Looking for some 40th birthday trip ideas? From dancing in Puerto Rico to dog-sledding in Alaska, the world is yours to explore.
If you like food and drink, there are some great experiences in Portugal. If you are yearning for an underwater adventure, try the Caribbean or the Galapagos.
And if you just want to take it easy, how about European city breaks and Mediterranean islands? Or sailing in Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay or taking a scenic railway journey in Norway. There really is no limit when it comes to places to go for your 40th birthday.
Eat a Custard Tart, Lisbon
Pastéis de belém
Portuguese custard tarts are one of the world’s iconic foods, like French croissants, or a Chicago hot dog. You can taste the very best tart in its birthplace at Belem on Tagus River in Lisbon.
Belem is home to the Jerónimos Monastery, an ornate Gothic masterpiece built in the 1500s. It’s inextricably linked to the Voyages of Discovery that led to Portugal’s empire in Brazil and beyond.
The monks’ original recipe for the flaky pastry “Pasteis-de-belem” tarts is a secret, although it’s often imitated as a “Pastel de Nata”. Try the popular dessert here and see if you can taste the difference. Otherwise, you’ll find these delicious sweet treats all over Lisbon, best eaten fresh and still warm from the oven.
Read: What to Eat in Lisbon
Swim with Sea Lions, Galapagos
Sea lion in the Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands, which belong to Ecuador, are an unspoiled paradise with unique opportunities for close encounters with nature. Chief among these is swimming with sea lions in crystal-clear waters.
Go snorkeling in the Galapagos, and you could find yourself surrounded by the graceful creatures. Inquisitive and playful, they make for mesmerizing companions under the water.
The Galapagos are home to other wildlife, such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and countless bird species. You can explore the volcanic landscapes, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, and island-hop to popular spots such as Isabela Island.
Marvel at Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain
Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is an architectural wonder, under construction since 1882. Architect Antoni Gaudí died in 1926, but his fusion of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles is vividly modern.
The basilica’s intricate facade is a taste of the wonders inside, a forest of slender columns that resemble petrified trees, illuminated by sunlight filtering through multicolored stained glass windows. After seeing it, you won’t want to miss other Gaudí works at Park Güell, Casa Milà, or Casa Batlló.
Barcelona has no shortage of other attractions, from shopping and people watching along La Rambla to the picturesque Gothic Quarter. Eat tapas at La Boqueria market, or visit the Picasso Museum to experience two other sides of the city as part of your birthday celebration.
Stroll the Promenade des Anglais, Nice
Promenade des Anglais in Nice, France
You’ll know you’re in the French Riviera when you walk the famous Promenade des Anglais, one of the best things to do in Nice. This palm-lined boulevard facing the azure Bay of Angels is a perfect vision of fashionable European life.
One side is elegant Belle Époque architecture, with sights such as the Hotel Negresco and Jardin Albert Ier. On the other is the sparkling Mediterranean, while the walk itself is also enjoyed by rollerbladers and joggers.
Nice’s colorful Old Town and busy Cours Saleya market are a backdrop for its many museums and wonderful Niçoise cuisine, perfect for a birthday lunch. Climb Castle Hill for panoramic views and enjoy day trips to Monaco, Cannes or hilltop villages such as St-Paul de Vence.
Admire Oia’s Blue-domed Churches, Greece
Oia in Santorini, Greece
Oia, on the northern tip of Santorini, is a postcard-perfect vision of white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches. Familiar from countless travel stories, it’s even more beautiful in real life.
The houses of Oia, carved into the volcanic rock, offer shady respite from the Aegean sun. Many terraces are now restaurants where you can sit to take in the legendary views.
Santorini also has black sand beaches, ancient Minoan ruins at Akrotiri, and some unusual wineries. Sail around the caldera and visit the volcanic hot springs to see more of this most perfect of Greek islands on your 40th birthday.
Read: Oia Vs. Fira: Which Should You Visit?
Dance Salsa in Puerto Rico
Salsa dance class
You can’t go far in San Juan, Puerto Rico’s capital, without hearing the sound of salsa. With roots in Cuba and among Puerto Ricans in New York, its infectious beat calls you onto the dance floor.
There are many places in Puerto Rico to dance or learn, some outdoors or on the beach. Other local dances such as merengue, plena, or danza are also there to discover.
