Behind The Travel

10 Best Girl Trip Destinations Outside the US – #3 Is a Dream!

Are you and your best friends ready for an unforgettable adventure abroad? Planning the perfect girls’ trip requires balancing everyone’s interests, budgets, and travel styles. As someone who has wandered through countless cities and coastlines, I’ve gathered some of the most exciting international destinations to help you create memories that will last a lifetime. For additional inspiration on empowering female travel, check out this insightful article from WellSpa360.

From sun-soaked Mediterranean islands to bustling Asian capitals, these international spots offer the ideal mix of relaxation, adventure, cuisine, and culture. Whether you’re craving beachside cocktails, cultural immersion, or adrenaline-pumping activities, our 2025 guide has you covered with practical tips and essential information for female travelers.

Best International Girls’ Trip Destinations

1. Paris, France: The City of Lights and Romance

Paris remains a dream destination for girlfriend getaways with its perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and shopping opportunities. It’s also one of the best options when considering travel packages that include accommodations, meals, and guided tours.

Why visit with your girlfriends:
  • Iconic photo opportunities at the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and along the Seine.
  • World-class shopping on the Champs-Élysées and in Le Marais.
  • Countless cozy cafés and Michelin-starred restaurants.
  • Wine and cheese tastings in charming neighborhoods.

Safety tip: Paris is generally safe for female travelers, but be cautious in tourist areas where pickpockets may operate. Traveling in groups after dark is advisable, especially around Montmartre and the northern districts.

Best time to visit: April to June or September to October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months.

2. Barcelona, Spain: Beach Culture Meets Gothic Charm

Barcelona offers the perfect mix of Mediterranean beaches, remarkable architecture, and vibrant nightlife that’s ideal for groups of women traveling together.

Don’t miss:
  • Gaudí masterpieces like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.
  • Beach days along Barceloneta’s golden shores.
  • Tapas hopping through El Born and the Gothic Quarter.
  • La Boqueria Market for fresh produce and local delicacies.

Budget-friendly stay: Casa Gracia Barcelona Hostel offers private rooms for groups in a beautifully renovated modernist building near Passeig de Gràcia, making it a great option for a girls’ trip on a budget. For more details, check the Visit Barcelona Official Site.

3. Greek Islands (Mykonos & Santorini): Mediterranean Magic

The Greek Islands offer the quintessential Mediterranean experience with stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. These islands are among the best choices for all-inclusive trips, with many resorts offering packages that cover meals, drinks, and activities.

Island-hopping highlights:
  • Santorini’s iconic blue-domed churches and unforgettable sunset views from Oia.
  • Mykonos’ glamorous beach clubs and the picturesque Little Venice district.
  • Fresh seafood tavernas overlooking crystal-clear waters.
  • Private boat tours around volcanic calderas and hidden coves.

Group-friendly accommodations include Semeli Hotel and Kivotos Mykonos in Mykonos, perfect for chic suites with private pools, rooftop lounges, and private yacht dining. In Santorini, Dream Island Hotel offers budget-friendly all-inclusive options with pool access and spacious villas suitable for groups.

When to go: May to June and September offer perfect weather without the extreme crowds and prices of July and August.

4. Bali, Indonesia: Spiritual Beauty and Beach Bliss

Bali combines affordable luxury with spiritual experiences, making it perfect for groups seeking both adventure and relaxation. Booking resorts that include spa treatments and yoga sessions can make for an all-inclusive and rejuvenating experience.

Must-experience activities include sunrise yoga over rice terraces in Ubud, beach club hopping in Seminyak and Canggu, and temple visits to Uluwatu and Tanah Lot at sunset.

Entry requirements for 2025: U.S. citizens can obtain a 30-day Visa on Arrival for IDR 500,000, extendable once. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond arrival. There is also a tourism levy of IDR 150,000 payable online. Be sure to check the latest travel advisories closer to your departure date.

Travel considerations: The journey from the U.S. takes over 20 hours. I recommend budgeting at least 7-10 days to make the long journey worthwhile. Trust me, after my first visit, the jet lag was no match for the island’s charm.

5. Tulum, Mexico: Boho-Chic Paradise

This coastal town blends ancient Mayan history with eco-friendly accommodations and gorgeous Caribbean beaches. It’s an ideal destination for women looking for a wellness and relaxation-focused vacation.

Top attractions: The cliffside Mayan ruins, cenote swimming holes like Gran Cenote and Dos Ojos, and various wellness retreats.

