35 Amazing Trips To Take In Your 40s

“A great destination to visit in your 40s is Sapporo, Japan,” said Lauren Gay, a travel expert and blogger at Outdoorsy Diva. “Sapporo has an excellent and easy-to-navigate subway system and world class shopping. It’s still a big, bustling city, but a more metropolitan feel and not as overwhelming as Tokyo.”

She recommended trying the famous local parfait dessert and working a night of karaoke into your visit.

“Sapporo also has easy access to many onsen bathhouses where you can have the ultimate relaxation in the hot thermal waters of the region,” Gay added. “There’s also parks, festivals throughout the year, sake tastings, and some of the best seafood in the world.”

“Edinburgh offers history, culture, food, and bars, plus some amazing whiskey tasting!” said Tamara Gruber, a travel content creator and founder of the travel and lifestyle blog Your Time To Fly. “The city is compact and walkable and very tourist-friendly without being overwhelmingly crowded.”

Given the hills and cobblestones, you might not want to save Edinburgh for your post-retirement travels, she added. That’s why your 40s are a great time to appreciate the city’s walkability, nightlife and beautiful nearby hikes.

A domestic must-visit in your 40s is Sedona, Arizona. “I loved visiting Sedona in my 40s because of its serene natural surroundings,” Gay said. “It’s one of my favorite places to escape and rejuvenate. There are many easy hikes into the red rocks and you must experience the vortex energy spots. They are life changing.”

She also touted the great selection of wineries and spa experiences in the area. “It’s the perfect place to replenish your mind and spirit,” Gay said.

Travel blogger Nicole Brewer believes Cape Town, South Africa, is a great place to visit in your 40s.

“The Cape offers amazing scenery; also good food, fashion and a cultured mix of things to do,” she said.

“Over the years, Emilia-Romagna has become one of my favorite destinations in the world,” said Keith Jenkins, founder and publisher of the Velvet Escape luxury travel blog. “It forces me to slow down and enjoy its magnificent historical and cultural heritage on every visit. Places that never fail to amaze me include Ravenna with its eight UNESCO World Heritage monuments, Rimini with its ancient Roman structures, Parma with its majestic cathedral, and Cesenatico with its historic port that was designed by Leonardo da Vinci.”

Jenkins enjoys visiting the makers of local specialties like Parmigiano-Reggiano and the traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena (in addition to eating the delicious regional cuisine). Emilia-Romagna is also home to luxury car brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini and Ducati. Don’t forget about vibrant cities like Bologna and charming hilltop towns like Brisighella and San Leo.

“And there are mile after mile of sandy beaches on the Adriatic coast to relax on after all these amazing experiences,” he noted. “The best way to enjoy the region is to go on a road trip along the Via Emilia, an ancient trunk route created by the Romans. This route takes you to the most important places to visit in Emilia-Romagna.”

Harvey is a big fan of Loreto, Mexico, as a great getaway for people in their 40s, especially those seeking a little break from the chaos of everyday life.

“Whale watching here isn’t your average ‘I think I saw a fin.’ This is bucket-list-worthy magic!” she emphasized. “If hiking is your thing, the ancient cave paintings here will blow your mind.”

Harvey praised the fresh seafood, stunning turquoise waters and paddleboarding opportunities as well.

“Wrap up your day with ceviche and a margarita while watching a sunset that will leave you questioning whether you want to return to your family,” she added.

“My most poignant travel occurred in my 40s, but none of the destinations impacted my life more than Paris,” said travel writer Leah Walker. “Paris isn’t just about the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, or any other noteworthy site. Paris is feeling and an assault on all five senses. Paris is a place where you can do everything or nothing and still be fulfilled. I especially recommend visiting Paris alone. Make the city yours with no compromises ― eat and drink whatever you want, visit whichever museums you choose, be a ‘flâneur.’”

Although Paris is a wonderful destination to visit at any age, your 40s is a particularly good time because you’re more likely to have more disposable income compared to previous decades.

