8 Underrated Destinations for Your Next Girls’ Getaway
Who says solo trips or romantic getaways get to have all the fun? There’s something downright special about grabbing your besties and hitting the road for a few days of pure fun — it’s basically soul therapy! But, we know the struggle of picking the perfect destination all too well. Some of you are seasoned travelers who’ve checked off every must-see spot, while others just want to steer clear of all the tourist traps (we hear you, no judgment!).
Well, fear not, because we’ve done the legwork for you. We’ve traveled the world to find those hidden gems that deserve way more love. Whether you’re dreaming of a spa retreat that screams luxury, a nature escape, a nightlife scene, or a culinary experience, there’s a place in the world for all of it — and we’ve got your back.
Here are the top 8 underrated destinations that you’ll want to consider for your next girls getaway:
READ THIS TOO: Top 10 Girlfriend Getaway Spots
1. Turkey
If you’re looking for a destination that’s got it all — rich history, delicious food, affordability, stunning landscapes, and cats (yes, you read that right) — then Turkey’s calling your name! 🐱🕌 Start your girls’ adventure in Istanbul, where you can all wander through ancient bazaars and go shopping! Then, enjoy some delicious kebabs, baklava, and an afternoon coffee before you all go to get pampered in a traditional Turkish bath. Doesn’t that sound like a dream? For any of the thrill-seekers in the group, a hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia is an absolute MUST. It’s honestly like floating through a real-life fairytale town but with better food!
2. Montenegro
Montenegro is what we like to think of as “the hidden gem of the Balkans” — it’s actually been named one of the most underrated holiday destinations in the world by a recent survey. We don’t get why, and so we think you and the girls should go there before it blows up, because Montenegro is an absolute blast! It’s full of rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and really charming medieval cities. You can go to fairy-tale-like towns, like Kotor, where you and the girls can explore touring mountains, and try delicious local eats. It’s also a huge bonus that Montenegro is full of beautiful beaches. So, you and the squad can be lounging by the water with cocktails in hand, and dancing along the coast — a dream come true!
3. New Zealand
This one is for the thrill-seekers and nature lovers 🏔️! New Zealand is more than just a backdrop for epic fantasy movies, it’s actually the perfect place for a girls’ getaway. Hear us out on this one: from untouched beaches and scenic hiking trails, to cozy lodges, road trips, and relaxing spa retreats (hot pools!!!) — New Zealand has something for each girlfriend in your group! Even the wine drinkers, because what’s a girls’ trip without a little wine tasting?
4. Vietnam
We’ve heard that Vietnam can either be love-it or hate-it, but we are on team LOVE IT! Vietnam is totally underrated, but it’s a vibrant country full of culture, delicious food, and adventure! Start your journey in Hoi An, where you can shop till you drop, soak up the sun on beautiful beaches, and sip on cocktails 💅. Foodies, get ready to hop on a culinary journey like no other with some fresh and flavorful dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls. And when the sun goes down, the party doesn’t stop! Take the girls out in cities like Ho Chi Ming and Hanoi, where you can find tons of trendy rooftop bars, live music venues, and bustling night markets. Dance the night away at a club, enjoy cocktails with a view, or shop — the city never sleeps here.
5. Chile
If you haven’t considered Chile for your next girls’ trip yet, then we think you should rethink your plans ASAP! This South American gem has everything from unforgettable landscapes of the Atacama Desert to the breathtaking glaciers of Patagonia. Here, you and the girls can do anything despite all the different hobbies of the crew: whether you’re into hiking, surfing, skiing, or horseback riding, Chile’s got you covered. You can also eat some delicious food and explore the colorful streets of Valparaíso. There is a very vibrant art scene there too.
Pro-Tip: Chile also has delicious wine…go sip on world-class wines in the vineyards of Maipo and Colchagua Valleys, and eat some delicious seafood while you’re at it too!
6. Slovenia
Looking for the European vibe without all the crowds? Slovenia is your answer! You and the girls can explore the charming capital of Ljubljana, visit the stunning Lake Bled, and hike through Triglav National Park for some Insta-worthy shots. And let’s not forget about the wine and artisanal cheeses — because what’s a girls’ trip without some gourmet food? Put on your cutest dresses, order all the different appetizers with your cocktails, and enjoy a night of fine dining in this hidden European gem.
7. Georgia
Believe it or not, Georgia is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world, but we can’t stop obsessing over the gorgeous mountains here! We think it’s the perfect destination for a girls’ trip and a travel spot that you need to add to your bucket list ASAP! Here, you can really eat your heart out because Georgian cuisine is to die for — the cheese, the herbs, and the bread…all incredible. We recommend trying khachapuri (cheese bread), you’ll be craving it as soon as you hop on your flight home.
The country is super affordable, and it also has some of the best wine in the world — you can get tipsy with the girls on the Kazbegi mountainside. And, have you seen pictures of Tbilisi? The ancient capital has incredible culture, and is full of charm — a girls’ trip with a view? Yes, please!
8. Belize
Calling all the beach babes and adventure seekers: Belize is a paradise waiting to be explored. Think Caribbean beaches, lush jungles, and fascinating Mayan ruins, all without the crowds. In Belize, you and the girls can go snorkeling, cave tubing, zip lining, or simply dive into the Belize Barrier Reef! Make sure you spend lots of time outdoors — the weather is perfect here, and you can adventure non-stop.
Go explore the ancient ruins of Xunantunich and Caracol, and relax on the beautiful beaches of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Dance the night away by a bonfire, and enjoy true quality time with the squad
Before you hit that “book now” button on another popular destination like Bali or Mexico, we think you and the girls should shake things up a bit. Don’t get us wrong, we love a good beachside margarita in Mexico as much as the next person, but there’s something extra special about venturing off the beaten path with your besties. Trust us, swapping travel stories about that time you got lost in a Turkish bazaar or danced until dawn in a hidden Montenegrin club, is way more fun than recounting your 50th trip to Tulum.
So, why not make your next girls’ getaway one for the books? Consider these underrated destinations that will not only blow your mind but also make your Instagram feed the envy of all your followers. Because let’s face it, who doesn’t want to be the trendsetter of their friend group?
Editor Notes: This post was originally published on February 22, 2018, and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness or relevancy.
Can’t decide where to go first? Our VIP by TravelBash travel advisors can help you chose the right destination for your girls trip. We get to know your preferences and can customise the trip to you and your girlfriend’s wants. Find out more about how you can become a member and start planning the first of many incredible trips!
Courtnie is the founder & CEO of TravelBash. After years as an ambitious fundraiser, she took her passion for travel full-time. She has lived all over the U.S. and abroad and after planning her own destination wedding, she decided to help other couples plan their big day abroad too. She has written “Passport to Paradise: The Complete Destination Wedding Guide,” a top seller on Amazon. She has also been featured in Travel + Leisure, Destination I Do and The Washington Post. As a certified travel advisor, expert event planner and natural connector, she uses her powers to create VIP travel experiences.
