15 Graduation Trip Ideas for Every Budget
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Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the thrilling start of another. Finally, time is yours to do with as you choose. So why not celebrate your hard-earned success with a trip that’s as unforgettable as the milestone itself? Whether you’re drawn to experience-based travel like that of Machu Picchu, the buzz of Copenhagen’s cityscape, or the serene magic of a Costa Rican treehouse, there’s a destination to match your vibe and your budget. From packaged tours to wallet-friendly Airbnbs and splurges on a once-in-a-lifetime escape, now more than ever is the time to reward yourself with awe-inspiring experiences.
We’ve tapped into the wisdom of travel experts and insiders to curate the ultimate guide to post-grad getaways. Listed in order of shortest to longest when it comes to the ideal amount of vacation time per destination, the trips below are a level up from your average vacation—each one serves as a stepping stone for more adventures ahead. So pack your bags, map out some dreams, and indulge in a milestone journey that’s uniquely yours.
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
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Embrace your inner cowboy in Montana or Wyoming
Ideal duration: 3–5 nights
One of our biggest travel trends for 2025 is “Cowboy Core,” so it's no secret that there is buzz around the western hot spots of Montana and Wyoming. They are having a moment—especially with the recent season release of Yellowstone (which Black Tomato has a curated itinerary for, Moss says, inspired by scenes from the show as part of their Set Jetting service).
Both states are a dream for nature lovers—think of afternoons spent strolling alongside dramatic geysers in colorful Yellowstone, or spotting wildlife in Grand Teton and horseback riding on a stunning ranch in Jackson Hole. Moss says the two are top areas that they are seeing a ton of development in through the Big Sky 2025 project and hotel openings like Hotel Yellowstone and One&Only Moonlight Basin launching this year.
Where to stay: For an ultimate family bonding trip to celebrate, book a luxe cabin stay at Lone Mountain Ranch. Moss is also a big fan of the chic Montage Big Sky, Paws Up, and Four Seasons Jackson Hole.
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A weekend (or longer) in Puerto Rico
Ideal duration: 3–6 nights
The Commonwealth is an easy flight from much of the U.S., and you don’t even need a passport to visit. If you have just a weekend, book an Airbnb in one of the candy-colored colonial buildings of Old San Juan, where reggaeton and salsa fill the streets and the Bad Bunny–approved cocktail bar La Factoría comes alive seven nights a week.
If you have a full week to explore, plan a multi-stop road trip and travel around the island, starting from the east (you'll fly into San Juan's international airport). Surf on the West Coast, night kayak in one of Puerto Rico's three bioluminescent bays from Parguera, and bake on the dazzling white sands of Culebra Island.
Where to stay: In colorful and buzzy Old San Juan, book at the wholesome and conveniently located Casa Sol Bed and Breakfast. Out west, book at Casa Bajura in Isabela; for a bigger family trip, stay at Royal Isabela. In the southwest, book at the lively retreat Plaza Parguera Hotel—it's just steps away from an access point to the bioluminescent bay. Don't miss out on the heaps of Airbnbs throughout the island available to book, too.
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A taste of the lush wilderness of Costa Rica
Ideal duration: 4–5 nights
Tucked between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica is the definition of lush—with both Pacific and Atlantic ocean-facing coasts, volcanos, and rainforests galore; it's also host to thousands of wildlife species. The island is the kind of place where you can truly unplug and dive into nature through a combination of adventure and wellness experiences. Moss recommends travelers go water rafting through the rainforest in Osa Peninsula, surf on the Pacific in laid-back Nosara, and zip-line through volcanic landscapes of Arenal. Or, slow things down with yoga and wellness experiences at dreamy hotels and lush island retreats. Many of these hotels might be inspiring to those recent graduates who are driven by eco-inspired entrepreneurs, as many of these luxury spaces have been transformed thanks to rewilding efforts.
Where to stay: In Costa Rica, Moss urges graduate travelers to book at the well-loved Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection, to can enjoy relaxing east-meets-west treatments at the spa, with striking views of the Talamanca Mountains. Or, learn to surf in Nosara—Surf Simply is a week-long, intensive surf program that doubles as an all-inclusive resort; the team behind the resort scoured the globe for the best places to open a surf school and landed here. You can also stay in a treehouse surrounded by waterfalls, at Hidden Canopy Treehouses Boutique Hotel in Monteverde.
