Wanderlust · 6 min read · January 27, 2025

The best destinations for a kid-free holiday

School's back in session – so where will you go?

Short on time? Let us summarise this guide for you.

With the kids back at school, now is the perfect time for a grown-up getaway. This guide rounds up ideal destinations for a child-free escape – from the art and nightlife of Amsterdam and Dublin, to the luxury and lake views of Lake Como, and the bright lights of Las Vegas. Explore culture in London, Munich and Melbourne, relax in Santorini or uncover hidden gems in Tirana and Reykjavik. Whatever you're after, there's a destination here for every kind of adult adventure.

The kids are back at school. You've waited out the expensive, crowded summer holidays. Now's the time to get away. Whether you're craving culture, nightlife, fine dining or just some well-earned peace and quiet, a child-free break is yours for the taking.

We've rounded up some of the best destinations for adults travelling without the little ones. From European city breaks to far-flung adventures, here's where to go.

Amsterdam | Netherlands

Amsterdam is the kind of city that rewards adults. It's laid-back, endlessly interesting and packed with things to do – whether you're into art, history or something a little more colourful.

Art lovers should head straight to the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, and the Van Gogh Museum, which holds the largest collection of the artist's work anywhere in the world. The Anne Frank House is also a must-visit – a moving and powerful insight into one of history's most important stories.

For something altogether different, wander through the infamous Red Light District, with its coffee shops, peep shows and anything-goes attitude. It's not for everyone – but it's undeniably Amsterdam.

Dublin | Ireland

Dublin is one of those cities where a good time is practically guaranteed. It's world-famous for its pubs and its literary heritage – and it lives up to every bit of the reputation.

Start in Temple Bar, where the atmosphere spills out of every pub doorway. Pull up a stool, order a pint of Guinness and soak it all in. Then head to the Guinness Storehouse to discover the story behind Ireland's most iconic export – the panoramic bar at the top isn't bad either.

Don't leave without visiting Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison turned fascinating museum that brings the story of Irish independence to life. The Museum of Literature Ireland is another highlight, celebrating the writers who put this small island on the global literary map.

Lake Como | Italy

It's easy to see why celebrities love Lake Como. The views are stunning, the climate is dreamy and the restaurants and bars are seriously impressive. A few days here and you'll feel like a film star.

From the town of Como, take the funicular up to Brunate for spectacular panoramic views of the lake. Sip a coffee on one of the terraces and let the scenery do the talking.

You can also hop on a scenic boat ride along the lake, stopping off at elegant towns like Cernobbio and Bellagio. It's here where you're likely to rub shoulders with a few famous faces – and understand exactly why they keep coming back.

Las Vegas | USA

Las Vegas doesn't need much of an introduction. The Strip is one of the most dazzling stretches of road on the planet, and it's almost impossible to be bored here. Try your luck at the slots, catch a world-class show or simply wander between the larger-than-life hotels and resorts.

Vegas is the headline act – but the surrounding area deserves your attention too. Both the Grand Canyon and the Hoover Dam are within driving distance, and make for a brilliant contrast to the neon-lit excess of the city.

London | UK

London is whatever you want it to be. It works brilliantly as a family destination – but leave the kids at home and a whole other side of the city opens up.

Catch a West End show, take in the grandeur of Buckingham Palace or climb The O2 for sweeping views across the city. And with so many world-class restaurants, bars and galleries to explore, you could spend a week here and barely scratch the surface.

Melbourne | Australia

Australia sits on countless bucket lists – and Melbourne is one of its very best reasons to visit. This is a city of contrasts, and it's all the better for it.

Foodies will be in their element. Melbourne's large immigrant population has shaped a culinary scene that spans the globe, with incredible food on every block. Sports fans are equally well catered for – the city hosts AFL, cricket, horse racing, Grand Slam tennis and Formula One, often all in the same year.

Then there's the art. Melbourne's street art scene is vibrant and ever-changing, with laneways and alleyways transformed into open-air galleries around every corner.

Munich | Germany

If you love beer and art, Munich was made for you. Bavaria's quirky capital takes both very seriously – and you'll have a brilliant time exploring either.

The beer credentials speak for themselves. The Bavarians essentially invented lager, and you'll find some of the finest examples in the world right here. Visit year-round to enjoy a stein in one of the city's famous beer halls – but if you can time your trip with Oktoberfest (which kicks off in September), do it. The atmosphere in those packed halls, with oompah bands playing and locals in traditional dress, is something else entirely.

Munich has serious cultural clout too. The Kunstareal museum quarter is a great starting point, with collections spanning ancient Egyptian art, Greek and Roman sculptures, and much more besides.

Your ultimate guide to Oktoberfest

Heading to Munich's legendary beer festival for the first time? Read our guide for everything you need to know about this celebration of Bavarian culture.

In Wanderlust September 17, 2024

Reykjavik | Iceland

Iceland is firmly on the bucket list for good reason – and Reykjavik is the perfect base for exploring this extraordinary country. It's compact, easy to navigate and well-connected to some of Iceland's most jaw-dropping landscapes.

If you're flying in, make your very first stop the Blue Lagoon. This world-famous geothermal spa sits between the airport and the capital, and it's the ideal way to ease into your trip. The warm, mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties – and after a long flight, we're not going to argue.

Once you're in the city, dig into Reykjavik's thriving bar and restaurant scene, visit its fascinating museums and galleries, and use it as a launchpad for adventures further afield – from the Northern Lights to volcanic landscapes and glacier walks.

Santorini | Greece

Santorini has earned its reputation as one of the world's most romantic destinations. It's less family-orientated than many other Greek islands, which makes it ideal for couples or groups of adults looking for some genuine peace and quiet.

The village of Oia is the place to be at sunset. Find a table at a cliffside restaurant, order something delicious and watch the light fade over the iconic whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches and the dramatic caldera below. It's one of those views that lives up to every photograph you've ever seen of it.

Tirana | Albania

After somewhere a little off the beaten path? Tirana is a brilliant shout. Albania's capital is an undiscovered gem – vibrant, welcoming and full of surprises.

The city's café culture is a great place to start. Pull up a chair in the trendy Blloku district, order an espresso and watch the world go by. The architecture here tells the story of a complicated history, with Ottoman, Italian and Communist-era buildings sitting side by side in fascinating contrast.

Visit the National Historic Museum to understand Albania's turbulent past, then take the cable car up to Mount Dajti National Park for sweeping views over the city below. The food is delicious, the people are warm and there's genuine character around every corner. Tirana rewards the curious traveller.