best places to travel alone 2023

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Solo vacations: the 36 best places to travel alone in 2024.

These fun destinations make traveling on your own simple and spectacular.

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From beach retreats to artsy escapes, take your next solo trip to somewhere spectacular.

Perth, Australia

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Asheville, North Carolina

Tuscany, Italy

Santa Barbara, California

New York City

Seville, Spain

Naples, Florida

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Portland, Oregon

New Zealand

Galápagos Islands

Charleston, South Carolina

Athens, Greece

New Orleans

Austin, Texas

San Francisco

Munich, Germany

Florianópolis, Brazil

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The best solo travel destinations

By Anna Prendergast and Anna Hart

2024 is set to be huge for travellers who want to break away from the beaten path, or simply explore it on their own terms. Typically thought of as a student’s game, studies suggest that senior travellers are starting to take up more space in the  solo travel  sector. Whatever age, stage or vintage, solo travellers tend to take their time and embrace slow travel and research suggests that holidays are deemed more essential than ever for mental health, marking a shift towards carefully curated trips that have a big personal impact and a smaller environmental one. Solo travel is also increasingly accessible, with innovative tour operators such as  Planet Abled  and  Halal Tours  providing tailor-made trips to under-served communities. According to  Skyscanner , over 50 percent of travellers chose to book trips alone in 2023 if their travel interests didn't align with those of their friends – and why compromise? Whether you want to pick up a new skill, immerse yourself in a new culture, take the scenic route or make new friends on a group tour, these are the best solo travel destinations for 2024.

The French Alps

Best for: nature-first escapes

Ski holidays have long been known as group events, with rowdy aprés and jam-packed chalets, but going on a solo trip to the Alps can reap a whole host of rewards. Rise with the sun to be the first to carve through pristine blankets of snow without having to wait for anyone else, avoid boisterous bars in lieu of elegant eateries with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the slopes, and retreat to your serene hotel to cosy up by a roaring fire with a good book. For serious sophistication in Les Trois Vallées, book into Six Senses Residences Courchevel for the ultimate sleek ski experience, while Aman Le Mélézin has a cosseting spa (the deep tissue is guaranteed to re-energize tired legs). If you'd rather travel in the summer months, there are plenty of hiking tours with routes all across the French Alps offering community-led holidays for solo travellers.

Seoul, South Korea

Best for: fashion-forward travellers

There are few things quite as gratifying as a solo shopping trip, and where better to embark on a sartorial adventure than Asia’s most stylish city ? The South Korean capital is known as the home of some of the world’s best-dressed people – and Seoul ’s recent pop culture boom has had a helping hand in highlighting exactly that. Behind the glitz and glamour of Seoul’s sky scraping buildings and futuristic stores, delve into the neighbourhoods that provide the backbone to the city’s fashion-forward reputation. You’ll find artisanal havens that have been operating for generations, from shops dedicated to the ancient craft of ceramics to all-natural skincare brands pairing centuries-old traditions with the latest research. You’ll return home with a suitcase full of secrets.

Best for: safety-first solo travellers

With low crime rates and a harmonious Buddhist culture,  Bhutan  has long held a reputation as a super-safe destination for solo travellers, which is understandably a priority for many, particularly women, Black people, LGBTQ+ or minority communities. In 2022, the Trans Bhutan Trail reopened after 60 years, making this year the perfect time to follow in the footsteps of monks, traders and pilgrims on the 250-mile route. Pass through the folklore-filled Dochula Pass, visit Trongsa’s high-altitude dzongs, and hike up to the sacred cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro Taktsang – the route offers direct access to  Bhutan’s  culture and cuisine, with homestays dotted along the way and local life at every turn, with profits being redirected back into the trail and the communities that support it. The country’s spiritual heritage is somewhat infectious, with outlooks that are grounded in gratitude and see nature as a blessing – the dramatic Himalayan mountainscape, deep green valleys and pristine lakes, rivers and glaciers make it impossible to disagree.

The Galapagos, Ecuador

Best for: upmarket adventure

Few  bucket-list destinations  provide the chance to see quite so much extraordinary wildlife all in one go, but this archipelago of volcanic islands off the coast of  Ecuador  has an awe-inspiring, goosebump-giving roster of blue-footed boobies, Galápagos tortoises, sea lions, and flamingos to see in their natural, protected habitat. And that’s just above ground: scuba divers will find white-tip reef sharks, bottlenose dolphins, scalloped hammerheads, black-nosed butterflyfish, king angelfish and manta rays under the surface, especially around Darwin’s Arch and Gordon’s Rock. Liveaboards and dive boats are a super social way for solo travellers to experience somewhere like the Galapagos, which is usually pigeon-holed for large groups, but forward-thinking tour operators are starting to identify a gap in the market for those that want the option of drinks on the deck or a quiet in-room cocktail. Small charters are targeting a more upmarket crowd, such as G Adventures’ new Reina Silva Voyager, which took to the waters in April 2022 with two solo cabins, saving customers money and preserving their privacy.

