50th Wedding Anniversary Ideas for Travel, Romance & Celebration
- Apr 14
- 6 min read
Updated: 21 hours ago
By Randy Otts & Lisa Otts, Co-Owners & Certified Travel Advisors at 2 Getaway Travel
Planning a 50th Anniversary Trip? Here's What to Know First.
Fifty years of marriage deserves more than a dinner reservation. Most couples celebrating a golden anniversary choose a trip they've been putting off: a river cruise through Europe, a week at a luxury all-inclusive, or a cultural journey somewhere they've always wanted to go.
Costs typically start around $3,000 per person for a resort week and $4,500+ for a cruise itinerary. Vow renewal packages are available at many all-inclusive resorts and can often be arranged through our travel advisors at no extra cost.
Working with 2 Getaway Travel for a milestone trip like this makes a real difference including better room placement, anniversary amenities, and someone to call if anything goes sideways. At 2 Getaway Travel, we've been planning golden anniversary trips for over 35 years. Start with a free consultation.
Quick Picks for 50th Wedding Anniversary Ideas:
Best Cruise Getaways for a Golden Anniversary
A river or ocean cruise is one of the most memorable 50th anniversary trip ideas, offering scenic views and intimate experiences. For couples looking to combine adventure with pure relaxation, a cruise eliminates the stress of planning and offers a unique way to explore multiple locations.
River Cruises: Intimate and Scenic
Celebrate your 50th anniversary with a memorable river cruise that combines romance, culture, and breathtaking views. Here are a few top picks for an extraordinary experience:
The Rhine River
Sail through romantic landscapes of medieval castles, vineyards, and charming European towns with Avalon Waterways. Stop at highlights like Cologne and Strasbourg while enjoying luxurious amenities onboard.
Best time to go: April to October
Cost: Starting at $3,000 per person
The Danube River
Discover the cultural treasures of Central Europe with Viking River Cruises. Explore Vienna’s art scene, Budapest’s thermal baths, and the scenic Wachau Valley on this unforgettable route.
Best time to go: May to September
Cost: Starting at $3,500 per person
The Seine River
Experience the romance of France with AmaWaterways, cruising from Paris to Normandy. Enjoy Monet’s gardens, Parisian landmarks, and elegant French cuisine along with optional wellness activities.
Best time to go: April to November
Cost: Starting at $3,200 per person
Planning a trip like this?
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Top Ocean Cruises for 50th Wedding Anniversaries
The Mediterranean
Discover the vibrant culture and breathtaking coasts of Southern Europe with Viking Ocean Cruises. Stops include sun-soaked Santorini, historic Rome, and charming Barcelona, all while enjoying Viking’s elegant small-ship experience.
Best time to go: May to October
Cost: Starting at $4,500 per person
Alaska
Experience the untamed beauty of Alaska with Viking Ocean Cruises, where you’ll sail past majestic glaciers and spot wildlife like bald eagles and whales. Ports like Juneau and Skagway offer breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.
Best time to go: June to August
Cost: Starting at $4,000 per person
The Caribbean
For crystal-clear waters and warm island breezes, a Caribbean cruise is a perfect choice. Viking Ocean Cruises offers itineraries to idyllic spots like St. Lucia and the Bahamas, paired with exclusive shore excursions and luxurious onboard amenities.
Best time to go: December to April
Cost: Starting at $3,800 per person
Northern Europe
Explore the enchanting Baltic capitals and Norwegian fjords with Viking Ocean Cruises. Their culturally immersive voyages include stops in cities like Stockholm, Copenhagen, and St. Petersburg, offering history, art, and natural beauty.
Best time to go: May to September
Cost: Starting at $5,000 per person.
Best Resorts for 50th Wedding Anniversary
For those who want to relax and reconnect, golden anniversary vacations at all-inclusive beach resorts provide romance and convenience. All-inclusive resorts are stress-free destinations that allow you to bask in relaxation and luxury. Many even offer vow renewal packages!
Recommended Resorts
Secrets Maroma (Mexico)
Famed for its pristine beaches and romantic vibe, this adults-only resort is tailored for couples.
Garza Blanca Cancun (Mexico)
Known for its modern luxury and culinary excellence, Garza Blanca delivers premium dining and breathtaking ocean views.
