21 Best Mother Daughter Trip Ideas Around the World
Whether you are planning a trip with your school-age child or your adult daughter, one-on-one time is one of the best ways to bond with your sweet girl. These are some of our favorite mother daughter trip ideas around the world. No matter your budget, one of these destinations is sure to create magical memories for both of you.
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Table of Contents
21 Memorable Mother Daughter Trip Ideas
Mother-Daughter Trips in the US
1. Savannah, Georgia
Head south to Savannah for some Southern charm. Stroll through squares bordered by Spanish moss-covered oak trees, enjoy a traditional tea, and soak up the hospitality of this beautiful city. Hop on a trolley tour to see some of the city’s historical sites.
Must-See: Forsyth Park, Bonaventure Cemetery, River Street
Unforgettable Experiences: Enjoy a traditional Southern tea at the historic Gryphon Tea Room and take a spooky Savannah ghost tour.
Where to stay: We recommend booking a hotel room at The Alida Savannah, a stunning property in the Entertainment District.
2. Boston, Massachusetts
What better way to learn about American history as a mother-daughter duo than in Boston? Walk the Freedom Trail, go shopping on Newbury Street, eat in the great restaurants of The North End, and indulge in fresh seafood at Quincy Market.
Must-See: Historic sites along the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, Quincy Market, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Unforgettable Experiences: Exploring the rich history along the Freedom Trail and taking a stroll in Boston Public Garden.
Where to stay: The Langham Boston has an epic breakfast and has easy access to many of the city’s attractions.
3. Florida Keys
For a family vacation that doesn’t disappoint, seek out the sunshine and turquoise waters of the Florida Keys. This is one of the best mother daughter getaways if you want a balance of quality time and relaxation. Snorkel, lie on the beach, and bond over unforgettable sunsets.
Must-See: Key West’s Duval Street, Bahia Honda State Park, snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Unforgettable Experiences: Watching the sunset from Mallory Square in Key West and sampling all of the key lime pie to find a favorite!
Where to stay: Margaritaville Beach House has fun activities for adults and kids alike and a beautiful pool for relaxing. It’s the perfect location for exploring the beach and town.
4. Nashville, Tennessee
For one of the best mother-daughter getaways for music-loving duos, you must book a trip to Nashville. Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, catch live performances, and savor the city’s famous hot chicken.
Must-See: Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, Honky Tonk Highway
Unforgettable Experiences: Enjoy live country music at the famous Bluebird Cafe and go shopping in the 12 South neighborhood.
Where to stay: Kimpton Aertson has a convenient location near Vanderbilt University, restaurants, and shops. Rooms are spacious and comfortable and there’s a great rooftop pool with beautiful city views.
5. Orlando, Florida
Embrace your inner child at Orlando‘s theme parks, like Disney World and Universal Studios. Create lasting memories on thrilling rides and magical adventures but also partake in spa treatments and delicious food.
Must-See: Walt Disney World, Universal Studios (especially Volcano Bay if your daughter likes epic waterparks), Kennedy Space Center
Unforgettable Experiences: Creating magical memories and the theme parks or taking an airboat ride through local swamps.
Where to stay: Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is a good option if you’re planning to visit the parks. It has an amazing pool and you can walk or take a boat to Universal CityWalk which has an endless number of restaurants to choose from.
6. San Diego, California
Enjoy the laid-back vibes of San Diego. Visit Balboa Park, go whale watching, take a hike, and spend time at the beautiful beaches. This may go down as one of your favorite places to go for relaxing and taking in scenic views any time of year.
Must-See: Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, La Jolla, Torrey Pines State Reserve
Unforgettable Experiences: Strolling along the scenic La Jolla Cove, watching the seals and sea lions doing their thing. Renting tandem bikes and exploring Coronado Island.
Where to stay: Loews Coronado Bay Resort has 3 swimming pools, a spa, direct access to Silver Strand State Beach, and water activities. It’s the perfect place to return to after a day exploring the city.
7. New York City, New York
Experience New York City’s Big Apple energy together. Hit the big city and see a Broadway show, take a walk in Central Park, and explore diverse neighborhoods. Check out the schedule for special events during your stay.
Must-See: Times Square, Central Park, Statue of Liberty, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Summit One Vanderbilt
Unforgettable Experiences: Catching a Broadway show, walking on the High Line, drinking hot chocolate at Angelina Paris.
Where to stay: Park Hyatt New York is a splurge, but it’s a stunning luxury property with an excellent location near Central Park. Rooms have gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows offering incredible city views, and their concierge team can help you create one of the best mother-daughter trips in the city.
