The Best First-Time Travel Destinations for Empty Nesters

There’s something wildly liberating about becoming an empty nester. After years of raising a family, building a life, and balancing all the to-do lists, this stage feels like a deep breath—a chance to say what now? and actually get to choose the answer. For Shelly and me, this new season has become a time of rediscovery. We’re not just exploring the world—we’re rediscovering each other, finding new rhythms, and falling in love with life all over again, and we’re here today to share our recommendations for the best travel destinations for empty nesters.

Travel has played a huge part in that. With no school schedules or carpools to plan around, the world has opened up in a whole new way. And we’re here for it—all of it. From romantic sunsets and big adventures to long, slow mornings and meals that stretch into the night, we’re savoring every moment.

In this post, we’re sharing some of the destinations that have truly captured our hearts. These are our top picks for fellow empty nester travelers—especially those of us over 50—who are craving connection, adventure, and a little touch of indulgence. Whether you’re looking to reignite your sense of wonder, try something totally new, or just unwind and enjoy the freedom you’ve earned, these places deliver as the travel destinations for empty nesters.

Why These Destinations Are Perfect for Over-50 Travelers
When you’re over 50 and traveling, comfort and convenience become just as important as adventure and discovery. These destinations we’re sharing are ideal for anyone in our age group because they offer the perfect balance of excitement and ease, giving you the freedom to explore without stress. Here’s why they stand out:

• Ease of Getting Around: As we’ve gotten older, we’ve found that traveling to places with great public transportation or easily navigable streets is key. Many of these destinations have excellent infrastructure—whether it’s efficient metro systems, taxis, or easy-to-walk neighborhoods that let you see everything at your own pace. We loved that in cities like Barcelona and Paris, it was simple to hop on a metro or stroll from one iconic landmark to the next without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
• Guided Tours and Expert-Led Experiences: For those of us who enjoy learning as much as exploring, these destinations offer a wide range of guided tours that take the stress out of planning. Whether it’s a private walking tour through the temples of Egypt or a local cooking class in Thailand, these experiences not only give us insights we might otherwise miss, but they also cater to a slower pace and allow us to truly immerse ourselves in the culture. Expert guides make everything more accessible and enriching.
• Comfortable Accommodations: After a day of adventure, having a comfortable, luxurious place to retreat to makes all the difference. The destinations we’ve chosen offer a variety of beautiful, welcoming hotels—from charming boutique spots to world-class resorts. These hotels are designed with comfort in mind, often with amenities like easy access to transportation, spas, and excellent dining, so you can truly relax after a full day of exploration.
• Safety and Peace of Mind: As travelers over 50, safety is always a priority. We’ve found that these destinations are known for their welcoming, safe environments where travelers can feel at ease. Whether it’s strolling through the quiet streets of Crete or cruising down the Nile, we’ve never felt unsafe. Plus, many of these destinations are experienced in hosting international travelers, so you’ll find plenty of resources to ensure your well-being.
• Healthcare Availability: One of the benefits of traveling to more developed or tourist-friendly destinations is the accessibility of healthcare if needed. In cities like Tokyo or Paris, healthcare is top-notch, and for peace of mind, there are always medical centers or pharmacies nearby. Additionally, we’ve made sure to choose destinations that are equipped to handle any health concerns that may arise while traveling.
• Pacing and Variety of Activities: The beauty of these destinations is that they offer something for every mood or energy level. Whether you want to spend the day hiking through lush jungles, soaking in a cultural performance, or simply relaxing on a quiet beach, there’s a balance of more relaxed, leisurely activities and exciting adventures. It’s the perfect mix for those of us who want to explore without exhausting ourselves.
• Connection and Community: As empty nesters, we’ve noticed how much we value connecting with others on our travels. These destinations provide opportunities to meet people from around the world, whether it’s fellow travelers or locals eager to share their culture. It’s easy to strike up conversations, whether you’re sitting at a café in Paris or chatting with a fisherman in Phuket, making every moment feel special.

These destinations are more than just places on a map—they’re about creating unforgettable experiences in environments that support relaxation, curiosity, and new adventures. Whether you’re soaking in history, enjoying local flavors, or simply enjoying the moment, they offer the perfect mix of comfort, discovery, and peace of mind for travelers over 50 and are our picks for the top travel destinations for empty nesters.