Bavaria, Germany

Best for: fly-and-flop (face down on a massage table, preferably)

With health – both physical and mental – at the forefront of our consciousness more than ever before,  wellness retreats , spa holidays and treatment-focused trips are no passing trend. And whilst a couples massage sounds lovely in theory, self-care is one of the few spaces in which you’re meant to be entirely self-focused, without anyone else’s expectations, time restraints or itineraries being imposed upon you. But it needn’t feel clinical, either – Bavaria’s many baths are drawn from naturally medicinal hot springs and are often surrounded by glassy lakes, snow-topped mountains and fairytale forests deep in  Germany’s countryside . Traditional spa towns such as Bad Tölz (whose mineral-packed mud baths are credited with relieving back pain and rheumatoid arthritis) are just under an hour from Munich, whilst results-driven Alpine retreats like  Schloss Elmau are 45 minutes from Innsbruck. Flights to both are extremely affordable and take less than two hours from the UK.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Best for: once-in-a-lifetime wildlife

Sustainable  tour operator Intrepid Travel launched its Premium range this year, and it quickly became their most popular product, particularly with the 50+ solo age group seeking out high-end experiences that both step outside their comfort zone and support local communities along the way. According to both Journey Woman and Overseas Adventure Travel, demand has never been higher for women in their 50s, with  safari trips  to destinations such as  Kenya , Tanzania and Botswana leading the trend, indicating that a bucket-list approach to travel in later life is on the rise once again. Botswana brims with breathtaking sights and sounds, as well as being a ‘big five’ destination: herds of elephants gather at waterholes; the great zebra migration takes place cross-country; lions, hippos and giraffes all call the Okavango Delta home. With blue waxbills and woodland kingfishers, it’s a birdwatcher's paradise, too. Depending on whether you’d rather see baby antelopes or take a mokoro canoe trip (for example), be sure to book the right time of year so you don’t miss out. For younguns, EcoTraining runs a variety of courses in Mashatu Game Reserve where you can learn to track animals, navigate the bush, identify species and more – from week-long workshops to year-long qualifications.

Western Australia

Best for: slow travel on your terms

Whether you’re breaking in a new driver’s license or breaking away from the nine-to-five,  Australia’s  appeal is ageless and enduring (and there’s no language barrier for those that speak English). Movements embracing travel by road and rail show no signs of slowing down, and this country’s vast open road and impressive landscape are ideal for both. Being behind the wheel provides total freedom and means you’re in control of your itinerary – if you like a place, stay a while – whilst moving around by train can take the stress out of a solo trip: your route is pre-planned and you can sit back and enjoy the ride. The Ghan is one of Australia’s – and the world’s – most iconic trains, but the transcontinental route from  Sydney  to Perth on the Indian Pacific is a great alternative. Many Aussies use the service, so it’s a fun way to eavesdrop on – and meet – the locals, and the three-day sleeper train means you can gaze out the window at the rugged Blue Mountains and endless expanse of the Nullarbor Plain.

The Dolomites, Italy

Best for: high-energy hikers

A 10-day hut-to-hut stomp through  Italy’s  stunning limestone landscape provides solitude scenery and a sense of achievement in spades – perfect for restless adventurers and those that want a physical challenge that reaps major rewards. Alta Via 1 is around 75 miles and takes about 10 days to complete, and whilst some solo travellers book a mountain leader or group trek, it’s perfectly manageable if you invest in a good guidebook and pack appropriate supplies. Depending on the route you take, there are campsites available, so many take a one-man tent (and lots of layers), but the most immersive experience comes from the traditional rifugios, simple mountainside huts with running water and shared bedrooms set among the wildflowers and evergreens. Since everyone you meet here will be on roughly the same adventure, it’s a lovely way to share stories, trade tips, reflect on the experience and even make friends.

Charley Ward

Condé Nast Traveller

Jemima Sissons

CNT Editors

Best for: beaches

It’s hard to imagine a coastline more abundantly blessed than Costa Rica ’s, and nature’s generosity is warmly extended to travellers. The hubs of Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Puerto Viejo, La Fortuna and Nosara are particularly solo-traveller friendly places to start, and at friendly hostels such as Tamarindo Backpackers , lone travellers land here and immediately place themselves within a tribe of other yogis or surfers, or simply find their crew while clambering through bat-bedecked caves or scaling volcanic peaks.

One of the world’s most biodiverse nations, Costa Rica prioritises wildlife preservation with a string of outdoor adventures on the menu and development balanced by green energy such as hydro and wind power. This makes it a mecca for a particular breed of eco-minded adventurer, a true feel-good destination.

Whether you fancy hiking, mountain-biking, kayaking or even jungle ziplining your way around the country, navigating Costa Rica is made easy for you, a real bonus when you’re doing the schlep solo. Expect to rub up against reassuringly familiar trends from home including farm-to-table dining, an emphasis on sustainable travel, and achingly hip cafés – but Costa Rica remains both tantalisingly exotic and tirelessly surprising.

Stockholm, Sweden

Best for: Scandi cool

Spread across 14 islands connected by bridges, with a cobblestoned old town ( Gamla Stan ) and a smattering of elegant parks, Stockholm combines fairytale good-looks with the functionality of a Scandinavian metropolis, and the safety and slickness of this city makes it a particularly great city option for solo females.

Culture comes easy in Stockholm, so start at the Moderna Museet on the central island of Skeppsholmen, or take things shamelessly pop at the ABBA Museum Hall of Fame . Berns Hotel is the chandelier-draped grand dame with a legendary bar and restaurant, at the geographical and figurative heart of Stockholm, but the stylish young upstart is Miss Clara . This sleek 92-room Nobis hotel is housed in the former Ateneum girls school, with original art nouveau decor and herringbone parquet flooring, swirly bentwood bedheads and arched windows that overlook Sveavägen Boulevard.

