This guide will help you decide where to travel for the first time. I’m sharing about the best countries to visit for beginners, plus a few things to consider before you determine which place to travel as a first time traveler.
Planning your first international trip? How incredibly exciting that you have decided to take this leap of adventure! Travel is an enriching experience and as a travel blogger, my ultimate hope is to inspire others to simply travel.
I have visited 20 countries to date, but vividly remember planning my first trip abroad. The hardest part might be deciding what are the best countries for first time travelers. There is much to consider like safety, accessibility, distance from home, language, costs, and local customs. While it can be a bit daunting, you’ll be so happy that you took the trip.
That is why I have put together this list of my favorite places to visit for beginners. Read on to learn about where I planned my first trip abroad, countries I recommend for first timers, and important considerations when planning an international trip.
This site participates in affiliate programs. When you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support allows me to continue providing this free content. Thank you!
The #1 Best Destination for a First International Trip
Short on time? Here is my number one pick for your first international trip. Keep reading to see the full round up!
#1 Top Pick: Greece
Greece is the best place to travel for the first time as a couple, solo, or with friends/family, and I know from experience! My now husband and I took our first trip together here when we were dating, and it was unforgettable.
Greece is perfect for beginners—locals are friendly, transportation is easy, and there’s no shortage of breathtaking sights.
Explore the Acropolis in Athens, then hop over to the Greek islands for stunning sunsets in Santorini or beaches in Mykonos.
With incredible food, romantic scenery, and a mix of history and adventure, Greece is an ideal first international trip for couples, solo travelers, and families or groups!
Sold on Greece? Check out my Greece guides here or keep reading below to hear more about the best places to travel for beginners!
Best Countries to Visit for Beginners and First Time Travelers
There are plenty of countries for first time travelers that would be amazing! I’ve rounded up a few of my top suggestions in this guide and am sharing more on WHY they make a great destination.
The hardest part now is deciding which one offers the experience you have in mind.
1. Greece | Perfect Country for Beginner Travelers
Greece was the first country I visited in Europe and the first trip I planned for myself. Before that, I had been on a cruise to The Bahamas and a work trip to Vancouver, Canada so I don’t really count those.
My great grandparents immigrated to the United States from Greece, so I have always felt a pull to visit the homeland. When my now husband and I decided to take our first European trip as a couple together, Greece was my number one pick.
In Greece, you can experience the major European city of Athens and see the ancient Acropolis. Then, head to the Greek Isles for a low key summer relaxing on the beaches, exploring the sites, shopping, and tasting the local flavors.
While Greek is of course a difficult language, most everyone speaks English as well and they are super friendly. The islands are big tourist destinations and I have always felt really safe in Greece. This makes it a great country to visit for beginners because they have tourism infrastructure.
We chose to visit both Sifnos and Milos while skipping touristy Santorini or Mykonos for my first visit to the Greek Islands. These lesser known islands were low key and perfect for our first trip together.
Sifnos is known as the foodie island and can only be accessed via ferry (or helicopter) which makes it all the more off-the-beaten path.
Milos is known for its hundreds of different beaches including Sarakiniko, the beach that looks like the moon!
We also visited Greece for our first Europe trip as a family with our 11 month old and couldn’t recommend it more. With the sandy beaches and low key vibes, it is the best first international trip for families, too!
The only thing about Greece is that is does require a flight to Athens, a stay over in the city usually (see the Acropolis though!), and then a ferry or flight to reach the islands (and the same for the return home). If this is overwhelming or seems like too much moving around, it may not be the best for your first trip abroad.
Overall, Greece is a great choice for your first international getaway whether solo, as a couple, with kids, or as a group trip. I’ve traveled to the Greek Isles for a romantic getaway, with friends, and as a family and had a wonderful experience each time. There are plenty of islands to choose from and you will surely find the perfect one for you!
✈️ Planning a first trip can feel overwhelming, but I make it easy! I work with you to craft the perfect itinerary based on your tastes, from must-see sights to hidden gems, and handle all the logistics so your trip flows seamlessly. You get a stress-free, personalized experience—just show up and enjoy every moment. Inquire here to get started!
2. Denmark | The Happiest Country
Denmark is often voted one of the happiest countries in the world and it is easy to see why. The capital city of Copenhagen is known for its colorful homes, gorgeous canals, historic sites, and top rated culinary scene.
