Our 10+ best 40th birthday trip ideas for couples

Looking for the perfect 40th birthday trip ideas for couples? We’ve been dreaming big since we both turned 40 this year (and celebrated our 15th anniversary).

As digital nomads with a passion for travel, we’ve compiled a list of dream trips that will make your milestone celebration unforgettable. Of course, the possibilities are endless when it comes to birthday and anniversary trips, so we’ve narrowed it down to our personal favorites.

These once-in-a-lifetime experiences may require some saving up and planning, but they will be well worth the splurge.

Couples 40th Birthday Trip Ideas

Let’s dive in to some of our most inspiring trips…

Travel Across Canada By Rail

Embark on a scenic journey across Canada by rail. Start from the picturesque West Coast, exploring Vancouver and beautiful Banff National Park.

Then, take the train to cosmopolitan Toronto to enjoys its international vibe. Spend time in Montreal, one of our favorite cities, and experience the food scene, festivals, and lovely parks.

Finally, head to the East Coast and discover the beauty of Nova Scotia.

This epic adventure will take about three weeks and costs around $5,000 per person for cross-country rail packages.

Japan

Experience the unique culture and island landscapes of Japan. Whether its another cross-country rail trip via the Shinkansen bullet trains or a stay focused around one destination like Kyoto, there are many interesting traditions and delicious cuisine to explore across Japan.

We’d love to try an inn-to-inn hiking trip on the Nakasendo Way, following ancient trails and staying in traditional lodgings.

This trip can range from two weeks to two months, with costs averaging between $120 and $250 per day.

Victoria Falls and African Safari

For us, a birthday-worthy African adventure would include the magnificent Victoria Falls and a safari experience.

We’d love to explore countries like Botswana, Zambia, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Perhaps even visit a child we sponsor in Southern Uganda.

Consider joining a tour or hiring local guides to make the most of a trip to Africa.

The duration of this trip can range from two weeks to two months, with costs varying based on the selected packages and accommodations.

Campervan through New Zealand

The natural wonders of New Zealand are best experienced on an extended campervan road trip. We got a taste of it in 2015 and would love to go back!

Rent a self-contained rig and explore both the North and South Islands at a leisurely pace. Spend time in iconic destinations like Wanaka, Arrowtown, Oamaru, the Milford Sound, and Lord of the Rings sites on the North Island.

This trip requires a minimum of two months, and costs for a nice motorhome start at $200 per day.

Road Trip Through Villages in Southern Europe

Imagine a leisurely road trip from the rolling hills of Portugal, the historic towns of Spain, the vineyards of Southern France and Italy, even to the gorgeous lakes of Slovenia, Croatia, and Montenegro.

To fully experience the essence of these places, plan to stay at least two nights in small villages and a week or more in towns with more attractions.

Given the Schengen zone limitations, non-Europeans would need to keep the trip under 3 months long, or split it up strategically into multiple visits.

Costs average around $200 per day for food, lodging, and gas.

Norwegian Fjords and Northern Lights By Boat

Witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights while cruising through Norway’s world-famous fjords.

Set sail on a cruise to enjoy the best perspective of these natural wonders from the water.

Spend up to 15 days surrounded by the stunning landscapes and magical phenomena. Cruise packages typically start at $5,000 per person.

Holy Land Tour

Take a spiritual journey to the Holy Land, visiting iconic places from biblical times like Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, and Petra in Jordan.

Choose a tour that combines religious history and cultural immersion for a life changing, memorable trip.

Plan for a 9 – 12 day itinerary starting at $2,000 per person for the tour, plus airfare.

Napa Valley Wine Tasting

A romantic getaway to Napa Valley wine country is a popular choice in California.

Spend your days exploring vineyards, savoring world-class wines, and enjoying gourmet meals. Treat yourselves to wine tastings and spa treatments. 

For those near the West Coast, this birthday trip can more easily be done over a long weekend. Expect to splurge around $400 or more per day.

New York City and Broadway

Liven things up with the 24-hour energy of New York City and the dazzling world of Broadway theater.