“Bali offers a harmonious blend of relaxation, cultural depth, and opportunities for personal growth that align perfectly with the interests of many travelers in their 40s,” said travel vlogger Mike Shubic. “At this stage of life, comfort and authenticity often top the priority list, and Bali’s lush landscapes, tranquil beaches, and refined wellness retreats provide a nurturing environment for mind, body and soul. The island’s spa treatments, yoga classes, and meditation programs can help soothe the stresses of daily life, while still granting the visitor a sense of indulgence.”

Looking beyond relaxation, he noted that Bali brims with rich cultural, spiritual and creative offerings, including the centuries-old temples and traditional woodcarving arts.

“In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are a beautiful group of islands that not many people know about but [that] should be on every traveler’s radar,” said blogger Brianna Simmons.

“Just a four hour flight from New York or Boston, the largest island of this Portuguese archipelago ― Sao Miguel ― is home to a stunning landscape that includes volcanic crater lakes, beautiful coastlines and thermal hot springs.”

She recommended staying in one of the small villages around the island and renting a car to explore the breathtaking sites.

“Adventure seekers should head to Nordeste Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões ― this lush canyon is home to a temperate rainforest, waterfalls and hiking trails making it the perfect place to experience the sport of canyoning,” Simmons said. “Afterwards head to one of the island’s thermal pools, the most famous of which is Terra Nostra Hot Springs.”

“Jordan … is by far the best destination I’ve ever visited, and I am already trying to get back in 2025,” Harvey said. “Petra is an absolute must. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like standing in front of the monastery. The Dead Sea is like nature’s spa. Float, slather yourself in mud, and pretend you’re a Roman goddess while taking in those healing minerals.”

Another highlight is heading to Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, for a luxury camping experience.

“Picture yourself sipping tea under the stars in the middle of the desert. It’s like glamping on steroids,” Harvey said. “And the food? Mansaf, hummus, and falafel are basically edible hugs.”

“Your 40s are a great time to go on a self-drive safari in southern Africa,” said travel blogger Shara Johnson. ” Any time is a great time for safari, of course, but the range of accommodations to suit a variety of budgets and comfort levels is especially appealing at this age. Still like to lay out a sleeping bag in a tent or camper top? You can choose campgrounds. Softening a little in your creeping age and prefer an en suite cabin with bed sheets? You can choose that instead. Or, like me, mix them up ― a few nights of each.”

Johnson is a big fan of Namibia’s flagship safari destination ― Etosha National Park, which she said typically has fewer crowds than Kruger National Park in South Africa.

“Unlike some parks in the Okavango region or East Africa, you can’t get lost in Etosha, as you must stay on the network of primary graded roads, which are signed, making it very suitable for a self-drive vacation,” she said.

“Forty-somethings want places that offer both sophistication and comfort, yet also access to the outdoors,” said David I. Thompson, founder of Dave’s Travel Corner. “My choice would be Palm Springs, California, during the fall, winter and spring.”

He recommended the new Thompson downtown for a “stylish and elegant” hotel to relax and have fun.

“It’s perfect for couples and within easy walking [distance] of numerous galleries, restaurants, and shops ― and also within a 10 minute drive of Indian Canyons, offering hiking among a palm oasis nature preserve,” Thompson added.

“Sardinia is a fantastic place to visit in your 40s, when your ‘travel buds’ get a bit more sophisticated and you can appreciate a more subtle kind of charm,” Tavani said. “Lesser visited than other parts of Italy, Sardinia has a great variety of landscapes and activities to offer. You can spend your day relaxing on long sandy beaches, or hop on a boat to find the smallest coves with the clearest waters.”

She highlighted quaint towns like Bosa and Carloforte, archeological sites like Su Nuraxi and opportunities for hiking and wine tasting.

“I spent nearly three weeks driving around the North Island of New Zealand and felt like I barely scratched the surface of the country,” said travel blogger Brianne Miers. “It definitely requires a lot of time to explore properly, and you want to be active enough to fully experience its natural beauty ― Mount Tongariro is one of my all-time favorite hikes!”

Walker also hailed New Zealand as a great place to visit in your 40s, especially if you’re down for adventures like glacier hikes, canyoning, heli-skiing, caving and bungee jumping.