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Winelands and a safari experience in South Africa
Ideal duration: 3–5 nights in Cape Town; 2 nights in the Winelands
Nestled between mountains and the sea, a visit to Cape Town in South Africa is really like no other. Picturesque and buzzy, the “Mother City” offers a magnetizing blend of city life, wine country, and safari. Carly Moss, a travel specialist of Black Tomato, advises to dine by the iconic V&A Waterfront and hike up Table Mountain for sweeping views of the ocean, with an eye out for native penguins on the coastline. Rent a car and drive west for around an hour or so to visit the Cape Winelands—specifically, Franschhoek for velvety green mountains, delicious wines, and top tier dining alongside vineyard landscapes. You can catch the public wine tram on which the conductor introduces each winery, big and small, as you hop from one to the next. You can also splurge and stay overnight in the winelands, particularly at the world-class Babylonstoren (especially great for budding foodies and wine connoisseurs). While you're at it, don't miss out on a safari experience. While it might not be the easiest to travel to, Moss recommends heading to the boundless and epic Kalahari Desert for incomparable sightings of the Big Five up close. For game viewing in the southern Kalahari, the best time to go is in either May or June after the rains, when the wildlife returns to the region.
Where to stay: In Cape Town, book a room at 15-room Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel—or this spacious Airbnb with mountain and city views of Cape Town’s vibrantly colorful Bo-Kaap district.
Read more on the best time to visit South Africa.
- ShoppingA New Season of The White Lotus Just Dropped, Along With a Ton of CollaborationsParis Wilson
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A paired trip from Copenhagen to Norway
Ideal duration: 3–4 nights in either Copenhagen or Norway; 5–7 nights if combined
Especially if you’re into design and fashion, Copenhagen is the destination to experience Scandinavian charm. According to Moss, recent graduates can find many outdoor flea markets, chic boutiques, and design-forward properties. It's a super walkable city–and if the weather’s nice, you can even opt to bike around like a local to stop in at cozy Danish bakeries and Michelin-starred restaurants for special dinners. Moss recommends pairing the trip with Norway for adventurous experiences in sweeping natural landscapes. For one, a fjord cruising in Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord.
“A scenic train journey along Flåm Railway is another one of our favorite ways to enjoy Norway’s mountainous landscapes,” Moss continues. For those who want to venture to the very north of the country, head to Atla to immerse in Arctic wilderness at a lodge—here, experience everything from whale watching to ice bathing to the Northern Lights depending on the season.
Where to stay: Moss recommends Hotel Sanders in Copenhagen for ultimate Danish comfort. Or, try one of these stylish and unique Airbnbs. And up north in Norway, she recommends you to book at igloo hotel Sorrisniva in Atla—a bucket list experience, for sure!
Read our Copenhagen travel guide.
- Mabry Campbell
Southern U.S. road trip
Ideal duration: 5–10 nights (depending on stops)
For a memorable American road trip, make the drive from Atlanta to West Texas, with stops in New Orleans and Austin en route. You’ll find music and nightlife all along the way—Atlanta’s Trap Music Museum and Second Line parades weaving through the streets of NOLA are not to be missed—plus roadside photo ops (hello, Marfa Prada store). Scrimp by staying at Airbnbs in each destination; if you’re traveling with just a friend or two, rented rooms, instead of private apartments, are a great way to meet other travelers. Staying at locally owned properties is “such a good way to support the local culture and will make for a rich experience,” says Richardson.
Where to stay: Book at charming storybook destination Hotel Peter and Paul in New Orleans. In Austin, stay at cozy tiny home with a spacious backyard.