Visit iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. Enjoy the city’s diverse culinary scene and catch a live performance on Broadway. From Tony Award-winning musicals to classic plays, you’ll never run out of options.

With frequent flights into NYC and Newark, this birthday trip can more easily be done over a long weekend. There are lower budget options here but estimate $200 and up per day.

Florida Keys

The tropical paradise of the Florida Keys is perfect if you’re hoping for warm, sun-drenched beaches and turquoise waters.

From Key Largo to Key West, you could take a scenic road trip along the Overseas Highway, stopping at islands along the way.

Snorkel or dive in coral reefs, have a fishing adventure, eat fresh seafood, or simply relax on the beach.

A 7-day trip for a couple averages around $2,500 – $5,000.

Other Popular 40th Birthday Trip Destinations

North America

• Banff National Park, Canada
• San Juan Islands, Washington
• San Francisco, California
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• San Antonio, Texas
• Cape Cod, Massachusetts
• Denali National Park, Alaska
• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Central, South America, Caribbean

• Tamarindo, Costa Rica
• San Pedro, Belize
• Machu Picchu, Peru
• Treasure Beach, Jamaica
• Holetown, Barbados
• San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Valparaiso, Chile

Europe

• Amalfi Coast, Italy
• Tuscany, Italy
• Cinque Terre, Italy
• Paris, France
• Bruges, Belgium
• Swiss Alps, Switzerland
• Corfu, Greece
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

Asia, Africa, and Beyond

• Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Hoi An, Vietnam
• Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Kyoto, Japan
• New Zealand
• Great Barrier Reef, Australia
• Cape Town, South Africa

40th Birthday Couples Trip FAQs

How far in advance should we start planning our 40th birthday trip?

In my opinion, planning far in advance is better so that you can save up money, research the best options, and have more options to get deals.

I would start planning as early as your 29th birthday, or at least 5 months in advance.

If you can’t plan that far ahead, not to worry. It’s not impossible to plan an amazing last minute birthday trip as a couple. It just means you may have fewer options for accommodations, flight deals, etc.

What are the best destinations for a 40th birthday trip for couples?

Choosing a destination really depends on your own values and preferences. For us, we want a memorable experience with a great value – something out of the ordinary that doesn’t cost too much.

It’s a subjective measure, so decide what’s important to you. There’s no wrong answer.

Do you want to lounge at the beach all day? Do you want to learn a new skill together, like how to make pasta in Italy? Do you want to check off a bucket list item like skydiving? 

Our list of destinations found above is based on our preferences for outdoor beauty, slow travel, and cultural experiences. Your best destinations may be different!

What are some budget-friendly options for a 40th birthday trip as a couple?

The best way to save money on a 40th birthday trip is usually to stay close to home. Flight and transportation costs are often the biggest expense of a trip, so finding a nice destination you can drive to is a great budget option.

Staying in one place for a week (or even a month, if you’re able) can also save you money, if you take advantage of weekly accommodation discounts. Consider renting a place with a kitchen and do some cooking, which is often much cheaper than dining out all the time.

Pick and choose where you’ll splurge based on your values. Remember that sharing great memories together doesn’t necessarily require big expenses.

Some ideas for a budget-friendly trip include:

• camping or glamping
• walking and hiking trips
• a scenic drive
• home exchanges
• Workaway or Help Exchange
• staycations

What experiences are recommended for a romantic 40th birthday trip?

The key to a romantic trip is experiences that bring you closer together, allow you spend quality time one-on-one, or offer something unique and memorable.

Ideas for romantic couples birthday trips include:

• Rent a private villa or resort
• A sunset dinner cruise
• A couples massage or spa retreat
• Wine and food in a scenic setting
• A private excursion in a city tailored to your interests
• A hot air balloon ride
• A surprise candlelit dinner
• Stay at a hot springs
• A room with a private pool
• Remote cabin getaway

We hope this list of 40th birthday trip ideas for couples has helped sparked inspiration for you.

Whether it’s with fine wines in Napa Valley, the glamour of New York City, trekking across countries by train, or road tripping in New Zealand, there are no wrong answers. Find the trip idea for couples that fits you best and remember that it’s really about enjoying each other’s company and making memories together.

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