“New Zealand is not a place to be sedentary, but there are opportunities for that ― wine tasting in Marlborough and white-sand beach sitting in the Bay of Islands,” she said, adding that the country is filled with stunning scenery. “The indescribable beauty overwhelmed me. I wondered how such a place could exist and was grateful to see it with my own eyes.”

For travel writer and photographer Lola Akinmade Åkerström, island-hopping along the Dalmatian Coast is an ideal experience in your 40s.

“Considering I’ve been to Croatia 11+ times with four more trips planned in 2025, there’s something to be said for rekindling creativity while listening to gently lapping waves of the Adriatic Sea,” Åkerström said. “I go to the Dalmatian Coast to write, create, and be re-inspired. From partying in Hvar and fresh oyster tasting in Ston to private cooking classes in Konavle and wine tasting around the islands, I highly recommend crafting your own solo creative retreat here.”

“Kyrgyzstan is the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for middle-aged travelers looking to escape the crowds and have unique cultural experiences,” said travel writer and photographer Jon Duncan. “The country boasts pristine mountains, lakes, and forests, which make it ideal for a break in nature. You can go hiking on remote trails in the mountains, horse trekking to alpine lakes where you will get to meet nomads living their traditional way of life and stay with them, or spend days wandering inside the world’s largest walnut forest meeting local communities, amongst many other options.”

Spending time in Central Asia along sections of the historic Silk Road allows travelers to see the range of cultural influences across Kyrgyzstan. Duncan also suggested experiencing traditional sports like kok boru, especially if you visit during the World Nomad Games.

“A few years ago I celebrated becoming an empty-nester by taking a solo walking trip across England,” Gruber said.

She traveled 84 miles alone on foot across eight days, during which she took in the countryside, stayed in adorable inns, ate in pubs and met friendly locals.

“It was truly the most empowering trip of my life and one I’d strongly recommend for someone feeling a bit lost as they go through midlife,” Gruber added.

“I visited Marrakech in the last few remaining days of my 40s,” Johnson recalled. “My husband and I stayed in a riad inside the medina, and we were crazy enough to drive a rental car into this mayhem for the purpose of day trips further afield.”

Although there were challenges navigating around the area and avoiding common scams, she found that Marrakech is “a wonderland for meanderers.” The Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs were stunning sites as well.

“I think if we had gone earlier in life, we might have been overwhelmed by a number of aspects, but a little seasoning served us well, and getting over the common conviction of youth that asking for help makes you a dweeby tourist,” Johnson said. “By my 40s, I realized life is too short to wander around clueless.”

“Switzerland is where you go when you want to combine ‘wow’ scenery with a serious upgrade to your travel game,” Harvey said. “Take a train ride through the Alps. Bonus points: book the Glacier Express ― yes, it’s slow, but you’ll be too busy taking in the views to care.”

She recommended Zermatt for skiing, hiking and “sipping wine while gazing at the Matterhorn,” adding that “it will feel like you are in a Christmas Hallmark movie.” Geneva and Zurich are also great options for cultural experiences and luxurious shopping, dining and hotels.

“I’m a bit biased as an expat living here, but I must recommend Oman for a visit in your 40s due to having the ability to get the best of both worlds,” Brewer said. “There is a good amount of luxury travel options as well as options for the outdoorsy types.”

Those who love stunning natural scenery with beaches and mountains will get their fill in Oman.

“When planning a trip to Australia, most people don’t think about Australia’s most southern state, Tasmania,” said Lisa Bundesen, creator of The Middle Age Wanderer.

The island is great for a long road trip, with a variety of interesting things to do along the way.

“Wine lovers can explore the Tamar Valley to sample great Pinot Noir and sparkling wines,” Bundesen said. “History buffs can immerse themselves in UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Port Arthur Historic Site. And pristine wilderness regions such as the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park allow for hiking, wildlife spotting and just getting back to nature.”

“Barcelona in your 40s hits different ― and in the best way possible,” said Epic Moms Travel founder Kelly Davidson. “Forget the late-night club crawls of your 20s ― but only if you want to. Now it’s all about enjoying a candlelit tapas dinner, strolling the Gothic Quarter when the crowds thin, or watching the sunset over the city from Park Güell.”

