Golden adventures: Unforgettable 50th birthday trip ideas

Recently updated on April 17th, 2024 at 11:13 am

A milestone birthday deserves an extraordinary celebration, and what better way to commemorate turning 50 than with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? From the soaring peaks of Patagonia to the coral reefs of Australia and the ancient temples of Egypt, here are some of our most unforgettable 50th birthday trip ideas.

1. Best of Italy

Almost everyone has Italy on their bucket list, so why not tick it off to celebrate your 50th birthday? Our famous Best of Italy tour takes you through Rome’s ancient streets, the Renaissance beauty of Florence, and the mystical canals of Venice in 13 glorious days. Whether you want to cruise across Lake Como or Capri, journey through Tuscan hill-towns, or simply savor the exquisite cuisine, your 50th birthday celebration in Italy will be truly unforgettable.

We think you’ll also like: 7 places where you can discover Italy’s hidden gems

2. Australian Highlights

If you’re looking for memorable trip ideas for your 50th birthday, it doesn’t get much more extraordinary than Australia. Embark on our 13-day Australian Highlights tour, and you’ll go from snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef to watching the sunset over Uluru in the stunning Red Center. From sunny Sydney Harbor to historic Melbourne markets, a trip around Australia is a great way to celebrate your 50 trips around the sun. 

Get inspired for your trip: The most beautiful spring destinations to visit in Australia

3. Wonders of Ancient Egypt

Celebrate the wonders of life with a journey through Egypt. You’ll discover the mysteries of the pharaohs and the Pyramids of Giza, the treasures of the Nile, and the history of Cairo, all on our 12-day Wonders of Ancient Egypt tour. Wander through the temples of Luxor or sail around the picturesque Aswan Dam, and get immersed in all the remarkable history and breathtaking views for your 50th birthday.

When to go: This is the best month to visit Egypt, according to experts

4. European Whirl & European Traveler

If you’re someone who loves to pack a lot into their holidays, a multi-country European tour is one of the best 50th birthday trip ideas. Zip around Europe in eight action-packed days on our European Traveler tour that takes you from London to Paris, Lucerne, Venice, Florence and Rome.

If you have a little more time, embark on the European Whirl tour and spend 12 dazzling days going from the canals of Amsterdam to the ancient sites of Rome. Marvel at the stunning Swiss Alps and the beautiful streets of Paris. You’ll experience so many different cultures, cuisines and landscapes and it’s a great taste of Europe.

We think you’ll also like: A Walk Through History: Visiting Europe’s Most Historical Roads

5. Spanish Wonder

Prefer to take it slow for your 50th? You might want to choose a tour that explores just one amazing country. If wandering through gardens, sipping sangria in the sun, and watching flamenco sounds more your speed, book our Spanish Wonder tour. In 9 spectacular days you’ll travel from Madrid to Seville to Granada and end your trip in Barcelona. From the majestic walls of the Alhambra to the breathtaking Sagrada Família, this trip is all about appreciating the beautiful details. 

Start planning your trip to Spain: How to spend 48 hours in Barcelona, Spain

6. Iceland Including the Blue Lagoon

If you’re looking for 50th birthday trip ideas that combine nature and relaxation, Iceland should be on your list. Our 6-day tour of Iceland Including the Blue Lagoon takes you to some of the country’s most extraordinary natural wonders, from the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Thingvellir National Park. See the Gullfoss Waterfall and the hot springs of Geysir. Go in search of the Northern Lights and take a relaxing dip in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. You’ll come away feeling inspired and rejuvenated. 

Get ready for your Iceland trip: Iceland travel guide: everything to know before you go

7. California’s Great National Parks

An outdoors trip in the United States is a great way to celebrate your 50th. This 8-day tour of California’s Great National Parks is an unforgettable journey into some of the world’s most remarkable landscapes, including Yosemite, Sequoia and Death Valley National Parks. Head into the clouds at Mammoth Mountain, spend the night under sequoias and stars, and top it off with a taste of glitz and glamor in Las Vegas and Los Angeles. 

Inspiration for your trip to California: 9 epic things to do in Northern California

8. Wonders of Patagonia

If you want to mark your 50th birthday with an epic adventure, you’ll love our Wonders of Patagonia tour. This 11 day trip takes you from the stunning Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires, to the ends of the earth where you’ll discover a land of giant glaciers and even bigger mountains across Chile and Argentina. Marvel at the peaks of Torres del Paine and cruise through fjords and glacial lakes. See the incredible wildlife of Ushuaia and soak up the beauty of life.

Trip ideas for Patagonia: 6 bucket-list worthy places to visit in Patagonia

9. Britain and Ireland Highlights

Always wanted to explore the ancient landscapes of the UK? Your 50th birthday is the perfect reason to do it. Our 8-day Britain and Ireland Highlights tour takes you to historic treasures, from the mystical Stonehenge to enchanting Edinburgh and the Georgian city of Bath. Whether you explore Cardiff Castle, cruise across Lake Windermere, or enjoy a pint of Guinness in Dublin, you’ll have a grand time on this tour. 

Places to see on your UK trip: 15 of the prettiest places to visit in England

10. Best of Portugal

Portugal is simply spectacular, and it’s one of the best places to celebrate your 50th birthday. Our 11-day Best of Portugal tour kicks things off in gorgeous Lisbon. You’ll then head to the beautiful beaches of the Algarve and the medieval Alentejo city of Évora. Admire the vineyard-wrapped hills of the Douro Valley, then get a taste of the centuries-old port making tradition in Porto. From the exquisite cuisine to the stunning architecture, you’ll have an unforgettable birthday in Portugal. 

Get inspired for your Portugal trip: 25 exciting things to do in Portugal on your next trip

What’s your dream 50th birthday trip? Let us know in the comments below!