- ShoppingA New Season of The White Lotus Just Dropped, Along With a Ton of CollaborationsParis Wilson
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Across the North Channel, from Ireland to Scotland
Ideal duration: 6–8 nights
While you can easily spend an entire two weeks in either Ireland or Scotland, take advantage of the warm Celtic culture while you're at and travel through two remarkable lands. Head to Edinburgh, cruise the famed Loch Ness, and explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle. In Northern Ireland, walk the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and soak up incredible views of the Causeway Coast, one of the world’s most scenic train journeys. Once you head south and arrive to Ireland's capital city of Dublin, tour historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral and meet some locals and travelers alike at some of the best pubs in the city (if it's your first time in Dublin, be sure to tick Temple Bar off your bucket list). Across the North Channel, the most time-efficient thing to do is to fly from Edinburgh to Dublin, or vice versa. Otherwise, you could take a ferry from Dublin to Holyhead in Wales, and drive (or take the train) from there. There's also a ferry from Belfast to Scotland, if you are planning to go to Northern Ireland.
According to Bell, a trip to Ireland and Scotland offers easy access for graduates coming from the east coast of the US—which consistently makes this a popular option, especially for family-inclusive trips (the area offers plenty of family-friendly hotels). “Graduates love seeing iconic landmarks like St. Patrick's Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle,” Bell says. Not to mention, the overall charm of the small villages and incredible landscapes.” This also might be a great option for those who want to visit other cities in Europe as part of their grad-experience.
Tyler Dillon, a travel planner at Trufflepig, also strongly suggests a graduation trip to Ireland. “The tribes, tales, tunes, and tipples of Ireland have trickled out from the North Atlantic to the far reaches of the globe,” Dillon says. “Traveling to this great, green island can stir up nostalgia deep inside even if you’ve never been before." And for a true escape to recalibrate after years of study, Dillon would spend a week or two on Inis Meain (or the Aran Islands) which perfectly exemplify the spirit of coastal Ireland.
Where to stay: In Edinburgh, book at a hip, pastel hotel Eden Locke. For your stay in Dublin, Generator Dublin is a young and fun hostel, with a celebratory atmosphere and remarkable quality for the price. If staying over on the Aran Islands, head to Inis Meáin Restaurant & Suites. According to Dillon, Breac House in Donegal offers perfect touches of service and comfort.
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Creative travel to Mexico City and Oaxaca
Ideal duration: A week if heading to both Oaxaca and Mexico City; 3–4 nights if heading to just one city
Art and design lovers, head to Mexico City for unique architecture, galleries, and museums. It's ideal for foodies, too, who can indulge in the city's buzzy and food scene. For an unforgettable experience, book a hot air balloon tour just a few miles outside of the sprawling pre-hispanic city of Teotihucán, a 50-minute or so Uber ride from Mexico City. If you want to stay a touch more grounded, drive 40 minutes south of the city to the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The extensive lake and canal system that once connected most of the settlements in the valley is an incredible vestige of the area's pre-Hispanic past.
Head to Oaxaca for another stop on your Mexico journey—or for an entirely separate trip. The magnetizing region has become an increasingly popular destination—probably due to its talented community of contemporary artists, crop of new boutique hotels, and rich traditional culture. Addie Bell from Smartflyer reckons that it is a standout choice for those wanting a shorter, easy-to-plan trip to explore and get in some beach time too. “Graduates like Oaxaca because the area still feels very authentic in its Mexican traditions—but is still developed enough to make them feel comfortable and safe throughout their journey.”
Where to stay: Moss recommends Casa Polanco, one of Mexico City's chic boutique hotels. There's no shortage of Airbnbs as well—for design lovers, live like a local at this two-story penthouse in the heart of Roma. In Oaxaca, book low-key, casual, and charming Escondido Oaxaca, set in the historic downtown.
- ShoppingA New Season of The White Lotus Just Dropped, Along With a Ton of CollaborationsParis Wilson
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In Croatia, island hop along the Adriatic
Ideal duration: 5–7 nights
Moss says the best way to see Croatia is to island hop along the Adriatic to enjoy the crystal-clear beaches in Hvar or Brac, explore historic streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, and indulge in local dishes like octopus salad and black risotto (made with squid ink). Split is also known for the historic Diocletian's Palace and vibrant nightlife, making stylish hotels like Ambassador and Fermai great places to rest up. Now that you have some more time, head to Betina Cave Beach in Špilja. Of note, it's pebbly rather than a soft-sand beach—it's a beach within a cave, hidden within the rocks, after all. And while it's unusually shaped, it's lapped by crystal-clear waters. If you want to extend your Mediterranean adventure, you can take a bus to Kotor or Podgorica in Montenegro. You can also choose to drive yourself or, less frequently, take a seasonal ferry, depending on the route and time of year.
