Best group holiday destinations: 15 places for a friends holiday

After the past two years we’ve had, some quality time with pals abroad is well overdue! Whether you want to explore the great outdoors, enjoy some culture, or soak up the sun by the sea, we’ve got some great options for the best group holiday destinations. Most are within Europe and just a short flight away, making them ideal for holidays in Europe. If you're happy to travel that little bit further, we've also included some exciting long-haul gems.

Majorca
Barcelona
Lisbon
Dubai
Amsterdam
Tenerife
Ibiza
Algarve
Marrakech
Las Vegas
Berlin
Budapest
Crete
Dublin
Krakow

1. Majorca

With its incredible coastline and stunning turquoise waters, Majorca is a must for sunseekers. The largest of the Balearic Islands, Majorca promises adventure, sunshine, mouth-watering food, and plenty of sports. If you plan to tee off on your group holiday, Majorca's boasts over 20 golf courses.

One of our favourites is Club de Golf Alcanada which has fabulous views over the Bay of Alcudia. If you want to try your hand at water sports, there are also plenty of surfing, diving and sailing spots. Equally, if you’d rather relax on the beach all day, the island has over 250 beaches for you to enjoy.

Best for: Active travellers.

Holidays to Majorca

2. Barcelona

Architecture that sparks awe and a foodie scene that satisfies any appetite makes Barcelona a perfect group destination. At the top of the list of must-see attractions is Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, but there are plenty of gems to keep you busy – Park Güell, the Picasso Museum, and Montjuïc, to name a few.

For some fantastic food, pop into the colourful Mercado de la Boqueria to stock up on picnic goodies. In the evening, enjoy a taste of Catalan cooking in Gràcia. This Barcelona district has a bohemian vibe and is packed with delicious family-run restaurants. And of course, on a sunny day there’s nothing better than Barcelona’s beaches.

Best for: Foodies.

Holidays to Barcelona

3. Lisbon

Lisbon winds its way up from the huge Praça do Comércio, with something different to see around every corner. The climate is great and the food is even better, and best of all, it doesn’t break the bank so works for groups with a range of budgets.

One of the best dining spots for groups is the Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market) where everyone in your party can choose their own cuisine. Later, listen to jazz or burlesque in Pensão Amor or soothe your soul with classic Fado music in the Alfama district.

Best for: Relaxed city dwelling.

Holidays to Lisbon

4. Dubai

Dubai is the ultimate escape for friends, promising luxury, glamour and adventure. If you’re after a thrill, white water rafting, sailing and desert jeep safaris will be right up your street. If you've still got the adventure bug when it's time to dine, how about a doughnut-shaped dinghy equipped with a grill? Head to the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club and you can cook your own dinner while floating in the Arabian Sea. And of course, with fabulous beaches such as JBR and Sunset Beach, Dubai is also a perfect spot for sunbathing all year round.

Best for: Instagrammable moments.

Holidays to Dubai

5. Amsterdam

A network of canals lined with elegant gable-ended houses, museums packed with treasures and a great foodie and nightlife scene, make Amsterdam the perfect destination for a group getaway. Spend a few hours in the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum or the Anne Frank House. Then, admire Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam's floating flower market. To get in the mood for an evening of bar hopping, take a tour of the Heineken Experience.

Best for: Culture vultures.

Holidays Amsterdam

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6. Tenerife

With warm temperatures throughout the year and a range of beautiful beaches, Tenerife makes a great holiday for groups in search of sun, sea and vitamin D. As the largest of the Canary Islands, there are also plenty of things to do. For a picturesque group hike, head to hike Mount Teide, Spain's highest mountain. A whale and dolphin watching boat trip is also a must. If you’re after some adrenaline, enjoy the fun of the enormous Siam Water Park. (Look out for the Tower of Power, complete with an aquarium of sharks and rays!).

Best for: Hikers and adventurers.

Holidays to Tenerife

7. Ibiza

Ibiza is mostly known for its nightlife but there are so many other things to enjoy on this beautiful island. Make the most of the outdoor life by booking accommodation on the quiet north coast. Test your limits with coasteering and cliff diving or marvel at Ibiza's colourful underwater life with a guided snorkelling trip. If you've got the bug for coastal adventures, try your hand at sailing, paddleboarding, seabobbing or fliteboarding. If you've ever wanted to ride a retro Vespa, book a three-hour guided Vespa tour and explore Ibiza in style. And of course, if you’re ready for a cocktail or two after a long day of exploring, you’ll have plenty of options.