Venice, Italy: A Timeless Romance

Why we love it: Venice is one of those places that feels like it was made for lovers. The romance isn’t just in the gondolas or the architecture—it’s in the air, in the soft slap of water against the canals, in the way the city seems to slow you down. We loved getting lost in the maze of alleyways, walking hand-in-hand with no real destination, just letting Venice unfold around us. Mornings were our favorite. We’d grab a simple but perfect breakfast from a tucked-away café—usually a fresh squeezed orange juice and a flaky pastry—and watch the mist roll gently over the water as the city started to stir. One of our favorite memories? Sitting at a little canal-side table in Dorsoduro with a cold Diet Coke , feet sore from exploring, watching gondolas glide past and soaking in that golden light that only Venice seems to have. Every corner of the city felt like a postcard, and even when we were lost, we were exactly where we wanted to be.

What to See:

• Gondola rides through the Grand Canal
• Piazza San Marco and St. Mark’s Basilica
• The Rialto Bridge at sunset
• Hidden cafés and art galleries in Dorsoduro

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Hotel Antico Capon – cozy and centrally located
• Mid-range: Ca’ Pisani Hotel – chic boutique stay in Dorsoduro
• Luxury: The Gritti Palace – historic elegance with canal views

Best Time to Go: April to June or September to October for fewer crowds and mild weather.

For even more info, read our in-depth blog post with “The Best Things to Do In Venice“.

Tokyo, Japan: A Feast for the Senses

Why we love it: Tokyo is electric in every sense of the word. It’s a city of contrasts that somehow makes perfect sense—one moment we were wandering through a peaceful garden where the only sounds were the rustling of bamboo leaves and the trickle of water, and the next we were swept into the sensory overload of Shibuya Crossing, surrounded by neon lights, giant billboards, and the buzz of a million footsteps moving in perfect sync. I was in awe of how a city so huge could run with such calm precision—everything just works. Shelly was completely in her element, falling in love with the bold fashion, Harajuku thrift shops, and all the quirky themed cafés (yes, we did go to the 2-D one, but there are plentiful Cat cafes as well as a hedgehog-themed one!). I couldn’t stop eating—ramen counters tucked into alleyways, conveyor belt sushi, those perfectly crispy tempura bowls. One night, we ended up at a tiny izakaya where no one spoke English, but we pointed at a few things and had one of the best meals of our lives. Tokyo stretched our comfort zone in the best way, and we left already planning our return.

What to See:

• Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park
• Shinjuku and Shibuya districts
• Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh sushi
• Traditional tea ceremonies and sumo matches

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Imano Tokyo Hostel – great for friendly vibes and location
• Mid-range: Hotel Niwa Tokyo – peaceful and authentically Japanese
• Luxury: Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo by IHG – stunning views and impeccable service

Best Time to Go: March to May for cherry blossoms, or October to November for fall colors.

Check out all the top things to do on our blog post “One Week in Tokyo: Our Unforgettable Experience“.

Crete & Santorini, Greece: Islands of Wonder

Why we love it: Greece felt like stepping into a dream—where every turn brought ancient stories to life, and every sunset felt like it was just for us. On Crete, we wandered through sun-drenched olive groves that stretched as far as the eye could see, and hiked the dramatic Samaria Gorge, where the cliffs rose high above us and the air smelled of wild thyme. We found hidden coves with the clearest, bluest water we’ve ever seen, and spent hours swimming and floating, just the two of us, completely in awe. Then there was Santorini—oh, Santorini. With its whitewashed buildings spilling down the cliffs and those famously blue domes, it was even more magical than we imagined. We watched the sun sink into the Aegean from our little balcony, the sky lit up in pinks and oranges that didn’t even look real. Every night felt like a celebration. We shared fresh seafood dinners with views of the caldera, laughing, reminiscing, and dreaming about where we’d go next. Greece wrapped us up in its beauty, history, and warmth—and we left part of our hearts there.

What to See in Crete:

• Palace of Knossos
• Samaria Gorge hike
• Rethymno’s Old Town and beaches

What to See in Santorini:

• Oia village and its sunsets
• Wine tasting at Santo Wines
• Black sand beaches of Kamari and Perissa

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Villa Manos (Santorini), El Greco Hotel (Crete)
• Mid-range: Lilium Santorini Villas, Domus Renier Boutique Hotel (Chania, Crete)
• Luxury: Canaves Oia Suites (Santorini), Blue Palace Elounda (Crete)

Best Time to Go: May to October; early spring and fall have great weather and fewer tourists.

