The 8 Trips You Must Take Before Turning 50

author

Edgar Loper

Updated: 26 May 2026 ·

The 8 Trips You Must Take Before Turning 50

Visit these places to enjoy their endless charms.
photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

The world we live in is full of unique wonders spread across different countries that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime to discover their endless charms. Spectacular landscapes, impossible constructions, historic monuments, and much more await eager adventurers who decide to travel to know them.

Many people think that traveling is just for the young, that once you're an adult there's no time to explore the world, but that's not true. There is no age for traveling; it doesn't matter how old you are, what matters is the desire to discover new places, immerse yourself in their cultures, uncover magical spots, and taste exquisite cuisines.

Maybe at some point in your life, it becomes more complicated to travel, or fatigue makes it harder to embark on big trips, but if you haven't turned 50 yet, there are certain destinations you'll want to explore to be captivated by their beauty and make the most of the midpoint of life.

Algarve, Portugal

Visit the paradisiacal Algarve in Portugal
Visit the paradisiacal Algarve in Portugal photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

If you're looking to experience spectacular scenery with incredible gastronomy and paradisiacal beaches very close to Spain, Algarve is your destination. This region of Portugal is a true marvel to explore by car on a trip where you'll discover magical spots like Faro, Vilamoura, Loulé, Portimao, and much more.

On this beautiful route, you'll find some historical and cultural monuments like the famous Church of Santa Maria do Castelo, the Arch of Rest, the Natural Park of the Ria, and countless unique destinations. You can also enjoy its golden sand beaches and crystal-clear waters that will transport you to the Caribbean just a few kilometers from our country.

Explore Switzerland by Train

Travel through Switzerland's landscapes by train
Travel through Switzerland's landscapes by train photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

If you love mountain landscapes and train journeys, this trip is a must-do before turning 50. Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, where its natural scenery leaves everyone speechless. The best way to explore the country is on one of its spectacular trains that traverse mountains and charming villages.

There is a journey known as the Grand Route of the Panoramic Trains, which is ideal for getting to know the country, starting from Lucerne and ending in Zermatt, passing through cities like Lugano or St. Moritz. On this journey, you'll pass lakes, ancient town centers, immense bridges, and the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever see.

Experience Christmas in Alsace

The Alsatian city of Colmar is like a perfect Christmas story.
The Alsatian city of Colmar is like a perfect Christmas story. photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

Christmas is one of the most beautiful times of the year when the streets are filled with lights, and the sweet aroma of roasted chestnuts invites us to stroll through the city. For fans of this season and world travel, there is a must-visit place that should be experienced at least once in your life. We are talking about the French region of Alsace, a magical destination that increases its already notable beauty during Christmas.

Its beautiful villages can be explored in less than a week, where you will find spectacular houses and buildings that look like they are straight out of a fairy tale, adorned with Christmas decorations that stand out against the wood of their structures. The markets fill the main squares of the area with joy, where you can buy Christmas souvenirs. If you want to discover these idyllic destinations, you must travel to some of the most important places like Colmar, Turckheim, or Eguisheim.

Discover Havana, Cuba

Explore the colorful Havana
Explore the colorful Havana photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

One of the essential trips you should make before turning 50 is to Cuba, specifically Havana. There, you will find an oasis of happiness and good vibes where music flows through your veins, and color floods the streets and homes. This spectacular place is a unique destination that everyone should visit at least once in their life, and one of its must-see spots is the famous Malecón.

Its beaches, people, restaurants, musicians, and facades make Havana an incredible place you won't want to leave. In Cuba, there's an endless array of places to discover, and you'll never be bored as there's always something to do. Although the capital is the most famous, your trip to this country can be a magical experience if you rent one of its unique cars and navigate through each of its corners.

Travel to Venice during Carnival

The famous carnival of Venice
The famous carnival of Venice photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

Venice is famous for the grand canals that traverse its streets and the peculiar gondolas used for transportation. But this Italian city is much more than watery avenues; it boasts one of the most spectacular and impressive carnivals in the world that must be seen to be believed. Its origins date back to the 11th century and leave everyone who visits speechless.

The Venetians take to the streets dressed in their finest historical garb and don peculiar masks that conceal their faces. What began as a movement of the lower classes ended up being one of the most significant events of the place, attracting thousands of visitors each year. If you are a lover of culture and traditional history, you cannot miss this grand journey and mingle with the locals in a unique experience.

Walk the Camino de Santiago

Sign in the middle of the Camino de Santiago
Sign in the middle of the Camino de Santiago photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

For this journey, you won't have to leave Spain to experience one of the most thrilling and fulfilling adventures in the world. You probably already know the famous Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage where hundreds of kilometers are walked from different origins to a single destination, Santiago. The origins of this pilgrimage date back hundreds of years to an apostle, but you don't have to be a believer to undertake it.

Although there is no age limit to do the Camino de Santiago (we've seen people nearly 100 years old accomplish it), it's best to be in good physical condition since you need to carry a heavy backpack and walk for several days. All of this will be worth it when you discover the beauty of the landscapes you traverse and meet incredible people who will accompany you on this journey.

Sail to Antarctica on a Cruise

Sail among glaciers in Antarctica.
Sail among glaciers in Antarctica. photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

Antarctica is an unknown destination for much of the population, and very few have visited, but its spectacular landscapes take your breath away. The influence and pollution from humans have yet to cause severe damage to this destination, so traveling there means discovering the nature of our planet in its full glory.

Currently, there are companies that offer cruises through this white landscape where you can live an adventure you will never forget. The cold will be one of the main characters in this journey, but what you discover will be worth it and few have experienced. If you are passionate about icebergs, penguins, and pure nature, a cruise to Antarctica must be on your must-do travel list before turning 50.

See the Cherry Blossoms in Japan

Admire the cherry blossoms in Japan
Admire the cherry blossoms in Japan photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

From the polar cold of Antarctica, we move to the beauty of spring in Japan. This Asian country is well-known for its temples and ancestral customs, but also for a spectacular event that occurs during a specific time of year, tinting the Japanese landscape with shades of pink. This is the cherry blossom, one of Japan's typical trees that creates a unique image.

With the arrival of spring, the cherry trees begin to bloom, and from their branches sprout beautiful leaves in pink and white, creating a natural spectacle. This period is called Hanami and is an event worth witnessing in person. In the land of the rising sun, this phenomenon is seen as a reflection on the fragile and ephemeral nature of life, inviting everyone to contemplate it.