From the beaches to the artisanal boutiques to the scenic rooftop bars, Barcelona offers a grown-up getaway with a slower pace of life that feels perfect for travelers looking “to savor instead of spring,” Davidson added.

Johnson particularly recommended its art museums and Roman ruins.

“This is a city for discovery, and I think we are all more open to and appreciative of discovery in our 40s, when the light bulb goes on that, oh my gosh, we don’t know everything!” she said.

“When thinking of hiking the Inca Trail in Peru, those of us over 40 might think of it as something younger adventurers can do,” Bundesen said. “But it’s not! The Inca Trail is for anyone who wants to take on this amazing challenge and is willing to put in the work to get fit to do it. While it does require a good level of fitness, proper training beforehand makes it a realistic goal.”

Although the physical exertion is real, the reward includes an awe-inspiring journey through cloud forests and mountain scenery.

“Something you don’t expect is the bonding experience you get with fellow hikers, often strangers at the start,” Bundesen said. “Sharing stories and overcoming obstacles together creates bonds that last long after the trek. Then, once you reach the Sun Gate and see Machu Picchu for the first time, the experience feels truly surreal. The sense of accomplishment is profound and can even be a bit overwhelming in the best way possible.”

“Mauritania is a great place to visit in your 40s because it’s safe yet exotic and overlooked,” said travel writer Francis Tapon. “Most people in their 40s have visited Eurasia and Latin America, so it’s time to expand your travel experiences to include Africa.”

Although the southern, northern and eastern parts of Africa attract a lot of tourists, he believes West Africa is perfect for “travelers who want to experience someplace off the beaten track.” The desert country of Mauritania can offer that kind of unique travel opportunity.

“I always recommend Poland to friends who’ve already visited some of the more popular Western European cities like London, Rome or Paris,” Miers said. “Krakow in particular has so much offer in terms of food and nightlife.”

Another highlight would be the city’s Old Town district, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

“Many travelers don’t realize that Japan’s Setouchi Islands even exist, let alone that they’re celebrated as the ‘art islands,’” said travel content creators Eulanda and Omo Osagiede. “This peaceful cluster scattered across the Inland Sea shows you a different side of Japan ― imagine cutting-edge works at the Benesse House Museum on Naoshima, shorelines that encourage you to slow down, and neighborhoods where art and daily life blend seamlessly.”

They noted that each island has its own charm ― with the tranquil rice terraces on Teshima, olive groves on Shodoshima, winding paths of Ogijima and more.

“During the Setouchi Triennale, these islands become a dynamic, ever-changing gallery,” the Osagiedes said. “But what truly brings them to life are the human moments ― lingering over tea with an artisan or learning a family’s centuries-old story at a ryokan. It’s not just about what you see. It’s about who you meet, and how these encounters linger long after you’ve gone.”

“I first visited Guatemala in my 20s and then returned in my 40s,” Miers said.

She believes the Central American country provides an ideal blend of adventure, culture and relaxation.

“I appreciated it even more the second time around, since I booked some experiences hosted by locals, like a cooking class,” Miers said.

“The small town of Beaune, located between Dijon and Lyon, lies in the center of Burgundy wine country and is a great base from which to explore,” Simmons said. “Start your visit at the Cité des Climats et vins de Bourgogne, a museum that details the history and culture of Burgundy wine before sampling your favorite vintages at the area’s best wineries or wine bars and shops throughout the city.”

She enjoys renting a bicycle and traveling through the “Voie de Vignes” bike path.

“Foodies will enjoy tasting regional specialties such as gougeres or beef bourguignon at small restaurants throughout the city or indulge in haute cuisine at one of Beaune’s Michelin-starred restaurants,” Simmons added. “For a more immersive culinary experience, take a cooking class with Terroirs by Adeline, where chef Adeline Borra takes guests shopping for ingredients at local markets before returning to her luxurious kitchen to cook a four-course feast ― complete with Burgundy wine pairings.”

