Travel for retirees is all about ticking off some of your dream destinations and exploring new cultures at your own pace. Whether you’re after relaxation on the beach, active adventure or around-the-world cruises, we’ve rounded up some of the top destinations around the globe to consider.
1. Portugal
Top cities:
- Lisbon
- Porto
- Madeira
Popular attractions:
Retirees seeking a blissful and affordable excursion will enjoy beautiful Portugal, full of picturesque landscapes and warm hospitality. The charming country offers sun-soaked beaches, vibrant cities and serene countryside, making it an ideal destination no matter what kind of trip you’re hoping to take. Visit the city of Porto, known for its port wine and architecture, or the capital city of Libson, full of hilly streets and colorful neighborhoods.
2. Australia
Top cities:
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Cairns
Popular attractions:
The vast and diverse country of Australia offers an adventurous getaway for retirees who want to explore the outdoors. The vibrant capital, Sydney, is known for its stunning harbor, iconic Opera House and Bondi Beach. To take in Australia’s natural wonder, visit Cairns, a tropical paradise filled with rainforests and wildlife, and also the closest city to the Great Barrier Reef if you fancy a snorkel.
3. Italy
Top cities:
- Rome
- Florence
- Venice
Popular attractions:
Arguably one of the best places to visit in Europe — or at least one of the most popular — the country of Italy is steeped in history, art and exquisite cuisine, making it a dream destination for retirees seeking a romantic and culturally rich experience. Explore the Colosseum or Vatican City in Rome, or visit the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. From ancient ruins to incredible landscapes, this Mediterranean gem has much to offer. Find the best Italy vacation packages to make the most out of your trip.
4. New Zealand
Top cities:
- Auckland
- Christchurch
- Wellington
Popular attractions:
Best known for its stunning natural beauty, New Zealand is an island nation nestled in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. Here, you’ll find landscapes that include active volcanoes, glaciers, rainforests, beaches and deserts, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visit New Zealand’s largest city, Augland, for a bustling metropolis and plenty of museums. Or, head to the capital city, Wellington, to explore the vibrant waterfront district with harbor views.
5. Japan
Top cities:
- Tokyo
- Kyoto
- Osaka
Popular attractions:
Immerse yourself in an entirely new culture in Japan. A fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern technology, Japan offers a unique experience for retirees. The most popular city is Tokyo, where you’ll find an energetic blend of culture, fashion and innovation. If you’re after more traditional Japanese culture and architecture, head to Kyoto, where you can admire ancient temples and shrines (like the Fushimi Inari Shrine) or partake in a traditional tea ceremony.
6. Ireland
Top cities:
- Dublin
- Cork
- Galway
Popular attractions:
With its rich history and culture, Ireland offers a warm welcome to retirees seeking a serene and scenic getaway. Here, you’ll witness rolling green hills, ancient castles and charming villages. Find plenty of things to do in Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital, whether you enjoy a pint at the Guinness Storehouse or stroll through Trinity College. For fresh seafood and traditional Irish music, head to Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city. Check out the best Ireland vacation packages to make the most out of your trip.
7. Germany
Top cities:
- Berlin
- Munich
- Hamburg
Popular attractions:
Thanks to its affordability and well-kept infrastructure, Germany is a popular retirement location. The country is steeped in history and well-known for its efficiency and organization — it also has a diverse range of experiences to offer. Here, you’ll find everything from ancient castles to bustling cities. Berlin is a great place to start if you want to get a feel for the culture of Germany, or you may fancy the world-class museums available in Munich.
8. Florida
Top cities:
- Orlando
- Miami
- Tampa
Popular attractions:
If all of your retirement trip ideas involve warm days by the beach, then look no further than sunny Florida. Here, you’ll find beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns and plenty of unique attractions to entertain you. Explore the natural beauty of the Everglades in Orlando, or for a more cosmopolitan feel, head over to Miami, where you’ll find no shortage of exciting nightlife. For a quieter visit, Tampa offers a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty, including Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and the Tampa Museum of Art.
9. Costa Rica
Top cities:
- San José
- Puerto Viejo
- Monteverde
Popular attractions:
Is jet-setting outside of the U.S. on your retirement travel bucket list? Consider heading to Costa Rica, a Central American country renowned for its stunning natural beauty. If you’re a nature buff, you’ll enjoy everything from white-sand beaches and rainforests to volcanoes and waterfalls. If you want to spot wildlife, head to Manuel Antonio National Park. Don’t miss Arenal Volcano National Park, home to Costa Rica’s most active volcanoes for supreme views. Check out our top Costa Rica vacation packages to make the most of your visit.
10. Greece
Top cities:
- Athens
- Santorini
- Mykonos
Popular attractions:
Retirement trips that offer both stunning landscapes and fascinating history are hard to beat, making Greece an excellent choice. Here, you’ll find captivating ancient ruins and idyllic islands to marvel at. In the vibrant capital of Athens, you can explore the Acropolis or wander through the Plaka district. Head to the picturesque Little Venice district in Mykonos for a touch of luxury. As for the best trips for the newly retired, you can’t miss Santorini, a volcanic island known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning sunsets. That said, you can’t go wrong with any of the Greek islands.
Tips for Traveling Retirees
The tips below can help you bring your retirement vacation ideas to life without a hitch.
Plan and Prepare Ahead
Planning and preparation are key to the best retirement trips. Whether you’re interested in the best cruises for seniors or an adventure-packed trip, taking some time to plan will ensure your trip is well-organized, stress-free and tailored to your ideal getaway.
Set a Realistic Budget
Carefully assess your finances to determine how much you can comfortably afford to allocate toward your trip. Consider various factors, such as:
- Transportation cost
- Accommodation expenses
- Food and drink
- Activities and tours
- Emergencies
To help you save on your travel, consider using a AAA travel membership. This gives you access to exclusive discounts on hotels, tours, attractions and more. These savings can help you stretch your budget further and enjoy more of your retirement trip.
Consider Off-Season Travel
When it comes to planning trips for retirees, traveling during the off-season (also known as shoulder season) can offer significant benefits, such as lower prices, fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. Avoiding peak travel times can also help you find better deals on flights and accommodations. If you prefer to avoid the busyness of tourist crowds, off-season travel might be for you.
Join a Travel Tour Group
Joining a travel tour group can be a great way to meet new people and explore new destinations. Tour groups often include amenities like transportation, accommodations and guided tours — essentially handling all of the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your trip. The best tour companies for seniors offer opportunities to connect with fellow traveling retirees and create a more memorable experience.
Prioritize Your Health
Before taking any retirement trip, remember to connect with your doctor to ensure you’re cleared to travel and obtain any necessary vaccinations or medications. Pack essential medications on your carry-on luggage to avoid any potential delays. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle throughout your trip will help you stay energized and maximize your time exploring new places.
Book Your Dream Trip with AAA Travel
There’s no better way to embrace the freedom and flexibility of retirement than with an exciting trip. Remember to plan ahead with travel insurance and research the best destinations based on the type of trip you’re looking for. Take advantage of AAA Travel to find all the best travel guides, vacation packages and more.