Montenegro 

Montenegro is dubbed to be the next Croatia, with the same picturesque villages and affordable accommodation. One of these great towns is Kotor. Kotor is a fortified town on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, in a bay near the limestone cliffs of Mt. Lovćen with some seriously winding streets and squares!

Home to Kotor Cathedral, it also has plenty of other old churches that are worth checking out; for example Sveti Đorđe off Perast features an ancient church built centuries ago – how cool? It’s even home to the Maritime Museum which explores local seafaring history so when you’re done exploring all those nooks and crannies don’t forget this place either because they have something for everyone here too!”

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Kotor, Montenegro

• Wake up early to climb to San Giovanni Fortress. From here you will get the most stunning vistas over the Bay Of Kotor and it is an absolute must when you are in the city.
• Take a boat tour to Our Lady Of The Rocks and the Blue Cave. 
• Spend a day wandering through the streets of Kotor, this old town is quite small so it is easy to see it all in a day. Make sure to stop for brunch or dinner at Konoba Scala Santa (our favorite restaurant in the city!)

Accommodation In Kotor, Montenegro (and surrounding areas)

• Casa Del Mare – An upmarket boutique hotel with tastefully decorated, contemporary bedrooms, there is also the pebble beach where guests can lounge on hammocks or tented double sun beds. This Montenegrin paradise will leave you feeling relaxed!
• Hotel Conte, Perast – Located on the seafront promenade in Perast, overlooking Kotor Bay; Hotel Conte is made up of four 18th-century stone buildings. These ancient structures are welcoming and blissfully restful, with 34 rooms, suites, and apartments that make it ideal for couples or families to enjoy a romantic getaway. The hotel has an excellent restaurant located directly next to the water’s edge which offers breathtaking views.

11) Porto, Portugal

Porto is less well-known than the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. With the same architecture and magic as the capital, Porto is filled with cobbled narrow streets, incredible views, and colorful buildings.

With warm and sunny weather, but not too hot like other European destinations during the summer months. Filled with color, festivals, outdoor events, and boat trips, Porto is the perfect blend of culture and history.

On a European summer girls’ getaway, imagine walking around the beautiful streets, exploring the city by boat, or taking a trip to the Douro Valley wine region to sample some local wines with your girl gang.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Porto, Portugal

• Explore the city by boat on Rio Douro. This Douro river sailing tour on board a Bénéteau First 47.7 takes you to the Ponte da Arrabida, the old market (Alfandega), the Porto wine cellars, and the beautiful Ponte Luis I.
• Take a trip to the Douro Valley region, to explore Portugal’s wine country. This all day Douro tour includes lunch, wine tasting at two wineries and a river cruise.
• For a more adventurous day out try this off road buggy adventure . This is a 3 hour tour that includes a visit to Castromil’s gold mines and the Roman ruins of Castro Mozinho, where you can absorb and understand a little more of the history of Portugal.

Accommodation In Porto, Portugal

• Maison Albar Hotels Le Monumental Palace – Located in a renovated historic building from 1923, the Maison Albar Hotels Le Monumental Palace offers 5-star accommodations and is located only 3 minutes away from Paris Galleries Street. The property has two restaurants, one bar, an indoor swimming pool and even a Spa & Wellness Centre!
• PortoBay Flores – You can’t find a better place to stay than PortoBay Flores when visiting the Portuguese city of Porto. The central location, comfortable and affordable rooms, fitness center with sauna and spa services are just some things that will make you want to come back again!

12) San Sebastián, Spain

San Sebastián is located on the Bay of Biscay in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country. Known for its beaches, world-renowned restaurants, and the old town of Parte Vieja with cobbled streets, upscale shops, and vibrant tapas bars.

On a girls’ getaway in San Sebastián, you can find incredible wine selections, regional cuisine, and it’s a foodies’ dream location with a large number of Michelin-star restaurants and Pintxos bars.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In San Sebastián, Spain

• Take a trip to the top of Monte Igueldo. At the top, you get a great view of La Concha Bay, Monte Urgull (situated directly across from Monte Igueldo), and panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay. 
• Explore San Sebastián’s Old Town , and spend an evening eating tapas and visiting the pintxos bars. 
• Prefer to bike than walk? Then join this 2.5 hour small group biking tour around the city. 

Recommended Accommodation In San Sebastián, Spain

• The Lasala Plaza Hotel – Provides visitors with a glimpse of the original, classic Donostia. The building dates back to 1917 and was fully renovated, yet its architectural characteristics were preserved from that time period. 
• Villa Soro – Enjoy your stay in one of the city’s historic Villas, considered a Historical Heritage. Following its painstaking refurbishment, it has 25 carefully prepared rooms with a welcoming lounge area and fireplace as well as pretty terraces that you can enjoy at sundown. 
• SANSEbay HOTEL – The first chic hotel in this beautiful city. With prime location on the edge of Old Town by a picturesque sea view, you’ll be minutes away from so many compelling attractions like Mount Urgull or even La Concha Beach with its clear blue waters!

13) Bodrum, Turkey

Bodrum has become an international hotspot for celebrities and the jet-setting elite who flock here in the summer months to vacation on the beautiful Turkish Riviera. Bodrum offers an array of luxury resorts, world-class dining, fun beach clubs, and excellent shopping, all set around the crystal blue Aegean Sea.

The beautiful port city of Bodrum is where you’ll find many of the top tourist attractions, tours, and landmarks on the peninsula, such as the Bodrum Farmers’ Market, Oasis Mall, Bodrum Castle, and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World).

Bodrum is similar to St. Barts or St. Tropez but much more affordable. Food, drinks, beach clubs, and shopping are still pricey at the luxury hotels in Bodrum, but it’s still cheaper than many luxury destinations. If you wander off the beaten path and go to local spots, it’s very affordable.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Bodrum, Turkey

• The Greek island of Kos is just a short 20-minute boat ride away. If you want to check two countries off your backlist in one day, you can book this day trip to visit Kos . You will get picked up in the morning, from your hotel in Bodrum and get to spend all day on Kos.
• While in Bodrum you can also take a guided day trip from Bodrum to enter the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient city is regarded as one of the best-preserved sites in the Mediterranean.
• You can book a 5-hour Private Bodrum City Tour where you’ll explore the ancient city of Bodrum Castle, the Underwater Museum of Archeology (home to the world’s oldest known shipwrecks), and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.

Recommended Accommodation In Bodrum, Turkey

• No:81 Hotel – Ideally located on the boardwalk next to Macakizi, No:81 Hotel is a 5-star boutique hotel. The rooms are modern, clean, and nicely appointed, and the beach club is excellent.
• The Bodrum EDITION – 108 guest rooms, suites, and villas, most with views of the Aegean Sea. Some feature private pools, balconies, and gardens. Only two miles from Yalikavak Marina, this is one of the top-rated hotels in Bodrum.
• Caresse, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – 5-Star, luxury hotel, beautiful build out on the sea with a private beach.
• Mandarin Oriental Bodrum – The largest Mandarin Oriental property in the world spans over 150 acres and is situated on a beautiful bay. It features a world-class beach club and top-notch restaurants like Hakkasan. Additionally, Mandarin Oriental has its own dock and is just a short water taxi ride away from Türkbükü Bay.
• Yalikavak Marina Hotel – Situated at the heart of Yalikavak Marina, with direct access to all the shops and restaurants, as well as an array of amenities and gorgeous views.

Related Article: The Ultimate Guide To Bodrum, Turkey

14) Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza is the ultimate destination for a girl’s getaway or bachelorette trip, offering a perfect balance of party and relaxation. Known for its thriving nightlife scene, with parties and clubs that go until the early hours of the morning, Ibiza is a party lover’s paradise. The island has recently become known for its luxurious beach clubs, with many of the world’s top brands setting up locations here.

But Ibiza is not just about the party scene. The island also offers a more relaxed side, with beautiful golden beaches, charming small towns to explore, and plenty of opportunities for watersports.

Top 3 Girls Getaways Activities In Ibiza

• Rent a boat and explore the beautiful coastline of Ibiza on your girl’s getaway or bachelorette trip. Swim, kayak, or SUP to discover hidden caves and coves, or simply relax on the boat with friends. Enjoy the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and create unforgettable memories.
• Visit the charming island of Formentera, located just a short ferry ride from Ibiza , for an unforgettable trip. Known for its unspoiled natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and white sandy beaches, Formentera is the perfect destination for a relaxing beach getaway.
• Explore the Can Marça Cave in San Miguel Port with a local guide and discover over 100,000 years of history. Learn about the cave’s discovery by smugglers, who used it to hide their merchandise in the past.

Recommended Accommodation In Ibiza

• Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Hotel – Located on the waterfront, this hotel offers guests a luxurious stay with the choice of two onsite restaurants, a full luxury spa and two swimming pools. Many of the hotel rooms have balconies overlooking the water with a mix of single and double rooms.
• Seaview Ibiza – Ideal for up to six guests, this traditional villa offers an escape from the lively town but is still close enough to visit the beaches and local attractions.
• Six Senses Ibiza – This hotel offers guests the option to stay in one of the 118 rooms, including a five-bedroom townhouse, suites, regular rooms, three-bedroom townhouses, seven-bedroom townhouses and one-bedroom options. These rooms can sleep between two and 14 people, ideal for a larger girls getaway.

Related Post: Ibiza: Exploring Beyond the Parties

Summer Girls Getaways Wrap Up

There you have it, our top 14 destinations for a fun European summer girls’ getaway!

Was your favorite included in the list? Let us know your picks for the best Europe girls’ getaway destinations for summer!

We hope that this article has inspired you to go on a Europe summer girls getaway. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

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Read More Girls Getaway Guides

• 15 Best California Girls Getaway Destinations
• Top 10 Winter Girls Getaways Destinations In Europe
• Ultimate Girls Getaways For 2021

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Everything You Need For Your Girls’ Trip to Greece: 2-Week Island Hopping Itinerary

What is the best time to travel to Greece? Where should you go during your trip to Greece this summer? How many days should you spend in Greece?

This post may have affiliate links. Meaning if you buy something using them, I get a small % for recommending it. It won't change the price for you and it's a super easy and nice way to say thanks for the work I did creating this 🙂 Cool? Cool.

If you're reading this, you probably have a dreamy mood board somewhere, outlining your perfect girls' trip to Greece that feels like a Mamma Mia island-hopping fantasy. But getting that group trip out of the group chat might be a little more difficult than you thought…

That's where I come in!

Planning your dream trip can feel overwhelming, so I've outlined everything you need to know about traveling to Greece this summer, including a full 2-week itinerary! After spending last summer island-hopping and soaking up all that Mediterranean sun, I'll make sure this energy of your trip to Greece is unmatched .

How much does a 2-week trip through the Greek Islands trip cost?

As you're getting ready for summer in paradise, you'll want to think about your budget. Some of the islands can get really expensive when it's tourist season, while others are affordable year-round. You can adjust the itinerary based on your budget, but I'll give you a few guidelines to help you plan.

Obviously, flights will vary depending on where you're flying from, and which island you are landing on. During the summer, prices will range anywhere from $700 – $1,200 for a nonstop flight from NYC to Athens. If you want to keep costs low, start with flexible travel dates and explore different options on Expedia's flight tracker .

The tool lets you compare different travel dates and prices, making it super easy and efficient to save on airfare.

If you're planning to island hop around Greece, you'll have to jump between different accommodations, giving you plenty of chances to splurge or save depending on where you decide to stay. Places like the Athens Quinta are super affordable (only $50 a night!) while having positive customer reviews and comfortable space.

There are also tons of boutique hotels and rental homes to choose from, but those will cost a little more.

Personally, I'd recommend going with a rental home for a group trip. You'll all be able to hang out, get ready to go out together and enjoy a villa vibe.

Tips for traveling to Greece on a budget

Listen, I know we all wish we could have a luxury villa in Santorini as our summer vacation home, but if you want the group trip to happen, you need to spend smart.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you want to visit Greece for cheap:

• Book everything in advance! You don't wanna be organizing anything last minute, especially since the summer is the busiest tourist season (which means prices will keep getting higher).
• Prepay for your baggage!!! You're spending two weeks in Greece. You're probably gonna need to check a bag. When you prepay, you save a couple of bucks here and there, but those little costs do add up.
• Always check in for flights early (you may even get upgraded to first class for FREE if you do this… just saying).
• Buy a Greece Destination Pass for the islands with lots of activities so you can get free admission to the top attractions.
• Take advantage of free activities, such as hiking and swimming.
• Eat at local restaurants instead of tourist traps.
• Avoid buying souvenirs at the airport. They're pricey and less cool than finding local boutiques to shop at.

And remember, just because you're on a budget doesn't mean you have to sacrifice seeing everything! You can still visit places like Oia and experience the magic of Santorini. Just visit for a day or two instead of a whole week.

Transport 101: the best airlines from the U.S. to Greece and exploring the islands

One of the best ways to hack a cheaper flight when you're traveling from the U.S. to Greece is to choose your airline wisely. Using up travel credits and membership points is a really smart way to save some money without having to buy that sketchy airline ticket with 8 layovers and no refund options.

(If you learn how to travel hack , you can start saving points now to use on your trip.)

For traveling around Greece, I recommend renting a car. Taxis are expensive and when you're on a group trip, you don't wanna be wasting money on two or three cars every time you go out. Plus, having a car will help you see some of the more off-the-beaten-path destinations!

Some things to keep in mind before your trip to Greece

Here are some important things to note as you're planning your trip:

• The best time to visit Greece is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October), when the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists.
• Greece is a relatively safe country, but it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft!
• The official language of Greece is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• The currency of Greece is the euro.
• Greece is a member of the European Union, so US citizens do not need a visa to visit.
• You will need a valid passport to enter Greece.
• You may want to consider purchasing travel insurance in case of any unexpected events. I recommend Safety Wing !

Your 2-Week Greek Islands Itinerary

Okay, time for the fun part! I did a trip similar to this last summer, and the vibes were absolutely immaculate . A group of my girlfriends and I island hopped, partied, relaxed at the beaches, ate so much good food, and every moment was 100% worth it.

Remember, this itinerary can be customized to fit your lifestyle! For example, if you are interested in history, you could spend more time visiting archaeological sites. If you are interested in nature, you could spend more time hiking and exploring the islands.

Days 1-2: Explore the history of Athens

Starting your trip to Greece in Athens is easiest, since most international flights land here. Day 1 is really just about arriving safely, getting to your hotel, and chilling as you adjust to the timezone.

Day 2 is where the fun really begins. Spend the day running around this ancient city, exploring some of the most notable ruins in history. Take a mythological walking tour of Athens and see the island's iconic landmarks, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

When it comes to food, Greece will not disappoint. If you're feeling a little fancy, book a table at Hytra. This Michelin-star restaurant is the perfect treat-your-self spot to kick off the vacation! Or, if the girls wanna keep it lowkey and enjoy some street food, try this food tour and eat your way through the Varvakios Agora market.

Day 3: Time for a day trip to Delphi

Just a few hours from Athens is one of the most important sites in ancient Greece called Delphi. This town was considered to be the “navel of the world,” and served as an important religious site since the Temple of Apollo was built there.

A full-day trip to Delphi is a worthwhile experience for culture and history lovers. You'll get to explore the archeological site, visit the museum to see the treasures recovered here, and enjoy some lunch in the town nearby.

For any nature lovers out there, Delphi is also an amazing place for hiking. One of the most popular trails leads to the Corycian Cave in Parnassos National Park. This cave was once a place of worship, where people would come to praise Pan, god of the wild. The trek is only about 3 miles from Delphi, and every step through the Greecian countryside will leave you in awe of how stunning this place is.

Days 4-5: Fly to Mykonos where your Mamma Mia fantasy begins

Exploring ancient history is one of the perks of traveling to Greece. The other? Stunning beaches, charming local culture, and tons of places to relax and enjoy a slow summer. Mykonos is definitely the island for that.

Mykonos should be full of nothing but soaking up the sun and exploring the island. A few of the best beaches include Paradise, Super Paradise, and Paraga. They're known for having a chill party vibe, ideal for any good girls' trip.

And don't miss out on Mykonos shopping! I loved exploring the local boutiques around the island. There are shopping hubs like Nammos Village or Matogianni Street, but the entire island is full of amazing small businesses selling clothes, jewelry, art, and souvenirs that you'll actually use. You can even book a guide and personal shopper who will take you to the best stores on the island!

Day 6: Take a boat trip to Delos, an uninhabited island with ancient ruins

Take a boat ride from Mykonos to Delos and explore some of the most important ruins in Grecian history. The entire island is a UNESCO Heritage Site, known as the “birthplace of the immortals.” You'll be walking through ruins that are paramount to Greek mythology, including the house of Dionysos and the statue of Cleopatra.