Egypt: A Journey Through Time

Why we love it: Egypt felt like time travel in the best possible way. Standing before the Pyramids of Giza, with the desert stretching out behind us, was one of those moments where we just looked at each other in silence—completely overwhelmed by the magnitude of it all. It’s one thing to see them in photos, but being there… it’s humbling, almost spiritual. We had a private guide who was not only incredibly knowledgeable but passionate, and he brought ancient Egypt to life in a way that made us feel like we were part of the story. Walking through the temples of Luxor and Karnak, tracing the hieroglyphs with our fingers, we were in awe of the scale and craftsmanship. But the magic didn’t stop there. Cruising down the Nile at sunset was pure serenity. The water was still, the sky turned gold, and we just sat on the deck soaking it all in—palms lining the banks, fishermen in little boats, kids waving from shore. Egypt wasn’t just a trip—it was an experience that stirred something deep in us, and we’ll never forget the way it made us feel.

What to See:

• Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
• Temples of Luxor, Karnak, and Abu Simbel
• Valley of the Kings
• Nile River cruise

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo
• Mid-range: Sonesta St. George Hotel (Luxor)
• Luxury: Marriott Mena House (Cairo), Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise

Best Time to Go: October to April when temperatures are cooler.

If you want to plan your own unforgettable trip, check out our blog post “10 Epic Days in Egypt“.

Sydney, Australia: A Blend of Adventure and Relaxation

Why we love it: Sydney was the perfect blend of city energy and beach-town chill—the kind of place that made us feel instantly at home. We’d start our mornings wandering through vibrant neighborhoods and exploring art museums (the Art Gallery of New South Wales was a favorite), then grab lunch at a cute café before heading straight to the beach. There’s something amazing about being in a big, bustling city and then sinking your toes into the sand just minutes later. We did the Bondi to Coogee walk on a breezy, blue-sky day, and the views along the cliffs were so stunning we kept stopping just to take it all in—and take way too many photos. One afternoon, we hopped on a harbor cruise with nothing on the agenda but to relax, and ended up watching the sun dip behind the Opera House as the sky turned cotton-candy pink. Sydney had this effortless rhythm that matched our pace—cosmopolitan yet casual, full of adventure but never overwhelming. We left wishing we had more time—and already planning a return trip.

What to See:

• Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge
• Bondi to Coogee coastal walk
• Darling Harbour and The Rocks
• Taronga Zoo with skyline views

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Wake Up! Sydney – clean, social, and central
• Mid-range: The Old Clare Hotel – hip and walkable
• Luxury: Park Hyatt Sydney – unbeatable views of the Opera House

Best Time to Go: September to November or March to May for warm days and fewer crowds.

You might not believe us, but it is possible to visit Sydney on a budget. Check out our blog post “Sydney on A Budget: Out Tips For Big Savings”.

Paris, France: The City of Love

Why we love it: Paris is pure magic. There’s just something about the city that makes you want to slow down and savor everything—every bite, every view, every moment. We started each morning with buttery croissants from the neighborhood boulangerie, still warm and flakey, and wandered cobblestone streets with no real agenda. One of our favorite evenings was strolling hand-in-hand along the Seine at sunset, the Eiffel Tower glowing in the distance and the city bathed in golden light. It felt like we had stepped into a movie. We lingered for hours in tiny cafés, people-watching, and talking about everything and nothing. Even everyday things—buying fruit from a market, hearing the hum of French conversations around us—felt romantic. Every corner of Paris looked like a painting, from the artists in Montmartre to the stately bridges that arched over the river. It’s a city that doesn’t rush you. It invites you to indulge, to wander, and to fall in love—not just with the place, but with life itself.

What to See:

• Climb the Eiffel Tower
• Louvre and Musée d’Orsay
• Seine River cruise with dinner and Montmartre
• Latin Quarter’s cafés and bookstores

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Hotel Ekta – stylish and affordable near Champs-Élysées
• Mid-range: Hôtel Le Six – elegant and centrally located
• Luxury: Le Bristol Paris – timeless opulence with a rooftop garden

Best Time to Go: April to June or September to early November.

Ready to plan your Parisian adventure? We have you covered with our detailed blog post on Paris: “Ultimate Guide to Exploring Paris in 5 Days“.

