I truly believe that traveling is one of the best things that you can do for yourself in your twenties! The best trips I have taken in my lifetime so far are all listed below. These are the top 20 places to see in your 20s from someone who’s been there, done that, and got the postcard! From visiting the best European cities to exploring mountains and hiking volcanoes, here are 20 places you need to visit in your twenties.
20. London, England
London is full of so many fun things to see and do. From iconic landmarks like Big Ben, to world-class museums, markets, culinary delights, and pubs, there is no shortage of things to do here. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, touring the Warner Bros Studio is an absolute must! You’ll also have to hop on a red double decker bus and check out the charming neighborhood of Notting Hill.
19. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a hub for young backpackers and digital nomads, making it a perfect destination to visit in your twenties. The country is home to lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and plenty of opportunities for activities like surfing, zip-lining, and hiking.
18. Bruges, Belgium
Belgium – the land of waffles, fries, beer, and chocolate – what’s not to like? This small country is easy to navigate and home to the quaint, medieval city of Bruges. Spend a day wandering through its cobblestone streets and shops, taste the local chocolate and beer, and walk along the quiet canals.
17. California, USA
This state has so much to offer and is truly one of the best places to take a road trip in the USA. Oceanside sunsets, national parks, great surfing and hiking are just a few parts of experiencing the Californian dream. From San Francisco to Yosemite to Los Angeles to San Diego, there is so much to do in California in your twenties. Camping in Yosemite National Park and exploring the sunny city of San Diego are some of my favorite memories.
16. Cinque Terre, Italy
I have seen this place countless times online, and it’s for a good reason. This place is straight from a postcard and is truly an Italian daydream. Pizza, pasta, wine, breathtaking views and beautiful seaside villages are all reasons you need to add this place to your bucket list.
15. Picos De Europa, Spain
There are so many beautiful places to visit in Spain, and I’m sure you’ve got Barcelona and Madrid on your list if you haven’t already visited them! While both are beautiful places, I would consider Picos De Europa National Park my favorite place I have seen in Spain. It makes for a perfect road trip from Madrid, and takes you off the beaten tourist path. Here you can enjoy time in the mountains, explore the small Spanish villages, hike the Cares Trail, and gain a truly unique travel experience in your twenties.
14. Algarve, Portugal
This southern region of Portugal absolutely blew me away! It’s famous for its stunning beaches, cliffside villages, mouthwatering seafood and laidback, welcoming vibe. You’ll have to check out the Benagil Cave and Praia Do Camilo – probably the most beautiful beach I have ever seen.
13. Paris, France
Everyone needs to see the Eiffel Tower at least once in their life – right? While it is impressive, Paris offers so many things to do. Whether it’s trying Parisian cafes, wandering through museums and galleries, strolling along the Seine, or indulging in exquisite cuisine, Paris is the perfect place to have your main character moment in your twenties.
12. Cape Town, South Africa
If adventure is your thing, then Cape Town should be at the top of your list. There are so many crazy things to do here, from bungee jumping, to paragliding, to skydiving, to cage diving with great white sharks – and don’t even get me started with the penguin beaches! This place is an absolute paradise for an adventure lover in their twenties.
11. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long Bay in your twenties is an absolute must. This place offers the perfect blend of adventure and serenity. See a unique seascape of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters, and enjoy outdoor activities from kayaking through hidden caves to exploring floating villages or islands. If you’re feeling really carefree, book a tour to the party hub of Castaways Island in Ha Long Bay from the Vietnam Backpackers Hostel in Hanoi (warning – this place was absolutely crazy).
10. Kyoto, Japan
Japan was the first country I ever visited outside of the USA, and it was an absolutely mesmerizing experience. It truly feels like a different world, and I couldn’t help but completely fall in love with the quaint and charming streets of Kyoto. Here you can see a more traditional side of Japanese culture and walk through the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, and don’t even get me started on the food! This place it definitely a must see in your twenties.
9. Bavaria, Germany
If you are a nature lover you have to visit this region of Germany. Explore beautiful national parks, mountains, castles, and some of the most picturesque lakes I have ever seen. I found Germany very easy to navigate and Munich to be a great starting point to rent a car for an incredible road trip. Explore the many nearby places such as Berchtesgaden, Konigsee, Eibsee, Zugspitze, and the mesmerizing fairy tale land surrounding the Neuschwanstein Castle.
8. Machu Picchu, Peru
Peru is a country that should be high on everyone’s bucket list, especially in your twenties. There is no better way to marvel at this wonder of the world than to embark on a multi day trek, following the footsteps of the Incas. Embark on an adventure to discover the treasures along the iconic Inca Trail or brave the Salkantay Trek passing through high mountains, glimmering lakes, cloud forest, and jungle – the Salkantay 5 day trek was my favorite! (and the locals all seem to agree).
7. Barcelona, Spain
There aren’t many cities that hold as much character and charisma as this place – it is one of Europe’s most lively and vibrant cities. This places is full of colorful and unique architecture, sunny weather and beaches, and absolutely delicious food, and lively nightlife. You can’t miss Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece of La Sagrada Familia, the busy street of La Rambla, or the stunning views from Park Güell. This place is an absolute must in your twenties!
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
There are endless good things to say about Amsterdam, and there’s just something magical about this place. In this walkable city you can wander the city’s iconic canals and picturesque streets, visit famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum, and find yourself people watching in a cozy cafe as the cyclists buzz by. From the historic Anne Frank House to the lively nightlife, Amsterdam is a perfect place to visit in your twenties
5. Greece
I think Greece is on almost everyone’s bucket list, and if you’ve seen Mamma Mia there’s no question as to why. The iconic Greek islands are an absolute must for travelers in their twenties. Experience the laid back island lifestyle along with lively nightlife, beautiful sunsets, days on sailboats, and meeting other young travelers from all over the world. I’m sure you’ve heard of Mykonos & Santorini, but if you prefer to avoid the crowds, you definitely need to check out the island of Milos!
4. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest in your twenties offers the perfect blend of history, nightlife, and culture. Take a historic walking tour, soak in the thermal baths, and experience the buzzing nightlife with a pub crawl in the ruin bars. I highly recommend taking a sunset river cruise for the best sightseeing experience – this will definitely be a highlight of your trip!
3. Antigua, Guatemala
Here you can go on an overnight hike to witness an active volcano erupting and spewing lava – need I say more?!! When I saw pictures of this place, I knew I had to go. It is one of the coolest things I have ever seen. The small colonial city of Antigua will be your starting point, and offers plenty of things to do. It is also becoming extremely popular among young backpackers, making it an epic place to visit in your twenties.
2. New York City, USA
New York, New York – this destination is an oldie but a goodie. I think everyone needs to try and make it here in their 20s to experience the allure that draws millions of people from all over the world here. Soak up the underground bars and clubs, bustling streets above ground, and the peaceful oasis that is central park. It’s a concrete jungle, sure… but it’s where dreams are made of – right Jay Z?
1. Prague, Czech Republic
This was one of the first places I traveled to solo in my twenties, and it still remains one of my favorite cities I have ever been to. There’s so much to love about this place including the architecture, lovely locals, rich history, and fairytale charm. It’s also a great place to meet other young travelers from all over the world, making it a perfect destination to visit in your twenties.
