Unforgettable Mother-Daughter Trips for Every Travel Style
There’s nothing like a mother-daughter trip to reconnect, laugh until you cry, and make memories you’ll talk about for years. My daughter is my favorite travel buddy. We now live 2,000 miles apart, so these trips mean more than ever.
As a travel advisor, I believe in travel to make yourself better and travel to make the world better, and I can confidently say that mother-daughter trips do both. These experiences bring you closer, broaden your world, and leave you with shared stories that last a lifetime.
Here are some of my favorite mother-daughter destinations for different styles of travel- each paired with a unique experience that helps turn a great trip into an unforgettable one. And as an extra bonus, every one of these hotels comes with daily complimentary breakfast, resort credits, and early check-in/check-out and upgrades (subject to availability)- saving you money to spend on those once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
For Milestone Moments
Some trips are more than just vacations. They’re celebrations. Whether it’s a big birthday, a graduation, or simply honoring how far you’ve both come, these destinations add a little sparkle to life’s big moments. They’re the perfect backdrop for toasting, reminiscing, and dreaming about what’s next.
Napa Valley, California
This year, my daughter and I are heading to Napa for her 21st. It’s the perfect blend of beauty and celebration.
Stay at: Auberge du Soleil Timeless luxury in the heart of wine country.
Memory-making experience: Book a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or enjoy a private tasting at a family-run vineyard.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
For her high school graduation, we toured Italy. A celebratory trip deserves ocean views, amazing food, and slow sunsets. It’s as swoon-worthy as you’re imagining.
Stay at: Le Sirenuse Chic, romantic, and iconic in Positano.
Memory-making experience: Charter a private boat to Capri with a stop for lunch on the water.
For the Wellness Lovers
When life gets busy, there’s nothing more restorative than slowing down and focusing on wellness- together. These destinations offer sun-soaked serenity, spa rituals, and the kind of calm that invites connection and reflection. Perfect for duos who want to relax, recharge, and return home feeling better than ever.
Palm Springs
Retro-chic and surrounded by desert beauty, Palm Springs is a laid-back wellness haven. It’s perfect for poolside lounging, spa treatments, and reconnecting in the sunshine. I’ve been dreaming of a return to Palm Springs; its spa culture and sunshine are calling.
Stay at: Parker Palm Springs A design-forward resort with lush gardens and one of the best spas in the area.
Memory-making experience: Book a sound bath at the Integratron in nearby Joshua Tree. It’s healing, cosmic, and completely unforgettable.
Ojai, California
Ojai is soul-soothing with its citrus groves, hiking trails, and spiritual calm. It’s ideal for a slower-paced escape. This retreat has been at the top of my list for its blend of nature, serenity, and soulful activities.
Stay at: Ojai Valley Inn A stunning property with spa rituals, yoga, and artisan workshops.
Memory-making experience: Take a pottery or art class together at the on-site Artist Cottage.
For the Foodie Duo
If your favorite memories are made over great meals, these spots were made for you. From indulgent pastries to chef-led classes, these cities are full of flavors worth savoring. These are the kinds of trips where every bite becomes part of the story.
Charleston, South Carolina
We had a quick stopover in Charleston on a trip to Hilton Head, and I wish we’d spent more time in this charming city. From Lowcountry classics to fine dining, Charleston is a dream for food-loving duos.
Stay at: The Dewberry Charleston Mid-century style and Southern hospitality with a beautiful spa and rooftop terrace.
Memory-making experience: Join a chef-led Lowcountry cooking class or take a historic food tour through the French Quarter.
Paris, France
Our first international trip took us to Paris, and every bite we took was amazing. From patisserie hopping to Michelin-star dining, Paris delivers beauty and indulgence at every turn.
Stay at: La Fantaisie A chic new boutique hotel in the 9th arrondissement with lush gardens and modern Parisian flair.
Memory-making experience: Take a macaron or pastry baking class so that you can taste the sweetness of Paris even when you return home.
For the Adventure Seekers
For some pairs, bonding happens best under open skies and a little adrenaline. These destinations bring the thrill, whether it’s hiking red rocks or ziplining through a rainforest. If you’re the kind of duo that trades spa robes for hiking boots, this is your list.
Sedona, Arizona
Red rocks, desert hikes, and mystical energy create a one-of-a-kind escape. Hiking is a passion of mine, not my daughter’s, so Sedona may be a solo trip for me!
Stay at: L’Auberge de Sedona Creekside cottages and guided nature programs.
Memory-making experience: Hike to Devil’s Bridge at sunrise and join a guided stargazing session in the evening.
Arenal, Costa Rica
Ziplining, volcano views, and rainforest beauty for adrenaline-loving duos. Costa Rica is in our future. I’m thinking this would make a great Christmas vacation.
Stay at: Nayara Springs Adults-only luxury with plunge pools and jungle spa.
Memory-making experience: Try whitewater rafting or take a chocolate-making workshop at a local cacao farm.
For the Culture & Shopping
Some of our favorite trips have been equal parts style and substance- museums by day, boutiques by afternoon, and theater by night. These cities offer a little glam, a little grit, and plenty of inspiration to take home with you. Ideal for mother-daughter duos who love creativity, conversation, and a touch of luxury.
New York City, NY
We’re heading back to NYC this fall to see Hamilton again, and to soak up all the shopping, shows, and skyline views the city offers. From Broadway to Fifth Avenue, NYC has the perfect blend of shopping, art, and energy.
Stay at: The Whitby Hotel Unique rooms, incredible afternoon tea, and perfect Midtown location.
Memory-making experience: Book a behind-the-scenes Broadway experience or personal styling session at Bloomingdale’s.
London, England
Our last trip had us exploring the boutiques and bookstores of London. Royal history, charming shops, and world-class culture make London perfect for elegant explorers.
Stay at: The Goring Classic British charm and impeccable service.
Memory-making experience: Enjoy afternoon tea at Sketch, then stroll through Liberty London for shopping with flair.
Ready to Plan Your Own Mother-Daughter Getaway?
These trips have been the best gifts I’ve ever given or received. They create space to talk, dream, and grow closer, whether you’re ten or twenty-one, together every day or living across the country.
If you’re dreaming about a trip like this, I’d love to help. I’ll pair you with the perfect hotel, build a personalized itinerary, and make sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
Travel to connect. Travel to remember. Travel to make yourselves better. Let’s do this together.