Transportation options in Tulum vary, from expensive taxis and affordable colectivos (shared vans) to bicycle rentals and car rentals at approximately 900 MXN per day.

Safety tips: Use ADO buses for intercity travel, avoid airport currency exchanges, and politely decline unsolicited tour guide offers.

6. Banff, Canada: Mountain Majesty

For outdoor enthusiasts, Banff offers breathtaking mountain scenery and year-round activities just north of the U.S. border. It’s a budget-friendly option if you opt for shared accommodations and free outdoor adventures.

Adventure options: Explore hiking trails around Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, enjoy gondola rides on Sulphur Mountain, or spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

Group activities: Book a guided horseback riding tour through meadows and forests, or try whitewater rafting on the Bow River for an adrenaline rush everyone will remember.

7. Rome, Italy: Eternal City Exploration

Rome delivers a perfect mix of history, art, fashion, and incredible food that satisfies diverse travel interests.

Cultural highlights: Ancient wonders like the Colosseum, Vatican treasures like the Sistine Chapel, and wandering the charming streets of Trastevere.

Dress code tip: When visiting religious sites like St. Peter’s Basilica, shoulders and knees must be covered. Packing a light scarf or shawl that can be easily carried and used when needed is a good idea.

8. Tokyo, Japan: Tradition Meets Futuristic Innovation

Tokyo offers an exhilarating blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation that creates a unique girls’ trip experience.

Must-see sights include the bustling Shibuya Crossing, trendy shopping in Harajuku, serene spots like Meiji Shrine, and food adventures from conveyor-belt sushi to Michelin-starred restaurants.

Nightlife spots offer vibrant experiences, including clubs like Womb in Shibuya, themed bar-hopping tours in Roppongi, or exploring the atmospheric Golden Gai in Shinjuku. Safety considerations emphasize avoiding certain areas late at night and taking advantage of the covenant transport passes.

Transportation tip: Purchase a prepaid Suica or Pasmo card for seamless travel on Tokyo’s extensive and efficient public transportation system. The Tokyo Metro is clean, punctual, and has English signage throughout.

9. Cartagena, Colombia: Caribbean Charm

This colorful walled city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast offers vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and romantic colonial architecture.

Perfect activities for girlfriends include wandering the photogenic streets of the Old Town, taking day trips to the Rosario Islands, learning salsa with dancing lessons, or trying Colombian cooking classes.

Cultural norms and etiquette stress modest dress codes, polite negotiation in markets, and respect for local customs. Safety practices recommend securing valuables and being cautious in crowded places.

Ideal timing: Visit between December and April for dry, sunny weather perfect for both city exploration and beach days.

10. Aruba: One Happy Island

Aruba’s perfect weather, white-sand beaches, and welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for a stress-free getaway with friends. It’s one of the best Caribbean destinations for an all-inclusive resort stay.

Highlights include the Instagram-worthy Flamingo Beach, natural wonders in Arikok National Park, and a safe, enjoyable environment tailored for tourists.

Getting around: Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace, driving is straightforward with good roads and clear signage. Most attractions are within a 30-minute drive from the main hotel areas.

Planning Tips for Your International Girls’ Trip

When putting together your itinerary, consider including a mix of self-guided explorations and group-organized activities. If you’re interested in a hassle-free experience, you might want to explore some inspiring women’s tours that cater specifically to female travelers.

Budgeting Strategies

DestinationBudget LevelEstimated Daily Cost Per Person (USD)
Bali, Indonesia$$50-100
Tulum, Mexico$$$100-200
Aruba$$$$200-300
Paris, France$$$$200-300
Tokyo, Japan$$$$200-300

Safety Essentials for Female Travelers

  1. Share itineraries and accommodation details with family or friends at home.
  2. Use transportation apps instead of hailing street taxis when possible.
  3. Keep emergency contacts accessible offline.
  4. Travel in groups after dark in unfamiliar areas.
  5. Research local customs and dress codes before arrival.

Additional Facts

  • 73% of women are planning an all-girls trip in 2025, according to recent research.
  • The average 2025 travel budget for Americans is $10,244, nearly double the average budget in 2023 ($5,300).
  • 57% of Americans will be taking a longer trip in 2025 than they did in 2023.
  • 86% of Americans will travel out of state, and 50% will travel internationally in 2025.
  • 74% of Americans plan to stay in a hotel for trips in 2025, while 45% will opt for a vacation rental home.

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