Stockholm won’t snatch the crown for cutting-edge-cuisine off Copenhagen’s head anytime soon (the Danish capital has 15 Michelin stars against Stockholm’s nine), but at Mathias Dahlgren's airy, informal Matbaren brasserie on the waterfront you can pick up a Michelin starred lunch for £24.

You haven’t been to Stockholm until you’ve been on the water. Get a break from the city by taking the boat out to the idyllic harbour town of Vaxholm for lunch at the Waxholms Hotel.

Best for: adventure

Canada ’s cities are famously civilised, cultured and classy, but it’s the outdoorsy assets within easy reach of Toronto , Montreal, Vancouver or Ontario that make Canada such a mecca for solo travellers. As the globe's second-biggest country, Canada offers a vast menu of landscapes, from soaring mountains, remote beaches and wild tundra to lush rainforest, all spread across six timezones.

Adventure highlights include kayaking or rafting the South Nahanni River in the Northwest Territories or navigating the swells and surf of Nova Scotia, but the outdoors is also stamped firmly on Canadian cities, so for outdoors-obsessed solo travellers, even the cities deliver. Vancouver’s Stanley Park is that rare thing, a city park that really does feel a little rugged, but spits you out a short cycle from one of the world’s greatest food markets and streetfood scenes at Granville Island .

Heading north out of Vancouver, the quirky town of Dawson in the Yukon Territory offer a rich taste of Canadian smalltown culture, with a music festival that should belong on the list of any culture-craving solo traveller. Dawson is also the launchpad for snow-based activities in the winter months, and hiking and biking in the summertime.

New York, USA

Best for: a city break

If there is a solo travel equivalent to grabbing the bull by the horns, it is this: jetting off to the world’s most high-octane city alone. But you’re never alone in this big anonymous city, you’re never bored, and you’re never conspicuous. New York doesn’t give a damn who you’re with; and such insouciance is infectious.

Every traveller lands in New York clutching a lengthy do-do list, and solo travellers make better progress, so go eat that pretzel in Central Park, wander the art-lined walls of the Metropolitan Museum, stroll wide-eyed along Broadway, catch a world-class show, shop the big brands of Fifth Avenue and the vintage boutiques of Williamsburg and soak in a swish urban spa such as Aire Ancient Baths in Tribeca.

The city’s long-established bartop dining scene makes dining solo a relaxed affair, and with urban wineries in Brooklyn, classic Jewish delis in Manhattan and virtually every national cuisine represented in some corner of the city, your tastebuds are in for an adventure. One of the joys of Manhattan is that so many of the city’s prime cultural and artistic attractions are moments away from each other, but it’s also just a breezy subway ride to any other neighbourhood. Perhaps make a music pilgrimage to the iconic jazz joint Minton’s , where Southern-style soul food like smoked praline pork chops and bourbon-loaded cocktails is served to a soundtrack of former Minton’s players like Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis and Charlie Parker.

Best for: responsible travel

The Caribbean might not seem like an obvious choice for solo adventurers, but Dominica is a world away from the pricey honeymoon resorts on neighbouring islands. A ferociously geothermal island around the same size as Anglesey in Wales , Dominica’s volcanic craggy coastline and lack of white-sand beaches has deterred swanky multinational hotels and package tourists for decades – and Dominica is so much richer for it. With a thrilling menu of adventures on offer – treks to bubbling lakes, caving through gushing gorges, rafting up mangrove swamps – and the promise of genuinely affordable accommodation alongside stylish splurges, it’s a genuinely backpackable island, with a fascinating British colonial heritage, vibrant cultural scene and disarmingly caring local community.

2017’s Hurricane Maria took its toll on the island’s infrastructure and the island is keen to welcome back travellers, so this is a genuinely responsible way to spend your tourist dollar and help rebuild the island. The smart way to experience the island is to veer between affordable quirky B&Bs such as Cocoa Cottage and swanky eco-lodges including Secret Bay . An unspoiled, unknown gem, Dominica is set to re-emerge as a destination for eco-minded adventure travellers.

Best for: learning new skills

Thailand is where it all started for travellers the world over, but this South-east Asian idyll is still hard to beat when it comes to transformational solo travel, with courses in everything from Thai cookery to massage to yoga to scuba-diving, and a well-trodden route that makes Thailand particularly safe for solo female travellers.

Chiang Mai makes for a more chilled urban Thai experience than Bangkok , as well as being a springboard to Thailand’s waterfall-studded, rainforested north, and hippy hubs such as Pai. For a treat, book into 137 Pillars for 1880s Lanna architecture, but the warm Thai welcome extends to quirky, charming and more budget-friendly flashpacker joints like Mo Rooms .

Then head south to match with your own dream beach, whether it’s diving with whale sharks off Ko Tao, combining health with hedonism on Ko Phang Nguan, or kiteboarding and kicking back in Hua Hin. The serene spirituality of Thailand as well as the fact that dining well is a gloriously democratic and informal pleasure only adds to the country’s charms for solo adventurers; it’s genuinely hard to feel stressed in Thailand.

Austin, Texas

Best for: eating and drinking

Texans are famously, some would say notoriously, friendly, and Austin is a city where you’ll never be short of a smile, whether it’s across a shared plate of streetfood, across a grimy dancefloor, or across the water of one of the steamy city’s cherished swimming holes. Dining out is a thoroughly relaxed affair in Austin, as much of the best eating in town is dished out of food trucks – where solo travellers join other diners at bar-style seating and never really eat alone. There are over 1,000 food trucks rolling around town, but Gourdough’s doughnuts are cult dishes in Austin, served out of a vintage Airstream; go big and go for grilled banana and bacon.

