Golden Age of Travel: Top Destinations Visited by Mature Travelers
After more than a year of travel restrictions, limited adventures and postponed travel plans, it’s no wonder many are dreaming of their next getaway when it’s safe to do so. Wanderlust has no age limit! More than half (58%) of global travelers over the age of 55* revealed that not being able to get away has made them realize how important travel is. As the world slowly begins to open and travelers begin to plan their future trips to make up for missed time, we have delved into our over 28 million listings in over 226 countries and territories across the globe to reveal the top destinations visited and loved by those over the age of 55**. It is never too late to go exploring, broaden your horizons and immerse yourself with new people, sights and cultures, sample a new delicacy or learn a new skill.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Just as wanderlust has no age limit, neither does adventure! The top endorsed destination by global travelers aged 55 and above is the dramatic and mysterious Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this artistic and architectural wonder sits atop a mountain more than 2,400 meters above sea level. Those looking to visit can either take a one-day hike to the summit, or, for those with limited mobility or just keen to arrive with fresh legs, take a bus from the village below after a scenic journey through the Sacred Vally of the Incas by train.
Where to stay: The beautiful surroundings of Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel are perfect for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. There are even massages and an Andean sauna available to soothe any sore limbs after the hike to Machu Picchu.
Matera, Italy
The history rich city of Matera is a destination that’s not to be missed according to Booking.com’s mature travelers! A must-see destination in Basilicata, a visit to Matera will see you eating, sleeping and drinking in once-abandoned caves. This unique city is home to many ‘Sassi’, hand dug caves from the rock which once housed the population. Visitors can take a step back in time by visiting the Casa Grotta, experiencing how life in a Sassi would have been or visit the stone-carved churches Chiese Rupestri.
Where to stay: Nestled amongst the Matera Sassi UNESCO World Heritage site, the Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & SPA offers a unique cave experience with a luxurious twist. Combining the rich history of the cave setting with modern touches, this hotel even boasts a sauna, hammam and heated indoor pool.
Toruń, Poland
One of the oldest cities in Poland, Toruń is also attracting mature travelers to its history rich-riverside city. Toruń dates back to the 8th Century and its beautiful cityscape is even home to a UNESCO-listed World Heritage site, its Old Town. There you’ll also find Poland’s answer to Pisa, a medieval tower which tilts to the side. Travelers with a sweet tooth can also visit its renowned Muzeum Piernika (Gingerbread Museum).
Where to stay: The perfect home away from home, Apartamenty Chleb i Wino Toruń offers stylish and modern apartments in the heart of the old town. Located in a 16th-century building, it is now home to all the mod cons needed to be a great travel base.
St. Petersburg, Russia
Another top pick for mature travelers is Russia's second largest city, St. Petersburg. Once the imperial capital for two centuries, this bustling city is now Russia’s cultural center, home to renowned museums, theatres, galleries, architectural monuments, cultural and educational institutions. Visitors can experience the city’s rich cultural heritage for themselves at the State Hermitage Museum, the second-largest art museum in the world.
Where to stay: An 18th-century mansion which now boasts luxury accommodation, the Pushka INN hotel overlooks the city’s River Neva. With grand and spacious rooms on offer, this regal stay is well located for travelers to explore all St. Petersburg has to offer.
York, UK
Visitors to York will find a rich historical and cultural city enclaved by 13th-century walls. Inside the city walls travelers will find a gothic cathedral with a medieval portion known as the York Minister, a renowned contemporary art scene and haunted pubs that form the basis of its claims to be Europe’s most haunted city.
Where to stay: Overlooking the impressive York Minster, Judge's Lodging is an elegant Grade I listed Georgian townhouse turned hotel, a great base to explore from. With lovely rooms and a daily cooked breakfast on offer, this stay is also well located just a short walk from York Train Station.
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*Research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who are planning to travel in the next 12 months. In total 28,042 respondents across 28 countries and territories were polled (including 1003 from Argentina, 1002 from Australia, 1000 from Brazil, 1001 from Canada, 1000 from China, 1002 from Colombia, 1001 from Croatia, 1003 from Denmark, 1002 from France, 1005 from Germany, 1004 from Hong Kong, 1000 from India, 1002 from Israel, 1000 from Italy, 1000 from Japan, 1002 from Mexico, 1000 from Netherlands, 1000 from New Zealand, 1003 from Russia, 1000 from Singapore, 1003 from South Korea, 1005 from Spain, 1001 from Sweden, 1000 from Taiwan, 1003 from Thailand, 1000 from UK, 1000 from USA and 1000 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in January 2021.
**Most positively endorsed destinations by Booking.com travelers age 55 and above. Destinations had to have been endorsed a minimum of 200 times by "mature" travelers before being included in this list.