Seven holiday ideas for travellers aged over 60

Turning 60 is not just a milestone, it can be a passport to new adventures. Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a family or with friends, the best holidays for over 60s are more diverse and accessible than ever.

In this article, we asked a selection of travel experts and enthusiasts to share their top holiday ideas for those looking to make the most of later life.

1. Taking to the seas at 60: could a themed cruise be for you?

An increasingly popular travel option for over 60s travellers is the themed cruise.

Abby Knight, a 62-year-old event planner, says one of her personal favourites is a music-themed cruise. “Entertainment on board is West End level and there are always other activities including dance and cookery classes. It’s a really fun way to upgrade your skill set,” she explains.

While some are akin to floating festivals, with multiple bands performing, others celebrate a genre with tribute acts and plenty of opportunities to dance. Whether you enjoy country or classical, reggae or rock, you’re sure to find a holiday that suits your taste.

And music isn’t the only theme taking to the high seas. Cruises centred on everything from cats to comic books have set sail in recent years.

Additionally, cruises can be great choices for people with accessibility or mobility needs. Many providers are well-equipped to accommodate wheelchair users, as well as offering a host of other services, resources and assistance to passengers. It’s worth speaking to them in advance to ensure your needs can be met. For more inspiration, see our expert guide to the best cruises.

2. For the single traveller who likes to socialise: escorted group tours

Escorted group tours can work well for those who appreciate a well-organised itinerary, the camaraderie of peers and the additional reassurance of being part of a group. They can also be a good place to start for first-time solo travellers, with many operators now waiving or reducing single supplements on select dates.

Tracey Davies, editor of 101 Singles Holidays, says: “Escorted tours are always a great choice, as they take out all the stress, hassle and organisation of a holiday and you’re guaranteed to meet like-minded people. There are some incredible itineraries on offer, from elephant safaris in Sri Lanka and cherry blossom tours of Japan to foodie trips around Puglia in Italy.”

3. Embracing independence: solo holidays for over-60s

Solo holidays for over-60s are on the rise, with more people enjoying the freedom to travel independently, from city breaks in Europe to longer adventures in Asia or North America.

Make-up artist Joyce Conner, a seasoned solo traveller, thinks Europe and the Far East are the safest places to navigate solo. The 61-year-old says: “I went to Japan alone but joined a tour. There is no other place in the world like it. It’s been number one on my list and still is.”

Conner also suggests considering with a country where English is a strong second language. “I found that Scandinavian countries are the most fluent in English,” she says.

She adds: “If you’re afraid to travel solo, a tour is a great starting point. And for extra peace of mind, let people know where you’re travelling to, plus the dates. Plus, make sure you get travel insurance as soon as you book your trip.”

Find more tips in our expert’s guide to travelling solo in later life.

4. New skills at 60: creative and learning retreats

Holidays when you're over 60 don’t have to be about sightseeing.

Creative retreats – such as painting, photography or language breaks – are among the best solo holidays for over 60s. These can be a great way to learn new skills, meet like-minded travellers and return home with new friends and fresh inspiration.

They also enable you to get some distance from everyday life, to gain a fresh perspective, reflect and recharge.

5. Right on track: rail trips for over 60s

If you’re somebody who likes to see the world at a more relaxed pace, a railway journey could be an ideal holiday.

Classic routes such as the Swiss Bernina Express, the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada or Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains offer breathtaking scenery, as well as a touch of old-world glamour.

Joyce Conner says: “I did six weeks in New York and Canada, doing planes, trains and automobiles in Ontario, going to Toronto, Caledon, Niagara, Ancaster, Barrie and Blue Mountain, as well as four days in the DMV (short for a region covering District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia) and one day in Philadelphia, just to see the Rocky steps.”

6. City breaks and staycations: UK and European short breaks for over 60s

Not every adventure has to be long-haul. Over 60s holidays in the UK or Europe can be just as rewarding.

In our quest for guaranteed sunshine, it’s easy to overlook the benefits of holidaying in the UK. But you can explore a host of scenic locations, history and culture, from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands.

A good staycation also offers other benefits: there’s no need to change currency, no airport hassle, and it can be easier to travel with young grandchildren.

Click here for more information on planning the perfect UK break.

Alternatively, why not amble through the streets of Porto, Madeira or Vienna? Whether you want to experience new cultures, visit art galleries, do some shopping or sample the local food and wine, many European cities are less than a two-hour flight away.

Trips like these can be ideal for those seeking a shorter break or a first step into solo travel.

7. Walks, wildlife and Peru: over 60s adventure holidays

For those with a taste for adventure, there are plenty of options, from walking holidays in Tuscany to wildlife safaris in Africa – or even trekking in Peru.

“People are much more adventurous these days,” says travel editor, Tracey Davies. “Now it’s all about the experience. African safaris, rail journeys through India, escorted tours through the heart of America, are all popular with the 60+ crowd.”

The key is to choose an adventure suited to your abilities and ensure your over-60s holiday insurance covers any activities you plan to try.

Getting the right insurance for your trip

No matter where you choose to go, it’s important you find the right over 60s travel insurance for you and your holiday.

As you travel at 60 and beyond, you may have medical conditions or require specialist cover for cruises, adventure sports or extended stays. Over 60s travel insurance can provide cover for medical emergencies, cancellations, lost baggage and more – giving you real confidence to explore the world.

For more information, visit Age Co’s travel insurance for over 60s.