Copenhagen is my absolute favorite European city – it reminds me a lot of my hometown of Charleston, South Carolina.
As a one of the top foodie cities in the world, you’ll want to plan your trip around eating at the some of the best restaurants in Copenhagen.
Denmark is incredibly safe – so much that they leave their sleeping babies outside in strollers to sleep. Yes, really! It’s a smaller city making it very walkable and easy to safely explore.
The official language is Danish, but everyone speaks English and it is taught in schools from a young age.
Plan to visit in the summer months (May-October) for the best experience. This country is very far north so in the summer, they get almost 20 hours of daylight and warmer weather. The winters can be quite cold with very few hours of daylight so it’s not the best time for sightseeing.
3. Faroe Islands | A Remote Adventure
If you are looking for something more adventurous and off the beaten path, you might like the Faroe Islands. Located next to Iceland, this chain of islands is known for its dramatic landscapes, hiking trails, and colorful downtown.
You will spend most of your time outdoors whether chasing waterfalls, hiking to picturesque places in the Faroe Islands, or seeing the Atlantic puffins on Mykines.
The islands are also known for a few amazing restaurants and even have a Michelin starred restaurant in the Faroe Islands, KOKS.
The Faroe Islands are easy to get around with a rental car allowing you to go at your own pace. The population on the islands is pretty small so it’s very safe and everyone is quite friendly!
The official language is Faroese, but they all speak English as well.
For those new to travel, the Faroe Islands are a great choice to enjoy the natural beauty of our world. Check out my 5 day itinerary for the Faroe Islands to learn more!
4. Canada | A Nearby Neighbor Country
If you want to start with a nearby country and a short flight, try our neighbors to the North in Canada. The proximity alone makes it a great first international trip for beginners from the USA. Plus, many areas speak English, making navigation simple for first timers.
Toronto is perfect for a long weekend. Explore the trendy neighborhoods, visit the iconic CN Tower, and check out the city’s diverse food scene.
If you love nature, Banff is an unforgettable destination. In summer, hike scenic trails and admire the turquoise waters of Lake Louise. In winter, hit some of the best ski slopes in the Rocky Mountains.
Vancouver is another must-visit and one that I really enjoyed! This west coast city offers a mix of urban excitement and outdoor adventure.
Stroll through Stanley Park, explore the vibrant food scene, or take a day trip to Whistler. Don’t miss my favorite brewery on Granville Island – Granville Island Brewing!
With its variety of cities and landscapes, Canada is an easy and exciting place to explore.
5. Puerto Rico | US Territory Where You Don’t Need a Passport
Did you know Puerto Rico is a US territory? This means US citizens do NOT need a passport to visit. They also use the US Dollar and most people tend to speak English so you have a few less challenges.
Puerto Rico is located in the Caribbean making it very easy to reach for
those of us on the East Coast. Not only that, the weather is mild year round so you can always soak up the sun. Just don’t plan a trip in hurricane season during the months of September and October. You wouldn’t want to have your trip cancelled especially if it’s your first!
I planned a girls weekend to San Juan for my bachelorette party and it was a fun-filled weekend exploring Old San Juan, sailing around the walled city and exploring El Yunque rainforest.
There is plenty to do in San Juan, but we loved relaxing on the white sand beaches, tasting the Puerto Rican flavors and doing a little salsa dancing!
6. Costa Rica | A Rainforest or Beach Getaway
Costa Rica is a great choice for travelers from the US for a first international trip. One reason is because you don’t have to deal with a big time change or jet lag. It’s also close enough for a long weekend getaway in Costa Rica if you are short on time.
Costa Rica is located in Central America sharing borders with Nicaragua and Panama. It is sandwiched between the Caribbean Sea to the East and Pacific Ocean to the West. Costa Rica is known for its biodiversity featuring volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches. It’s also home to exotic wildlife including parrots, sloths, and monkeys!
It is a fairly safe country for tourists to visit, but as always, be aware of your surroundings and stay in safe areas when traveling to a foreign country.
We chose to stay in the Guanacaste region which is on the Pacific side of the country. I recommend staying at the dreamy, intimate resort, Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas. It’s an adults only property perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
We loved this boutique hotel where we stayed in a villa with our very own plunge pool! We had massages in our room, took a sailing trip, went surfing, practiced yoga and sipped margaritas poolside.