Where to stay: St. Joseph’s is a meticulously restored 16th-century stone building, encircled by Dubrovnik’s characterful old town. A fun plus: Each suite has its own kitchenette to offer freedom to all who stay. Though a touch more expensive, if you make it to Montenegro, Moss recommends a stay at One&Only Portonovi, where a golden sunset over the Adriatic Sea is hard to beat.
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The other Southeast Asia loop
Ideal duration: 1.5–2 weeks
“Backpacking trips in a foreign country are truly unbeatable, especially for graduation,” says Jen Richardson, a travel planner at Scouted. Most of us know the classic loop through Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos, and it’s a great one—the region is affordable for travelers spending U.S. dollars and there is no shortage of cultural sites, natural wonders, and lively parties. But you can find all of that and more on a less-traveled path further south.
In Indonesia, visit the bustling capital of Jakarta, scooter between rice fields in Ubud, and kick back on the postcard-perfect islands of Lombok and Bali. Experience a mix of cultures in Malaysia by tasting laksa curry on the streets of Penang and visiting the Hindu temples in the Batu Caves, then swing down to Singapore. It isn’t cheap by any stretch, but a few days in the street food capital—which has colorful architecture, lush hiking trails, and a high-tech airport with a butterfly garden and movie theater—are worth the end-of-trip-splurge.
Where to stay: At the Oberoi Beach Resort in Lombok, graduates can truly treat themselves with the property's spacious rooms with lofty thatched ceilings and balconies and touches of traditional Indonesian design. And considering how expensive Singapore hotels are, Grand Park City Hall is a very reasonably priced option that's smack in the city center, within walking distance of all the action.
- ShoppingA New Season of The White Lotus Just Dropped, Along With a Ton of CollaborationsParis Wilson
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Hop around the top and buzzy cities of Japan
Ideal duration: 2 weeks
Japan is a top contender for graduation trips due to all that it offers, for all sorts of travelers. According to Bell, more graduates are seeking Japan for its cultural immersion, geographic diversity (with mountains, beaches, and cities) as well as favorable exchange rate from the US. “This has become a top choice for grads looking to explore something completely different from ‘western’ life,” Bell says. To really milk the experience, book a two week journey with stops at Toyko, Osaka, and Kyoto.
Stroll iconic, native, and traditional Japanese garden Shinjuku Gyoen, worth the modest entrance fee. Harmonica Yokocho is a clutch of narrow alleys, a short walk from the north exit of Tokyo's JR Kichijoji station, is stuffed with hole-in-the wall eateries. A visit to Osaka is fresh—and just might be what new graduates need after completing their final semester. As the spirited heart of the western Kansai region also known as the “kitchen of Japan,” take advantage of their food scene which offers all types of dining spots, from street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants. Also an entertainment capital, travelers can meet Mario and Luigi at Super Nintendo World, see part of Universal Studios Japan, and even catch a baseball game at the Osaka Dome.
Head to World Heritage Sites in serene Kyoto, home to traditions and customs, cuisine, and craftsmanship that have touched all corners of the country. In fact, to know Kyoto is to get crafty—with a mix of umpteenth-generation artisans and ambitious young makers who have opened studios of their own. For a fresh introduction to the city, head to the Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design, Remember to carry a thick wad of yen (rather than relying on your credit or debit card) at all times. Japan is a cash country—where in Tokyo, for example, even five-star ryokans and some top-tier sushi restaurants will refuse to take credit cards or e-money.
Where to stay: For your stay in buzzy Tokyo, Toggle, A big design swing, and it’s a hit—bold pastels, compelling branding, and lofted furniture enliven Tokyo’s famously small budget hotel rooms (guests can customize their experience, moving between the hotel’s different moods and room setups). In Kyoto, Ace Hotel Kyoto; a more expensive option The Hoshinoya, Kyoto, a hybrid ryokan-hotel.
