Top 12 Weekend Getaways for Best Friends in 2026

Intro: Planning a friends’ getaway should balance shared interests, logistics, and a little spontaneity. This roundup highlights 12 weekend escapes — from scenic drives to city breaks — that cater to groups seeking adventure, relaxation, or memorable food-and-drink experiences.

1. Asheville, NC — Food, craft beer, and hiking

Why: Vibrant craft beer scene, approachable Blue Ridge hikes, cozy cabins for late-night conversation.

2. Marfa, TX — Desert art and stargazing

Why: Minimal townsfolk charm, art installations, and enormous West Texas skies for unforgettable nights.

3. Lisbon, Portugal — Sunny city vibes and pastel de nata

Why: Walkable city, lively nightlife, and coastal day trips — great for friends who love culture and food.

4. Portland, OR — Coffee and micro-adventures

Why: Excellent cafés, nearby waterfalls, and bike-friendly streets make for an easy, active weekend.

5. Lake District, UK — Scenic hikes and pubs

Why: Classic English countryside with routes suited for different fitness levels and cozy village inns.

6. Tulum, Mexico — Beaches and cenotes

Why: Chill beaches, day trips to cenotes for swimming, and buzzy restaurants for shared meals.

7. Montreal, Canada — Culture and nightlife

Why: Bilingual charm, food markets, and festivals year-round; a compact downtown makes city-hopping simple.

8. Sedona, AZ — Red rocks and wellness retreats

Why: Hiking, jeep tours, and spas for restorative weekend plans.

9. Copenhagen, Denmark — Design and bike culture

Why: Scandinavian calm, excellent bakeries, and easy cycling for exploration.

10. Portland (Maine) — Seafood and coastal drives

Why: Lighthouses, lobster rolls, and harbor views for a classic New England weekend.

11. San Juan Islands, WA — Island hopping and kayaking

Why: Whale watching, kayaking, and quiet cabins on the water for unplugged time together.

12. Budapest, Hungary — Baths and ruin bars

Why: Thermal baths by day and eclectic ruin bars by night make for dynamic group itineraries.

“Great weekend trips are part planning, part being open to the unexpected.”

Tips for group travel

• Assign roles (planner, navigator, foodie coordinator) to spread responsibilities.
• Budget transparently — use shared spreadsheets or apps to track expenses.
• Plan a mix of structured activities and free time to avoid fatigue.

Final thought

Friend trips are memory-making moments. Choose a destination that fits your group’s collective energy, communicate expectations, and remember to capture (but also live) the moments. Happy travels!