Once retired, dream vacations can be realized - free from deadline pressure. The new book "Bucket list for retirement" by Marco Polo shows which places should definitely be discovered. Falstaff TRAVEL presents the top 9.
Which destinations should not be missed in old age? The travel guide Marco Polo has just published the "Bucket list for retirement" and presents selected travel destinations in Germany, Europe and worldwide. Falstaff TRAVEL has picked out a top 9.
Rediscovering travel - without time pressure, at leisure and open to new experiences - this is on the bucket list of many retirees. Whether you want to visit major cities with a cultural program, regions that offer peace and relaxation, natural wonders such as fjords and desert landscapes or a light outdoor adventure without extreme demands - the destinations for retirees are diverse.
1. Outdoor adventure: Franconian Switzerland
If you enjoy being outdoors in retirement but are not looking for an alpine challenge, Franconian Switzerland in Bavaria is the perfect destination. The low mountain range landscape north of Nuremberg impresses with bizarre rocks, caves, deep valleys and romantic villages. More than 35 medieval castles and fortresses characterize the region. Franconian Switzerland is a hiking paradise: from the 428-kilometre-long Franconian Mountain Trail to shorter circular tours to spectacular viewpoints and the Devil's Cave near Pottenstein - one of the largest stalactite caves in Germany - there is something for every pace. Cyclists enjoy quiet paths along the Wiesent, Pegnitz and Trubach rivers. With its high density of family-run breweries, the Franconian Beer Route and traditional beer gardens, the excursion can be perfectly combined with regional specialties such as bratwurst or hearty snacks.
2. Culture and nature: Lucerne and Lake Lucerne
Retirees looking for a trip that harmoniously combines nature and culture, and is accessible without having to travel far, should consider Lucerne on Lake Lucerne. The town is picturesquely situated between the lake and the mountains and is one of the most beautiful destinations in Switzerland. The historic old town with its colorfully painted facades and small squares is particularly charming. The town's landmark is the Chapel Bridge with its water tower - one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe. Cultural highlights include the Lion Monument, which commemorates fallen Swiss Guardsmen, and the Swiss Museum of Transport, which offers fascinating insights into mobility and technology. Lucerne is also the ideal starting point for excursions around the lake. A boat trip offers wonderful views of the mountains and villages on the banks. For panoramic experiences, the panoramic peaks of Pilatus - accessible via the world's steepest cogwheel railroad - and the Rigi, which guarantee impressive views over the lake and the Alps.
3. City Trip in Vienna
Vienna continues to be one of the most popular destinations in Europe - and is particularly popular with travelers aged 65 and over. The Austrian capital combines imperial splendor with a relaxed lifestyle in a unique way: horse-drawn carriages, coffee houses and cultural greats such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart characterize the cityscape, as do culinary classics such as Sachertorte. Safety, comfort and the short distances between sights are particularly appreciated - clear advantages over major cities such as Paris or London. It is striking that older travelers are increasingly focusing on active experiences rather than pure sightseeing. "Sight-doing" is the keyword; trips that focus on enjoyment, encounters and personal impressions. Vienna provides the perfect stage for this.
4. Vastness and snow in Lapland
Frosty winter days in Lapland unfold their own magic: dog sleds race through snow-covered forests, northern lights dance in the sky and candlelight warms the wooden houses in the long polar night. The region thrives on contrasts: icy cold outside, cozy heated wooden houses inside, exciting husky tours and quiet moments by the fireplace. Those traveling by dog sled feel the power of the animals and the vastness of the landscape, while reindeer farms offer insights into traditional breeding and care. With only a few inhabitants per square kilometer, Lapland remains largely untouched, its vastness, forests and snow-covered rivers characterize the picture.
5. Undiscovered nature in Albania
In recent years, Albania has developed from an insider tip to an exciting alternative to classic Mediterranean destinations. The country offers wild mountains, deep valleys, charming coastal towns and impressive hospitality. Near the quaint Ottoman stone arch bridge Katiu, eight naturally warm springs bubble up directly in the Lengarica River in Bënjë. Nestled in the beautiful natural surroundings of Albania - near Përmet, the "City of Roses" - you will get to know the country from its most relaxed side. Tirana, the lively capital of Albania, is a city in transition that impresses with its colorful mix of culture, history and modern energy. Blloku, once a segregated district for the political elite, is now the heart of the nightlife with numerous bars, restaurants and clubs.
6. Dolce vita on the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast enchants with chic cuisine, colorful alleyways and luxurious hotels. In Positano, narrow alleyways lead to charming bars and fantastic views of the bay. An excursion to Capri reveals the Blue Grotto, Piazza Umberto I and panoramic views from the luxury hotel "J. K. Place Capri". Along the way, small restaurants such as "Il Riccio" or "La Conca del Sogno" invite you to make culinary discoveries. Art and crafts complement the journey: the gardens of Villa Rufolo in Ravello, the colorful ceramics of Solimene Ceramica Artistica in Vietri sul Mare and the maritime flair of the "Trattoria da Aramandino" in Praiano round off the experience.
7. Desert magic and nature experiences in Namibia
Namibia fascinates with its endless expanses, dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife. The capital Windhoek surprises with colonial architecture, well-tended gardens and charming sights such as the Christuskirche, the Tintenpalast and the Alte Feste. The Namib Desert attracts visitors with impressive dunes such as Big Daddy and Dune 45, the contrasting photo motifs of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei as well as the Sesriem Canyon. The Skeleton Coast in the north offers a mystical landscape with desert elephants, lions and rhinos, while the southern Dorob National Park is home to seal colonies and coasts rich in fish. Exciting safari tours await visitors in the Kalahari semi-desert: zebras, giraffes, elephants and the characteristic Kalahari lions can be observed here in the wild.
8. History and nature in New Zealand
Glaciers, fjords, volcanoes and ancient rainforests characterize the landscape of the South Island, while beautiful sandy beaches, Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo offer relaxation and photo opportunities. Highlights such as the Pancake Rocks, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers and the mystical Milford Sound showcase the dramatic beauty of the island state - ideal for hikes, helicopter flights or canoe tours. The North Island attracts visitors with its subtropical climate, the lively metropolis of Auckland and numerous opportunities to get to know the Maori culture. Hikes with Maori rangers in Te Urewera National Park bring history to life and convey the deep connection to nature of these indigenous people.
9. Jungle, beaches and sea in Costa Rica
Despite its growing popularity, the small country remains authentic: toucans sing on the balcony, sloths hang relaxed in the trees and the country is considered safe - the "Switzerland of Central America". The capital San José with its historic center invites you to take leisurely strolls, while lush nature begins just a few minutes away. Manuel Antonio National Park combines jungle, beaches and sea in one area, perfect for families and adventurers. Those looking for active experiences can explore volcanoes such as Arenal, surf on beaches such as Santa Teresa or relax in luxury hotels on Tamarindo Beach.