8. Charleston, South Carolina
Travel to the South and discover Charleston‘s historic charm. Tour historic plantations and gardens, savor low-country cuisine, and sunset cruise to enjoy the beauty of the city from a different perspective.
Must-See: Historic Charleston City Market, Middleton Place, Rainbow Row
Unforgettable Experiences: A trip to the Charleston Tea Garden (owned by the Bigelow family), shopping on King Street, and a day trip to Folly Beach.
Where to stay: Boardwalk Inn is a property-within-a-property at Wild Dunes Resort. The resort is on the water and offers multiple pools, golf, a spa, and bikes to rent. If you want a destination that mixes city and beach, Charleston is a great choice.
9. Newport, Rhode Island
Experience Gilded Age opulence in Newport. Tour mansions, enjoy seaside walks, and take a harbor cruise in this beautiful place that’s just perfect for a relaxed weekend.
Must-See: The Breakers mansion, Cliff Walk, Newport Vineyards
Unforgettable Experiences: Touring the opulent Gilded Age mansions, a rail bike tour to Portsmouth (seasonal), and cruising Ocean Drive.
Where to stay: Gilded is a glamorous boutique hotel where the suites are uniquely designed and they serve an unforgettable breakfast!
10. Scottsdale, Arizona
Relax in the Arizona desert oasis of Scottsdale. It’s the perfect destination to pamper yourselves at luxurious spas, explore the Sonoran Desert, and savor southwestern cuisine.
Must-See: Desert Botanical Garden, Taliesin West, Old Town Scottsdale, Musical Instrument Museum
Unforgettable Experiences: A sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert, hiking in Papago Park, sweet treats at Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor.
Where to stay: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a stunning property with spacious rooms and suites, and larger villas if you want to bring friends. It’s one of the best family resorts in Scottsdale.
There’s a spa, five fabulous restaurants, multiple swimming pools, and seasonal events like Christmas at the Princess that shouldn’t be missed.
11. St. Augustine, Florida
Have an amazing Florida adventure in the historic city of St. Augustine. Visit the Castillo de San Marcos, stroll along St. George Street, and take a scenic boat tour for a unique experience that will make this girls’ trip special.
Must-See: Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, Lightner Museum
Unforgettable Experiences: Exploring the historic fort, taking in the views from the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse, and going on a sunset cruise.
Where to stay: Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront features colorful cottage-style buildings and balconies overlooking Matanzas Bay. Walking distance to the Historic District and restaurants.
12. Maui, Hawaii
Escape to paradise on Maui. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, watch sunrise at Haleakalā National Park, and hike through lush rainforests.
Must-See: Haleakalā National Park, Road to Hana, Black Sand Beach at Wai’Anapanapa State Park
Unforgettable Experiences: Watching the sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā, snorkeling in Molokini Crater, going on a whale-watching cruise, and watching a luau.
Where to stay: Grand Wailea is a luxury beachfront resort known for its beautiful gardens, spacious rooms and suites, and multiple swimming pools. There’s also a spa, fitness classes, and an opportunity to take hula or ukulele lessons.
13. Chicago, Illinois
Explore the vibrant Windy City of Chicago on your mother-daughter vacation. Taste deep-dish pizza, visit world-class museums, and enjoy the views from the 360 Chicago Observation Deck. Check out the area’s incredible food halls and shop the Magnificent Mile.
Must-See: Millennium Park, Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier
Unforgettable Experiences: Indulging in deep-dish pizza, taking an architecture river cruise, and seeing the mummies at the Field Museum.
Where to stay: Loews Chicago Hotel has a location that’s convenient to Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile. Rooms are spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows and city views. During the summer there’s al-fresco dining and outdoor games at their rooftop restaurant Streeterville Social.
14. San Antonio, Texas
Discover the rich history of San Antonio. Stroll along the River Walk, visit the Alamo, and feast on Tex-Mex cuisine. Or, go off the beaten path to explore new places, like some of San Antonio’s best antique shops.
Must-See: The Alamo, San Antonio River Walk, Mission San José (one of five San Antonio missions that form a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Unforgettable Experiences: A riverboat cruise along the River Walk, shopping and dining at The Historic Pearl, and going underground at Natural Bridge Caverns.
Where to stay: Canopy by Hilton Hotel has a convenient location on the River Walk that offers easy access to attractions, dining, and shopping. Rooms are spacious and there’s an on-site restaurant and fitness center.
International Mother-Daughter Trip Ideas
15. Paris, France
Start your journey in the City of Love, exploring the charming cobblestone streets of Paris. Savor croissants, take a macaron-making class, visit the Louvre, and take a scenic cruise along the Seine.