Best for: Nautical adventures.

Holidays to Ibiza

8. Algarve

With over 100 glorious beaches, the Algarve is one of the best spots for a seaside getaway. It’s also very affordable which makes it perfect for groups on a budget. And if you fancy yourself a sporty group, you’re in luck – the Algarve is one of the best places to surf in Europe.

When day turns into night, head to the Albufeira Strip. This is the place to be for those looking for vibrant bars and late nights. But don’t be fooled, the Algarve is also filled with family-friendly activities and is a perfect choice for holidays with other families. Take a boat trip through the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa looking out for the rare wading birds or take kids to one of the many fun-filled water parks in the area.

Best for: Surfers.

Holidays to the Algarve

9. Marrakech

With its colours, sounds and aromas, Marrakech is a treat for the senses. It's the perfect place for friends to indulge, thanks to its tasty food and relaxing atmosphere. Let’s not forget the luxurious spas either. A pampering treatment in a traditional hammam is a must on any group visit.

The oldest in Marrakech is the Mouassine Hammam while one of the most glamorous is Le Spa Royal Mansour. For a taste of local life, head to the bustling Medina of Marrakech. Wander through its narrow streets and you're guaranteed to come out with a souvenir of your trip to Marrakech.

Best for: Wellness getaways.

Holidays to Marrakech

10. Las Vegas

Try your luck on the tables and enjoy top-class entertainment when you visit Las Vegas with friends. Most accommodation is budget-friendly and drinks in casinos such as The Palms and Bellagio are often free. Be sure to take your time wandering down The Las Vegas Strip, it will feel like one big party with its neon lights. A show, such as Absinthe or Cirque du Soleil, is a must, it’s a lot more fun when there's a group of you. Clear your heads after a night out by heading out of Las Vegas to the Valley of Fire State Park.

Best for: Stag and hen parties.

Holidays to Las Vegas

11. Berlin

From history to architecture, from street art to nightlife, Berlin really has something for everyone. Take a guided walking tour to see important sights such as the Reichstag building, Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie. Art buffs should also be sure to visit the East Side Gallery. Here, art is painted directly onto a long section of the Berlin Wall. Another great group activity is visiting a traditional biergarten – Prater Garden is a must in the summer.

Best for: Art and history.

Holidays to Berlin

12. Budapest

Budapest is perfect for a weekend with friends. Spend the day exploring Budapest's flamboyant architecture before heading to the famous Szechenyi Baths (and enjoying its 15 thermal pools!). In the evening, visit the ruin bars, a collection of bars in an abandoned warehouse which feature cosy drinking corners and buzzing dance floors. The most iconic is Szimpla Kert.

Best for: A weekend escape.

Holidays to Budapest

13. Crete

Pristine beaches, delicious food, enchanting ancient history and fantastic weather, need we say more? Crete has something for everyone, and as the largest of the Greek islands, there are plenty of things to see and do if you’re looking for a longer trip. Stay near the south coast and search out Crete's uncrowded beaches such as Loutro and Glyka Nera. If you prefer beaches with a bit more vibrancy, then pick north coast resorts such as Malia and Hersonissos. Leave time to explore Crete's rich history at the Minoan Palace of Knossos near Heraklion.

Best for: Beaches.

Holidays to Crete

14. Dublin

Although compact, Dublin is a great city for groups, particularly those looking for a night out. Many Dublin city centre pubs hold informal ceilidhs which are a lot of fun to join in on. Try the Brazen Head on Bridge Street. Dublin pubs are also a good place to sample hearty Irish fare such as stew cooked with Guinness. The Guinness Storehouse is another must when visiting Dublin with a group of friends. Laugh at old adverts, see how the ‘black stuff’ is made and sample a glass at the top while admiring the Dublin view.

Best for: Bar hopping.

Holidays to Dublin

15. Krakow

Krakow is packed full of culture, history and art, but believe it or not, it's also heaven for gamers. Escape rooms are extremely popular in the city and there are many different kinds to choose from. There are also several laser tag and paintballing centres. Keep the gaming theme going at the Cybermachina Game Pub. Decor and drinks are inspired by franchises such as Mario Brothers and Star Wars and video and board games will keep you entertained.

Best for: Group gaming.

Holidays to Krakow

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