Major sights include colorful Old San Juan and its historic forts. You can hike in El Yunque rainforest, swim on tropical beaches, or savor traditional Puerto Rican cuisine.
Go Dog Sledding, Alaska
Dog sledding in Alaska
Who hasn’t had a vision of racing across a pristine snowy landscape behind a team of huskies? In Juneau, Alaska, with its rich history of dog-sledding, that dream can become a reality as a 40th birthday trip idea.
Take off by helicopter and admire the breathtaking backdrop of glaciers and snow-capped peaks before you land high on the Norris Glacier. From here, drive your own team of sled dogs, many of them veterans of the famous Iditarod Race.
Alaska is full of similar adventures, from kayaking among icebergs to fjord cruises where you could spot whales. Flying to the Arctic Circle, or boarding the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway Railway are other must-do experiences.
Cruise the Canal Ring, Amsterdam
Canal Ring, Amsterdam
Radiating out from its harbor, the rings of canals provide a perfect way to explore the city. Built in the 17th century, the canals are a marvel of urban planning, lined with picturesque gabled houses.
Passing under the many bridges, you’ll learn about the history of Amsterdam. Hop off to visit sights such as Anne Frank House or the grand Westerkerk.
That history will resonate in later visits to the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, or quirky neighborhoods such as pretty Jordaan. Cycle through Vondelpark, taste Dutch cheeses, and visit a traditional “brown café” to round out the complete Dutch experience.
Soak in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Blue Lagoon, Iceland
The milky-blue waters of Blue Lagoon in Iceland make for a surreal bathing experience. Rich in minerals, they are known for their soothing, skin-nourishing properties.
One of Iceland’s most beautiful places, the azure waters against the black lava rock make the pool a striking visual spectacle. Steam rising from the hot water adds to the atmosphere.
Iceland offers many other dramatic landscapes, from powerful waterfalls to erupting geysers. The cool capital of Reykjavik is a great place for a 40th birthday, with its independent shops, many interesting bars, and restaurants.
Kiss the Blarney Stone, Cork
Blarney Stone in Cork, Ireland
Blarney Castle, near Cork in Ireland, is home to the famous “Blarney Stone”. Kissing this is said to bestow the “Gift of the Gab”—Irish eloquence—on those who do.
The actual kiss is a convoluted operation involving bending over backwards to reach the stone, although you do get to enjoy wonderful Irish countryside views from atop the castle.
Cork itself is well worth a visit for its historic Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral and picturesque English Market. Seeing the awesome Rock of Cashel and the wonderful drive around the scenic Ring of Kerry are also popular outings.
Board the Flåm Railway, Norway
Flåm Railway, Norway
The Flåm Railway is one of the world’s steepest standard-gauge lines. Of more interest to its passengers, however, is the breathtaking journey through Norway’s fjord country.
Climbing from sea level to around 2,500ft, the line passes through 20 tunnels amid snow-topped mountains. At the Kjosfossen waterfall, a mythical Huldra, or forest Siren, meets the train to entice the unwary traveler into her domain.
There is no shortage of natural beauty to enchant any visitor to Norway. From the fjords to the famed Pulpit Rock and the atmospheric midnight sun, it is a country full of epic sights.
Photograph Kyoto, Japan
Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is a visual feast for photographers. Already familiar sights include the ethereal beauty of Kiyomizu-dera temple and the thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine.
The lantern-lit traditional streets of Gion, or the reflection of Kinkaku-ji—the Golden Pavilion—in its tranquil pond are other famous spots. You will also want to experience the atmospheric bamboo groves of Arashiyama.
The ancient traditions of Kyoto sit amid modern life to offer more images highlighting the contrast. A traditional tea ceremony or the details of local cuisine will also provide inspiration.
Sail Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
One of the best places to visit in Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is a delicate Chinese painting brought to life. Its thousands of steep mist-shrouded limestone islands stand among emerald waters in a dreamlike seascape.
This World Heritage site is best seen from a traditional junk. You can also kayak to hidden lagoons, explore vast caves, and visit “floating” villages. A trip here is one of the best 40th birthday ideas you could imagine.
Vietnam’s lively cities are a complete contrast, from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the poignant memorials of Ho Chi Minh City. The ancient houses of Hoi An and the country’s delicious cuisine are other delights.