Dive deeper into the cultural significance of Delos at the archeological museum located just north of the Temple of Isis. They have a collection of Delos artifacts dating all the way back to the 7th century that history lovers will find fascinating.

After sailing back to the mainland, enjoy a traditional Mykonian dinner and wine tasting. Is this something your parents would probably do on vacation? Yes. But can't the girls enjoy a little culture before heading out to the Mykonos clubs…? 100%!

Day 7-9: Visit the best spots in Santorini

One of the most popular islands in the summer is Santorini, so it's a must-see during your group trip. Lounging on the beaches is an easy way to save some money here, but if you wanna splurge I'd rent a catamaran and sail around the island's caldera (flooded crater).

Boating around Santorini not only gives you some of the most magical views ever, but you'll also be living like royalty sipping wine, eating all the Greek food, and throwing your own private party in the Mediterranean.

For a more educational day at sea, head to the surrounding natural landmarks, like the volcanic island Nea Kameni. This boating tour takes you to the island where you can relax in the natural hot springs or hike the unique, rocky landscape.

Day 10-13: Get in touch with Greek culture in Crete

Finally, it's time to go explore the largest of the Greek islands, Crete. After your flight there, spend a night getting settled and indulging in a leisurely dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Crete is known for having some of the best food in all of Greece, so you definitely want to try as many spots as you can.

After a good night's rest, get ready for an excursion to Knossos, the largest palace complex on Crete. The best way to experience this spot is to take a private guided tour from an expert who can tell you all the secrets and history of the palace. You'll get an in-depth look at one of the oldest civilizations in Europe, and get access to all the highlights in a complex with over 1,500 rooms.

If you can only afford one activity during your trip, I strongly recommend taking this authentic cooking class . Cook a meal with the freshest local ingredients, get an exclusive wine and cheese tasting, and learn about the history of each dish from the expert chefs of Crete.

For me, cooking classes always end up being some of my favorite experiences, so it's worth the spend.

For the last full day in Greece, take some time to disconnect and savor the beauty of the island with a hike through Samaria Gorge. This spot is one of the best hiking trails in the Mediterranean, weaving through white canyons, across crystal blue streams, and even looking at ancient ruins that casually decorate the scenery.

If you want to make the hike extra special, you can get fancy and book a private guided tour through Samaria Gorge to ensure you find all the best photo moments and lookout points.

Day 14: Say goodbye to Greece

By day 14, you'll have experienced so many unique parts of Greece. Food, culture, history, partying, shopping, and relaxing on the beach– all enjoyed with your closest friends in one of the most stunning parts of the world.

Trust me, on your flight to Athens and then home, you'll already be planning your next trip back.

Example budget breakdown:

Here is a possible budget for a 14-day trip to Greece:

• Airfare: $750
• Accommodation: $1,000
• Transportation: $200
• Activities: $300
• Total: $2,750

You can mix and match these numbers depending on what type of trip you're looking for. If you're planning to stay in luxury hotels the entire time, that cost is going to go up quite a bit! But if you only wanted to explore free activities, stay in hostels, and eat locally, you could finesse down a good amount.

Whether you're working on a budget or looking to live in luxury, Greece is an amazing group trip destination to enjoy the Mediterranean summer of your dreams.

Travel during shoulder seasons!! If you're planning a summer trip, aim to visit Greece between April – May or September – October. Flights and hotels will be cheaper, beaches will be less crowded, and you'll enjoy the big archeological sites with fewer tourists.

Just like any big destination, you're going to find some more pricey areas of Greece targeted at tourists. The best way to experience Greece on a budget is by booking your trip well in advance, exploring local gems, and staying in hostels or rental homes. For two weeks full weeks in summer, you could spend as little as $1,800 depending on accommodations and airfare.

In my experience, island-hopping is the best way to see all the best parts of Greece. You'll get to explore history, culture, cuisine, nightlife, nature, and more in just 14 days thanks to how diverse each island is.

Have you ever been to Greece? What was your favorite experience?

Leave a comment to inspire other travelers!!

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Italy Girls Trip: Best Places to Visit in Italy with Your Girlfriends

Last Updated on October 27, 2023 by Ingrid & Alex

Whether you want to party up, get adventurous, or pamper yourselves, Italy can make for a perfect destination for a fun getaway with your girlfriends.

With its awe-inspiring landscapes, incredible food and wine, rich culture, and laidback Mediterranean lifestyle, your holiday in Italy is something that you will treasure for a lifetime.

Regardless of how you choose to spend your vacation in Italy, these places are bound to help you and your gal pals create lifelong memories.

Table of Contents

Italy Girls Trip: Your perfect destinations

Dreamy coastline, a laidback atmosphere, and the emerging wine industry are some of the reasons why you should visit Puglia on your getaway with the girls. If you have a romantic vision of what a typical Italian life looks like, chances are, you’ll find it in Puglia. It’s a southern region home to whitewashed villages, beautiful beaches, and centuries-old farmlands.

Hop on a Vespa and explore Bari , the region’s capital city. It’s a city with two different sides – the old town of Bari Vecchia and the modern district of Murat. Bari Vecchia lies along the Adriatic Sea and is home to Italy’s longest seafront. The area has many significant historic buildings, such as the Basilica San Nicola, the grandiose Castello Svevo, and the Romanesque Basilica Cattedrale di San Sabino.

Meanwhile, the trendy neighborhood of Murat is home to major shopping destinations and several elegant buildings, including the Teatro Piccinni, Teatro Petruzzelli, and Palazzo Fizzarotti.

Puglia is also home to beautiful beaches where you can relax with the girls. Check out the stunning Cala Porto , a pebbled beach with crystal clear waters gracefully hidden below limestone cliffs and whitewashed villages.

Read also : Renting a car in Puglia – tips and tricks

Where to stay in Puglia

So you are considering Puglia for your girl’s Italy trip but don’t know where to stay? I would not choose Bari as a home base, but I would rather head to one of the charming white-washed villages, or somewhere by the sea.

Alberobello

The perfect destination for anyone who loves exploring beautiful coastal towns. This charming town sits atop limestone cliffs overlooking the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Known for its unique trulli dwellings. These conical-roofed stone structures date back to the 15th century and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Alberobello has become a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque setting and fascinating architecture. You can explore winding cobblestone streets lined with these distinctive homes, many of which have been converted into souvenir shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Polignano a Mare

From its dramatic panoramic views to its cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings, Polignano a Mare offers something for everyone.

You can explore picturesque beaches, visit historical sites such as churches and castles, or relax at one of many cafes and restaurants that line the waterfront promenade.

The small town is known for its stunning beaches and picturesque old-world charm. A popular tourist destination, Monopoli offers visitors an array of activities to enjoy such as swimming, sailing, and exploring its many historic sites.

The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife with plenty of restaurants and bars offering delicious food and drinks from all over the world.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting cultural experience, Monopoli has something for everyone!

Best things to do in Puglia

Take a Speedboat Cruise to Caves with Aperitif from Polignano a Mare

Go on an Alberobello walking tour and learn about the trulli, or choose a walking tour that will take you for a food tasting and aperitivo

Head to Martina Franca for a wine and food tasting

Go on a walking tour of charming Monopoli

Learn how to make mozzarella at a local farm or make some pasta in Bari

Dubbed the “Eternal City”, Rome is one of the most captivating cities in Italy. It’s a sprawling city with thousands of years of history, as evident in the ancient ruins, relics, and monuments dotting the city. 

No trip to Rome is complete without seeing its famous attractions, from the Colosseum to the Spanish Steps and the Roman Forum . Stop by the V at ican City and treat yourself to a generous serving of spaghetti.

End your day at the Trevi Fountain, toss a coin, and make a wish to ensure you return to the city. Visiting Rome’s magnificent art museums is also a fun bonding moment with your girlfriends, such as the iconic Borghese Gallery and the Palazzo Spada, which is a quieter option.

Discover Rome’s vibrant nightlife as well. Whether you are into the club scene or prefer a laid-back wine bar, the city has something to offer you and your girls.

Where to stay in Rome

Some great locations would be around Vatican City, close to the Foro Romano or Colosseo, or near Piazza del Popolo. 

To make things even easier, I have chosen 2 great apartments you can check out.

Vatican Luxury Penthouse with Terrace

A stunning 2-bedroom penthouse with a terrace that will leave you in awe! Located only 3 minutes away from the metro this place is not only super comfortable but also typical Italian, in the heart of the city. 

Check out availability and prices here!

Rooftop Magic in Piazza del Popolo

A rooftop facing Piazza del Popolo where you could return for a stunning sunset over one of the most iconic landmarks of Rome.  

Best things to do in Rome

A Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel skip-the-line tour

A Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour

Skip-the-line ticket to Villa Borghese

A   cooking workshop  – pasta and tiramisu cooking with dinner

City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Bus with Audioguide

Nicknamed “Italy’s Green Heart”, Umbria is a beautiful Italian region brimming with medieval towns and fun outdoor activities. It’s also famous for its delectable cuisines, a perfect place to bond over delicious truffles and wine.

If you’re looking for something exciting to do with your girlfriends in Umbria, consider hunting truffles. Accompanied by an expert truffle hunter, you’ll venture into the countryside in search of this prized delicacy. Afterward, you’ll head back to the restaurant and observe chefs turn truffles into a range of Italian dishes.

For outdoor-loving friends, explore the Marmore Waterfalls , the tallest manmade waterfalls in the world and the second tallest in Europe. The Romans built waterfalls to divert the Velino River and make the land more fertile.

Another fun outdoor activity for adventurous friends in Umbria is white water rafting at the Nera River. Depending on your group’s level of skill, there are different courses for you to choose from.

Where to stay in Umbria

One of Italy’s most underrated cities, with its stunning medieval architecture, vibrant culture, and excellent food making it an ideal destination for tourists looking to explore something off the beaten path.

Perugia has been around since the Etruscan period, which makes it one of Italy’s oldest cities. The city was once a powerful political center that rivaled Florence in terms of power and influence during the Renaissance era.

Today you can still find evidence of this glorious past throughout Perugia’s streets and piazzas.

In addition to its rich history, Perugia also boasts some amazing attractions such as the National Gallery of Umbrian Art, Rocca Paolina (a 16th-century fortress), and Palazzo dei Priori (the town hall).

The city is perched atop a large tufa rock and surrounded by picturesque valleys and rolling hills. This ancient hilltop town has been inhabited since Etruscan times, giving it an intriguing history full of culture, art, and architectural wonders.

Visitors to Orvieto can explore its winding cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings, enjoy the unique cuisine at local restaurants, or take in some breathtaking views from its spectacular cliffside location overlooking the surrounding countryside.

Best things to do in Umbria

Get the City Card with Nine Local Landmarks for Orvieto

Go on a Traditional Umbrian Food Guided Walking Tour in Perugia or try a Pasta and Tiramisu Class

Go on a wine-tasting tour from Assisi or a complete Organic Balsamic Vinegar, Olive Oil & Wine Tour

Despite being a major tourist destination, Tuscany retains its laid-back vibe, drawing visitors of all kinds. The region’s towns and cities are renowned for their culture, architecture, and arts, especially Florence , Siena , Lucca, and Pisa . But just as important when it comes to your girlfriends’ getaway in Tuscany are its superb food and fun festivals.

Tuscany offers tons of outdoor activities for you and your friends to do. Go camping on the island of Elba, the largest island off the Tuscan Archipelago. Take a boat trip from Pisa to Parco San Rossore, a picturesque park home to impressive wildlife with scenic hiking and biking trails. Discover the Versilian Coast, an area in the northwestern province of Lucca famous for its beautiful beaches.

Take time to explore Florence , the heart of the Renaissance, and discover its unrivaled art collections and architecture.

Venture outside Florence and visit Parco Pratolino, the largest of the estates of the Medici family. Travel west to take a peek at the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Check out the Cantiere delle Navi Antiche di Pisa and witness the excavation works on Roman shipwrecks discovered in the marshland that used to occupy Pisa’s harbor.

Where to stay in Tuscany

Here are 2 great accommodation options worth considering when in Florence :

• Il Salviatino  in Florence – what dreams are made of! Set in a Renaissance villa, with stunning interiors and a picture-perfect garden, this hotel is perfectly set in quiet location minutes away from Florence.  See more here!
• Hotel Santa Maria Novella  – set within walking distance from the main attractions in Florence, and also from the train station, this hotel has an impressive interior and a stunning rooftop terrace that offers a great view over the city.  See more here!

Pienza  is the poster child for the Tuscan countryside, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is nestled in the Province of Siena in the picturesque, instantly recognizable Val D’Orcia with its tree-lined, winding roads. This small hilltop village retains all of its character despite growing in popularity with tourists as an off-the-beaten-path destination. 

While the town is tiny in itself, it boasts a larger-than-life history. Pienza was  the birthplace of Pope Pius II . After becoming a pope, he redesigned and reconstructed the entire urban center as a new Renaissance town. 

San Gimignano

San Gimignano is a small fortified hill town in Tuscany, Italy. It appears like a place from medieval Europe. The town is well-known for its ancient architectural style buildings. Some of these buildings came into being in the 14th or 15th centuries. There is a protective stone wall surrounding the entire city. The historical and cultural influences of this town have certified it as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tourists get awestruck when visiting San Gimignano. It’s because of a well-preserved appearance from the Middle Ages in a modern city layout. The primary point of attraction is the medieval center Centro Storico. This place has all the old square towers. At the heart of this is the main center  Piazza Della Cisterna . From here, a brick pavement leads to  Via del Castello .

Best things to do in Tuscany

No trip to Tuscany would be complete without a Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting

Go on a Day Trip Pisa, Siena & San Gimignano w/Lunch

Explore the colorful Cinque Terre on a day trip and take countless pictures

Don’t miss a visit to the Uffizi Gallery – tickets are always sold out so book in advance

Do a Pasta and Dessert Cooking Class with Drinks or a Pizza and Gelato class at a farmhouse

Located halfway between the African and Italian coast, Sardinia is a gorgeous island home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Compared to the many places in the region, Sardinia is less crowded and more welcoming to visitors. Here, you and your friends can spend your days doing many water sports activities at the beach.

If you are looking for a luxury holiday with friends, Costa Smeralda is the right place for you. Stay in a large villa by the Sardinia coast with your own concierge team. As one of the best-equipped marinas in the Mediterranean, Costa Smeralda hosts world-famous yachting events and tournaments. Check out Porto Cervo, a charming harbor lined with designer boutiques, incredible restaurants, and trendy nightclubs and bars.

Venture into the town of Alghero and visit Neptune’s Grotto . It’s a sea-level cave with dramatic lighting that enhances the stunning stalagmites and stalactites.

While in Alghero, check out Anghelu Ruju Necropolis, a collection of ancient tombs dating back to 3000 BC and one of Sardinia’s most significant archaeological sites. Discover the massive stone tower at Barumini, dating back to the bronze age, and will remind you of Stonehenge.

The Giara di Gesturi is worth checking out as well. It’s a volcanic plateau extending for about 42 km² and formed million years ago.

Where to stay in Sardinia

The best area to stay in Cagliari is in the old city center, in the Castello area. This way, you will be close to all the important tourist attractions in town, but also to the sea. 

Another option when you rent a car is to stay just outside of Cagliari, close to the beach. 

Choose your favorite hotel in Cagliari here , or check out  3 of my favorite accommodation options :

Relais Santa Croce  is set in the Castello area, perfect for sightseeing, with a balcony that offers a stunning view over the Medieval town, but also the sea.  Check it out here!

Residenze al Castello Apartments  is another great apartment option, with a simple interior and design, but the perfect location and views.  See more here!

Anninnìa  is located close to the Spiaggia del Poetto, the poet’s beach, and it is perfect for beach lovers who want to spend some time by the sea.  Check it out here!

Cala Gonone

Choose a nice hotel for your days of relaxation. Luckily, Cala Gonone has plenty of options to choose from, but here are a few options that caught my eye and you should check out: 

Hotel Villa Gustui Maris  is a stunning place that offers an amazing view over the Gulf of Orosei. From here, you can easily go on hikes, boat tours, diving, and plenty of other activities, or you can simply choose to stay by the pool.  See more here!

Hotel Ristorante La Conchiglia  offers a breathtaking sea view and will set you right next to the beach. The hotel has been recently renovated and has an interior design that blends perfectly with the sea.  Check it out here!

Best things to do in Sardinia

Let yourself be charmed by the blue waters on a La Maddalena Archipelago Full-Day Boat Tour

Learn how to make local dishes in a Sardinian Home-Cooking Class and 4-Course Meal

Go on a boat tour and do some snorkeling in a Marine Protected Area, at Tavolara Island.  See more about the tour!