Hip hotelier Liz Lambert runs the sleek Hotel Saint Cecilia and the more affordable San Jose Hotel around the corner on South Congress, which teems with organic grocery stores, vintage stores, coffeeshops, taco shacks and music venues like the legendary Continental Club .

If South Congress is the city’s hipster thoroughfare, the up-and-coming creative neighbourhood is the East Side, best seen after an afternoon touring and tasting the local brewery, Hops & Grain Brewing . Make pilgrimage to Rainey Street , a residential street turned urban phenomenon, where bars and cafes are housed in converted bungalows. In the morning, leap out of bed early to cycle the steamy 10-mile circuit of Ladybird Lake along the new hike and bike track’, perhaps cooling off at beautiful Barton Springs pool (free before 8am; £2 after), a vast spring-fed swimming pool hewn out of rock.

An expert's guide to Austin

Belfast, Ireland

Best for: making friends

Shunned by travellers for decades because of sectarian violence, in recent years Belfast has emerged as one of the most culturally vibrant and friendly city break destinations in Europe . This a big-hearted town where a lone traveller can turn up alone at a Cathedral Quarter bar like The Spaniard and find a few new friends before they’re halfway through that pint of Guinness. The Merchant remains the city’s smartest hotel, but there are a smattering of stylish and oddly affordable boutique joints, of which the Bullitt Hotel is an exemplar. Meanwhile, on the food scene, mainstays like Mourne Seafood rub up against innovative upstarts like the Muddlers Club .

The newly-minted Titanic Quarter is the city's number-one tourist draw, and the museum centrepiece is well worth a visit, as is the MAC Belfast and the Ulster Museum, which sits in the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Before the Troubles, Belfast was a relatively wealthy Victorian centre of shipbuilding, and leafy parks like Lady Dixon and Lagan Meadows provide a reminder of the city’s gentile past, all too often overlooked by visitors

Best for: surfing

In need of a short-haul sunny destination where you won’t be surrounded by families and couples? Portugal’ s enviable surf camp scene gives its coastline an altogether different vibe, where solo travellers can easily turn up alone and be clinking bottles of Sagres with new friend that evening.

With over 800km of coast, you can choose between melodramatic cliffs, stellar surf breaks, dune-covered beaches and serene sandy islets; Portugal can afford to be generous with its coastline, so no stretch feels entirely dominated by families, or couples, but a healthy mixture. Beyond the beaches, solo travellers hike the granite peaks of Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês or explore the traditional villages in the lesser-explored Beiras, increasingly on the map for wine-loving or retreat-craving travellers.

On top of the natural scenery, Portuguese cities like Lisbon and Porto are fiercely unconventional and informal compared to their Spanish, French or Italian counterparts. And festivals dominate Portugal ’s calendar, so consider planning a solo jaunt around Lisbon’s Festa de Santo António or Porto’s Festa de São João, or find a smaller jazz or rock festival down the coast.

But at any time of year you can hit the bars to hear the mournful strains of fado music, and in Portugal you’ll never dance alone.

Surfing holidays for women | How surf school can change your life

Best for: culture

It used to be fashionable to dismiss Singapore as a sterile stopover city, but frankly, those travellers weren’t trying hard enough. 21st-century Singapore is a cultural and culinary melting pot, with world-class cultural institutions, space-age green spaces and a thrillingly diverse hotel and restaurant scene. What travellers invariably love most about Singapore are the dramatic contrasts; historic Hindu temples sit at the feet of soaring skyscrapers, world-class museums have rainforest as their back garden, and crumbling 19th century shophouses now house vintage boutiques and speakeasy-style cocktail dens. Thanks to a long history of migration, Singapore is one of Asia ’s most ethnically diverse, and racially integrated, cities, with significant Malay, Indian and Eurasian minorities alongside the 74% Chinese Singaporean majority. This enables travellers to explore countless colourful cultures and cuisines without leaving the island. And one major bonus: English is the principal spoken language, so there is zero language barriers, adding to the friendliness and security of an already welcoming and ultra-safe city destination.

Step into Hong Kong in Chinatown, where the smell of sweet cured pork intermingles with the smoke from the Hindu temples at neighbouring Little India , whose Tekka Market is one of the most vibrant and colourful (and frequently Instagrammed) sights on the island. Meanwhile, in Kampong Glam, the Arab quarter, Haji Lane is lined with independent boutiques, retro barbershops and - the ultimate badge of hipster pride - a Tokyobike store, positioning Singapore alongside Copenhagen , Berlin , Melbourne and Shoreditch . Singapore is a place where European influences comfortably rub up against Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions; no other destination so successfully celebrates the marriage between East and West.

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Solo Vacations: The 20 Best Places to Travel Alone in the U.S.

These destinations make traveling solo easy — and extra fun.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Traveling alone is all about freedom and independence — freedom to go where you want, when you want, and independence in your ability to visit new places and meet new people without the crutch of a travel companion. It's not for everyone, but those willing to venture off on their own are rewarded with a compromise-free vacation and unforgettable experiences. Exciting things just seem to happen when you're traveling solo.

But where to go? If you're just testing the waters of solo travel, you might want to stay close to home, which is where these U.S. destinations come in handy. Whether you dream of a spa vacation with plenty of time to relax and reset, a trip packed with activities, or a soul-searching expedition, these U.S. destinations cater to the solo traveler, thanks to their ease of transportation and large selection of things to do.