The hotel can arrange day trips to the rainforest and to see the volcanoes as well. I highly recommend our itinerary if looking for a luxury, romantic getaway to Costa Rica!
7. Mexico | A Country Full of Culture
Mexico is also a fabulous choice for first time travelers based in the United States. It’s super convenient to fly there and it’s usually an inexpensive flight.
There are many options for where to go in Mexico depending on your tastes. From exploring the beach destinations or the big cities, I have plenty of guides to help your discover Mexico.
Explore one of the largest cities in North America, Mexico City! It is known for its amazing culinary scene with restaurants like Pujol, cultural sites like the Frida Kahlo Museum or National Art Museum, their own China Town, and Chapultepec Park – double the size of Central Park.
Many people associate Mexico City with not being safe, but I thought it was incredibly nice and pleasantly surprised with how safe I felt. Just stay in the touristy areas or go with a guide if venturing further away.
If you prefer the coast, I recommend a visit to Cabo or Tulum. Tulum is known for its white sand beaches, beach clubs, open-air restaurants, and for being wellness oriented.
8. Switzerland | Breathtaking Mountain Landscapes
The Swiss Alps. Swiss Cheese. Swiss Chocolate. Fondue! The Swiss truly have it figured out.
Bordered by France, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, and Austria, Switzerland is a melting pot of cultures that you can see as you traverse the country.
With 4 official languages (German, French, Italian and Romansh), you’ll find that English is widely spoken so the locals can all communicate.
Switzerland is a very safe country and is constantly rated as one of the safest and most stable in the world. But, like anywhere, things can happen so you must stay vigilant when traveling.
I didn’t know much about the country before planning a 5 day trip through Switzerland, but I quickly fell in love! As a relatively small country, you can easily see many of the highlights in a 5 day trip, but ideally more time if you have it.
As I mentioned, Switzerland is known for its food and breathtaking mountain terrain. But that’s not all. The historic cities of Geneva, Zurich, and Bern are truly magical – a world that gets tossed around a lot when talking about travel, but it’s true.
9. England | A Familiar English Speaking Country
England is a top choice for first-time international travelers, and for good reason.
There’s no language barrier, the time difference from the East Coast isn’t too overwhelming (just five hours ahead of EST), and flights from major U.S. cities take around eight hours—shorter than a trip to the West Coast with a layover! It’s one of the easiest countries to travel to.
London is the perfect place to start. Whether you visit for a long weekend or a full week, there’s no shortage of iconic sights.
Stroll along the River Thames to see Big Ben, cross the Tower Bridge, and step inside the historic Tower of London.
Book an afternoon tea for a classic British experience, ride a double-decker bus, and, of course, stop by Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guard.
Beyond London, England offers charming countryside escapes like the Cotswolds, historic cities like Bath and Oxford, and even quick day trips to destinations like Stonehenge.
Plus, England is a great gateway to the rest of Europe, with easy train and flight connections to France, Italy, and beyond.
With its familiar culture, efficient public transport, and plenty to see and do, England makes international travel feel effortless.
10. Scotland | Short Flight Across the Pond
Like England, Scotland is similar in reasons why it is one of the best places to travel for beginners. Scotland is a fantastic destination for first-time international travelers.
It’s an English-speaking country, so there’s no language barrier, and with plenty of direct flights from the U.S., getting there is easy.
Once you arrive, Scotland feels both familiar and wildly new, with a mix of rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Edinburgh, the capital, is a great starting point. Walk the historic Royal Mile, tour Edinburgh Castle, and soak in the city’s medieval charm.
If you’re up for adventure, the Scottish Highlands offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world—think misty mountains, shimmering lochs, and winding roads that lead to hidden gems like Glencoe and Loch Ness.
For golf lovers, St. Andrews is a dream come true. This coastal town is home to the world’s oldest golf course, but even non-golfers will love its charming streets and seaside views.
And no trip to Scotland is complete without experiencing its pub culture. Grab a pint, listen to live folk music, and chat with locals—Scots are some of the friendliest people you’ll meet.
With its mix of history, nature, and culture, Scotland is an easy and unforgettable introduction to international travel.