If you land in Alghero, stop here and go on a wine and olive oil tasting at a local farm.  See more here!

Nature lovers will love a tour of the  Rock City of Villaputzu .

Venice is a city like no other. Located in the northern part of Italy, it has an unmistakable atmosphere that will leave you enchanted and wanting more.

With its canals, bridges, gondolas, and winding streets lined with colorful buildings, Venice is truly a sight to behold.

From exploring the Grand Canal by gondola to visiting St Mark’s Basilica or wandering around Piazza San Marco , there are so many things to do in this magical city. Whether you’re looking for culture or relaxation, Venice has something for everyone!

Where to stay in Venice

Venice neighborhoods in a nutshell

When you choose where to stay in Venice, you will want to understand first the city’s neighborhoods.

If you are traveling on a budget, you will want to stay in  Venezia Mestre , a different city 10 minutes away from Venice.

Cannareggio   is the area around Santa Lucia train station stretching all the way to the Rialto Bridge, a bit less crowded than the city center. It is also an area packed with restaurants, shops, squares and canals.

Castello  is where you will want to stay if you like peace and quiet. There won’t be quite as many restaurants to choose from, but you will get to have a taste of the authentic Italian way of living. It is also the place to be if you are planning to go on a day trip to Murano and Burano.

San Marco  and  San Polo  are the heart of the city, with most of the important landmarks, but also most of the crowds. As expected, these are also the most touristy and expensive places you could choose to stay in while in Venice.

Santa Croce  will set you along the Canal Grande and not too far from the train station.  Dorsoduro  is a less-explored area where you might find value-for-money accommodation options.

Best things to do in Venice

Go on a gondola ride on the Canal Grande

Go on a Burano and Murano Boat Tour with Glass Factory Visit and take countless pictures

Visit the Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica , two of the main tourist attractions in Venice

Go on a Prosecco Wine Tasting Tour

The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Located on the southern coast of the Sorrentine Peninsula, it offers stunning views, a temperate climate and plenty of things to do.

From exploring ancient ruins to swimming in crystal-clear waters, there’s something for everyone here. You can also enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine or go shopping at local markets.

The Amalfi Coast has been a popular destination for centuries, but only recently have tourists started taking advantage of its many attractions.

Read also : Should you stay in Sorrento or Positano | Naples and Amalfi Coast 7 day itinerary | Where to go wine tasting on the Amalfi Coast | The Ultimate Amalfi Coast and Puglia itinerary | Rome and Amalfi Coast itinerary – 2 perfect 10 day itineraries

Were to stay on the Amalfi Coast

Most people dream of staying in Positano for a good reason, but you can also find budget-friendly accommodation options in Sorrento or smaller villages such as Vietri sul Mare or Cetara.

Praiano  is set less than 8 kilometers away from Positano, offering the same stunning location, villas, and apartments with breathtaking views, for less.

By choosing to stay there, you will be able to spend your days in Positano, be close to boat departures for when you want to go to the islands, and you will also be close to the Fiordo di Furore.

Best things to do on the Amalfi Coast

Day trip to Capri Island with Blue Grotto visit

Ischia and Procida boat tour  (the most colorful islands, hidden gems of the Amalfi Coast)

Guided hike on the Path of Gods  (stunning views and exercise)

Pompeii guided tour with an archeologist  or  Pompeii and Vesuvius full-day tour

Cooking Class and Farmhouse Visit With Meal

Private Sunset boat ride along the Amalfi Coast

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is an incredible collection of five charming villages perched along the rugged Italian coastline. From its colorful houses to its stunning views, this enchanting region has something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, Cinque Terre has it all! From hiking trails and boat tours to beach lounging and vineyard visits, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Cinque Terre.

For those wanting some more cultural immersion, the area also offers numerous galleries and museums that explore the history and culture of the Ligurian Coast.

Read also : The best place to stay in Riomaggiore for every pocket | The Complete 3-Day Cinque Terre Itinerary | The Absolute Best Place to Stay in Cinque Terre | Cinque Terre or Amalfi Coast: which one is better?

Where to stay in Cinque Terre

Riomaggiore is probably the cheapest town to stay in Cinque Terre, but that doesn’t mean that you won’t find affordable options in all the other villages. 

Mostly because it is the largest village, you will have plenty of apartments and B&Bs to choose from in Riomaggiore. And as you go further up the hill and away from the Train Station, prices might decrease. 

Manarola has been considered by many as the prettiest town in Cinque Terre, in a back-to-back fight with Vernazza. 

Best things to do in Cinque Terre

Go on a Cinque Terre Kayak Tour

Take the train and visit the 5 colorful villages, or hike between at least 2 of them

Go on a Vineyard & Wine Cellar Tour with Wine Tasting

Authentic Pesto cooking class in Manarola at Cinque Terre

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7  NIGHTS IN ITALY,

JUST YOU AND YOUR GIRLS. 

GIRLS GETAWAYS

Planning really is half the fun, so grab a glass of wine and your girlfriends, and book your complimentary vacation planning session with me via Zoom.   Together we will build your dream getaway, virtually, so when the borders reopen to Americans you will be ready and all set to go!

During your complimentary Italian vacation planning party, we will discuss the type of accommodations, budget, season of travel, and activities you prefer in order to create a personalized itinerary for you and your group.

Do you see yourself at a private villa or a boutique hotel? Does your dream include cooking in a rustic, Tuscan farmhouse or glamming it up on the Amalfi Coast? Would you rather sunbathe on a Mediterranean beach or hunt for truffles with dogs in the woods of Umbria? Tough decisions, I know, but this is Italy, so treat yourself. 

SPRING & SUMMER  

Cobblestone paved hill towns, cypress dotted countryside, rustic cuisine, and the wine of kings all in the glowing Tuscan light, makes this itinerary is a living postcard.  

Shop around the village for our market to table cooking class, immerse yourself in nature wandering along the ancient strade bianche paths, get creative with wine and take in the Renaissance masterpieces of Florence at the former Medici's summer home.  This itinerary is a girl's Tuscan dream. Weeks available spring through summer.  Please send us your requested dates. 

AMALFI COAST

Often visitors to the Amalfi Coast have only scratched it's surface of treasures. To find some of it's best kept secrets you must head higher up still into the mountains, far above the tourist towns.  We travel down to the Cilento Coast as well, to explore an ancient site of temples and an organic buffalo mozzarella farm.

By day this itinerary brings you and your group into the lemon groves and small farms to cook with locals, visit hidden artisans and make your own ceramic masterpieces.

A sunset winetasting  and dinner at a boutique, female owned winery is a highlight.  In the evening, hit the town to experience Mediterranean cuisine and nightlife at its best. Bonus: Includes hair & make up appointment before your night out in Positano.   

PUGLIA & MATERA

The itinerary also  takes you to the white villages along the coast with a stay at a masseria. Attend hands on cooking classes, take a boat ride along the Adriatic Coast, and enjoy some of the most ancient foods you will ever see in Southern Italy.  If you have visited the big Italian cities, Puglia and Matera need to be your next stops. 

 HARVEST  TUSCANY

Hunt for truffles with dogs, taste the region's best wines, and participate in one of the most important seasonal events in Italy, the olive harvest.  There is a certain serenity in picking olives and grapes in the silence of the groves and vineyards. Join us for this Zen experience in the Tuscan countryside.

Ready to start booking a Girls Getaway? Contact us to set up a call via Zoom to get all of the details on your personalized trip.

Girls Trip: The Aeolian Island, Sicily Sailing Tour - Mediterranean Lifestyle and Wellbeing

What's special.

Hello traveling sisters, my name is Emanuela. I am a kind and passionate soul who loves to travel and lead groups and individuals to meet their true selves, while being enchanted and feeling connected to the gift of life and its beauty. I believe that we belong to the land, and nature is our ally that supports our well-being and vice versa, mutually. I'm also easy-going and easy to be with, I love to think outside the box and be different from anyone else, living behind what society pushes us to conform with.

Our sailing boat: We will travel on board of a boat sailing the sea around the Aeolian Islands and sleeping most of the nights docking to different port of the beautiful islands of the archipelagos. For the first couple of nights we are staying in a lovely apartment l in Palermo just for us, you'll sleep in 2 shared bedroom-twin bed. The boat is a private charter named Oceanis, it is two cabins for 4 people sleep on a shared bed (2+2 per cabin), 1 shared toilet, and shared communal space. Do not hesitate to reach out in the Q&A, should you have any questions!

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Kind, Passionate and Wild Italian Woman-Nature & Flowers Lover-Status Quo Challenger-Mental Health Advocate-Women Empowerment.

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Weekend Breaks in Italy for a Girls’ Getaway

Are you a tired, stressed out, maybe even burnt-out mom? Or are you just looking to get away for a girls’ weekend? We are love our children but let’s admit it, we all need a break once in a while. So, why not head to the country known for its art, culture, delicious food, wine, and gorgeous coastlines? A perfect destination for a mom’s getaway with the girls, explore the best weekend breaks in Italy.

Whether you’re looking for an adventurous getaway, a city break, or a relaxing countryside retreat, Italy has something to offer for everyone. From the historic cities of Rome and Venice to the picturesque towns of Tuscany and Cinque Terre, Italy is full of beautiful destinations to explore. Indulge in the country’s famous cuisine, sample the local wines, and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Page Contents

Best Weekend Breaks in Italy: Northern Italy

Recommended by Sabrina of Shades of Summer

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and one of the most amazing weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’ trip/mom getaway. Lake Garda is nestled in between famous Italian cities, such as Milan, Venice, and Verona, which is amazing for an  Italian Road Trip.

Not only is the lake insanely beautiful but there is also a lot to do in the area. The landscape around the lake is very diverse, with big mountains on one side and rolling hills on the other side. Of course, there are also quite a few beaches with either rocks or sand around the lake. 

The villages surrounding the lake are nothing but cute and picturesque. The most visited village is Limone de Garda, Riva del Garda, and Torbole are also worth checking out. Grab your best girlfriends and enjoy some leisurely walks on the shore or have a delicious dinner in one of the many restaurants. You can go swimming, rent bikes or even visit a winery in the area – the options are endless. 

The best time to visit Lake Garda is May, June, or September. The climate is very friendly and not too hot yet. Also, there are far fewer crowds than in the main season. The Lefay Resort & Spa Lago Di Garda is an amazing place to stay at. The hotel has a wellness center for beauty treatments and an amazing view over the lake. 

Best Weekend Breaks in Italy: Pisa

Recommended by Nes from Kevmrc

Although Pisa is primarily known for its Leaning Tower, the city has much more to offer. Pisa boasts a combination of stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife that makes it one of the best weekend breaks in Italy for a mom’s/girls’ trip.

All tourists to Pisa head first to the Square of Miracles, the postcard of the city which gathers several  famous Italian landmarks  all classified as UNESCO world heritage: the Leaning Tower, the Baptistery, the Cathedral and the Camposanto Monumentale. These wonderful architectural gems all in white marble offer a unique setting for taking memorable group shots, admittedly a bit cliché, but very fun. 

A girl’s trip can be successful only with good food, and Pisa is actually perfect for foodies. The city has many great restaurants where you can sample local specialties such as ribollita (a Tuscan vegetable soup), panzanella (a Tuscan chopped salad) and cinghiale (wild boar). At night, Pisa gets very lively with plenty of bars, clubs and pubs that cater to all tastes and preferences, ranging from trendy cocktail bars to traditional taverns where you can try the famous Chianti wine. 

Shopping is another reason why it’s a top destination for a girls’ getaway. The city is full of small boutiques and markets selling local products such as leather goods and ceramics. And the main shopping street in Pisa, Via Borgo Stretto, is lined with trendy shops and cool cafés to take a break and enjoy the  dolce vita .  

You simply can’t go wrong with Pisa: offering a perfect balance of relaxation and sightseeing, Pisa is definitely an unforgettable destination for all female travelers of all ages. If you decide to go there, I recommend going in May/June or September/October: weather is warm, and there are far fewer crowds than in summer months!   

Recommended by Lauren of Never Ending Footsteps

Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy and is known for having some of the best food in the country. Filled with historic architecture, museums, galleries, and a vibrant culture, Bologna offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it one of the best weekend breaks in Italy for a mom’s getaway.

One reason why Bologna makes for such a great destination is its accessibility. The city has an airport that connects to many major European cities, and within Italy itself, can be reached by train from Milan, Venice, Rome, and more.

Bologna’s charming medieval center is compact and walkable – easy to see in just a couple of days – with beautiful squares, portico-lined streets, and impressive buildings to admire.

One of the best things to do in Bologna is visit Piazza Maggiore, which is surrounded by some incredible sights, like the Basilica of San Petronio and Palazzo d’Accursio. For panoramic views of the city, climb the iconic Two Towers and look out over the terracotta rooftops. Art lovers won’t want to miss the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna, which houses an extensive collection of Italian art.

The best time to visit Bologna is during the shoulder season, which is between April and June and between September and October. This is when the weather is most pleasant and the city less crowded. Avoid visiting in August, as many businesses close for the summer.

Bologna is a food lover’s paradise, so do be prepared to indulge in its culinary delights. The city is famous for its traditional dishes, like tortellini in brodo, tagliatelle al ragù, and mortadella. For a particularly local dining experience, visit the Quadrilatero, a historic market area filled with grocery stalls, street food, and traditional restaurants. 

For accommodation, Hotel Al Cappello Rosso is an excellent option, with stylish rooms and helpful staff, and a location that’s right in the heart of Bologna’s historic centre. It’s one of Bologna’s oldest boutique hotels, but still full of modern amenities.

Recommended by Robynne from Trueman Travels

For a girls’ long weekend getaway in Italy , Venice is a fantastic choice for a slower pace of exploration. While the city center near Piazza San Marco is busy in any season, there are plenty of peaceful neighborhoods and canals lined with boutique shops to visit. Venice is located in northern Italy’s Veneto region and is easily reached by train from Venice Marco Polo Airport. 

Venice is one of the best weekend breaks in Italy because the highlights of this charming city can be explored in a single day. It’s a highly walkable city which also keeps travel costs low. After spending a full day seeing the top sights of Venice, a group of girls will have fun booking a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. The tour takes only a few hours and travelers can purchase tickets at the pier in Venice where the tours depart from. 

Murano is known for its glass production while Burano produces leather and has brightly colored homes lining its canals. Torcello has very few residents but is a unique spot to visit to see the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta and Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge). Most of the half-day tour options include a tour of the Murano glass factory. 

The best time of year to book this girls’ trip is in May or September. These months offer warm weather and sunshine but without the crowds that converge in Venice during the summer months. 

With a full day in Venice proper, the sights a group of friends visiting won’t want to miss include: 

• Doge’s Palace
• St. Mark’s Square
• The Bridge of Sighs 
• Rialto Bridge
• The Peggy Guggenheim Collection 
• Saint Mark’s Basilica 
• The Grand Canal

Stay in the Dorsoduro district, which is the university district of Venice. This area is away from the main tourist center offering a more authentic experience. There are vintage shops, eateries, and bars that attract a local crowd in the evenings. Don’t miss out on the fantastic takeaway pizza from Pizza al Volo in this neighborhood.

Recommended by PlacesofJuma

Viareggio  is the one of the best weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’/mom’s trip. The centerpiece, of course, is Viareggio’s kilometers long sandy beach. It is one of the longest in Italy, well maintained and the crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming and relaxing. The motto here is: See and be seen. In addition, there is a wide range of water sports, which provides the necessary action for you and your besties.

Another highlight and the main attraction in Viareggio is the wonderful beach promenade of Viareggio. It enchants with its colorful neo-Renaissance buildings and invites long walks, and you can do some shopping. The numerous stores, restaurants and ice cream parlors on the promenade provide culinary highlights and they are fantastic to soak up the grandiose ambience over an aperitif. Moreover, the area around Viareggio is also an ideal place for nature lovers, with its lush parks and gardens and its proximity to nature reserves such as the Parco Regionale delle Alpi Apuane and the Parco Regionale Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli.

The best time for a girls’ trip is from mid-May to the end of September. At this time, you can count on great weather with lots of sun.  An insider tip is also a trip to the carnival, because in Viareggio one of the biggest carnival events in Italy takes place.

For an unforgettable vacation we can recommend Grand Hotel Principe Di Piemonte. It is one of the best hotels in Viareggio and a guarantee for a stylish girls’ trip.

Val d’Orcia

A real insiders tip for the best weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’ trip is the  Val d’Orcia . This UNESCO World Heritage site lies in the heart of Tuscany. Here is the Tuscany you know from the movies, as this region offers some of Italy’s most spectacular hillsides! Experience the authentic Tuscany on your girls’ trip and enjoy a few quiet hours in a magnificent landscape.