Ready to book your next solo trip? Read on for the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

Naples, Florida

If you have your heart set on a beach vacation, consider Naples, a relatively small community in southwest Florida. There are plenty of ways a solo beach traveler can occupy themselves in Naples. You can check out the beach at Naples Pier, go kayaking in the mangroves , or hit the links at one of the area's 90+ golf courses. If you're looking for an activity that will leave a big grin on your face, book a dolphin watching cruise from Marco Island , just 30 minutes south of Naples. Plus, the city was ranked number one in a recent list of safest places to live the U.S. , thanks to its low crime rates.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston may be a big city, but it can often feel like a small town. Thanks to its walkability, you'll be able to explore the city's historic center on foot and can take the T, the local subway system, across the Charles River to Cambridge. In Boston, you'll find a wellspring of history and culture in museums like the fun Boston Tea Party Museum and the impressive Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , the site of one of the world's most famous art heists.

Boulder, Colorado

Those looking for quiet solo travel in the U.S. can spend their days exploring the mountains and hills surrounding Boulder. Eldorado Canyon State Park is just 20 minutes south of downtown, the approximately two-mile trail up Flagstaff Mountain is just 15 minutes to the west, and the iconic Flatirons (red sandstone formations) are less than 10 minutes away by car. And If you're feeling social, head to Pearl Street Mall , a bustling pedestrian-only street with some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and bars.

Portland, Oregon

Not everyone feels comfortable eating out at a restaurant alone, especially when traveling solo, but Portland makes mealtime a nonissue, thanks to its bustling food cart scene. There are many food cart parks scattered about the city where you can go and peruse a diverse offering of cuisine, from pizza to Senegalese, and enjoy your meal in a atmospheric and fun shared space. Food aside, Portland's reliable transportation, great parks, and community vibe make this city an easy choice for people traveling alone. Between the good meals, you can also enjoy the tranquility of the Japanese Garden or browse the shelves at the famous Powell's Books .

Asheville, North Carolina

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

If your perfect vacation includes hiking and biking during the day and gulping down beers with new friends at night, there's arguably no better place than Asheville, a city situated in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. Bikers will want to tackle the Blue Ridge Parkway , while hikers can head to the Craggy Pinnacle Trail (an approximately one-mile hike with serious views) or climb Mount Pisgah (2.6 miles round-trip). After a day in the mountains, reward yourself with a beer on the pup-friendly patio at Wicked Weed Brewing .

Sedona, Arizona

Traveling solo may be the only time you're able to truly check out from the grind and relax. That's why spa destinations like Sedona are so perfect for solo travelers. In addition to beautiful scenery, Sedona is packed with spas and wellness offerings. For a full resort experience, book a stay at the Amara Resort and Spa , or test out a few of the city's plentiful day spas: A Spa for You and Sedona's New Day Spa are long-standing favorites.

Charleston, South Carolina

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Art lovers will find themselves in their element in this colorful coastal city in South Carolina. The small city of Charleston is home to over 35 fine art galleries and hosts an Art Walk on the first Friday of every month. If you're hoping to make some art yourself, the French Quarter is sure to inspire, while the city's warm southern hospitality will make you feel right at home. If the temperature is right, you can even take a trip out to Isle of Palms, to enjoy some quality time on the beach.

Nashville, Tennessee

If your idea of a dream solo trip is getting out and meeting new people, book a ticket to Nashville and let the city of music connect you to others. The Basement​​ , a live music venue known for its cozy vibes and spacious patio, is a must, as is 3rd and Lindsley . Just don't leave the city without trying the spicy fried chicken at Hattie B's . A trip to Nashville is also a chance to try out one of its best hotels like the classic Hermitage Hotel.

Portland, Maine

This may be the second Portland on the list, but this one has a coastal advantage. From the seaside city you can hop on a ferry or boat charter, or eat your way through the city's best lobster rolls at Luke's Lobster . When you're not out enjoying the water or stuffing your face with deliciously fresh seafood, you can meander in and out of the shops and boutiques at the historic Old Port.

San Francisco, California

When you're traveling solo, public transportation is key (no one wants to foot the bill for a weekend full of Uber rides). That's where cities like San Francisco shine. Between Muni buses, trains, streetcars, and cable cars, you can get to every corner of the city without hopping in a cab. Surrounded by beautiful bay views and offering easy access to experience a Redwood forest in Muir Woods , there are plenty of things to do in and around San Francisco.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, and home to quaint B&Bs and beautiful Victorian homes, Bayfield is a warm and welcoming coastal destination and one of the loveliest small towns in the U.S. Solo travelers can roam the intimate downtown or head to the nearby Apostle Islands National Lakeshore , best known for its series of caves that freeze during the winter months.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Just off California's iconic Highway 1 is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small beach city on the Monterey Peninsula that will capture your heart the moment you see it. Traveling solo is no problem here, as the city offers plenty to do — surfing, sea animals, and a village-style center that feels like it belongs in a storybook. However, solo travelers may feel most at ease exploring the many art galleries like the Carmel Art Association and Bennett Sculpture .

Boise, Idaho

Boise is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Solo travelers will find riverside walking and biking trails that run right through town, skiing (in the winter) and hiking (in the summer) at the city's Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area , and easy access to mountain towns like McCall and ski areas like the rapidly growing Tamarack Resort .

Savannah, Georgia

 Marje/ Getty Images

Savannah's welcoming nature makes solo travel a breeze. If you're feeling social, join a haunted pub crawl through town or book an architectural tour . And if you're looking for a quiet escape, rent a bike and explore the history-rich city on two wheels. The best time to visit Savannah is in the fall and winter, when the temperatures are cooler and you can embrace the spooky spirit during Halloween when the city goes all out with on-theme activities .