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Eastern Europe backpacking trip
Ideal duration: 2 weeks
“European backpacking trips are still very popular,” says Albo. “The ease of traveling from one country to another is an attractive aspect.” Not only is Eastern Europe more affordable than France, Spain, and Italy, it’s less crowded than its western neighbors—despite offering just as many reasons to visit. In dreamy Old World cities like Prague and Budapest, regal churches and castles are just as appealing as the edgy nightlife scenes. (Want to party in a converted bunker? Done.) By train or bus, get out to the scenic countryside and hike the Tatras mountains that border Slovakia and Poland before exploring the quaint old town of Gdańsk. Trust us, you’ll leave wondering why the rest of your friends haven’t considered Eastern Europe yet.
Where to stay: In a hub of a location nearby hiking trails and cafès, the Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest is a great option to book. The Art Deco Imperial Hotel is an affordable yet chic and convenient hub in Prague, too.
- ShoppingA New Season of The White Lotus Just Dropped, Along With a Ton of CollaborationsParis Wilson
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South India immersion
Ideal duration: A fixed 15 day itinerary
You want to go far, but you don’t want to go alone: Intrepid Travel’s group trips are built around this premise, with accessible price points always front of mind. The outfitter’s 15-day Real South India trip (from $1,858 per person) is a great graduation trip idea—it takes up to 12 free spirits (ages 18 –29) to start and end in Kochi, with 1 homestay night, 11 hotel nights, 1 stay at a jungle lodge, and 1 night on an overnight sleeper train. See a Kathakali performance in Kochi, go on a Bandipur National Park Safari, explore Hindu temples in Mysore, trek on a guided nature trail in Periyar, and secure a spot on a pole boat ride on the Kerala Backwaters. The rate covers guides, accommodations, select meals, and numerous activities; set your Google Flights tracker now for a stellar airline deal.
Where to stay: Accommodations are included with the packaged deal booking. You can read more about what is included in the package here.
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A tour through South America
Ideal duration: 4–8 weeks
This may not be among the first graduation trip ideas that come to mind, but why not put those years of Spanish to use in South America? While the distances are greater than those in Southeast Asia, and the prices somewhat higher, sticking to the northwestern edge of the continent will give you the best bang for your buck. Plus, “flights are super affordable,” says Katalina Mayorga, founder of El Camino Travel, thanks to new budget lines such as Viva Air Colombia and Star Perú.
In four to eight weeks, you can hit the Caribbean coast in Colombia (with stops in Cartagena and Tayrona National Natural Park); the Andean cities of Medellín, Quito, and La Paz; and natural wonders like the Amazon rain forest (best accessed via Iquitos, Peru), the Uyuni salt flats of southwest Bolivia, and, of course, Machu Picchu. From learning about Afro-Caribbean dance to touring Inca archaeological sites, you’ll have loads to talk about with the fellow travelers you meet in hostels along the way.
Where to stay: For a stay in Cartagena, Moss highly recommends Casa Pestagua, which is the sister property of Casa San Agustin but has a slightly younger crowd.
- ShoppingA New Season of The White Lotus Just Dropped, Along With a Ton of CollaborationsParis Wilson
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The Camino de Santiago
Ideal duration: At average, a 30–35 day journey
There’s something enticing about marking one milestone with another. For travelers who want to do it in hiking boots, a Camino de Santiago pilgrimage is an ideal challenge. The Camino refers to a network of trails that all lead to a shrine of Saint James the Great in Galicia, Spain, with several starting points throughout the country. Beginners, however, are recommended to follow the Camino Frances route, which begins just over the border in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in the French Pyrenees. The journey takes 30 to 35 days and includes overnights in albergues (bed-and-breakfasts). If you find yourself needing a little motivation along the trail, just visualize the tapas and vino waiting for you each night.
Where to stay: From a city break off the pilgrimage, head to Hotel Virxe de Cerca, located in Santiago de Compostela’s old town.