The rolling hills, the stunning views along the scenic road and the cypresses make for an idyllic setting. The Val d’Orcia is a dream, especially in the early hours of the morning or at sunset when the fields are covered in mist. In addition, the area is dotted with charming Renaissance villages, where strolling through the medieval streets is an unforgettable experience. Not to be missed is Pienza, the birthplace of the Renaissance.

Walking through the romantic old town with its rich cultural heritage, numerous historic sites, romantic places and beautiful houses, scenic viewpoints and greenery is an unforgettable experience. In the surrounding area there are many excellent restaurants and wineries. Take a break from your daily routine to taste the finest wines. In 2004, the entire Val d’Orcia was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is home to many medieval towns and unique landscapes.

The best way to explore the Val d’Orcia is by car or rental car. The nearest airport is in Florence, about 120 kilometers away. For a girl’s trip, we recommend Agriturismo Marinello, which has a great pool and breathtaking views of the town of Pienza.

Recommended by Una from Wandernity

Lake Como is the perfect backdrop for a girls’ weekend trip, a true gem nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps. With its serene waters, quaint villages, and vibrant landscapes, Lake Como provides a much-needed escape from the rigors of everyday life, making it one of the best weekend breaks in Italy.

A leisurely boat ride on the lake offers breathtaking views of villas and gardens adorning the shoreline. It’s the perfect setting for simply basking in the company of your girlfriends over a glass of Prosecco. Apart from the boat rides, there are plenty of attractions and  day trips from Lake Como  that will cater to every taste. Visit Bellagio, known as the ‘Pearl of the Lake,’ with its picturesque lanes, upscale shops, and charming cafes. For art lovers, a trip to Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo should be on the cards. Its stunning art collection and botanical gardens are a feast for the eyes.

The best time to visit Lake Como is from March to November when the weather is delightful and outdoor activities are aplenty. However, those who love a winter wonderland might find the snow-dusted landscape in December and January enchanting. For a truly special dining experience, book a table at Trattoria La Costa. With its famously good Italian cuisine, you’re in for a treat. And don’t miss out on the delightful range of gelatos while you are in Italy.

In essence, Lake Como is an Italian paradise that offers rest, relaxation, and a touch of adventure. Perfect for a girls’ weekend getaway, it’s a slice of heaven where moms can unwind, recharge, and indulge in some well-deserved ‘me’ time.

Recommended by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades

Another lovely place that’s perfect for weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’/mom’s trip is Milan. The city is the second most populous city in Italy and the ideal destination for a weekend trip as a couple of days is just enough time to see and do the main highlights without feeling rushed!

For example, a crowd-favorite activity is going shopping. And one of the best places to do a bit of retail therapy or at least window shop is at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This is the oldest shopping gallery and is where you’ll find several high-end luxury stores!

Then after you’re done shopping, you can walk right over to the Piazza del Duomo, which is where you’ll be able to admire the city’s most iconic landmark, the Duomo Cathedral. For those who don’t know, this cathedral is the quintessential example of Gothic architecture and has been standing tall for over 7 centuries!

Finally, when you’re ready to indulge in some heavenly Italian food , head over to the Navigli district. Here, you’ll see the city’s canals and find a handful of colorful streets, filled with bars and restaurants! Overall, Milan is a wonderful city that offers plenty for girls’ weekend getaway. So, if you’re interested in visiting, try to plan your trip around September, as this is when the weather is usually sunny and pleasant!

Best Weekend Breaks in Italy: Dolomites

Recommended by Diana from Travels in Poland

Located in the northern part of Italy, the Dolomites emerge as a perfect destination that offers a retreat for a mom’s getaway or a girls’ trip. It is an amazing mountain range, unlike any other in its form and beauty.  The Dolomites are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming alpine villages in between the ranges and a wide range of activities and experiences to enjoy.

The Dolomites are one of the best weekend breaks for a moms and girls’ trips due to its unique combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. The serene environment and stunning vistas provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing moms and friends to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature.

There are plenty of activities to indulge in during a visit to the Dolomites. Hikes are among one of the more popular activities as there are numerous levels and distances that can be hikes in the Dolomites. Activities such as mountain biking, and rock climbing expeditions are also one of the best experiences to have in the Dolomites.  

For a more leisurely experience, there are numerous small boutique hotels, some with spas and wellness centers that make for very relaxing experiences. The region is home to several renowned spas, where you can rejuvenate with luxurious treatments and soak in thermal baths surrounded by panoramic mountain views. A scenic drive along the winding roads with stops for picnics is a great experience as the views you get from the road are unparalleled.

The best time to visit the Dolomites depends on the desired activities. Summer offers pleasant weather for outdoor adventures, while spring and autumn provide stunning foliage and fewer crowds. In winter the region turns into a winter wonderland, similar to Zakopane in Poland, which makes for perfect skiing and snowboarding conditions.

When it comes to food and accommodation, the Dolomites offer a range of options. Mountain lodges or charming hotels tend to cater with Italian food, particularly that of the northern part of Italy. Some dishes worth trying include speck, polenta, and delicious cheese fondue. With its unique landscapes, the Dolomites promise a memorable escape for moms and friends seeking rejuvenation and relaxation along with adventure surrounded by serene nature.

Cinque Terre

Recommended by Jo from World Wild Schooling

Cinque Terre, located on the Italian Riviera, is one of the best weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’ trip/mom’s getaway. Comprising five coastal villages – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – Cinque Terre offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delectable cuisine.

This enchanting region is known for its coastal landscapes, with villages nestled amidst rugged cliffs and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Cinque Terre offers a serene and laid-back atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the larger cities.

There are plenty of activities for your visit when  visiting Cinque Terre . Explore the villages and wander through their narrow streets, capturing the vibrant colors of the houses and immersing yourself in the local culture. For beach lovers, Monterosso has the nicest beach where you can relax, sunbathe, and take a dip in the sea. Indulge in the local cuisine, well-known for its fresh seafood, homemade pesto, and delightful wines. Sample delicious focaccia, a Ligurian specialty. Don’t miss the restaurant Nessun Dorma in Manarola with the iconic view. 

Take a leisurely hike along the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), which connects all five villages, offering iconic views of the coastline. You can also visit the Via dell’Amore (Path of Love), the cliffside path with stunning vistas between Riomaggiore and Manarola.

The best time to visit Cinque Terre is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) seasons. The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are relatively smaller compared to the peak summer season.

Accommodation options in Cinque Terre range from charming hotels to cozy guesthouses and bed and breakfasts. Situated a 5-minute stroll from the bustling town center of Monterosso, you’ll find Hotel Porto Roca. This charming hotel near the beach boasts a pool area and views of the sea.

Recommended by Anita from Anita Beyond the Sea

Looking for the perfect getaway with your girls? Then you should go to the surroundings of Piacenza. Even though the city itself isn’t extremely interesting, the region boasts three magnificent castles: Castell’Arquato, Vigoleno, and Grazzano Visconti. Each with its unique charm and historical significance.

Castell’Arquato, perched on a hilltop, showcases medieval architecture. Its narrow cobblestone streets, are lined with small shops and cafes, create a charming atmosphere. The fortress was also the set of the movie “Lady Hawke”. Nowadays you can visit it and climb on top of its tower that dominates the town.

Vigoleno Castle, surrounded by vineyards, transports visitors to another era with its intact medieval architecture. The castle’s imposing towers, drawbridge, and cobbled courtyards create a magical setting. Grazzano Visconti, also known as the “dream village,” resembles a Renaissance court. Its fairytale-like atmosphere includes a captivating castle, gardens, and a moat. Visitors can explore the village’s streets and shop for traditional crafts.

While exploring these beautiful castles don’t miss the opportunity of enjoying wine tastings and the excellent regional cuisine one of the best in Italy (says an Italian). With specialties like Tortelli di zucca, Pisarei e Faso or the famous Salame di Piacenza there are many excellent traditional dishes to try.

When deciding where to stay why not consider the beautiful Vigoleno Castle? Or the locanda of Grazzano Visconti? The two places grant a full immersion in the enchanting area.

The best time to visit is during summer. The weather is pleasant, and there are many lively cultural events and festivals. The area isn’t also very crowded and if you are a hiker you can check one of the many hikes around. Would you like to know more enchanting places to visit in Emilia Romagna? Check out the  13 most beautiful towns and villages to explore  on your Emilia Romagna trip.

Recommended by Denise from Chef Denise

Lucca, located in western Tuscany, is one of the most incredible weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’/mom’s getaway. It is steeped in history with incredible architecture and, of course, amazing food. From pastas to pastries, you’ll find all of the  traditional Tuscan dishes  in Lucca. Don’t miss the signature dish of the city, the meat ravioli-like Tordelli Lucchese. At least you’ll have ample opportunity to walk all of the delicious food off as cars are not allowed in Lucca without a permit.

The medieval walls that surround the city are one of its greatest attractions. Exploring the top of these walls offers some of the city’s greatest views of the iconic towers the town is known for. Lucca is often referred to as the “City of 100 Churches,” and many of them can also be seen as you stroll these walls. But you’ll also want to explore the cobble stone streets and see these amazing structures up close.

The Piazza Anfiteatro is also a must-visit spot for architecture and history enthusiasts. The square retains the shape of the ancient amphitheater that once stood on its grounds, with remains still visible in select places. Another beautiful square, Piazza del Giglio houses one of the best places to stay, the Grand Universe Lucca. In this square, you’ll find some of Lucca’s best restaurants including the Michelin-starred Ristorante Giglio. Lucca is a fun and beautiful place to visit any time of year. Filled with flowers in the spring and summer, autumn colors in the fall, and snowcapped mountains in the distance in winter.

Recommended by Chelsea from  Adventures of Chels

Verona is located in northeast Italy, about 1.5 hours away from Venice by car. The best time to visit Verona is between September-May when the temperatures are comfortable, and crowds are smaller than the busy summer months.

Verona is the city in which William Shakespeare set his classic play “Romeo & Juliet,” and it offers numerous sites to see and take in. While you’re there, make sure to visit Juliet’s House. The balcony inside the courtyard is believed to be Shakespeare’s inspiration for the famous balcony scene in “Romeo & Juliet.” Don’t forget to write a letter to Juliet about matters of love and leave it in the designated mailbox inside the courtyard. It may take a few months, but you’ll get a response!

For a great view of the city hike up to Castel San Pietro. The view is worth the climb! And for a little history and entertainment, visit Verona Arena which is a well-preserved amphitheater that hosts a yearly opera season.

Best Weekend Breaks in Italy: Tuscany

Recommended by Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers

One of the best weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’/mom’s getaway is going on a  road trip in Tuscany . Spend at least a couple of days in Tuscany’s capital city, Florence, before driving into the idyllic countryside, through the picturesque Val d’Orcía, and through small, quaint villages. There is so much to see and do for every kind of traveler.

Explore charming small towns like San Gimignano, Siena, and Lucca where you can wander through medieval streets and climb up to the highest towers for sweeping views. Eat pizza and pasta rounded off with some local Tuscan wine or maybe stay at a vineyard for a night to learn more about the Tuscan wines.

While driving in Tuscany is a great experience, you might want to leave the car for a day and rent a Vespa to get the authentic Tuscany feeling while you are there. There are also several thermal baths in Tuscany. A great option is to spend an afternoon in the Saturnia Thermal Baths. You can either visit the free area or spend a day at the spa at the hotel to pamper yourself to the max. Spring is a lovely time for visiting Tuscany when you can eat local strawberries and enjoy the sunny spring weather.

Best Weekend Breaks in Italy: Central Italy

Recommended by Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

Rome is the perfect place in Italy for a weekend girls’ trip!  The Eternal City has something for everyone in your group to enjoy.  And plenty of Rome’s top attractions are in a compact area, so it’s easy to see a lot of incredible sights in just a weekend, making it one of the best weekend breaks in Italy.

Rome is like an open-air museum, filled with jaw-dropping sights around every corner.  No trip to the Eternal City is complete without a visit to the Colosseum, one of the most iconic attractions in Rome. Or take a tour of the Vatican and admire the stunning works of art in the Vatican museums and the world-famous Sistine Chapel!

Rome is known for its beautiful piazzas.  They’re filled with fantastic fountains, stunning sculptures, and incredible architecture.  Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s must-see piazzas, and of course you’ll want to visit Piazza de Trevi. Don’t forget to bring a coin to toss into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome!

Rome, Italy, and delicious food go hand in hand. Even the simple dish of handmade fresh pasta is incredible, and enjoying a scoop of gelato is the perfect midday break.  A memorable way to sample the city’s best dishes is to take a  Rome food tour  – your gal pals will have lots of fun and discover local favorite restaurants.

With so much incredible art, history, and food, Rome is a popular destination year-round.  The best time to visit is in the spring and fall, when temperatures are pleasant and you can enjoy long days of sightseeing.   

Best Weekend Breaks in Italy: Southeran Italy

Recommended by Samantha Tatro of Undiscovered Path Home

The picturesque port city of Bari, situated in the southern part of Italy, is the perfect destination for a quick getaway featuring sun, beaches and plenty of tasty food. The city is full of charm and history, offering an unforgettable experience to its visitors and making it one of the best weekend breaks in Italy.

Bari is a perfect place to relax and unwind, especially if you’re seeking out beaches and sunny weather. With its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s an ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming. With just a short train ride, you can visit some of  Puglia’s best beaches  in Polignano a Mare and Monopoli. For those seeking some retail therapy, never fear: Bari is also home to numerous shops, boutiques, and markets, perfect for shopping and finding the perfect souvenir.

For ladies interested in culture and history, Bari has a lot to offer. The old town, known as Bari Vecchia, is a maze of narrow alleys, beautiful churches, and historic buildings. It’s a perfect place to wander around and get lost in the city’s rich history. One of the most popular attractions in Bari is the Basilica di San Nicola, which houses the remains of Saint Nicholas. The church is an impressive piece of architecture, with stunning frescoes and intricate decorations.

When it comes to food, Bari is a true paradise for foodies. The city is famous for its delicious seafood dishes, such as octopus, squid, and anchovies, which are freshly caught from the Adriatic Sea. The local street food, such as panzerotti, is also a must-try.

The best time to visit Bari is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. This period is also the peak tourist season, so it’s important to book accommodations and tours in advance. There’s no better way to get off the beaten path and enjoy quality time with your favorite girlfriends. 

Recommended by Amber from Amber Everywhere

Naples is the birthplace of pizza and is one of the best weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’/mom’s getaway. You can eat your way through this southern Italian city, eating perfectly prepared pastries and delicious plates of pasta. For dinner, you’ll definitely want to try one (or all) of the most famous pizzerias in the city: Pizzeria da Michele, Starita, and Sorbillo. 

Just a train ride away from the center of Naples are the ruins of Pompeii, a city that was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. You can explore the ruins on a day trip from Naples, and you might consider adding in a stop at Herculaneum to see those ruins if you have time. 

At night, make your way to one of the bars with outdoor patios or seating at street level. From here, you can sip Aperol Spritzes and enjoy the little snacks that are served on the side. The Centro Storico area will be bustling, and there are lots of options for takeaway pizza if you don’t feel like waiting in line for a table. 

Although Naples is safe for travel , you’ll want to choose a centrally located hotel to avoid traveling too far at night. A hotel in the Vomero or Centro Storico neighborhood would be a great choice for your girls’ trip. The shoulder season (April-May and September-October) is the best time to visit Naples, as the weather will still be mild, and you’ll find smaller crowds. 

Recommended by Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’ getaway for moms is the village of Positano. This is a cliffside village that you can find on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. The village is known for its picturesque colorful houses and amazing viewpoints. Also, there are a lot of beautiful  Instagrammable places in Positano . The village can be reached from the city of Naples by car in about 1.5 hour, and the city can also be reached by bus or boat.

Positano is the perfect place for a moms/girls’ trip because the village has a very peaceful atmosphere, there are many relaxing things to do, and there are beautiful things to see. For example, it can be great to relax at the main beach, Spiaggia Grande, or at one of the other beaches in the village. Another great thing to do is to hike the Path of the Gods, which is a hiking trail with amazing views.

Furthermore, it is possible to do relaxing spa treatments in the village. For example, this is possible at the spa of Le Sirenuse. Le Sirenuse is a luxurious hotel and restaurant, and it is a great place to stay and have a great meal as well! The best place to visit Positano is the month of June as during this month the weather is great, but there aren’t a lot of tourists yet.

Best Weekend Breaks in Italy: Ischia

Recommended by Helen from Helen on Her Holidays

Ischia is a wonderfully relaxed destination for a girls’ trip in Italy. From the moment you step off the ferry in Ischia Porto, you’ll be captivated by the beautiful surroundings and chilled-out vibes on one of Italy’s favourite vacation islands. Ischia is really easy to get to, so ideal for a quick weekend away. From the airport in Naples, head to the port; from there it’s less than an hour on a fast ferry to Ischia.