Hot Springs, Arkansas

As you might guess, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is known for its natural hot springs, which have drawn visitors since the early 1900s. For solo travelers, there's nothing like a serene soak in the natural thermal waters found on the historic Bathhouse Row, followed by a refreshing drink of spring water and a lazy hike through the dense woods at Hot Springs National Park . In addition to the gorgeous scenery of the park, you can also discover it's unique history as a wellness destination .

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole may be home to a world-renowned ski area , mouthwatering cuisine, and high-end galleries, but you'll still find Old West-style bars where cowboys throw back PBRs (check out the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar ). It's the perfect place to throw on a Stetson and dress the part for a night or two. The town itself offers plenty to do when you're not drinking or skiing, like rodeo nights at the Jackson Hole Rodeo and incredible pastries at the James Beard-recognized Persephone Bakery .

Seattle, Washington

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If you want access to nature without sacrificing big-city amenities, Seattle offers an ideal balance. Spend a couple of days checking out Pike Place Market (don't miss a cup of mac n' cheese from Beecher's ), going to the top of the Space Needle , and visiting the Museum of Pop Culture before hopping aboard a ferry and getting away from it all. From the heart of Seattle, you can take a boat across Elliott Bay to Bainbridge Island and onto Olympic National Park , home to both glacier-capped mountains and 70 miles of wild coastline.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

It's been said that one can hardly be called an architect if they haven't designed something in Minneapolis — the city showcases work from Jean Nouvel, Herzog & de Meuron, César Pelli, and Frank Gehry, among others. The city's love of design is also noticeable in the hotel scene, where sophistication meets Midwestern hospitality. So, while it's perfectly acceptable to wander through the city looking up, you don't want to miss a cruise on one of the famous bike paths, which wind past lakes that are perfect for a dip in the summertime.

Salt Lake City, Utah

It may be Utah's largest city, but Salt Lake City doesn't feel like a giant metropolis. Maybe it's the fact that it's surrounded by mountains or the open expanse of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island State Park to the west. Either way, this friendly city has everything a solo traveler could want — great food (check out Feldman's Deli ), plenty of sun-drenched days, and easy access to both the mountains and water. Among the many things to do in town, you will also have your pick of exciting day trips to nearby state parks, or you can use the city as a launchpad to explore Utah's stunning geology at national parks like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon .

Fort Collins, Colorado

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If you're a beer lover, head to Fort Collins, a Colorado town with plenty of heart and really good beer. Start your tour of the city in the taproom of New Belgium Brewing (the company behind Fat Tire) and follow it with a pint at a few lesser-known breweries — we recommend Zwei Brewing Co. , Maxline Brewing , and Black Bottle Brewery . By the end of the day, you'll have your own beer-loving posse to explore the city with. Solo travelers will love the atmosphere of the downtown area, which is so charming it was the inspiration for Walt Disney when designing Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland.

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The Best Places to Travel Alone in the U.S. [2023 Data Study]

Alex Miller

Founder & CEO

288 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 34 U.S. States Visited: 29

Keri Stooksbury

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29 Published Articles 3088 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

The Best U.S. Cities for Solo Travel

The best u.s. cities for solo travel by category, your city guide to solo travel, methodology , final thoughts.

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Have you ever ventured into a new city on your own? While solo travel might appear intimidating initially, it offers you the liberty to explore stunning cities without the influence of fellow travel companions.

We set out to find the best places to travel alone by ranking 50 of the largest U.S. cities on 15 factors related to solo travel across 5 categories: safety, accommodation, transportation, food, and activities . From our nation’s capital to sunny Miami — keep reading to discover the most welcoming cities for solo trips around the U.S.

Miami stands out as the top city to travel alone, with a low violent crime rate of 580 per 100,000 residents and an abundance of reasonably-priced rooms on Airbnb with a Superhost at just $75 a night on average. The city’s pedestrian-friendly environment, marked by a walkability score of 77 out of 100, makes it easy for tourists to explore. Miami also offers a plethora of solo-friendly dining options, including 8 food halls and 73 food trucks per 100,000 residents. 

Orlando, Florida, shines with a remarkable 291 Airbnbs with Superhosts per 100,000 residents. It also boasts the highest number of tours — offering 195 per 100,000 residents. Everglades airboat tour , anyone? Orlando also has a thriving food truck scene, with 103 food trucks per 100,000 residents. From chicken and waffle food trucks to Mexican-style street food, Orlando has it all! These factors combine to make Orlando an ideal destination for solo trips and travelers seeking a delightful blend of excellent cuisine, accommodations, and an abundance of exciting tours.

Solo travelers have a Florida trifecta to explore, as 3 of our top 10 cities are nestled in the Sunshine State: Miami, Orlando, and Tampa.

Washington, D.C., excels with an impressive walkability score of 98 out of 100 and a flawless public transit score of 100. There’s no shortage of tours in our nation’s capital either (71 per 100,000 residents) in every mode of transportation imaginable, such as hop-on, hop-off buses, electric carts, and river cruises. D.C. is an ideal destination for museum enthusiasts, and with 11 food halls, you’ll have no trouble satisfying your culinary cravings as you explore. 

Certain cities are better options when traveling alone than others. Some cities are safer due to their low violent crime rates, while others are cheaper to fly into, with low-price accommodations better suiting the solo traveler. Find out which cities have earned their bragging rights among the best places for solo travel in the following categories. 