“Turkey in your 40s feels like uncovering a secret treasure chest of culture, history, and adventure,” Davidson noted. “In Istanbul, you’ll swap whirlwind sightseeing for indulgent moments ― picture yourself sipping Turkish coffee while the call to prayer echoes over the Bosphorus. From there, dive into the ancient wonders of Ephesus, marveling at ruins that seem to whisper stories from centuries past. Pamukkale’s dreamy white terraces are perfect for some well-earned R&R, and then there’s Cappadocia, where a sunrise hot air balloon ride over fairy chimneys is nothing short of magical.”

The Osagiedes recommended sailing the Turkish Riviera to connect with yourself, the sea and others.

“Each day brings something special, whether it’s swimming in a quiet cove, wandering through ancient ruins, or simply soaking up the serenity of the Mediterranean,” they said. “But for us, the heart of an experience like this are moments spent with locals ― sharing laughs with a shopkeeper in a small village or learning the story behind a traditional recipe. It’s those personal, human connections that turn a trip into something truly unforgettable.”

“China is the travel glow-up your 40s deserve,” Davidson noted. “Sure, Europe is lovely, but imagine standing on the Great Wall, biking past rice paddies in Yangshuo, or soaking up the electric energy of Hong Kong’s skyline.”

The experience is pure adventure steeped in “luxury and depth,” she explained.

“You’ll marvel at Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors and sip tea in Beijing’s hutongs, savoring experiences with a patience and appreciation only your 40s can bring,” Davidson said. “From exploring ancient palaces to cruising the Li River, every stop invites you to see the world through a broader lens. China isn’t just a trip ― it’s a full-on epiphany waiting to happen.”

“With its unspoiled beauty, relaxed pace, and rich cultural heritage, Tobago offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and authenticity for travelers in their 40s,” said S. Anne Marie Archer, aka BaldGirlWillTravel. “Tobago is home to stunning hidden beaches and coves, including rare pink and black sand beaches, ideal for peaceful escapes and breathtaking photo opportunities.”

Nature enthusiasts might enjoy hiking the Main Ridge Forest Reserve or taking a glass-bottom boat tour or snorkel around the Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool.

“Castara Village, a quaint fishing community, provides an authentic glimpse into Tobagonian life, while the local cuisine delights the senses with dishes like crab and dumplings, bake and shark, and savory roti,” Archer added. Complement your meal with a refreshing glass of sorrel or a classic rum punch.

“While many visitors only ever get to see the Golden Circle, Iceland has so much more to offer,” Bundesen said, describing the destination as a “nature lover’s paradise.”

You can be adventurous at your own pace and choose from many different options.

“Explore by taking a short walk to a geyser or scramble up the side of an extinct volcano,” Bundesen suggested. “Hike across a glacier or take a boat ride onto a lake to see icebergs as they break off the glacier. Hike to a stunning waterfall or watch puffins’ nest on a cliff face. Whatever your choices, you can then soak away sore muscles in a hot thermal pool.”

“Tuscany’s rolling hills, sun-kissed vineyards, and centuries-old villages offer a travel experience that feels both indulgent and authentic — ideal for someone in their 40s seeking meaningful cultural immersion,” Shubic said. “Part of what makes this region truly special is the opportunity to engage deeply with its culinary traditions.”

He recommended taking cooking classes or even going on a full-fledged culinary retreat to learn about local ingredients, wine pairings, Tuscan history and more.

“Kyoto is where ancient temples blend perfectly with the modern world and is the perfect destination for travelers over 40,” Bundesen noted.

She touted the city’s calm, reflective energy, which allows travelers to fully immerse themselves in its rich culture and serene natural environment.

“Kyoto is a dream destination for food lovers, with street food and numerous restaurants to tempt your taste buds,” Bundesen said. “Exploring temples such as the iconic Kinkaku-ji or strolling through the hundreds of tori gates of Fushimi Inari let you immerse yourself not only in history but their tranquility. Unlike busier cities, Kyoto invites you to slow down and take it all in.”

“Hitting your 40s often comes with a deeper appreciation for travel that’s both enriching and fun, and Rennes in France’s Brittany region fits that bill perfectly,” noted the Osagiedes. “In Rennes, you’ll find centuries-old timbered houses framing lively squares where locals still gather for a morning espresso.”

They believe an ideal day there might involve strolling through the historic center, popping into a gallery and indulging in fresh oysters and crepes at the bustling Marché des Lices.