Galentine's Getaways: Where to Go With Your Girlfriends

This February, gather your girlfriends and plan the ultimate trip away. Whether it's treating yourself to a spellbinding snowy break in the gorgeous Spanish Pyrenees resort of Baqueira or jetting off to the unforgettable club-capital of the world in Berlin, you're sure to have the time of your life with these Galentine's getaways.

If Valentine’s Day is all about romantic love, February 13th rejoices in the unique bonds of friendship between female friends. Ever since Amy Poehler’s character, Leslie Knope, invented Galentine’s Day on TV’s Parks and Recreation in 2010, the date has provided the perfect excuse to gather your girlfriends and take that trip you’re always talking about. As Leslie says, this is all about “Ladies celebrating ladies.” So where will you go? Here are a few ideas for your friends getaway.

Enjoy a budget-friendly escape to Albania and Poland

Head to Tirana or Kraków for a budget friendly Galentine's (Photo: Getty Images)

For a break that won’t break the bank, Albania combines Balkans beauty with great prices. Head to the capital, Tirana, where you can stroll colourful streets, pick up handicrafts in the bazaars and enjoy the city's rich café culture. Don't miss Bunk'Art, a contemporary art museum set in a Cold War bunker on the city's outskirts. To the East, head to Tirana Marriott Hotel where you can enjoy breathtaking mountain views, while its Terra restaurant is great for elevated Albanian cuisine.

Further north, Poland’s former royal capital Kraków invites your entourage to explore Wawel Castle, discover the medieval Cloth Hall and its craft stalls, and celebrate a little girl power at the home of Olga Boznańska, who campaigned to allow women to study art. Sheraton Grand Kraków is located right at the foot of Wawel Castle, with an enviable rooftop terrace to sip on a pre-dinner cocktail.

Hit the slopes in Spain and Switzerland

Switzerland is home to some of the world's highest ski slopes, meaning you can even ski in the summertime (Photo: Marriott International)

Treat yourself to a snowy break in the gorgeous Spanish Pyrenees resort of Baqueira, where you can combine snowsports with fantastic food and some well-deserved wellness indulgence. With a variety of pistes, Baqueira is well suited for a group that includes both beginners and experienced skiers looking for a challenge. Stay at Hotel AC Baqueira Ski Resort, Autograph Collection. It’s located right at the foot of the slopes, so you can ski by day, then come back to unwind in the spa and ease your muscles with a Turkish bath. Don’t miss dinner at 4 Valles Restaurante for everything from tapas to raclette.

Over in Switzerland, Verbier has always been one of Europe’s most desirable ski centres. Here, every level of skier will find their favourite slopes, and the lively après-ski culture is just as important, with a mix of hearty spots, sleek fine dining and everything in between. W Verbier is one of the most stylish places to stay, with its modern twist on chalet chic. Expect fireplaces in every room, a grand spa and cocktails whipped up to order at W Living Room.

Bring the party in Berlin and Budapest

Head to W Budapest for a restorative Galentine's getaway (Photo: Marriott International)

Germany’s capital has a legendary clubbing scene. While it’s techno that’s really famous in Berlin, the party influence pervades the whole city and the sheer range of bars and clubs means there’s something for everyone. By day, enjoy the restorative calm of the city’s parks, or explore the many layers of it history and get acquainted with some of its quirky neighbourhoods. MOXY Berlin Ostbahnhof is right on the doorstep of some of Berlin’s best bars and clubs. Start your night with a drink at the Moxy Bar to get you in the mood for a party.

In Budapest, you can start your day touring the historic sights of Buda before crossing the river into the charming maze of Pest. The city unites opulent European glamour with a vibrant nightlife and buzzing restaurant scene. Dive into everything from atmospheric 'ruin' pubs to sleek rooftop cocktail bars looking out over the Art Nouveau skyline. Sample local fruit brandies, herbal liqueurs and be sure to try Hungary’s very impressive wines. W Budapest, located in the historic Drechsler Palace, offers a restorative spa experience – the perfect complement to a night out – with decor and atmosphere inspired by the Belle Époque of Budapest’s heyday.

Soak up the sun in the Canaries and Abu Dhabi

Yoga on the beach (Photo: Marriott International)

The Canary Island of Tenerife is the perfect destination for a splash of winter sunshine this Galentine’s Day. Relax on the beach and soak up those average February temperatures of 21 °C. Escape to palatial The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama, with its exclusive beach area and vast spa, featuring a Wellness Circuit focused around the healing power of water. Then enjoy a glittering meal at two-Michelin-starred M.B. restaurant before hitting the town.

February is the perfect month to enjoy balmy temperatures in Abu Dhabi. There are pristine white-sand beaches to explore, those famous shopping malls and museums as varied as the Louvre and Guggenheim. Or head out to the Empty Quarter for an authentic desert experience, featuring camel rides, falconry demonstrations and a glimpse of traditional Bedouin life. The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort combines a private beach and six wonderful restaurants with an elegant spa, and while you’re enjoying quality time with the girls, let the butler take care of the rest. 

Savour a little indulgence in the United Kingdom and Oman

The Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel's ocean views will leave Galentine's travellers spellbound (Photo: Marriott International)

Easily accessible from London, yet deep in the heart of the countryside, Buckinghamshire is the perfect weekend break for girlfriends. Think rolling landscapes, gorgeous stately homes and gastro pubs oozing country charm. The third Duke of Marlborough used to call The Langley, a Luxury Collection Hotel his home. Set within 150 acres, it certainly feels fit for a duke – you’ll enjoy one of Europe’s largest indoor spas, complete with Hammam and tailored treatments, outdoor activities and afternoon teas.

Travel a little further to Muscat, Oman’s culture-rich capital. Here, the desert and Hajar mountains are within easy reach and the city itself offers an authentic slice of Arabian life. Think whitewashed buildings and towering minarets, fragrant souks and grand palaces, all fringed by dreamy beaches. Opulent Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel is a treat of a destination, surrounded by gorgeous gardens and mountain vistas which replenish the soul. For a touch of indulgence, head to the three-storey beachfront spa, designed like an Arabian fort, and enjoy Omani-inspired treatments that use locally sourced ingredients. For the ultimate wellness boost, visit the women-only beach—a serene, private retreat where friends can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy time together.

Unwind and uncork in Bordeaux and Cape Town

Head to Bordeaux to discover the heartland of old-world wine (Photo: Getty Images)

The heartland of old-world wine, Bordeaux combines a passion for the vine with grand 18th-century architecture. From the Cité du Vin museum to tours of vineyards, there are countless opportunities to explore the local area and savour its gastronomy. Renaissance Bordeaux Hotel is located in the hip Bacalan neighbourhood only a few minutes’ stroll from the Cité du Vin and offers stunning views and delicious cuisine from one of Bordeaux’s highest rooftops.

Alternatively, head to South Africa and the Cape Winelands. You can combine culture-rich Cape Town, with the award-winning wines of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. Head to Protea Hotel by Marriott Franschhoek, a historic retreat in the village looking out over mountains and vineyards. Parts of this hotel date back to 1880 and when you're not enjoying the pool and sun-trap courtyard, you are in the perfect location to head out and explore some of the area's most famous wine estates. 

Published: January 31, 2025

Last Updated: February 07, 2025