Ischia is a small island but it packs a lot of great things to do into a small space, making it one of the best weekend breaks in Italy. The top thing to do in Ischia is to visit the island’s thermal spas. Ischia is a volcanic island and over 100 naturally hot springs pop up on and around the island.

Lots of  hotels in Ischia  have their own hot springs to serve the hotel spa, but even if yours does, don’t miss out on a visit to the Negombo thermal park, where you can spend a day hanging out in the 14 thermal pools, surrounded by gorgeous gardens with views over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Other things to do in Ischia include visiting the lovely car-free village of Sant’Angelo on the south coast of the island, relaxing on one of the lovely beaches, visiting the two world-famous gardens and shopping in Forio and Ischia Porto. Ischia has amazing food and wine, and it’s much cheaper than nearby Capri so you and the girls will be able to really indulge.

The best time to visit Ischia is in the summer shoulder season, when it’s warm enough to go to the beach but not too hot to enjoy the thermal baths.

Recommended by Milijana of World Travel Connector 

Stunning Matera is among the most spectacular places in Italy. The Old City of Matera is carved into stones and made of caves and stone-cut buildings. These unique structures make Matera one of the best weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’/mom’s getaway. Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most magical places in Italy. The city is several thousand years old.

Matera was a filming location for many movies. Probably, the best-known movies filmed in Matera are the latest James Bond’s No Time to Die and The Passion of Jesus Christ by Mel Gibson. So, if you want to feel like being in a movie, book your trip to Matera. Matera is about one hour drive from Bari airport in southern Italy. Don’t forget to book a room in a cave hotel in the Sassi Caveoso district in Matera. Consider staying at La Corte Dei Pastori Luxury. You will love sleeping in a cave room in Matera. It is a unique and unforgettable experience! See the cave homes and visit rock-cut churches in Matera in the daytime.

Touring the fascinating rock-cut churches and visiting stone-cut monasteries are some of the  best things to do in Matera . Make a break in Zipa cafe, a lovely cave cafe, and enjoy the views of Matera over your Aperol Spritz. Apart from that, book your table at Regiacorte – Restaurant & Lounge Terrace for dinner. You will love the views from its outside dining area as much as its cuisine. 

You will fall head over heels in love with Matera. The best time to visit Matera is from spring to autumn. However, avoid July and August because of inflated prices, heat, and crowds.

Best Weekend Breaks in Italy: Sicily

Recommended by Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Palermo, the capital city of Sicily, is a perfect destination for a mom’s getaway or a girls’ trip in Italy. This historic and vibrant city is renowned for its rich culture, beautiful architecture, low prices and delicious food! The city is filled with charming piazzas, lively markets, and colorful streets that offer endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Palermo’s vibrant atmosphere and unique blend of cultures make it one of the best weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’ trip or mom’s getaway.

Whether you prefer to go sightseeing and explore the city’s stunning architecture, or just relax at an outdoor cafe, sample some of the region’s delicious cuisine and then enjoy the nightlife, you can do it all in Palermo! The atmosphere here is so special that you won’t want to leave – it will make you want to  live in Palermo ! Plus it’s always sunny in Palermo, so you can even head to the beach just 20 minutes away!

The best time to visit Palermo is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. This time of year is perfect for strolling through the city’s streets, visiting the markets, relaxing at the beach and enjoying the local food and wine.

For food, be sure to try the famous Sicilian dishes, such as arancini, pasta alla norma, and cannoli. Some top-rated restaurants to visit include Antica Focacceria San Francesco, Osteria dei Vespri, and Trattoria ai Cascinari. As for accommodation, some top-rated hotels include the Grand Hotel Villa Igiea and the Palazzo Brunaccini.

Recommended by Tamar of World by Weekend

For a perfect girls’ weekend trip getaway in Italy for moms, look no further than the seaside town of Taormina. With beautiful beaches, fine shopping, and delicious restaurants, Taormina is the perfect place to forget the responsibilities of motherhood and remember what it feels like to relax.

While in Taormina, be sure to visit Isola Bella, the city’s premier beach. Lined with restaurants, it’s the perfect spot to lay your towel. When you’re ready for lunch, head to Ristorante Da Giovanni. There you can dine on fresh seafood and pasta dishes, all while enjoying Mediterranean views.

Culture lovers will enjoy visiting Taormina’s ancient Theater. This wonderfully preserved Greco-Roman theater has Mount Etna and the Mediterranean as its backdrop. During the summer months, you can even put yourself in the shoes of the ancient Romans by attending concerts here.

If you’re open to renting a car in Sicily , you can explore the greater Taormina area. One easy day trip is to the neighboring town of Castelmola. Perched on the hill above Taormina, this charming town is worth spending a few hours. You can stroll along the winding streets and take in the panoramic views from the castle. Moms with a sense of adventure can drive out to Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, and make the trek to the top. Whether you decide to hike up or take the cable car, ascending up a smoking, active volcano is not for the faint of heart!

You can plan a girls’ getaway to Taormina at any time of year, but the fall and spring seasons are the best for mild temperatures and reduced crowds. Beachgoers should opt for summer when all beach amenities are open and water temperatures are warmest. With its mild climate, Taormina can also be a great winter destination, although some restaurants along the beach are closed.

Recommended by Iphi from Travel Choreography

More than any other Sicilian seaside town, Cefalù encapsulates the island’s timeless beauty. With a limestone cliff towering over the quaint historic center and boasting a broad sandy beach, it’s no wonder that  Cefalù is so popular with travelers looking for the perfect sunny getaway.

Just a quick train ride from Palermo’s international airport, the town retains a quiet charm while being easily accessible from outside Italy. Mothers and daughters will find here everything they look for: full-service spas, hole-in-the-wall cafes serving dainty cannoli, and even a picture-perfect plaza where they can sip countless Aperol Spritz.

While spending a good amount of time at the beach is an integral part of any trip to the Tyrrhenian coast of Sicily, there are other ways to enjoy some time in the sun. After winding through the labyrinth of ancient buildings, the duo can hike up the Rocca di Cefalù . The joint effort to get to the top of the rocky outcrop will surely be remembered for years to come.

The best time to visit Cefalù is when springtime ends. That’s when the weather is at its best, and the crowd is still limited. Whether you’re visiting Cefalù for a few days or as part of a larger  Sicily itinerary a trip to Southern Italy wouldn’t be complete without classic regional delicacies, like caponata or Pasta alla Norma.

Recommended by Sam Opp from Find Love and Travel

Sorrento in Italy is truly beautiful. From the most picturesque coastlines, lemon and orange groves, and the sweet smell of Italian food filling the streets, this location is one of the best weekend breaks in Italy for a girls’ trip.

While summer may initially seem like the best time to visit, Sorrento will likely be filled with tourists during this time, and shopkeepers will often go on vacation and close their shops in August. So it would be better to visit anytime from April to May or even in late September to October when every attraction is open, and they are less busy. 

Sorrento is perfectly located between popular destinations within Italy, including Positano and Naples. Additionally, you can easily take a day trip to Pompeii from Sorrento. You won’t be short of things to do in Sorrento, though. To start your Sorrento itinerary head to Piazza Torquato Tasso and browse the boutique shops. 

Then, spend time at Corso Italia Street, which is filled with clothing stores and lined with charming streetlights that perfectly encapsulate Italy’s vibe. Or you and your mom/girl squad can hang out at one of the beach clubs.

Head to the Sorrento Lift or Marina Grande in the evening for some beautiful ocean views. After, enjoy freshly caught seafood while watching the sunset. If seafood isn’t your meal of choice, you should stop by The Little Things Bistrot. This is a cozy family-owned restaurant that serves traditional Italian pizzas and pasta dishes.

Make your girl’s trip even better and have a luxurious overnight stay at the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria. Here you will gain access to a swimming pool, spa, and manicured gardens to unwind in. Just make sure to book in advance as this Italian hotel is very popular!

Recommended by Lori from Travlinmad

One of the best girls’ weekend breaks in Italy is to the beautiful  isle of Capri, Italy , off the coast of Napoli. The island is easy to get to. From the city of Naples, the island is reached by ferry boat in about 45 minutes. If you are staying in Positano or Sorrento, the ferry is only 30 minutes.

Well-known for its history of ancient Rome, the island today has great restaurants for dinner and casual cafes for grabbing a bite during the day. The island is famous for its Caprese sandwiches made with fresh mozzarella, tomato, sweet basil, a little salt and a generous drizzle of olive oil served on a ciabatta roll.

For relaxing in the sun, the island has several beautiful beaches on calm clear azure water. When you’ve had enough sun there are boutique and artisan shops and of course high-end shopping. For a memorable weekend take a boat tour to the amazing Blue Grotto. Pack a picnic and make the easy hike through beautiful gardens to Villa Jovis, the palace built in 27AD by Roman Emperor Tiberius.

Most visitors coming to the island are on a day trip and return to the mainland by 5 o’clock. Spending the weekend on the island will let you wander the quiet narrow streets in the evening after the tourists have left and in the morning before they arrive. La Minerva is a lovely boutique hotel with an excellent breakfast buffet and a great location. Plan your weekend anytime from Spring through Fall when the weather is at its best and flowers are in bloom.

Recommended by Roxanne from Faraway Worlds

Steeped in ancient history and adorned with stunning architecture,  Syracuse  makes for a great destination for a moms’ getaway. The beautiful buildings and charming streets will make you feel like you’re far away from everyday life. And the blend of culture, relaxation, and outdoor activities, will be enough to keep you pleasantly busy, even if you have different interests to cater for.

The historic centre of the city, Ortigia Island, is sure to be a highlight of your visit with its boutique shops, inviting cafes, and narrow, photogenic alleyways. Once you’ve wandered through the streets, explore the Greek and Roman ruins scattered throughout the city, or visit the vibrant Ortigia Market, where you can find delicious fresh produce and seafood.

If you’re after a beach break, you’ll find several idyllic beaches a short drive from town, including Spiaggia dell’Arenella and Fontane Bianche. Both are ideal for sunbathing or a refreshing swim, but go early if you’re visiting in summer as they do get busy. Otherwise, head out of the city to one of the local vineyards or make a day trip to the nearby Baroque towns of Noto and Ragusa.

Active members of your group can explore the outdoors in the beautiful Cavagrande del Cassibile, a nearby nature reserve perfect for hiking. Then take the time to relax after a busy day out at one of the wellness centres in town.

If you want to spend some time swimming, visit during the warmer months. Otherwise, travelling in winter will let you enjoy the city without the crowds. For the ultimate relaxing trip, stay at the Wellness Spa Hotel Principe Fitalia, about 20 minutes out of town.

Best Weekend Breaks in Italy: Taormina

Recommended by Rai from a Rai of Light

The old but charming hilltop village of Taormina is renowned around the world for its beautiful coastline, ancient archaeology, excellent shopping, and good food. It is also known for its history, heritage, architecture, and an abundance of things to do. The most beautiful town in Sicily, with its uniquely painted buildings and Baroque church spires, offers a number of possibilities for a good time as a quick getaway trip in Italy. Highlights of a visit include the St Nicolas Cathedral, Villa Comunale, Madonna della Rocca, and Isola Bella.

Don’t miss the Greek Theater, a historical monument built way back in the third century as well as the Temple of Apollo. Every girl’s trip must include some shopping and the best place to do this would be from the many boutique and specialty stores along the Corso Umberto.

With a Mediterranean climate of hot dry summers and mild winters, the best time to visit would be between the months of June and September. However, it can also get very busy during this time, particularly over the holiday season. So a little planning goes a long way. Fortunately, it is fairly easy to get from Catania to Taormia , with the fastest way being by train with over 30 trains connecting the two Sicilian cities. 

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Published by Melissa

Hello! My name is Melissa (or Missy). I'm a nurse by day, but my true passion is travel. I'm a part time traveler, travel blogger, and photographer. Travel blogging allows me to share my experiences and knowledge with you as well as allows me to share in your experiences and learn from you. View all posts by Melissa

I’m Melissa, but you can call me Missy. I continuously crave a new adventure and love sharing those adventures with you! My sidekick is my 5 year old daughter. Together we are conquering the world, one city at a time! Find family travel tips and guides that will help you plan your next adventure!

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A Magazine for Those With a Passion to Travel in Style

A Girl’s Getaway to the Côte d’Azur

LuxeGetaways Magazine – Fall 2016 |  The resorts and villages that dot the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in the South of France offer some of the dreamiest destinations for ladies looking to escape for relaxation, retail therapy, cultural immersion and creating the perfect girls’ getaway . Whether taking a trip with your best girl friend, or an entourage from the college days, simple pleasures along the Côte d’Azur are plentiful. Imagine basking on the beach bathed in Bain de Soleil suntan lotion while enjoying the views of the vibrant Cobalt blue water, and listening to the melodic sounds of the waves crashing on the shoreline with a refreshing glass of chilled Sancerre in one hand, and an Evian mist bottle to fend off the heat in the other. These kinds of days are priceless. Le sigh…

While known for the pristine beaches, and for boasting over 300 days of sunshine per year, the beauty and charm of the Côte d’Azur lies in the wide variety of activities geared towards the arts, fashion, gastronomy and recreation. Three of my favorite destinations to experience the best of the French Riviera with girl friends include the unmistakable destinations of Menton, Nice and Monaco.

While many Riviera cities lead with pure opulence, Menton leads with its charming pedestrian streets and gorgeous mountain and ocean views. There are no five-star accommodations; the luxury here in Menton is being able to dine en plein air almost every day of the year at casual bistros serving the best combination of Italian and French cuisine.

Leave the heels behind, and climb the cobblestone-paved streets to the Saint-Michel Basilica [Parvis Saint-Michel | 06500 | Menton] for breathtaking views of the Italian Alps, and down to the azure blue Mediterranean waters below. Experience the friendly locals at their finest while shopping at outdoor markets. Here you will find edible souvenirs under the shade of blue and white-striped canopies in the Careï Valley. The Marché Couvert on quai de Monléon features knick-knacks (brocante), herbs and items from their Italian neighbors on Fridays.

If your gals are gardeners, or wannabes like moi, you will love the nine major gardens; the best of which is at Villa Maria Serena [21 Prom. Reine Astrid | 06500 | Menton]. Fragrant fruit trees and sweet smelling flowers fill the air, and the stunning views of the bay are hailed from the sweeping staircases of the villa.

Take advantage of the warm sunshine, and rent a paddleboard or kayak at the Nautical Sports Center on the Promenade de la Mer. However, remember to take along a waterproof case for your camera so that you do not miss the opportunity to take pictures of the magnificent colorful buildings from these unique nautical vantage points. www.tourisme-menton.fr

Where To Stay:

Hotel Napoleon 29 Porte de France | 06500 | Menton, France Tip: The best rooms are on the 5 th floor seaside, with terrace.

Le Royal Westminster 28 Avenue Félix Faure | 06500 | Menton, France Tip: Ask for a renovated prestige sea view room, if available.

Mornings are better with friends. Wake up early for a walk along the four miles of white sandy beaches (15 private and 20 public) flanked by the Promenade des Anglais, and end at Castle Hill (Colline du Château), which is the highest peak in Nice . Only a few fragments of the original walls and building remain, but the observation deck provides a majestic view of the city’s tropical colored buildings with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains in one outstanding panoramic setting.

Afterwards, pop over to Café Le Flore [9 Cours Saleya | 06300 | Nice] for a quick coffee before hitting the legendary flower market, Marché aux Fleurs . Located in the Cours Saleya, it is open every morning, except Mondays and French public holidays. Not only do they sell the most beautiful ready-made bouquets, but they also have fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, jellies, jams, olive oil and candies. Mondays are reserved for an antiques market, and in the summer evenings, arts and crafts replace fruits and vegetables where shoppers can shop till they drop – it is open from 6:00pm, until just after midnight.

On the rare cloudy day, we enjoy checking out the architectural and historical landmarks spread throughout the very walkable city of Nice while shopping. The area of Place Masséna is home to couture fashion houses like Louis Vuitton and Hermès; jewelers such as Cartier; and an endless number of specialty shops. However, there are also smaller, independent boutiques like Kantzé [10 rue Alphonse Karr | 06000 | Nice], where you will find the perfect little black dress and silk scarf to take home, knowing that it is truly a one-of-a-kind.

Visiting museums is always and excursion that is more fun in tandem. Take in the Marc Chagall National Museum [36 Avenue Dr Ménard | 06000 | Nice], and explore their permanent collection of biblical message paintings, stained-glass windows, prints, lithographs and tapestries. If you have some flexibility, the museum is free to visit on the first Sunday of each month.