Fewest Violent Crimes

Cities boasting the fewest violent crimes per 100,000 residents include:

• Virginia Beach, Virginia — 112 crimes per 100,000 residents
• Honolulu — 261 crimes per 100,000 residents
• Providence, Rhode Island — 394 crimes per 100,000 residents

Safety is key, especially when traveling alone. You should feel equally comfortable whether picking up a morning cappuccino in a new city or navigating the streets after dark.

Highest Number of Airbnb Rooms With Superhosts

Cities leading the way with the highest number of Airbnb rooms with Superhosts per 100,000 residents are:

• Orlando — 291 rooms per 100,000 residents
• Salt Lake City — 180 rooms per 100,000 residents
• Miami — 178 rooms per 100,000 residents

Supherhosts live and breathe hospitality, going above and beyond to create a welcoming experience for their guests and offer helpful recommendations. Booking a room on Airbnb over an entire place is also a cost-efficient option for someone traveling solo.

Highest Number of Tours

Cities boasting the highest number of tours per 100,000 residents include:

• Orlando — 195 tours per 100,000 residents
• New Orleans — 170 tours per 100,000 residents
• Miami — 164 tours per 100,000 residents

From Wynwood mural tours in Miami to steamboat jazz cruises in New Orleans , tours offer the solo traveler a way to see a lot of a city in a short amount of time. 

Highest Number of Airbnb Experiences

Cities with the highest number of Airbnb experiences per 100,000 residents include:

• Miami — 48 experiences per 100,000 residents
• Honolulu — 46 experiences per 100,000 residents
• New Orleans — 29 experiences per 100,000 residents

Airbnb Experiences typically involve group activities, providing a fantastic opportunity to connect with friendly people during your solo travels. From pasta-making classes to horseback riding adventures — you’ll be sure to make new friends on your trip.

Highest Walkability Scores

Cities with the highest walkability scores are:

• Washington, D.C. — 98 out of 100
• San Francisco — 89 out of 100
• New York — 88 out of 100

There’s nothing quite like exploring a city on foot. We gauged walkability on a scale of 0 to 100, factoring in accessibility to various destinations like parks, restaurants, and retail stores. 

Highest Public Transit Scores

Cities with the highest public transit scores are: 

• Washington, D.C. — 100 out of 100
• New York — 89 out of 100
• San Francisco — 77 out of 100

Effortlessly hopping on and off the subway is a convenient way to navigate from midtown to downtown without relying on an Uber. Transit accessibility was evaluated on a scale from 0 to 100, taking into account factors such as the frequency and type of routes available.

Lowest Average Airfare

The most budget-friendly cities to fly into, based on the lowest average airfare are:

• Las Vegas — $269.92
• Orlando — $274.08
• San Jose, California — $306.68

While a solo road trip can be enticing, there’s nothing quite like the convenience of flying to your destination for an enjoyable getaway on your own.

Ready to spread your solo travel wings? Explore how your current city measures up, or consider booking a ticket to one of the enticing cities across the U.S.

We’ve compiled our full data study for all 50 U.S. cities analyzed into the interactive data table below. Simply search for a specific city or click on the column headings to sort the data by your preferred category!

To unveil the finest cities for solo travelers, we analyzed 50 of the largest U.S. cities. These cities were ranked across 15 distinct factors and categorized into 5 key groups: safety, accommodation, activities, transportation, and food.

For each of these factors, cities were assigned a score ranging from 0 to 5, with a score of 5 signifying the most favorable conditions for solo trips. We determined each city’s total score from the total of its individual factor scores, which were weighted according to their impact on the solo travel experience. Individual factor scores were then added together to give each city a final score ranging from 0 to 50. Higher scores indicated that a city is especially welcoming for solo travelers.

Ranking factors include:

Certain cities have the perfect ingredients for a rewarding solo trip. Destinations like Miami, Orlando, and D.C. have secured top positions on our list for good reason. These cities share key characteristics, including walkable streets, an abundance of solo-friendly dining options, and a plethora of affordable Airbnb accommodations. So, why wait? Take the plunge and start planning your solo adventure today!

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Best Solo Travel Destinations: Real Solo Travelers Love These

January 31, 2023 by Janice Waugh

Solo Traveler publishes articles that are specifically for solo travelers. This is our expertise. We are not generalists. We are specialists. Solo travel is all we write about. So, along with contributions from our readers, we are pleased to offer the best destinations for solo travelers as recommended by real solo travelers. Below are great places to go alone.

Anyone can be a solo traveler. The destination that is right for you depends on who you are, your interests, physical abilities, financial resources, time available, and travel experience.

That last point, travel experience, is especially relevant in determining a great destination for solo travelers. If you're an experienced traveler, all you have to do is get used to handling everything yourself. If you are new to travel and new to solo travel, there's more to learn and you'll want easier places to go alone.

It is because there is not just one kind of solo traveler that we call upon our readers to help determine a variety of “best” destinations for solo travelers. This list is not the subjective view of one writer. It is compiled with the help of many solo travelers. Join over 260,000 members of the Solo Travel Society to share your experience and opinions as well.

The list of solo travel destinations below is broken into two categories, one for those who are new to travel and one for experienced travelers. Obviously, anyone can use either; these lists are just a guide.

The really great thing about this list is that the destinations are all solo traveler tested.