👉 HOW TO BOOK HOTELS WITH VIP PERKS! If you’re interested in access to my VIP perks like complimentary upgrades, daily breakfast for two, a $100 resort credit, and early check in/late check out, reach out to me here with your travel dates and I can help book your hotel. As a travel advisor, I have relationships with hotels around the world that offer my clients exclusive VIP perks at NO extra cost – seriously it’s not too good to be true!
11. Argentina | The Land of Steak, Malbec, and Tango
After visiting Argentina, I think it could be a great option for someone who hasn’t traveled internationally before, but looking for something more exotic than Europe.
It is only an 8 hour flight from Atlanta, GA and the time change was only one hour so it didn’t require an adjustment period.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved spending a few days in Buenos Aires.
Buenos Aires is often considered the “Paris of South America” and you’ll understand once you see it. The architecture is very reminiscent of what you might see in France.
The city is known for its steak so meat lovers will love the Argentinian cuisine. But, if you are plant based, I found that Buenos Aires still had an amazing food scene!
There is plenty to do in Buenos Aires from exploring Recoleta Cemetery, the La Boca neighborhood, dancing the tango, and much more.
After a few days in Buenos Aires, we took a short 2-hour flight to Mendoza for a weekend in wine country! This is one of the world’s most incredible wine regions located at the base of the Andes mountains.
The scenery is spectacular and the wines in Mendoza are amazing, from Malbec to bubbles!
Buenos Aires and Mendoza make for an amazing trip that you will never forget! You can check out my full 10 day itinerary to South America if interested.
12. France | A City Escape
Paris is always a good idea! It’s one of the most iconic cities in the world, perfect for a first-time trip to Europe.
The city feels magical year-round, but the best times to visit Paris are spring (April–June) and fall (September–October). Summers in Paris are lively but can be hot and crowded, while winter brings festive charm and fewer tourists.
If you have 3 days in Paris, you’ll have plenty of time to see the highlights. Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night, explore the charming streets of Montmartre, and shop in Le Marais.
Stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens with a picnic, or book a Seine River cruise for stunning city views.
Paris is also known for its incredible restaurants, so plan your dinner reservations in advance.
For where to stay in Paris, consider a boutique hotel like The Hoxton Paria or somewhere in the Champs-Élysées area for luxury.
With plenty of direct flights to Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Paris is an easy and unforgettable escape for new travelers.
13. Italy | Heaven for Pizza & Pasta Lovers
Italy is easily one of the most popular travel destinations in the world and for good reason. With sites like the Colosseum in Rome, the sparkling Amalfi Coast, or the charming canals in Venice, Italy attracts all kinds of travelers.
Italy is one of the best European countries to visit for beginners because it caters to tourism so well. The country has great infrastructure like trains that make it easy to travel all around the country.
My number one tip is don’t try to see it all! Pick one region to explore at a time so you don’t spend half your time on trains and planes! I would stick to Florence + Tuscany, Lake Como + Milan, or Amalfi Coast & Naples/Rome for your first time.
I visited the Amalfi Coast for my babymoon and since we flew out of Rome, we also spent a few nights seeing the eternal city.
We’re planning a return to trip to do Tuscany and Florence separately so we can really immerse ourselves in “La Dolce Vita”!
What Makes a Country Great for First Time Travelers?
Finally, let’s chat about some of the things you should consider when planning your first trip abroad and what to look for when deciding the best country to visit as a beginner.
1. Distance from Home
First, you should consider how far a destination is from home for you.
Most of my readers are based in the United States so I will be speaking to my fellow Americans here. If you live in the USA, I would not suggest somewhere like Australia, New Zealand or Bali for your very first international trip.
These destinations are quite far to reach and you may not be comfortable on a plane for that long or with so many connections.
The time change and jet lag can be pretty intense as well and you may have a hard time adjusting as a travel beginner.
If this doesn’t bother you, then GO FOR IT! But, you should definitely consider distance, flight time, and how many connections you will have when taking your first vacation to a different country.
2. Safety
Another tip for first time travelers is to consider the safety of a destination.
Visiting somewhere far from home for the first time comes with plenty of challenges like navigating language barriers, learning how to get around, and exchanging local currency.
I would not add worrying about your safety to that list. Plan to visit a safer city for your first international vacation like any of the ones I mentioned in this post.
