Get your girlfriends together and take a vacation to celebrate life and your friendship. There’s so much to be grateful for, and going on a girls’ cruise with your closest friends is the perfect way to reflect on your blessings. Even if you have kids and a husband, it’s okay to go on a trip away from them for a bit to focus on yourself and get some much-needed rest.
Windstar’s small, intimate ships go all over the world to give you plenty of girlfriend trip ideas that cater to your unique interests and preferences. Explore the top 20 best cities for girls’ trips to plan your next vacation with your friend group.
In This Article
- Miami, Florida
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Bali, Indonesia
- Montreal, Canada
- Barcelona, Spain
- Papagayo, Costa Rica
- Tokyo, Japan
- Rome, Italy
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- San Diego, California
- Oranjestad, Aruba
- Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Mykonos, Greece
- Dublin, Ireland
- Bruges, Belgium
- Mallorca, Spain
- Phuket, Thailand
- Amalfi Coast, Italy
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Book a Girls’ Trip With Windstar Cruises
1. Miami, Florida
Miami is a Southern city in the United States that’s always on spring break. When you book a trip here, you’ll fall in love with its warm weather and big-city lifestyle. Since it’s filled with beaches and entertainment for people of all ages to enjoy, you and your friends will always have something fun to do. Relax on the sandy beach during the day and hit up the nightlife when the sun goes down.
Eat at a few of the top-rated Latin-inspired restaurants in the country, and look for hotels and clubs with pools and hidden treasures. Miami is also a port city that allows you to access other destinations via a cruise ship, such as the Caribbean or Central America. You may even want to check out the Florida Keys during your stay for a break from the action.
2. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is a whimsical country in Northern Europe that inspires awe and wonder at every turn. When you go during the summer months, the sun is almost always shining, so you can explore Reykjavik at any time of the day. Go shopping with your friends and stroll through Reykjavik’s modest cities. When the sun finally sets, stare up at the sky at night as you bask in the Northern Lights or endless stars.
Even though Iceland has an adventurous landscape, it’s also a safe, peaceful place to go with your friends. Make a reservation at an indoor sauna or outdoor hot tub and relax with your best friends. The Blue Lagoon has some beautiful, picturesque scenes to make memories with your girls and post about it for your friends to see back home.
3. Lisbon, Portugal
For an urban Mediterranean adventure, check out Lisbon, Portugal, an up-and-coming girls’ trip destination with a thriving local scene and deep-rooted history. Between the affordable prices and the authentic charm, you’ll surely make memories with your friends that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Wander along the cobblestone streets and snap selfies with pastel waterfront buildings as your backdrop. Seafood and wine are popular here, so include time for fancy dinners out on the town in your itinerary. Take a trip along the coastline and make some new friends with your girlfriends by your side. Since the country is small, you could even do a road trip during your stay in Portugal.
4. Bali, Indonesia
Bali, Indonesia, is the perfect destination for those who want to get away from it all. This paradisiacal land features stunning waterfalls and awe-inspiring beaches to relax on with your friends. Get in touch with nature on a yoga retreat in this South Pacific city.
Besides meditation along the calm waters and pristine white sandy beaches, there are also water sports and sightseeing throughout the area. Hike up a volcano with your friends and keep an eye out for Komodo dragons.
5. Montreal, Canada
Montreal is a cultural Canadian city filled with historic, exciting places to explore. Grab a glass of wine at a local winery and relax with your closest friends. Go back in time and take a trip to Old Montreal, which features horses on cobblestone streets and centuries-old cathedrals and buildings. It’s best to visit in the spring and early fall when you can sit on an outdoor terrace.
Consider going here for a birthday party or reunion with your college friends. Besides indulging in music festivals and other parties throughout the year, you may also want to climb to the top of Mont-Royal and bask in the beauty of Montreal’s stunning views.
6. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, Spain, features rich cultural architecture and awe-inspiring art. Besides walking through the town and feeling like you’re in a painting, you can also wander through the beaches and sip on some sangria during your stay with your girlfriends. Barcelona boasts a different way of life, with dinners as late as 10 p.m. and even later nights on the town.
You’ll be sleeping in and rising when you want instead of sticking to a strict schedule. Explore iconic sites during the day and fun tapas bars in the evening, and dance until the early morning. Instead of being romantic like other European cities, Barcelona is hip and fun, making it an excellent spot for you to hang out with your friends of any age.
7. Papagayo, Costa Rica
This adventurous city is ideal for thrill-seekers who want to take part in high-flying outdoor activities. Since you’re on vacation without kids or spouses, it’s an excellent excuse to let loose and try something new.
Take your pick of outdoor Costa Rican excursions, such as surfing, zip-lining or hiking through the heart of a jungle. After you’ve explored, go to the Andaz Papagayo, which includes a delightful spa and amazing food. You could also check out the Culebra Bay when you need to relax after a day of excitement.
8. Tokyo, Japan
If you’re up for a girlfriends’ getaway in Asia, check out the bustling city of Tokyo, Japan. It’s best to go during cherry blossom season, where the pink flowers bloom throughout the whole city. Besides the exotic nature, Tokyo also has delicious food and wild nightlife you and your friends will love.
It’s also one of the safest places to visit with your friends to give you peace of mind throughout your whole stay. Book your trip to Tokyo if you’re looking for a different vacation destination with delicious food, exciting nightlife and endless activities with your closest friends.
9. Rome, Italy
As the historic capital of Italy, Rome is an excellent destination for spending time with your girlfriends due to its delicious food and picturesque scenery. When you’re at home, you might think of the ideal night as one filled with carbs and wine. Rome has a delectable menu with scrumptious food and wine to indulge in with your friends in Europe.
Learn about Italian history as you take a tour around the city and try decadent wine, walk through a museum and treat yourself at an elegant spa. You’ll also want to explore Rome’s iconic sites, such as the Vatican and the Colosseum.
10. San Juan, Puerto Rico
The capital of Puerto Rico is a popular destination because of its connection to other Caribbean cruise port cities and its wide assortment of fun activities. Whether you enjoy relaxing on the beach or dancing the night away at a party, you’ll find lots to do to keep you occupied. You may also find a special someone on the dance floor if you’re single and looking for love.
Check out the food truck-style markets and try authentic treats with your friends. Be sure to make time for hanging out on the beach to soak up the sun and get refreshed.
11. San Diego, California
San Diego is one of the fittest cities in the United States. This city in California features 340 parks and 26 miles of shoreline for you to swim, hike or bike wherever and whenever you want. You may also want to sign yourself and your friends up for surfing lessons to try something new.
Have a girls’ getaway in this coastal location with stunning beaches and fun activities. This location is also a cruise port city with access to other parts of California, along with Mexico and Central America.
12. Oranjestad, Aruba
Escape to the Caribbean with a few of your closest friends and soak up the 80-degree weather at any time of the year. This Dutch port boasts some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, with stunning views and crystal-blue water at your feet. Walk along the Palm Beach Strip and find ways to relax and rejuvenate amidst the spas and pools.
Sip local cocktails and watch the sunset on the terraces of regional bars. For a change of pace from the exciting nightlife you’d find at other locations, you may want to play a game of dominos with the locals.
13. Dubrovnik, Croatia
This Croatian city along the Mediterranean was the filming site for King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones,” so you may want to check it out if you’re a fan of the series. This walled city is famous because of its prominent white limestone paving, awe-inspiring cathedral and stunning beaches. Take pictures with your girlfriends and enjoy exploring the rich history this UNESCO site offers.
Since no cars are allowed, you and your friends can explore this untouched piece of history and culture on foot. You might even catch a few brave divers jumping off the cliffs nearby. End the day scrolling through your pictures with your friends at the Buza Café.
14. Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos is an island in Greece with beautiful beaches and pristine white buildings. Since it’s one of the most popular places for celebrities to visit, you may want to bring a group of your girlfriends to try to spot someone from your favorite TV show.
There are many things to do in Mykonos, even if you’re only stopping there for a day on a cruise. Choose from multiple excursions to learn about the history of Greek mythology and get inspired by the culture you’ll find here. Take a tour on a ferry or check out one of the many beaches, each offering opportunities to relax or dance the night away on the sand.
15. Dublin, Ireland
As the capital of Ireland, Dublin is a popular tourist destination to visit in Northern Europe. There are more than 750 pubs to choose from, so enjoy a pint with your girlfriends and try as many places as you can during your stay.
Visit the Guinness Brewery and pour a pint of your favorite type of beer. Explore the 11th-century castles and historic buildings along the way as you take in the green rolling hills and breathtaking views. For a nature-inspired activity away from the beer and history, check out Dublin Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
16. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, Belgium, offers a fun girlfriends’ getaway with delicious brunch and beautiful scenery. The entire town has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site since it boasts Renaissance and Flemish architecture and charming canals. You and your friends will feel like you’re in a movie as you walk through the central plaza and explore this city’s historic buildings and churches.
After indulging in brunch from a local café, finish your day of exploring with a pint of Belgian beer. Treat yourself to some Belgian chocolate while you’re in the area, too!
17. Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca is a beautiful Spanish island with plenty of activities for ladies of all ages to enjoy. Soak up the sun on the beach or rent a speedboat to explore Mallorca’s crystal blue waters. You can also find an interesting clubbing scene among the younger crowd. There are more than 200 beaches for you and your friends to choose from, whether you want to sit on the sand or indulge in some water sports.
Like with the rest of Spain, you can find a wide selection of places to eat tapas and learn about the country’s rich history. You may also enjoy watching street dancers or admiring the coast’s natural beauty.
18. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket Island is perfect for divers, thrill-seekers and nature lovers. As the largest island in Thailand, there’s plenty of land to explore and nature to see during your stay. Go snorkeling or scuba diving off the coast and bask in the hidden treasures under the water’s surface. Take a swim amidst some of the world’s most colorful types of fish, sharks and coral reefs.
Besides diving and snorkeling, you can also take a break from the action by relaxing on the beach and admiring the sunset. Take a trip to Karon View Point, where you can see the area’s white sandy beaches. There are also historic temples from centuries ago for you to wander around with your friends.
19. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Amalfi Coast features an aesthetic wonderland you and your girlfriends will enjoy exploring. This picturesque part of southern Italy features rugged cliffs that dart out into the Mediterranean. Take a stroll along the coast and visit towns such as Positano and Sorrento. You may also want to check out the famous Mount Vesuvius and the remains of Pompeii. Since most activities are open between April and November, it’s best to plan your trip accordingly to enjoy all of this region’s entertainment and restaurants.
20. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is ideal for those who enjoy learning about other cultures. As you stroll through this gorgeous city with your girlfriends, you’ll find something for everyone in your party. Walk or bike ride along one of the Netherlands’ many bridges over the canals, or visit Amsterdam’s vast array of art museums.
Chow down on some delicious Stroop waffles and sip some coffee at a local shop. You’ll also admire the Dutch colonial architecture found in certain parts of the city. Even though most of the fun happens during the day, you’ll also find some party scenes at night.
Book a Girls’ Trip With Windstar Cruises
Even though all these girls’ trip destinations are wonderful options for you and your girlfriends, it’s best to see as many of them as possible. When you book a girlfriends’ getaway with Windstar Cruises, you’ll see many of these cities and more.
Our small ships give you access to places most larger cruise lines can’t reach, and you’ll receive one-on-one care from our committed staff. Besides all the excursions and amenities at your desired port city, we’ll also provide onboard activities to keep you and your friends entertained for the entire duration of your stay. Browse through our cruises and reach out to us to get started!
