Sure, travelling is usually filled with wild adventures, late nights and overworked feet, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only way to enjoy a vacation. Sometimes, all you need is some downtime and rest while you see those landmarks and bucket list places you’ve always dreamed of visiting or seeing again! And the best part? You don’t need to be a Gen Z or Millennial to travel. For many, their senior years even awaken or reawaken their wanderlust. You just need to find the right places to visit!
Well, you’re in luck! In honour of Grandparent’s Day on 10 September, Expat Explore has compiled this guide to the top global travel destinations for senior citizens with somewhat different needs than most travellers. Read on, and learn about the places that don’t require that much walking, ones that offer senior discounts, and general tips on how to make the most of your time abroad!
Related: Before you book, check out these budget and travel tips for seniors!
Here are our top 6 global destinations for senior travellers:
Turkey
Turkey is a great country to visit for several reasons, but Istanbul being rated the top destination for senior travellers in the world means it should be top on your list of places to visit! A variety of things to do? Check! Peaceful spots for some downtime? Tick! Easy to walk? You bet!
Senior travellers will be delighted to learn that Turkey is the perfect destination to take it easy while seeing the world’s top attractions! From Aegean olive groves, to the city of Ankara, to the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, Turkey has all the natural beauty, culture and history to make a memorable vacation!
Related: Why not join our Highlights of Turkey tour and tick multiple sights off your Turkey list?
Greece
A very close second, Greece is also a senior traveller’s dream! Not only do some attractions like museums and ferries offer senior discounts, but the country is also a more affordable choice for most. Not to mention that you’ll get to see some of the world’s most iconic landmarks up close for yourself!
While it might not be the most peaceful place due to hordes of international visitors, almost a quarter of the Greek population is over 65 years old, so they know a thing or two about catering for a slightly more mature crowd. Give Greece a visit and behold the incredible Acropolis of Athens, the tranquil Aegean Islands, the vibrancy of Mykonos, and much more!
Related: Travelling Greece with your soulmate? Why not renew your wedding vows?
Italy
If you’re the type of traveller with a thirst for excursions but not the level of walking that comes with it, then Italy should surely be on your list of must-visit countries! Not only are there more cultural and historical attractions in Rome than you can choose from but the city is also known as one of the most walkable cities in the world.
Enjoy the city’s walkability as you explore top attractions such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain and St. Peter’s Basilica. Also, don’t miss out on the chance to explore the Vatican City and see the magnificent Sistine Chapel painted by Michelangelo.
Related: Here’s why you should consider travelling Italy in spring!
Germany
There are many reasons why Germany is a favourite for many senior travellers and on our recommended list. The biggest one, however, is probably the ease with which travellers can get around. The capital, Berlin, is a very popular travel destination and offers a wide variety of things to do for travellers of all ages, as well as simple ways to get from one place to the next.
Some of the top attractions include the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and the Reichstag Building, as well as plenty of world-class museums, galleries and architecture.
Related: While you sit back and relax, why not taste some Glühwein?
Spain
Spain is a popular choice for senior travellers due to its warm climate and the equally warm Spanish lifestyle. It’s also one of the biggest countries in Europe, so you can imagine that you won’t easily run out of things to do. Or should we say walk?
Visit Barcelona for the world-famous architecture, including the magnificent Sagrada Família, as well as the many outdoor markets, restaurants, museums and beaches. Madrid also offers a rich cultural heritage and incredibly vibrant food and nightlife. Explore must-see attractions like The Royal Palace, Museo Nacional del Prado, Palacio de Cibeles and Real Basilica de San Francisco el Grande!
Related: Set your own pace as you try the best tapas and restaurants in Spain!
Japan
Last on our list but certainly not least is Japan, a culturally rich and naturally beautiful destination fit for travellers of any age, but especially mature travellers. With almost a quarter of the population over 75, it’s no wonder their government goes the extra mile to make everyday life a little easier for seniors.
Japan is home to over a dozen UNESCO World Heritage sites, and your vacation can tick a lot of them off your must-see list! Explore the Hiroshima museum, visit the Ninja Museum, traverse a few of the many shrines and temples, catch a glimpse of a Geisha in Gion and take in the incredible views of Mount Fuji from Nihondaira.
Related: Want to know more about the experiences on our Japan tour?
With so many incredible destinations around the world catering for a slightly older travel audience, there’s no reason for you not to bite the travel bug back and explore more than you ever have before!
Hopefully, with this list, you’re ready to explore the world no matter your age! Book a trip with Expat Explore, and get ready to see every senior-friendly destination the world has to offer.