Visit a Temple, Bali
Temple in Bali, Indonesia
Bali—the “Island of the Gods”—is home to thousands of temples, each a beautiful sanctuary. Among the most famous is Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Other notable temples that Bali is known for include Tirta Gangga, with its ornate fountains and serene pools. At Tanah Lot, you’ll find an ancient site on a rocky islet, accessible only at low tide.
Bali is a photographer’s delight for its lush landscapes and beautiful people. See more by cycling through emerald rice terraces or learning about traditional crafts in Ubud.
Enjoy a Wine Tasting, Portugal
Port wine
The terraced vineyards of Douro Valley in Portugal are the birthplace of port wine. Drive alongside the Douro River to find wineries renowned for their rich reds and velvety ports.
Many estates offer vineyard tours, giving more insight into the unique terroir here. As you enjoy tastings, you will learn about traditional winemaking methods and the art of blending.
Besides its beautiful landscapes, the Douro is a place of charming villages such as Pinhão. Ride the scenic Douro railway and taste how the regional cuisine pairs so well with local wines.
Visit Tallinn Old Town, Estonia
Tallinn Old Town, Estonia
Tallinn’s Old Town is a beautifully preserved medieval gem that transports you back in time. The heart of this cobblestoned World Heritage site is a picturesque mix of Gothic and Baroque architecture.
Climb Toompea Hill for an overview of red-tiled roofs, the ancient city walls, and the Baltic Sea. At Town Hall Square, find a café to relax in, or explore a market for some souvenirs.
Tallinn has a rich food scene and surprises such as the futuristic KUMU art museum. Explore the country’s natural beauty on a day trip to Lahemaa National Park.
Swim in the Baths, Virgin Gorda
Baths, Virgin Gorda
Virgin Gorda’s Baths form a natural wonder of crystal-clear turquoise waters among massive granite boulders. Explore this labyrinth to find a tranquil pool of warm Caribbean water to relax in.
You can snorkel in hidden coves, looking for colorful tropical fish among the coral. On land, climb high among the boulders for breathtaking views to the horizon.
Virgin Gorda has a typical Caribbean vibe, enjoyed on beaches such as Spring Bay. It’s a place to relax with a rum cocktail, eat fresh Caribbean seafood, or sail to discover another nearby island.
Hike the Pitons, St. Lucia
Pitons, St. Lucia
The twin volcanic peaks that form St. Lucia’s Pitons rise high above the Caribbean Sea. Challenge yourself with a hike up Gros Piton, the tallest, or in the rainforest around; both a delight and a challenge as a 40th birthday trip idea.
Your reward is panoramic views of St. Lucia and the surrounding turquoise seas. A good guide will also open up the natural wonders of the island’s lush interior.
Other things to do in St. Lucia include soaking in volcanic mud baths, rainforest ziplining, and snorkeling in protected marine reserves. Historic Pigeon Island or musical “Jump-Ups” are other enjoyable sides of this beautiful island.
Experience Stingray City, Grand Cayman
Stingray City, Grand Cayman
Stingray City is a set of shallow sandbars in the North Sound of Grand Cayman. Once used by fishermen to clean their catch, the stingrays they originally attracted still flock here.
Standing in warm, crystal-clear waters, you see dozens of these gentle creatures glide around you. Feel their velvety wings or don a mask and snorkel to admire their grace underwater.
Grand Cayman is a tropical paradise of golden beaches, colorful coral, and world-class diving. Laid-back Seven Mile Beach should certainly be up there in your list of places to go for your 40th birthday.
Marvel at the Colosseum, Rome
Colosseum in Rome, Italy
The Colosseum is an enduring symbol of the “Eternal City”. Once a place of savagery, the largest ancient amphitheater ever built still impresses with its scale.
On the arena floor, you can sense the centuries since its construction 2,000 years ago. Its underground chambers are as impressive as the upper tiers, which once sat 80,000 spectators.
Rome is full of many other wonders, from the Pantheon, to the Trevi Fountain, and the Sistine Chapel. Roman cuisine is another unforgettable side of any visit.
Colosseum in Rome, Italy
If you’re inspired or if you need more 40th birthday trip ideas, browse Celebrity’s worldwide cruise itineraries and plan your perfect vacation.