Tahiti: Paradise Found

Why we love it: Tahiti felt like slipping off the grid and into a dream. From the moment we stepped onto the island, everything slowed down—in the best way. Our overwater bungalow became our little slice of paradise, where we’d wake up to sunrises painting the ocean in soft pastels and fall asleep to the gentle lapping of waves beneath us. We completely unplugged—no schedules, no emails, no rush. Just barefoot days spent snorkeling with vibrant tropical fish, drifting in crystal-clear lagoons, and soaking up the kind of peace you don’t realize you’ve been missing until you find it. Evenings were our favorite: long, lingering dinners under the stars, the warm air wrapped around us, and nothing on our minds except how lucky we felt to be there. It wasn’t just a vacation—it was a total reset. Tahiti reminded us how beautiful simplicity can be, and how good it feels to truly be in the moment.

What to See:

• Snorkeling in Bora Bora
• Black sand beaches in Tahiti
• Polynesian spa treatments
• Sunset cruise or lagoon tour

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Fare Suisse Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts
• Luxury: The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

Best Time to Go: May to October (dry season)

Thailand: Exotic and Affordable

Why we love it: Thailand was a full-on sensory experience in the best way—vibrant, welcoming, and full of flavor, color, and heart. We fell in love with the chaos of the night markets: the sizzling street food stalls, the smell of grilled skewers in the air, and the sound of vendors calling out as we wandered with wide eyes and full bellies. One of our favorite days was taking a Thai cooking class in a local home—shopping at the market with our instructor, learning the secret to the perfect pad Thai, and laughing our way through chopping chilies a bit too boldly. Chiang Mai felt like a breath of calm with its golden temples, quiet courtyards, and that deep, spiritual stillness we didn’t even know we were craving. And then came Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands—our tropical daydream come true. We’ll never forget the longtail boat ride through towering limestone cliffs

What to See:

• Temples and night markets in Bangkok
• Elephant sanctuaries and temples in Chiang Mai
• Railay Beach and Phi Phi Islands near Krabi

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Lub D Hostel (Bangkok)
• Mid-range: Rimping Village (Chiang Mai)
• Luxury: Rayavadee Resort (Krabi)

Best Time to Go: November to February for cool, dry weather

Barcelona, Spain: Art and Energy

Why we love it: Barcelona is pure energy—creative, colorful, and effortlessly cool. The city has this electric vibe that sweeps you up the moment you arrive. We spent our days getting lost in Gaudí’s surreal masterpieces, wandering through the whimsical curves of Casa Batlló and staring up in awe inside the Sagrada Família. Even just strolling through the Gothic Quarter felt like walking through a living piece of history, with every narrow alley holding its own little surprise. Evenings were all about the food—hopping from one tapas bar to the next, sharing bites of jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, and pan con tomate while the city buzzed around us. One of our favorite days was renting bikes and riding along the beach, the Mediterranean sparkling beside us, and later watching the sunset from a rooftop terrace with sangria in hand and music playing softly in the background. Barcelona has that rare blend of art, architecture, history, beach life, and soul—and we couldn’t get enough of it.

What to See:

• Sagrada Família and Park Güell
• Gothic Quarter’s alleyways
• Tapas hopping and local markets
• Beachfront walks at Barceloneta

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Onefam Paralelo – friendly and walkable
• Mid-range: Hotel Jazz – stylish and central
• Luxury: Majestic Hotel & Spa – elegance on Passeig de Gràcia

Best Time to Go: May to June or September to October

Becoming empty nesters has truly opened up a world of possibilities for Shelly and me. With the freedom to explore on our terms, we’ve discovered that travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about reconnecting with each other and with the world in ways we never thought possible. Each of the destinations we’ve shared offers something unique, whether it’s romance under the stars, thrilling adventures, deep dives into history, or simply the luxury of unwinding in paradise.

If you’re over 50, part of Gen X, or simply navigating life as an empty nester, we hope these destinations spark your imagination and inspire you to embrace the adventures that await. The world is wide, and it’s never been a better time to explore it—on your own terms.

👉 Ready to book your next adventure? Check out JetSetClub.co, our tips on traveling full-time on a budget, or follow us on Instagram @JetSetPetersons for more real-time travel stories!

The world is waiting—and there’s no better time to see it than now.

Travel isn’t just about places—it’s about people, experiences, and making memories. Hi! We are Shayne and Shelly Peterson. As empty nesters, we’ve found new ways to connect with the world (and each other) through travel. Follow our journey at JetSetPetersons.com and let’s explore together! 

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