Put down the heavy shopping bags, rest your feet, and savor some local people watching during Happy Hour at Côte Lounge [4 rue de France | 06000 | Nice] where super friendly waiters automatically deliver a round of hot, cold and sweet treats the moment that your cocktails are ordered.

One of the best things about Nice is that the city can be as upscale as you desire with Michelin-star restaurants, top designers, world famous art collections and more; or a perfect destination if you prefer a casual and stress-free getaway. Ideal for a group of friends during a girls’ getaway (or any visitors), the cooking class by Chef Christian Plumail [54 Boulevard Jean Jaures | 06300 | Nice | www.christian-plumail.com ] begins with choosing top quality ingredients at the Cours Saleya, and ends with a cooking demonstration at his private apartment. Here, you can be as hands-on as you wish while helping to prepare the dinner; or simply taking in the killer views from his terrace, knowing that you are just moments away from an amazing culinary experience. www.nicetourisme.com

Hyatt Palais de la Méditerranée 13 Promenade des Anglais | 06000 | Nice, France Tip: There are partial sea view and full sea view options, but the full sea views are worth the extra expense, if available.

Hotel Messina 58 Rue Gioffredo | 06000 | Nice, France Tip: There are newly renovated rooms, and for two or more people in a room, you can upgrade to the double deluxe category for more space and a private balcony.  

The Principality of Monaco

If you want the safest getaway city for you and your girls in the South of France, Monte Carlo is the answer. The principality of Monaco is tiny – it is roughly the size of Central Park, and is full of twists, turns and one-way streets. Beyond being one of the most sought-after residential addresses on the globe, it is also known to have more police, per capita, than anywhere else in the world. According to Wikipedia, there are 515 police officers for the 35,000 people who live in the area.

Monaco is also one of the most expensive destinations, but it is not impossible to enjoy Monaco on a tighter budget, and can be even more economical during certain times of the year. There is simply not a “bad” time to visit Monaco, and since January tends to be a slow month, with the exception of the International Circus Festival, travelers can take advantage of the greatly reduced hotel prices.

As you might imagine, it is an upscale shoppers paradise. But for those with a tighter budget, plenty of retail therapy can be accomplished at unique boutiques where you can shop alongside the locals. There is a plethora of chic and unique bars and lounges to experience on holiday. Jimmy’z [26 Avenue Princesse Grace | 98000 | Monaco | www.jimmyzmontecarlo.com ] is the be-all and end-all of nightclub experiences in Monte Carlo. If you need to burn off some of those calories, you can dance the night away on the dance floor, beneath the VIP section of the private Boom Boom Room where celebrities are known to congregate well into the night. A summer hotspot for some fun with your friends is Le Sea Lounge [40 Avenue Princesse Grace | 98000 | Monaco | www.sealoungemontecarlo.com/en ]. This is a dynamic beachside hotspot, but be prepared to be sprayed with champagne when the action heats up, since some reverie seekers have been known to let the cork rip into the crowd. www.visitmonaco.com

Hôtel Metropole 4, Avenue de la Madone| 98000 | Monaco Tip: They have the best healthy non-alcoholic mocktails for pre- and post-workouts. Enjoy!

Fairmont Hotel 12, Avenue des Spélugues| 98000 | Monaco Tip: If possible, try to reserve either a water view or a room/suite with a view of the Monte Carlo Grand Prix hairpin turn.

The Côte d’Azur is so much more than I can possibly describe in one short article, but I hope that you can appreciate that no matter what type of getaway with the girls you might be looking to schedule, you can find it in the South of France. It is a gal’s prerogative to not be forced to choose between these options, so why not visit each of these destinations and see for yourself what kind of getaway is perfectly designed for you and your travel companions.

Visit LuxeGetaways.com/magazine to view the Fall 2016 Issue

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Preparing for your caribbean getaway.

Why a Mediterranean cruise is the girls’ getaway you’ve been looking for

MSC Grandiosa: brings cruise-goers to destinations in France and the Mediterranean

Every morning it catches our breath. You pull back the curtain, and it’s another port, another city, sometimes even another country.

Sailing by night and arriving at sunrise, those morning views become the highlight of our four-day holiday.

We embark to sweeping views of Barcelona, and wake the next day first to Cannes, then Genoa (our gateway to Portofino), Cinque Terre and finally Rome.

The floor-to-ceiling windows on board showcase each destination.

And each day there’s an opportunity to disembark and explore these Mediterranean treasures.

In the evening as we leave another port, we hear Andrea Bocelli’s evocative voice blasting from the speakers — Time To Say Goodbye.

For all of us, it was the first time we had tried a cruise. We were wary, figuring we would be like extras from The Golden Girls, on a trip for retirees.

How wrong we were.

Young couples, groups of women, families — the MSC Grandiosa was a holiday for all.

With room for more than 6,300 passengers, the cruise ship was large enough to cater for different types of holidays too.

If you found yourself cringing at Bocelli and the evening poolside playlist, there were other areas on board, across 19 floors, that guaranteed peace and quiet.

Truly, it is like a mini city.

As well as the main outdoor pool, there’s another indoor option, preferred by teens and older kids. Higher up on deck there are water slides and rope walks for adventurous children.

Inside, there’s an all-day, all-evening kids’ club, with life-size Lego figures, bowling alleys, sports halls and arcades.

Your cruise experience can be Vegas style with grand pianos, glittering staircases and visits to the vast onboard casino or the all-singing, all-dancing theatre shows.

Or you can choose to avoid the glitz and head to bars like The Sky Lounge, and its Lost in Translation decor and vibe, right down to the soundtrack.

This was our preferred experience.

There are bars dotted across the ship, from champagne to cocktail. Outside on deck there are two bars by the pool, with a full menu of drinks to cool you down, from daiquiris to mojitos.

It’s worth investing in a drinks package in advance, so a beverage is just a swipe of a card away.

We found it better to do our research before we boarded, and pick up discounted inclusive drinks options — it takes the stress away on board.

Food choices are vast.

There’s the Marketplace buffet open to all on board. We ate breakfast there, endless options from fresh fruit to cereals to eggs. Lunch was another feast with everything from pizzas to pasta, fresh crusty bread always to hand.

We didn’t get to try afternoon tea there or dinner. Included in our package was fine dining at La Loggia. This option ticked the cruise stereotype we had expected. Assigned a table, you sit at the same place each night on your holiday, served by the same (lovely) waiters.

We upgraded and opted for the speciality restaurants instead. There was entertainment at the Teppanyaki option, as the chef cooked for us at the bar, throwing egg fried rice from the grill for us to catch in our mouths.

For our last night we chose The Butchers Cut, with sublime steaks to choose from.

The cabins were cosy but basic. It’s advisable to pay extra for a balcony, to savour the stunning views and watch the sunsets — and avoid (literally) cabin fever.

The evening turndown was a bonus, another example of the impeccable level of service on board.

Wifi was also worth the investment - as you’d expect there’s no coverage at sea.

Reassuringly too, you need a certified covid-negative test before you travel with MSC, easing concerns for those travelling post-pandemic.

You could wile away the days on board, lying by the pool. There’s a spa with a thermal suite — we had sensational back massages during our stay — for those in need of more pampering. You can get your steps up on board in the state-of-the-art gym with its sweeping views and timetable of classes.

We opted to leave the ship every day to explore. We chose against the guided excursions. Averaging around €150 per day, they were expensive, and we preferred to make our own way through the cities. Arriving straight into the centre of Cannes via shuttle boat from the main cruiser, we spent a couple of hours there. 

It’s straightforward to leave the ship, our onboard ID cards sufficient to depart and embark. Less straightforward was the bustling Genoa. Our aim here was to experience the exclusive Portofino. Trains and buses weren’t an option on our tight schedule, so we opted for a taxi.

The driver manovered the stunning cliff-top bends, straight from a James Bond set. He waited an hour while we explored the millionaires’ haven and drove us back to the port.

La Spezia the next morning was our gateway to Cinque Terre and its five hilltop villages. We made our way through the long queues at the train station and ate lunch — bruschetta and local wine — at a cafe along the winding cobble-stoned streets.

The final morning we disembarked for the last time in Rome. Luggage in tow, making our way to the train station to catch the hour-long train to Rome Termini, we were tempted by the MSC day excursion option, but we managed, with enough time to see the colosseum and the Trevi fountain before our flight home.

It was our first cruise, but as we listened to Bocelli that final evening at sundown, we decided it wouldn’t be our last.

How to Get There

A seven-night Mediterranean cruise on the MSC Grandiosa starts at £439 (€500) per person sharing.

There are sailings throughout October and November — the last one available this year is December 7, then they will recommence again next April.

Package options include full board in dining, gyms, pools, on board theatre shows and children’s clubs and activities all come included as standard with any MSC Cruise.

Aside from that, MSC also have dining and drinks, wellness and excursions packages — book in advance for discount options.

• www.msccruises.ie

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18 Day Mediterranean Coast Road Trip Itinerary

3 adults, 2 kids, 2 walkie-talkies , and 2 cars. Our Mediterranean coast road trip lasted 18 days across 4 countries: Italy, France, Monaco, and Spain. If you’ve ever thought about taking a road trip around the Mediterranean coast of Europe, here’s the ultimate itinerary to get you started.

When my parents asked whether I’d consider driving the Mediterranean coast with them. It was not a difficult decision. The kids and I flew to Italy, cruised the eastern Mediterranean with them, and then decided to drive the western Mediterranean in one epic 18 day Mediterranean Coast road trip itinerary.

Can you drive around the Mediterranean?

The Mediterranean Sea region is surrounded by 21 countries, which together share a coastline of 46,000 km. They are Albania, Algeria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia , Cyprus, Egypt, France , Greece , Israel , Italy , Lebanon, Libya, Malta , Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Slovenia, Spain , Syria, Tunisia, and Turkey . And you can drive around, through, and between them all.

What is the Mediterranean coast road called?

No one road takes you from coast to coast as you pass through multiple countries, but here is a rough map of our Mediterranean Coast Road Trip itinerary.

What is the best way to see the Mediterranean?

Having cruised the Mediterranean and road-tripped, both offer pros and cons. But for freedom to stop, change the itinerary, stay longer, leave sooner than nothing beats a road trip Mediterranean coast.

How long does it take to travel across the Mediterranean?

Well, that’s an open-ended question depending on how many of the 21 countries you’d like to visit along the Mediterranean sea. We traveled from the Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy through the French Riviera and Monaco, ending in Spain at a leisurely 18 days.

Top 3 tips for a Mediterranean coast road trip

Tip #1: Each day below contains links to my supporting articles which cover each of these best places in more detail.

Tip #2: We had two cars and communicated by walkie-talkies. This saved on purchasing different SIM cards for each country we visited with different numbers.

Tip #3: You need to read more about car leasing Europe here . If you decide to go longer than 17 days, it will save you money more than a regular car rental. If you are planning a trip under 17 days then consider using RentalCars.com. They have the best car rental prices – Guaranteed.

Our perfect 18 Day Mediterranean coast road trip itinerary

Note: Tolls & fuel have been converted from EUR to AUD.

Day 1 – Italy: Rome to Praiano

Tolls: $22.90 | fuel: $73, accommodation: hotel margherita, praiano ( check prices ).

Picked up my car lease from Citroen and had a beautiful drive to coastal town, Praiano. Check here for prices on how to get to Praiano from Rome.

We found an insanely scenic place to stay, high up on the hill, and settled in for a few days. We finished this evening with a stunning view at dinner overlooking the sandy beach at a cliff-side restaurant that sported a small kid’s playground, and the glorious sound of Church bells.

Day 2 – Italy: Praiano

Accommodation: hotel margherita, praiano ( check prices).

We didn’t use the car today as we decided to miss the infamous curves of the Amalfi coast and take the bus to Positano . As predicted it was quite the hairy adventure.

After our magnificent day in Positano, we got some laundry done next door for €15 and spent the afternoon swimming in the hotel pool.

Day 3 – Italy: Praiano

Accommodation: tramonto d’oro, praiano ( check price here ).

We were going to attempt a drive to Amalfi today but ended up taking the bus again for our day trip. Our plans to visit Capri were spoiled by bad sea weather. It’s a must if you haven’t been before. The evening ended with a sunset from the rooftop.

Day 4 – Italy: Praiano to Pompeii to Matera

Tolls: $2.80, accommodation: hotel sassi, matera ( check prices in this area ).

We were back on the road today leaving Praiano for Matera. We made a quick stop at the famous Pompeii ruins, an Italian UNESCO World Heritage Site, but didn’t feel like it lived up to its reputation.

Our arrival in Matera was a huge surprise. This city is stunning and used in many ancient movies, including Mel Gibson’s famous one.

Day 5 – Italy: Matera to Termoli

Tolls: $17 | fuel: $86, accommodation: hotel mistral, termoli ( check prices ).

My dad captured the most beautiful photos on a sunrise photography tour around Matera before we ate some breakfast and headed down the coast to the ancient city of Alberobello. This little town is so mysterious and a must-see in Italy. The little houses look like something out of a fairytale for gnomes.

From Alberobello, we visited the Molfetta Outlet before heading to Termoli. We arrived late and simply bought ham and bread for sandwiches that night before hitting the sack.

Day 6 – Italy: Termoli to Perugia

Tolls: $21| fuel: $121, accommodation: albergo nyers, perugia ( check prices ).

The breakfast at our hotel was worth a mention! We didn’t stick around in Termoli, opting to head straight to Perugia instead. The kids and I were supposed to meet my mum and dad for lunch, but we headed straight to Perugia as we couldn’t find them.

Perugia was just as surprising as Matera, a beautiful part of Italy that should be visited. We enjoyed a walk around the city and dinner in town.

Day 7 – Italy: Perugia to Florence

Accommodation: villa san michele, fiesole firenze ( check the price here ).

Funny story today as our GPS directed us down some dangerously narrow roads to the wrong location. Felt truly Italian. When we arrived at our hotel I was gobsmacked, it was incredible, and I didn’t want to leave. Thank God we had booked 2 nights.

Leaving the car at the Villa we decided to take a taxi to Florence and enjoyed an evening walk around town visiting the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and letting the kids ride the carousel. We returned to Villa San Michele for dinner and enjoyed one of the best meals I ate in Italy.

Day 8 – Italy: Florence

Accommodation: villa san michele, fiesole firenze ( check price ).

Following another incredible breakfast, the kids and I went for a swim in the pool. After our swim, the kids wanted to stay at the kids club so I enjoyed a leisurely lunch by the pool, caught up on some writing, and even booked some flights.

Once the kids returned I organized a babysitter and headed back to Florence via the hotel shuttle for an evening with my parents. My Dad attempted a 1kg steak before we walked around Florence with our Italian gelato.

Day 9 – Italy: Florence to Pisa to Monaco to Nice, France

Accommodation: little palace, nice ( check prices ).

A sad farewell to Villa San Michele, but I wanted to start early because I could not leave Italy without letting the kids see popular Italian icon , Leaning Tower of Pisa. I found a great parking spot, took a few happy snaps and we were back in our car on the way to Monte Carlo, Monaco.

We stopped in Monaco very briefly for a quick look at the super impressive cars and gold star hotels before continuing onto Nice in Southern France.

Phew! 3 countries in one day.

In Nice, we had a walk along a beautiful beach in the French Rivera, stopped for a terrible dinner with arrogant waiters, and checked into our tiny out-of-the-way hotel. Not a great start for the French part of our journey.

Day 10 – France: Nice to Arles

Tolls: $30.20 | fuel: $91, accommodation: airbnb apartment, arles ( check prices in this area ).

Our crepes for breakfast were better. And we checked out of Nice and headed to Cannes. Took some photos by the beach and then drove to Aix.

We had a delightful time walking around Aix, before driving onto Arles. We had an ultra-cute French-loft Airbnb apartment for the evening so we cooked our meal and had a night in.

Day 11 – France: Arles

After meeting up with my parents we took a walk around the old city , visiting the amphitheater, taking another ride on another carousel, and made it back home for an afternoon nap.

Day 12 – France: Arles to Creissels

Tolls: $7.80, accommodation: hericlea hotel sport, millau ( check price ).

Today we drove to Saint-Guithem-le-Desert. An adorable medieval-style town, easy to walk around and enjoy. Decided to have dessert for lunch and it didn’t disappoint with mouth-water crème Brulee and profiteroles. I have to admit at least the French know how to do dessert.

Back on the road we made it to Millau and checked into our log cabin, while my parents chose a castle.

Day 13 – France: Creissels to Toulouse

Tolls: $2 | fuel: $105, accommodation: airbnb apartment, toulouse ( check prices in the area ).