Must-See: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Versailles
Unforgettable Experience: Savoring croissants at a cozy Montmartre café.
Where to stay: We recommend staying at one of the hotels with an epic Eiffel Tower view – Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel or Shangri-La Paris if budget isn’t an issue.
16. Costa Rica
Embark on a thrilling eco-adventure in Costa Rica and soak up the country’s natural beauty. Go zip-lining through rainforests, spot wildlife, and relax on pristine beaches. This might rank as one of the most memorable mother-daughter trips.
Must-See: Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Manuel Antonio National Park, Tabacón Hot Springs
Unforgettable Experiences: Ziplining through the lush rainforests, whitewater rafting, and animal spotting in one of the country’s national parks.
Where to stay: There are many family-friendly Costa Rica resorts. We recommend choosing one on the Papagayo Peninsula to have easy access to beaches and the rainforest.
17. London, England
Cross the pond and explore London‘s rich history and culture. Visit iconic landmarks, make it a point to schedule high tea, and take a ride on the London Eye.
Must-See: Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, British Museum, a show on the West End
Unforgettable Experiences: Enjoying a themed afternoon tea at the Ampersand Hotel or on Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea bus (for traditional, head to The Ritz), and stroll through Hyde Park.
Where to stay: There are many family-friendly hotels in London. The Athenaeum enjoys a premier location in Mayfair with easy access to shopping restaurants, transportation, Buckingham Palace, and Hyde Park. Rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated and the staff is superb.
18. Paros, Greece
Experience the beauty of the Greek islands. Relax on picturesque beaches, explore charming villages, and enjoy fresh Mediterranean cuisine. You can also sign up for yoga retreats or explore the area’s wine country.
Must-See: Naoussa Village, Kolymbithres Beach, Lefkes, Golden Beach
Unforgettable Experiences: Explore the island’s fishing villages, book a visit to a local pottery studio, or take a boat cruise to a nearby island.
Where to stay: Cosme sits in the beautiful village of Naoussa with an enviable beachfront position and stunning sea views. There’s a private beach club, a stunning spa, restaurants on the property, a fitness hall, and even a stargazing platform. This might be one of the best mother-daughter vacations out there.
19. Iceland
Chase the Northern Lights and explore the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland. Visit geysers, and waterfalls, and relax in natural hot springs. Learn about Icelandic culture and enjoy a road trip through the country with this Ring Road itinerary.
Must-See: Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, Vatnajökull National Park
Unforgettable Experiences: Witnessing the Northern Lights dance across the Arctic sky, walking on Diamond Beach, and soaking in hot springs (Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik and Myvatn Natural Baths are some of our favorites).
Where to stay: Hótel Húsafell is about 90 minutes from Reykjavik in western Iceland and one of the best places for watching the Northern Lights. They offer a Northern Lights Auto-Aurora Wake-Up-Call so you don’t miss the show. You can even watch it from their outdoor geothermal bath. The property has easy access to hiking, ice caving, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
20. Tokyo, Japan
One of the more unique mother daughter trip ideas is immersing yourselves in Tokyo‘s vibrant culture. Visit temples, indulge in sushi, and shop in bustling markets.
Must-See: Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji Fish Market, teamLab Planets, Tokyo Tower
Unforgettable Experiences: Getting close-ups with animals (like hedgehogs and owls) at a themed café, shopping in Harajuku, learning about kimonos, visiting an onsen, and experiencing an authentic tea ceremony.
Where to stay: Parky Hyatt Tokyo gained notoriety after appearing in Lost in Translation, but it really does have some epic Tokyo views. This five-star luxury hotel has a pool, spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants on-site.
21. Sydney, Australia
Take a trip to Sydney to enjoy iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach. Explore diverse neighborhoods and savor seafood by the harbor.
Must-See: Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, Taronga Zoo
Unforgettable Experiences: Take a nighttime cruise in Sydney Harbour, try surfing lessons in Manly, visit Luna Park, and challenge yourselves with the Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb.
Where to stay: Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour is a short walk to the iconic Opera House and The Rocks. Some of their apartment-style suites have private balconies with views of the Royal Botanic Gardens. On-site amenities include restaurants, a fitness center, and a stunning indoor pool.
If you are looking to strengthen your mother-daughter relationship, why not consider traveling together? Quality time alone, going out of your comfort zone, and having new experiences together is the perfect way to grow closer. We hope these mother daughter trip ideas have inspired you to plan the ultimate vacation together.
About the author: Kori Agic is a mom of two college students based in the Orlando area. She loves finding adventure wherever she goes. When she’s not working, she loves grabbing the kids and heading to the nearest ski resort, or taking a last-minute road trip.