3. Accessibility & Transportation
Next, you should consider how accessible the destination is. How will you get around? Is there a public transport system? Will you need a rental car? Do they have Uber? How far is the airport from where I plan to visit?
These questions will help you visit somewhere that is easy to get around so you can best enjoy your time.
I love a walkable European city for a first vacation (like Paris, Rome or Copenhagen) because you can really experience the destination fully with less logistics to coordinate.
4. Language & Communication
It is also important to understand what language a country speaks and how comfortable you are navigating the language barrier. I find this to be a fun part of travel, but it may cause some people stress on their first trip.
Many countries also speak English so that is great for those of us that speak it. However, it may not be helpful to everyone.
Plan to get comfortable with Google Translate ahead of any trip. When I was in Buenos Aires, this was an invaluable tool as many people only spoke Spanish and most menus were only available in Spanish.
5. Weather and Time of Year
Lastly, always take the weather into consideration. You don’t want to book a trip to Greece in December to only to realize later that most islands close down for the winter season and it gets cold!
If traveling in December and looking for somewhere warm, it’s best to visit the Southern Hemisphere where it is their summer or a destination close to the equator like Costa Rica.
6. Tourist-friendly attractions
Tourist-friendly destinations have well-marked attractions, making sightseeing easy. Many offer guided tours, hop-on-hop-off buses, and audio guides in English, so you can explore stress-free.
Whether visiting the Eiffel Tower or ancient ruins in Rome, these structured experiences make travel simple and enjoyable.
Essential Tips for Beginner Travelers
Planning your first international trip can feel overwhelming, but with a few key strategies, it can be smooth and stress-free. Here’s how to make your first trip a success.
How to Plan Your First Trip
Start by choosing a beginner-friendly destination with good infrastructure and minimal language barriers. Once you’ve picked your country, book your flights early for the best prices. Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to track fares.
For accommodations, consider hotels in safe, central areas near public transportation. Websites like Booking.com and Airbnb offer plenty of options.
Create a flexible itinerary with a mix of must-see attractions and downtime. Overplanning can be exhausting!
Common Travel Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking passport & visa requirements – Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
- Ignoring currency exchange fees – Use a travel-friendly credit card with no foreign transaction fees.
- Overpacking – Stick to a carry-on if possible. Bring versatile clothing and comfortable shoes.
- Not informing your bank – Avoid card issues by setting a travel notice with your bank before departure.
- Being unaware of local customs – Research tipping etiquette, greetings, and dress codes to avoid awkward moments.
Packing Tips for International Travel
Pack light and stick to essentials. A universal adapter, portable charger, and copies of important documents are must-haves.
Wear comfortable layers and pack only what you’ll realistically need. Always bring travel insurance details and any necessary medications.
I have lots of packing tips across my blog for various destinations – just use the search bar or select a category.
How to Stay Safe While Traveling Abroad
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas where pickpocketing is common. Keep valuables secure in a crossbody bag with a zipper.
Use reputable transportation options and avoid poorly lit areas at night.
Download offline maps and important emergency numbers before you go.
By planning ahead and staying informed, you’ll feel more confident and ready to enjoy your first international adventure!
Travel Resources We Love
Planning a trip? Be sure to use these helpful services.
🏰 Perfect Accommodations
Whether you prefer a hotel or vacation rental for your next trip, you can find the perfect home base with these trusted providers.
⛵️Build Your Itinerary
Fill in your itinerary by making plans for the perfect tours and activities. Book in advance to secure the best tour guides and experiences for your holiday.
🌀Plan for the Unexpected
Things happen. Make sure you are protected with trip insurance. We use World Nomads and they make it super easy to get the right coverage whether a honeymoon, hiking trip, or quick getaway.
Final Thoughts: Best Countries to Visit for Beginners
Travel is so subjective and I couldn’t possibly choose the best destination for you personally. It’s all about your style, preferences, abilities, and desires. Honestly, if you have a place on your mind, that’s probably the right one!
I hope I have shared some helpful things to consider and possibly inspired you to take the leap to start seeing the world!
If you need some travel inspiration for your bucket list, I have plenty more to share in these posts:
- Where to Travel in Winter
- Best Luxury Hotels in the World
- Top Foodie Vacations to Take
- Best Babymoon Destinations in the World
Which country are you planning to visit first? Let me know in the comments!
Pin it for later!
Leave a Reply