Today we decided on an impromptu visit to the French countryside to see a French cave, Aven Armand . I’m so glad we did. The countryside was gorgeous and the caves were fascinating.

After the caves, we headed to Toulouse, checked into our apartment, and bought some kebabs for delivery as the kids were already fast asleep.

Day 14 – France: Toulouse

We took a walk around Toulouse today, found a playground, and rode yet another carousel. Had an afternoon nap before heading for dinner at the Hippopotamus, which was pretty good.

Day 15 – Spain: Toulouse to Pamplona, Spain

Tolls: $39.30 | impound: $140, accommodation: hotel avenida, pamplona ( check price ).

An early start this morning didn’t happen. As the kids and I walked out of our apartment towards the car, there was no car. Instead, there was a market. The French police stole my car. Finally, after several hours we were back on the road and made a mad dash out of France to our Spain road trip. After a quick highway road stop for lunch. We made it to our hotel in Northern Spain late afternoon.

Never to miss any opportunity to see an old town we decided to take a walk around Pamplona and stumbled, by chance, upon a family “running of the bulls”. What fun! And such a relief to just have fun after our stressful morning in France.

Day 16 – Spain: Pamplona to Barcelona

Accommodation: mercer hotel, barcelona ( check price ).

Zaragoza was on our list of stops today and we had a fun lunch at Tommy Mel’s Diner before continuing our trip to Barcelona . Having decided not to visit Southern Spain, we all decided Barcelona was not made for cars and hit up Citroen to return our car. It happened to be the same depot as my parent’s Renault so we all squished in a taxi back to our hotel. The taxi driver actually had no idea what he was doing and dropped us some distance. I was bummed we weren’t going ot make it to Costa Brava, but after walking miles to our hotel, I was more then happy. The Mercer Hotel was incredible.

Day 17 – Spain: Barcelona

As part of our Spain itinerary today we explored Barcelona. We walked the main drag and took the bus to Guell Park . Later that evening we walked to the harbor and stopped for some Spanish food. Dinner at El Ray De La Gamba was a disappointment.

Day 18 – Ireland: Barcelona flight to Ireland

Accommodation: ballsbridge hotel, dublin ( check price ).

It was a sad start as our Spanish road trip came to an end. My my parents came to our hotel to say goodbye and I was emotional mess, but determined that the travel must go on. The kids and I grabbed a taxi to the airport and took a flight to Dublin, Ireland. We settled in at the Ballsbridge hotel for the next 6 nights for TBEX.

What is the Mediterranean coast road trip final tally?

And there you have all my travel tips for an 18-day Mediterranean coast road trip through Italy, Monaco, France, and Spain.

Italy by far was my favorite, followed by Spain. Unfortunately, this being my third trip to France, I’m still not a fan, jaded as it was by the missing car incident, rude restaurant staff, and disappointing food choices. I also blame my English blood.

In all seriousness, seeing the Mediterranean Coast by road is a great way to go. There are so many little towns that are the epitome of history and have such a unique flavor. I wish we could see them all. Maybe next time.

Total Days: 18 Total Distance: 3,507 km (2,179.15 miles) Total Fuel: AUD $476 Total Tolls: AUD $252

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Mediterranean Tours & Trips

Famous around the world for its blue seas, fantastic sandy beaches, rich history, and wonderfully varied cuisine, the Mediterranean sea deserves a place on every traveller's list. We have 6313 tours of Mediterranean destinations to choose from, visiting every country from Spain to Turkey. The most popular month to travel is September, which has the highest number of tour departures.

250+ Mediterranean tour packages with 45,764 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Zagreb to Athens: Adriatic & Ancient Capitals

A great fast-paced tour that was well led by our wonderful guide Ivan!

Dubrovnik to Athens: Beachfronts & Fortresses

We were a small group of 7 people, which was great. Our Tour Guide Alice was amazing, totally amiable, knowledgeable and fun. Everytime we wanted to change the trip activities she accommodated our wishes. I most enjoyed the part of the trip in Montenegro, a beautiful country. The overall trip is a well-balanced combination of experiencing nature, cities, culture and party-opportunities.

• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Iberian Explorer (13 Days)

I really loved our tour guide Ana Rita Lima. She helped us through a couple rough patches and I appreciate that. Very energetic and delightful!! I loved every bit of the tour except the hotel quality on the first night of the tour. It needed a vending machine that worked and more opportunity to get snacks upon arrival. It was just very basic. Also the hotel in ( I can't remember which city) we didn't have air conditioning. Our tour guide told us of where to be cautious (pick pockets) and some things we should be aware of. I appreciate that they stopped regularly for food and bathrooms breaks. Our driver, Rui, ( proved to have great skill, navigating in traffic, fog, rain and parking!! Overall, a great tour, with important history and valuable information!! With the exception of two poor quality hotels it was a memory that will last a life time. By the way, the Best Western in Barcelona is much better than the one we stayed in on the tour.

Dubrovnik to Athens

The tour gave a good overview about the balkan countries!

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

The itinerary was fast paced but well organized. Some hotels were true 4* some weren’t depending on the location but all were clean with great staff.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

It was excellent! Our guide Daniel was the best. Daniel made the whole trip fun, stress free and he was very knowledgeable. The accomodation was lovely and very central. The countries we visited were beautiful but having a guide made it 100% better. We ate incredible local foods and had a great experience with a guide local to the Balkans. Couldn’t recommend the tour enough!

• Sightseeing

Corfu to Dubrovnik or Split: Tour of 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

It was great to explore Southeastern Albania and some places around with the best guide ever! Have never done so many amazing things in three days! It's definitely worth it. The team are so friendly and helpful, even before you even book onto the trip.

Croatia Sailing Adventure

The best trip I have ever been on! Meg our tour manager was absolutely amazing and the trip itself was unforgettable

Premium Turkey in Depth

This trip gave a great overview of Turkey. Fatih made the trip better with his passion, knowledge and knack of knowing just how much to deliver. Our group got on really well which enhanced the trip for me. It was helpful to take up Fatih’s restaurant suggestions. The only thing which would have increased my enjoyment would have been some high end food but I know I didn’t sign up for a food tour.

Dubrovnik to Venice

The Eastern Discovery (Classic, 14 Days)

Insight Vacations excelled themselves with this itinerary. It is amazing how many countries you visit on this trip. The hotels were of a very high standard and the fact that they are centrally located made it easier to explore. Our Travel Director was so knowledgeable, helpful and charming. The local guides were so passionate about their cities and countries. It was a pleasure being on this trip and can't wait to book another trip with this reputable company. Insight Vacations you rock!

Magic Carpet Tour

Fez Travel packed in lots of sights and things to see and do. I liked the variety in our stops and sights. Well planned except for the last couple of days. Somehow, they need to be tweaked so there are not so many unreasonable night departures. I would have rather paid a bit more and had the meals ordered when we sat down. Buffet meals were luke warm, over cooked, and meats were so dry from heating for long periods. The meals we sat down and was served were much better, tastier, better variety of foods.

Anatolian Civilizations | 10 Days

Be ready. This is the full on history-packed introduction to Turkey and all previous occupying civilizations. The days are jam packed with interesting stuff but tiring and lots of walking. Don’t expect to have even one afternoon of downtime at the pool. That’s not what this tour is about. You will have a variety of experiences, some totally unexpected (a visit to a leathery including fashion show!). Our ongoing guide was Nadir who is superb in every way. This tour is for learning but you will have fun. The hotels are uniformly good as well as the meals. Be prepared to purchase lunch on all days and a dinner/breakfast on a couple of days. Cappadocia balloon tour is more expensive through agency than what you can arrange yourself. Cave hotel, in my view, is not worth the extra payment.

Best of Italy and Greece with 3-day cruise

Wonderful, we really liked it.

Spanish Ring with Lisbon

I took my mother to this trip. It was my first time joining a tour group and first time in Europe and I must say this trip did not disappoint. We had an amazing time, lots of places we have seen in Spain and Portugal in a limited time. The tour was well organised. The tour bus and hotel were comfortable. Our tour guide- Linus was exceptional! Friendly and approachable man, always helpful and accomodating. I highly recommend this tour =D

What people love about Mediterranean Tours

I really loved our tour guide Ana Rita Lima. She helped us through a couple rough patches and I appreciate that. Very energetic and delightful!! I loved every bit of the tour except the hotel quality on the first night of the tour. It needed a vending machine that worked and more opportunity to get snacks upon arrival. It was just very basic. Also the hotel in ( I can't remember which city) we didn't have air conditioning. Our tour guide told us of where to be cautious (pick pockets) and some things we should be aware of. I appreciate that they stopped regularly for food and bathrooms breaks. Our driver, Rui, ( proved to have great skill, navigating in traffic, fog, rain and parking!! Overall, a great tour, with important history and valuable information!! With the exception of two poor quality hotels it was a memory that will last a life time. By the way, the Best Western in Barcelona is much better than the one we stayed in on the tour.

Amazing!!! Best thing I’ve ever done

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• Travel Shop

Best Ultimate Guide to All-Inclusive Girls Trips

1. Sultry Spas: Where Happy Meets Relaxation in Sedona Arizona

Enchantment Resort and Mii amo Spa

2. Beach Babes’ Paradise: Sand, Sun, and Sips

Sandals Resorts

3. exclusive adults-only extravaganzas.

Alright, my fierce and adventurous ladies, let’s talk about Hedonism II. Raise those eyebrows and get ready for a wild ride. This resort is all about shedding inhibitions and immersing yourself in a free-spirited, clothing-optional experience. Get ready to experience vacation in a whole new way!

4. Domestic Diva Destinations

5. All-Inclusive Lavish and Luxurious Spa Vacations

Mountain View Grand in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Get ready for some  serious picturesque scenery, ladies. You’re going to be surrounded by mountains and countryside views that will make your Instagram followers green with envy.

6. Exotic Exploration: Wanderlust Wonders 

7. gourmet gals: a culinary cruise.

8. Night Owls’ Nirvana: Party ’til Dawn

9. retail therapy: shop ’til you drop, 10. cultural cues: more than just a resort, 11. wellness warriors: beyond the spa.

12. Water-Babies’ Wonderland: Dive, Swim, Repeat

Let’s Wrap up!

Book your trip : check out my resources for your travel needs.

Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight.  This is my very first stop when I’m looking for my next trip . It’s a fast, easy-to-use search engine that is perfect for finding an affordable flight, a perfect hotel, and the right rental car for you in locations around the globe.

Book Your Accommodation

If you are looking for a super budget friendly location and are open to a hostel stay, make sure you book your hostel with Hostelworld . It offers the broadest range of quality hostels around the world . 

If you’d prefer a hotel or a guesthouse for stays less than 28 days, drop on over to Booking.com It’s perfect for providing excellent options, a ton of user reviews, and prices to fit every budget.

For stays over 28 days, AirBnB still remains my #1 choice. User reviews and monthly pricing allow for some incredible deals all around the world.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is but a small up-front investment that you won’t want to leave home without. After just one experience of having to delay or cancel your trip or having your luggage stolen, you’ll wish you would have made that investment.  I’ve hated my life a few times when the moment arose, and I decided to skip out.  Let’s just say, I’ve changed my ways and recommend each of the following companies to protect your ass-ets.

My favorite companies are:         

• SafetyWing (best for All Travelers)
• World Nomads (best of Adventure Travelers)
• MedJet (great for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free?

Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to getting free flights to get started.

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Check out my Resource Page for the best companies to help you book your travel at reduced rates!  This list will help you get to where you’re going.  I know-I use them ALL the time!  

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• October 6, 2023
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Hi, Jill Here

Hi! I’m Jill, a Dallas, Texas girl traveling the world. After a career in the Air Force and touring over 50 countries later, my need to explore keeps going! It’s time to rock & roll and find all those places I never knew I was missing.

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Discover an Award-Winning Vacation That Will Bring You and Your Friends Closer Than Ever

There’s nothing like getting away with a few of your best friends—and nobody does girls’ getaways like the best premium cruise line. From our mouthwatering restaurant collection to our ahh-inspiring spas to our fabulous designer boutiques, we offer everything you need to catch up, wind down, and make new memories with your friends, all while sailing to some of the world’s most spectacular destinations. This is the luxurious girls’ trip you deserve.

Unwind in world-class accommodations rivaling the best boutique hotels. Savor mouthwatering meals from menus crafted by our Michelin-starred chef—and paired with the most awarded wine collection at sea. Enjoy seamless service that anticipates your every need, so you never have to lift a finger.

Plus, booking your girls’ trip cruise with Celebrity couldn’t be easier. We can help you take care of everything from your air travel with Flights by Celebrity to award-winning shore excursions in your ports of call—and we’re with you from the time you book to the time you get back home.

Reconnect While You Disconnect

The farther you sail with us, the closer you and your friends will become. Our award-winning ships sail to more than 280 destinations around the world, and our itineraries offer more than 160 overnights stays. Escape for a girls’ weekend getaway to the sun-soaked Caribbean. Wine and dine your way through the Mediterranean. Soak up the rugged natural beauty of Alaska. Or share unforgettable experiences in exotic destinations like Asia, South America, and the Land Down Under. There’s no limit to where a girls’ getaway cruise with Celebrity can take you.

Celebrate in Style

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply the fact that you’re all together, a girls’ getaway cruise with Celebrity offers everything you could want—and more. Take in one of our award-winning shows . Raise a toast at our sumptuous wine tastings . Dance the night away at one of our stylish bars and lounges. Treat yourself to soothing spa treatments. Work up a sweat at our group fitness classes. Or, just kick back together poolside. There are so many amazing experiences to share with your friends on board, you’ll wish there were more hours in the day.

Take Your Girls’ Getaway to the Next Level

Discover an array of luxurious experiences you can all enjoy together. It’s your vacation, so you can do as much (or as little) as you wish.

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I Took a Virgin Voyages Cruise With My Sister — and It Was the Ultimate Girls Trip

This adults-only cruise line is perfect for a girls getaway — here's why.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Elizabeth Rhodes

The perfect girls trip is a delicate balance. Finding a destination, booking a hotel, and planning an itinerary that fits all your friends’ preferences can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. Virgin Voyages is still a relative newcomer to the cruise industry, but its adults-only policy, included upscale dining, and ships that combine party vibes with rest and relaxation make it a great choice for a group getaway . My sister and I stepped aboard Valiant Lady this summer for a Mediterranean cruise , and it was our best girls trip yet.

We sailed the Irresistible Med itinerary, with stops in Spain, France, and Italy. Our trip included all the Mediterranean highlights, with excursions to Portofino and St. Tropez, an overnight docking in Ibiza, and plenty of sun-soaked beaches. For a couple of girls who love to visit beautiful European destinations with a mix of beautiful art and architecture, delicious food, incredible natural scenery, and lively nightlife venues, it was a memorable week-long itinerary.

Of course, there are options for all kinds of travelers depending on their desired destinations, departure ports, and cruise length. Those looking for a short trip closer to home might opt for the four-night Fire and Sunset Soirees cruises from Miami (perfect for a bachelorette party ), while the seven–night Greek Island Glow is ideal for travelers with time to unwind and explore ( buddymoon , anyone?). 

Whether you island hop in Greece or sail around the Caribbean , the Virgin Voyages ships serve as the perfect vacation headquarters for you and your girlfriends. Staterooms include modular bedding that can easily be split into two twin beds (great for friends sharing a room), while RockStar Quarters provide ample room to spread out. And every room with a balcony is outfitted with a cozy hammock, the ultimate place to watch the scenery float by or take a midday nap. 

Another reason the cruise is designed for girls trips ? The 20-plus food and beverage outlets on board mean there’s something for everyone in your group. On our seven-night voyage, we had the chance to try every dining venue on board (including all the late-night snacks). Our favorite restaurants included Pink Agave, a Mexican restaurant decked out in sophisticated navy and pink tones; Gunbae, a Korean barbecue spot where meals start with a funny drinking game; and The Wake, a beautiful, glitzy restaurant serving steak and seafood with incredible ocean views. There aren’t buffets or expansive and impersonal dining halls, so it feels like you’re going out to eat at a beautifully designed (and very Instagrammable) restaurant each night. And from the swanky Champagne lounge to the open-air Dock Bar at the back of the ship, there are plenty of places to grab a tasty beverage. 

Entertainment options range from Duel Reality, a show featuring incredible acrobatic stunts, to the ship-wide Scarlet Night party. You can expect to find live music, private karaoke rooms, a vintage-style arcade, a casino, a tattoo parlor, and a flashy nightclub on board, too. And what says “girls trip” more than grabbing a drink at the Champagne bar, singing your lungs out in a private karaoke room, dancing the night away in a club, and capping things off with included room service? Then, recover the next day in the Redemption Spa or in one of the pools around the ship before exploring your next port.

