Looking for the best places to go for a graduation trip?
Our list below has the best trips to take after graduation, whether you want to relax, immerse yourself in a new culture, or visit bustling cities to see landmarks and be a tourist.
1. Relax In Bali
Bali can be an affordable escape, whether you are traveling solo or in a group. Beach villas and hotels are often inexpensive to rent. Cultural adventures, such as visiting temples and taking cooking classes, are available, as are more relaxing activities like chilling on the beach and attending a yoga retreat.
2. Island Hopping In Greece
Greece is one of the most popular places to go for a graduation trip. You can explore Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros all on a budget and soak up the Mediterranean vibes with your friends for the summer.
3. New York City
NYC is one of the best graduation trip ideas for celebrating your achievements. Hang out at rooftop bars, go shopping, and stroll through Central Park. It might not be one of the cheapest trips, but a graduation gift registry will drastically help with those costs.
4. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is ideal if you're after a more slow-paced graduation trip. Relax on the beach and check out cute shops at Folly Beach, or eat the Lowcountry cuisine and explore historic sites.
5. National Park Road Trip
One of the ultimate college graduation trip ideas can also be a National Park road trip. Grab your friends or family, rent a camper, and see all the famous National Parks such as Yellowstone, Zion, and Yosemite. Celebrate your graduation under the stars, hike, and enjoy nature.
6. Costa Rica
For those seeking more tropical adventures, look no further than Costa Rica. With jungles and beaches, you can zipline through forests, surf, and soak in hot springs. If you are US-based, Costa Rica is also just a short flight away, making it convenient for those on a budget.
7. A Safari In Tanzania
Taking a safari in Tanzania would be a once-in-a-lifetime graduation trip, picture sunsets over the Savannah, seeing the Big Five in the Serengeti, and learning about new cultures. It’s a great choice if you want to do something outside of your comfort zone. Use our online travel registry so your friends and family can help contribute to the trip.
8. London
Like NYC, London is also a great city break to take if you want a mix of history, iconic sights, and vibrant neighborhoods. There are plenty of things to do, whether it’s going to the markets, chilling at rooftop bars, or visiting museums.
9. Peru
Trek Machu Picchu for an adventure, explore Cusco, and learn more about wildlife conservation in the Amazon Rainforest for the post-grad trip of a lifetime. It's perfect if you want lots of outdoor activities for your graduation trip.
10. San Diego
San Diego makes a laid-back graduation trip, but also has plenty of activities to keep you busy. It’s ideal if you like surfing, want to relax at the beach, or go hiking and explore museums, San Diego has it all. What’s most ideal is that it has amazing weather all year round.
11. Austin, Texas
Known for its vibrant city, live music, amazing food, shopping, and outdoor activities like kayaking, Austin has it all. Austin also has an incredible nightlife, perfect for graduation celebrations as well as lots of breweries to explore.
12. Tulum, Mexico
Head to Tulum, Mexico, to soak up the sun, visit the Mayan ruins, swim in cenotes, and most importantly, party at the beach clubs. Tulum is a mix of adventure and relaxation.
13. The Amalfi Coast
A luxury, idyllic graduation trip is the Amalfi Coast. With stunning coastal views, delicious Italian cuisine, and picturesque towns, this destination will not disappoint. Split the costs with your friends through a travel registry and raise the funds for your dream trip.
14. Japan
From the streets of Tokyo to peaceful temples in Kyoto, there really is so much to explore in Japan and culture to immerse yourself in. For those who love adventure you can also hike up Mount Fuji and relax in the hot springs of Hakone.
15. Egypt
Egypt is rich in heritage with a vibrant culture, ancient history, and captivating architecture. This trip is also very educational. You can visit the pyramids of Giza, cruise the Nile River, snorkel in the Red Sea, and explore the markets of Cairo.
16. Mallorca, Spain
If you're already in Europe or feeling like getting further away from the US, Mallorca, Spain, is an excellent choice for the summer as a graduation trip. There are all sorts of activities, whether you prefer laid-back sunbathing on the beach or exploring the old towns to hiking, or enjoying the beach clubs.
17. Montego Bay, Jamaica
Montego Bay is one of Jamaica's most beautiful beaches, with soft, clear waters and hip strips where you can explore the local culture. Make sure to visit Dunn’s River Falls and snorkel in the Marine Park.
18. Take a Cruise
Going on a cruise can be a great stress-free graduation trip idea, allowing you to visit multiple destinations with ease, whether it’s Alaska or the Caribbean. Celebrate with luxurious meals onboard, enjoy water sports and be entertained with the onboard nightlife.
19. Disneyland
Experience the magic of Disneyland for your graduation trip, no matter your age. Disneyland makes a memorable vacation with rides, themed dining, and shopping. It’s also perfect for group trips where you can split accommodation costs between you.
20. Marrakech
The vibrant culture and rich history of Marrakech allow you to explore the unique textiles and spices of Marrakech, you can see majestic palaces and gardens, try Moroccan cuisine, and relax at luxury spas.
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Create a free account with us and you can start planning your trip with our software, allowing you to keep track of all the details and generate funds with our graduation gift registry.