Vibrant and lively, this resort is perfect for couples looking to mix relaxation with fun.
El Dorado Resorts (Mexico)
With its gourmet-inclusive package and romantic cabanas, El Dorado is ideal for anniversary celebrations.
Cost: Starting at $3,000 per week for two
Best time to go: November to April
"Back from our amazing honeymoon in Mexico where we stayed 5 wonderful nights at the beautiful El Dorado Maroma Beachfront resort! Just can’t say enough about this intimate, all-inclusive, breath taking landscaped, paradise on earth! ..."
Christie C.
Best Cultural and Historical Getaways
For couples with an appreciation for tradition and history, these destinations offer exploration and enrichment.
Bavaria, Germany
Visit Neuschwanstein Castle and explore fairytale villages or spa towns like Baden-Baden.
Best time to go: May to September
Cost: $3,000–$4,500 per person
Greece
Tour iconic ruins and islands or stroll through whitewashed towns along the cliffs of Santorini.
Best time to go: April to October
Cost: Starting at $4,000 per person
Thailand or Cambodia
Explore the grandeur of Angkor Wat or the serenity of Chiang Mai’s temples.
Best time to go: November to February
Cost: Starting at $3,500 per person
Most Relaxing Beach Getaways
Some of the best destinations for a 50th wedding anniversary are also the most peaceful. Sometimes, bliss is found in the simplicity of crystal waters lapping against sandy shores.
The Maldives
Experience true seclusion in an overwater bungalow surrounded by turquoise waters.
Best time to go: November to April
Cost: Starting at $5,000 per week for two
Maui, Hawaii
Perfect for couples who want balance—part serene beach escape, part adventurous hikes through volcanos.
Best time to go: April to November
Cost: Starting at $4,000 per person
Frequently Asked Questions About 50th Anniversary Trips
What's the best type of trip for a 50th wedding anniversary? It depends on the couple. River cruises are popular for couples who love history and scenery without the hassle of packing and unpacking at every stop. All-inclusive resorts are a great fit if the goal is to truly unplug — meals, drinks, and activities are all handled. Cultural tours work well for adventurous couples who want the trip to feel like a bucket-list experience. Most couples we work with end up choosing based on how much they want to do versus how much they want to rest.
How much does a 50th anniversary vacation cost? Budget realistically starting at $3,000 per person for an all-inclusive resort week, $4,500+ per person for an ocean cruise, and $5,000+ per person for destinations like the Maldives or a Northern Europe itinerary. These ranges include accommodations and most meals but not flights. A travel consultant can help you find the best value within your budget.
Can we renew our vows on a 50th anniversary trip? Yes — many all-inclusive resorts offer vow renewal ceremonies as part of their romance packages, sometimes at no additional cost when booked through a travel advisor. Popular options include beachfront ceremonies in Mexico and private deck ceremonies on cruise ships. It's worth asking about this during the planning process rather than after you've booked.
Is it better to book a 50th anniversary trip through a travel agent? For a milestone trip, yes. A travel advisor has access to amenity packages, room category upgrades, and resort contacts that aren't available through online booking platforms. They also serve as your point of contact if something changes — a flight cancellation, a room issue, a last-minute itinerary adjustment. For a once-in-a-lifetime trip, that backup matters.
How far in advance should we book a 50th anniversary trip? Six to twelve months out is ideal, especially for river cruises and popular resort dates. Peak travel seasons — December through April for Caribbean and Mexico, May through September for Europe — book up fast. If you have a specific date tied to your actual anniversary, booking early gives you the most flexibility on cabin or room selection.
Why Choose 2 Getaway Travel
At 2 Getaway Travel, we’ve spent 35+ years helping couples celebrate life’s biggest milestones. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious escape or an immersive cultural adventure, we’ll take care of every detail so you can focus on making memories.
Author Bio: Randy and Lisa Otts are co-owners of 2 Getaway Travel and have been married for over 40 years — which means they know a thing or two about milestone celebrations worth getting right. Together they've helped thousands of couples plan romantic getaways, river cruises, and once-in-a-lifetime anniversary trips across Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, and beyond. Watch their travel videos on YouTube or request a free quote to start planning yours.
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