When we arrived back in Barcelona at the end of our cruise, we left the Valiant Lady with sun-kissed tans, hundreds of photos, and new memories to last until our next girls getaway. 

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Fresh seafood, sun-dappled beaches, and fountain-filled piazzas on our mind? Our trips to the Mediterranean have it all.

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What travelers say about their Mediterranean trips

Travel tips for tours to the mediterranean.

Visit a local vineyard.  Many of the world’s best wines are produced in the Mediterranean. Travelers on our Mediterranean tours will visit vineyards and wineries in Italy and Greece to learn how grapes are grown, harvested, and transformed into world-class wines.  

Explore ancient ruins.  The Mediterranean is home to some of the world’s most important ancient ruins, from the Parthenon in Athens to the Colosseum in Rome. On our Mediterranean trips, travelers can get a chance to see what life was like as early civilizations developed.

See why traveler Donna says ancient ruins are among her top 10 reasons to visit the Mediterranean  →

Go island-hopping.  The Mediterranean is studded with postcard-worthy islands, and no two are exactly alike. Our Mediterranean tours offer the chance to hop from Ischia to Capri in Italy. In Greece, travelers can hopscotch between Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and other dreamy island gems.

The Mediterranean is a year-round destination, but here are a few things to keep in mind when considering going on a trip to the Mediterranean.

Peak season in the Mediterranean falls during June, July, and August, when temperatures are at their warmest and most beach-friendly. This is also peak travel season in the region, so travelers on Mediterranean vacations during this time are likely to encounter larger crowds.

In shoulder season, which falls during April and May, temperatures are pleasant and crowds are significantly thinner, making it the best time to visit the Mediterranean for travelers who prefer calm and quiet.

In fall and winter, crowds all but disappear, as do peak-season prices on everything from food to souvenirs. Travelers who visit the Mediterranean in winter can enjoy holiday festivals, food, music, and decorations throughout the region.

The Mediterranean is home to more cultural, architectural, and natural treasures than we can count. Here are a few of the highlights you can experience on our Mediterranean tours.

• The Parthenon.  Perched atop the Acropolis in Athens, this iconic marble temple was built between 447 and 432 B.C., during the height of the ancient Greek Empire. Travelers who visit Greece on trips like our  Italy & Greece tour  can see it up close during a guided tour.
• The Greek Islands.  With their laid-back beaches, charming villages, friendly locals, and distinctive architecture, it’s no wonder the Greek Islands are a popular vacation spot for travelers from around the world. Want to visit several on a single trip? Our Mediterranean vacation packages make it easy.
• Cinque Terre.  These five, traffic-free fishing villages in the Italian region of Liguria perch along a six-mile stretch of the Italian Riviera and are linked together by scenic footpaths. Each village is packed with pastel-hued homes and offers travelers who book Mediterranean tour packages a distinctly different, but decidedly relaxed, vibe.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia.  Overlooking the azure Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is one of the world’s most magnificent walled cities. Visitors who travel to the Mediterranean in the summertime can enjoy its sparkling beaches, as well as boat rides along its dramatic coast.
• Venice.  Arguably one of the most romantic cities in the world, Venice is built across 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea and is known for its network of canals. Travelers who book Mediterranean travel packages that include Venice can explore the city’s canals on a gondola ride, and visit other major landmarks, such as St. Mark’s Square.

Check out photos traveler Harris snapped of his favorite spots on our Italy & Greece tour  →

• Comfortable walking shoes.  No matter which of our Mediterranean tours you choose, be sure to bring sturdy shoes with a good grip. They’ll keep your feet and ankles happy while walking on cobblestones, uneven streets, hiking paths, and other surfaces.
• A day bag.  Keep your water, wallet, sunglasses, extra layers, and other essentials handy in a small backpack, crossbody, or tote.
• A shawl, wrap, or cardigan.  A light layer will add a touch of extra warmth during outdoor dinners by the water, and protect your shoulders from the sun during the daytime.
• A good camera.  And an extra memory card or two to capture the Mediterranean’s natural, architectural, and cultural treasures.
• Sun protection.  Think brimmed hats, sunglasses, and SPF for any time spent outside, especially during walking tours on sunny days.
• A swimsuit and sandals.   Because when you spot the crystal-clear waters that lap at the Greek Islands’ beaches, you won’t be able to resist getting in.
• Light, loose clothing.  If you plan to visit the Mediterranean in the summertime, when temperatures can be hot, pack lightweight, loose clothing that will help keep you comfortable and cool.
• Fresh seafood.  Plucked straight from the Mediterranean Sea, local seafood, like anchovies, mussels, and other shellfish, is as fresh as it gets, making it a must-try when visiting the Mediterranean. Try it prepared simply (a squeeze of lemon and little else) or cooked into a filling pasta dish.
• Kopanisti.  Thick, creamy, and with a peppery flavor, this spreadable sheep’s-milk cheese is often served with bread as a starter on the Greek island of Mykonos.
• All the fresh fruit.  Thanks to the Mediterranean’s mild climate, a variety of fruits grow in the region are far superior in quality to those we often find in grocery stores. Stop at a local market to taste whatever’s in season. If you like olives, be sure to get your fill when you visit the Mediterranean.  
• Pesto.  The Ligurian Coast is famous for this basil-and-oil delicacy, making it a must-try when you visit Italy’s Cinque Terre. 

Although the Mediterranean sees plenty of sunshine and warm weather in the spring, summer, and fall, winters here can be on the cool side. Be sure to check weather forecasts before you travel to the Mediterranean so you can pack accordingly.  

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The 6 best cruise lines for girlfriend getaways

If you're scouting for a vacation to take with your best gal pals where you can get pampered, barhop and dine at fun, eclectic restaurants — without unpacking your suitcase multiple times or driving a car — sailing on a cruise ship checks off all the boxes.

This super-flexible vacation option takes the stress out of satisfying a mix of personalities and travel styles, so that you arrive on embarkation day ready to unwind and still adore your besties at week's end. If needed, everyone can do their own thing during the day and still come together for dinner and evening entertainment.

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Nightlife options — not to mention wellness perks like an onboard spa, yoga classes and poolside naps — are never far from your cabin. A friend who wants to stay out late or retire to bed early won't cramp the group's style. Adventurous eaters and picky palates can easily be satisfied at various onboard restaurants with extensive menus, and your wine-loving pal can load up on Napa cabs while you chat up mixologists behind the bar or taste-test craft beers.

But not all cruise lines are girlfriend getaway-friendly, particularly if attending academic lectures at night or leaving each port by 4 p.m. is not your jam.

Here are the six best cruise lines for girlfriend getaways and why they will take your next ladies' night out to the next level.

Virgin Voyages

Even before new cruise line Virgin Voyages set sail in August 2021, Virgin Group CEO Richard Branson had already hooked party-minded travelers through his private-island retreat (Necker Island), boutique hotels and Virgin Atlantic airline. The line's two (soon to be three) ships take that spirit to heart: Both emulate a "superyacht" vibe with an adults-only clientele.

If your group is on a budget, opt for the Insider cabin, with the beds in an L shape, creating an instant spot to host happy-hour drinks or late-night chit-chat with friends from other cabins. Two other beds are in bunks above.

Book a suite if you're feeling flush because you'll get room to spread out and not get on each other's nerves, whether you choose the 2,147-square-foot Massive Suite with a private hot tub on the terrace or the smallest, 352-square-foot Seriously Suite. Terraces are wide enough for a swing chair and, on some, two chaise lounges; access to a members-only outdoor space hosting pre-dinner cocktails is also included.

Related: First impressions of Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady from a cruise newbie

Twenty dining venues focus on casual eats like Korean barbecue and Mexican, and a partnership with the Bar Lab and Cocktail Cartel crafts swoon-worthy drinks for your gals-only bar crawl. Instead of classic Broadway show tunes, entertainment includes "Never Sleep Alone," a late-night cabaret show, and the kind of rock and funk in the clubs that you'd expect from the founder of a record label.

Speaking of dancing, pack your terrycloth shorts and headband; '80s-themed VHS Workout classes are an aerobic time warp perfect for a group activity. Or, consider getting inked with matching tattoos at Squid Ink , the onboard tattoo parlor.

Itineraries reject 9-to-5 port days in favor of late nights so you can experience dinner or nightlife in port. The 1,408-passenger Scarlet Lady sails out of Miami or San Juan , Puerto Rico, for four or five nights (the perfect length for hanging with your BFFs) in the Caribbean and the Bahamas (including a stop at the cruise line's private beach club on Bimini, which hosts yoga classes and a beach bonfire). Identical twin Valiant Lady traverses the Mediterranean in summer and the Caribbean in winter.

Celebrity Cruises

With social media star Capt. Kate McCue and a supporting cast of female officers at the helm on select ships, Celebrity Cruises will match your need for female empowerment with its own. The cruise line appeals to women travelers who crave a foodie and cultured vibe more than families in search of an arcade or zip line.

By day, gather at the adults-only Solarium where an indoor pool (in a covered area marked by skylights) is true bliss when you want to sip pina coladas and giggle with your girlfriends. Book AquaClass cabins that connect you with a spa concierge to arrange your spa day and provide access to a thermal suite where you can all de-stress once you've ditched the office for vacation. Energetic friends can sample fitness classes ranging from Zumba to yoga; some ships even offer Peloton bikes.

Related: The ultimate guide to Celebrity Cruises ships and itineraries

If your ladies love their vino, bond at one of the cruise line's workshops in food-and-wine pairing or blending your own wine. Or skip class for a party; gather the gals for at least one toast at the alfresco Sunset Bar pre-dinner, then bounce among Celebrity's bars and lounges for people-watching and dancing after dark.

Dining options range from the whimsical to the elegant. Gawk at Le Petit Chef's innovative plating and 3D table animation, and hold on to your hats at the Magic Carpet Restaurant (an open-air space that hangs over the side of the ship). Dress up for a night out at Raw on 5 or Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud (on Celebrity Beyond , the cruise line's newest ship).

Whether your group wants shore excursions the likes of rugged adventures in Alaska , beach-bathing in the Caribbean or village-hopping in the Mediterranean , Celebrity Cruises' itineraries cover it all.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line 's three-day weekend cruises are ideal for gal pals without a ton of vacation time or money to spare. If you don't want to bother with airports, you can likely find a cruise departing from a port within driving distance of your hometown. Save even more by bunking three or four to a cabin, though you might want to splurge on a couple of cabins so you won't all be sharing one bathroom.

What Carnival Cruise Line does best is cater to a variety of people. You can enjoy casual dining by celebrity chefs (including Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken, Guy Fieri's Guy's Burger Joint and Emeril Lagasse's Emeril's Bistro 1396), sample sushi or Italian fare, or choose fine dining at The Chef's Table or steakhouse.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line

If your crew is into it, you can line dance, race down waterslides and holler out music trivia answers on the pool deck. Or, perhaps you'd rather walk past that wet madness to the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, a sweet spot for catching up on girl talk in a completely chill environment — no shrieking kids allowed.

When you're ready for a late night out, you'll find Carnival offers an impressive bar lineup. Sip fruity drinks at the poolside RedFrog Tiki Bar or join the Mega Deck Party on the Lido Deck.

Norwegian Cruise Line

If dancing the conga line on the Lido deck, jamming at a Glow Party or working it at a retro-themed disco are your ideas of a good time, Norwegian Cruise Line ships could be your group's utopia.

Whether you want to spend a relaxing sea day on the ship getting manis and pedis in the spa or escape the crowds at Vibe Beach Club (on select ships), you have plenty of opportunities to hang with the girls. These ships offer plenty of daytime onboard options drenched with adrenaline, from zipping down a waterslide to an indoor cycling class.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line

Stay up late to see shows like "Kinky Boots," "Footloose" or "Jersey Boys" (Broadway quality and included in your fare) and find your onboard crush among the cast of "The Choir of Man." Afterward, reconnect at your choice of 20-plus bars or lounges, pouring everything from bubbles to martinis. Each watering hole has a distinct theme, including the Skyy Vodka Ice Bar, entirely constructed from ice.

Norwegian Cruise Line sails the world, including Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe and Hawaii (see four islands in a week, whew!). If you're seeking the beach, look for weekend sailings to the Bahamas from Florida or longer five- to seven-night itineraries to Mexico, Caribbean and Central America from the East and West coasts.

Margaritaville at Sea

Margaritaville at Sea exclusively sails two-night trips between the Port of Palm Beach, Florida, and Freeport in the Bahamas, so it's easy to narrow in on dates that jive with your girlfriends' conflicting schedules. If you want more hang time, tack on a few nights in a Grand Bahama Island hotel, coordinated by the cruise line.

The 659-cabin Paradise takes its maiden voyage in mid-May after a Jimmy Buffett-themed rebrand. Grab your salt shaker and make a beeline for the aptly named 5 O'Clock Somewhere Bar, the Sunset Bar or the Euphoria Lounge for the first of many margaritas. Or, meet up in the casino to play the slots. The ship also hosts a theater, fitness center and spa to fill in your calendar of fun.

And, yes, you can sing your heart out to Buffett songs. Just show up at "Jimmy's Ship Show," a musical written by Buffett and performed on board. You can also order a cheeseburger in paradise at LandShark Bar & Grill, a concept borrowed from Margaritaville Resorts. Other dining venues include a coffee and pastry shop, steak and seafood joint, pizzeria and the prerequisite buffet.

Wake up to a day of fun in the Bahamian sun before you re-board the ship to do it all over again on the way home.

Royal Caribbean

If you can't decide on anything as a group, pick a ship that lacks nothing in terms of things to do. This way everyone is happy. Royal Caribbean 's five Oasis-class ships (Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony and Wonder of the Seas) are solid options because they're the largest passenger vessels at sea. This means lots of choices.

You can dine at a different restaurant every night (and still not try them all), check out a Broadway show, then barhop from one deck to the next by way of the elevating Rising Tide Bar. Foodie friends can load up on calories at gourmet venues such as Wonderland and 150 Central Park, while the health-conscious can sip smoothies for lunch at the Vitality Cafe.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean

Or, cheer on the bravest of your bunch as she soars along the ship's zip line, climbs the multideck rock wall or attempts to hang 10 on the FlowRider surf simulator. You can all bring your heart rates back down with treatments at the spa or a thermal suite detox.

If you're looking for a beach vacay, set your sights on a Caribbean or Bahamas itinerary; some short sailings won't even cost you that much PTO. In fact, at Royal Caribbean's private island — Perfect Day at CocoCay — you might want to go all-out and book a floating cabana where you can properly catch up away from the kids and crowds.

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Jessica Alba enjoys a girls’ trip with her daughter and more star snaps

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Jessica Alba's Daughters Honor and Haven Look All Grown Up as They Enjoy a 'Girls Trip' to London with Mom

The actress shares her daughters and son Hayes with husband Cash Warren

jessica alba/instagram

Jessica Alba's daughters enjoying a fun girl's trip across the pond.

On Thursday, April 11, the actress, 42, shared a series of photos on her Instagram from her trip to London with daughters Honor, 15, and Haven, 12. In the one sweet photo, the proud mom poses to the left of her older daughter, who stands taller than Alba.

Daughter Haven poses on the other side of her sister, only a few inches shorter than Honor. The mother and daughters can also be seen enjoying afternoon tea at Sketch, attending a play at the West End and posing in front of the iconic red phone booth.

"Girls trip 🇬🇧🫶🏽🤍☺️  #SpringBreak   #London ," Alba wrote in her caption.

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In addition to her daughters, Alba shares her son Hayes, 6, with husband Cash Warren .

In September, Alba shared with PEOPLE that she learns from her kids just as much as they learn from her.

"They're either teaching me something every day or I'm teaching them something," she said.

"We're learning from each other. It's definitely a back and forth," she said, adding that it's important to "not take the relationship for granted, knowing that I'm always going to be there for them, and for right now, they're always going to be in the house. We have a really healthy relationship and unconditional love for one another."

Later in the interview, Alba said that her daughters aren't raiding her closet for clothes to wear — yet.

"I mean, Haven can fit [into] my shoes, but she kind of thinks my shoes are dorky, so she doesn't really," Alba told PEOPLE. "Sometimes Honor will grab some tops or something, but yeah, not really. We have different styles."

"They always say I dress like a mom, which is really insulting. I'm like, 'Oh my gosh, I could literally kill you.' And they're like, 'But you are a mom.' And I'm like, 'Yeah, but you don't have to say it like that. So rude.'"

The mom of three noted that while her daughters "love not having the same style as me," they do "really love all my style recommendations, saying they would never wear it."

"So that's just where they're at right now," Alba added. "And I'm like, 'It's fine. I promise I have good style. You'll figure it out one day.'"

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