Table of Contents

Places to Go Alone for New Solo Travelers

1. Barbados for Beach-loving Solo Travelers

Two readers recommend Barbados for a solo trip, touting beautiful ocean views, beaches, snorkeling, and friendly locals. Euronews has declared it a hot spot for 2023. There are many festivals including the Oistins Festival celebrating the local fishing industry every Easter, the Crop Over Festival for the end of the sugar cane harvest in the summer, and the Barbados Food and Rum Festival in October. Read Solo Travel Destination: Barbados .

2. Dublin, Ireland for Celtic-loving Solo Travelers

Dublin is a destination that any solo traveler will love. The city and its people have their own, welcoming personality. If your heritage reaches back to Ireland, you'll love the Epic Museum that shows the influence of the Irish diaspora internationally. If it's just a bit of fun you're looking for, you can't beat Irish Whiskey, Guinness, and guided pub crawls. Literature? It's there too. Dublin is a great place to go alone. Read  Solo in Dublin: A Fantastic Destination to Explore .

3. The Antarctic Expedition for Adventure-loving Solo Travelers

Since you can only go to Antarctica on a formal expedition or cruise, this magnificent trip recommended by one of our readers makes it onto the list for best destinations for new solo travelers. As she says, “Exploring Antarctica is the trip of a lifetime! … While it is very expensive, it's ideal for solo travelers, because many ship operators offer shared cabins.” Read Solo Travel Destination: Expedition Cruise to Antarctica .

4. Corfu for Greek Culture and Beach Culture in One

Corfu, one of the most popular Greek islands for visitors, is part of the Ionian island group in western Greece and is easily accessible from Italy and Albania. This reader shares how she visited Corfu and why she enjoyed it so much. Solo Travel Corfu: Exploring an Ionian Island .

5. England's Lake District for Nature-loving Solo Travelers

This was one of my first destinations as a solo traveler and it was absolutely perfect. I got there by train from London and stayed in Ambleside for a week. I walked the fells every day, went to the pub at night, and connected with the locals. It was relaxed and yet interesting. Read Plan Your Visit to the Lake District .

6. Nashville, Tennessee for Music-loving Solo Travelers

There's no such thing as bad music in Nashville. A mecca for musicians of all kinds, even the most touristy of honky-tonks on Broadway have fabulous musicians. Many of them play at the Grand Ole Opry on a regular basis, which is another option you can consider. But there's more in Nashville. There's the Country Music Hall of Fame, sporting events to go to, a great food scene, and more. See  Affordable Nashville: 32 Free and Low-cost Tips .

Best Destinations for Experienced Solo Travelers

All the destinations listed above are great for all solo travelers. However, if you are an experienced solo traveler you may want to go to more challenging places with cultures and languages that are unfamiliar and/or where English-speakers are less available. Below are trips that are all solo traveler tested a great places to go alone.

7. Turkiye for those Who Want Beaches and History

Forbes added Türkiye as one of the 5 hot destinations for 2023. As a solo traveler, this destination is more of a challenge than most due to its decidedly non-western language and culture. But that's also what makes it great. At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, it offers delicious food, fascinating history, ancient ruins, as well as gorgeous beaches and sweeping landscapes. How interesting it is whether you explore it as an individual or on a group tour as King did. He has some tips for you here: First Solo Trip to Turkiye? How to Enjoy it Above & Below Ground .

8. Egypt for those with a Fascination with Ancient Civilizations

Egypt made National Geographic's list for 2023 and, given that King visited recently, it has made ours as well. The Avenue of the Sphinxes in Luxor opened just last year, and Giza’s Grand Egyptian Museum is expected to open this year. It will feature the full collection of King Tutankhamun and many other artifacts from ancient Egypt. Read about King's experience here: Exploring Cairo: Sandstorms, Surprises, and a Sphinx .

9. Italy, Slovenia, Croatia on a Three-country Road Trip

This is an exciting road trip into Slovenia, Croatia, and Italy. As a road trip in unfamiliar territory it is challenging but so worth it. Slovenia and Croatia are still emerging destinations and this trip takes you through parts of Italy that are not on most itineraries. Read Planning a Road Trip Around the Adriatic: Slovenia, Croatia & Italy .

10. Patagonia, Chile for Nature Lovers of all Hiking Levels

Chile is a great destination in South America. Santiago is sophisticated with an excellent transit system, wonderful restaurants, and great public spaces. From there, I traveled by bus to Puerto Montt to take the Navimag Ferry to Patagonia. Chile is an easy stretch for experienced solo travelers. Here are Tips for Solo Travel in Patagonia .

11. Rajasthan, India for a Deep Cultural Experience

I will never ever forget my trip to India. It was an amazing experience. Challenging, yes, but rewarding in many ways. I gained a real appreciation for how different a culture can be. It was likely the most dramatic culture difference I have ever experienced and yet it was not that difficult. I also changed my way of eating. I became vegetarian. Read Complete Guide: Places to Visit in Rajasthan .

Best Solo Destinations to Match Your Travel Style

Before getting into specific destination suggestions, some of the best places to go for new and experienced solo travelers, I want to point you to guides we have written with destinations for particular travel styles.

What you want to do, or what you need to do, can affect which destination is best. This is why we have written a variety of posts that zero in on destinations for relaxation, to save money, to stir your creativity, and more.

These posts will give you suggestions for places to go alone that might be more appropriate given your particular needs or interests.

Budget Solo Travel – Best Budget Destinations for Solo Travelers: 2023 Shortlist Every year we do a lot of research and update this list. In doing so, we consider the cost to get there, costs on the ground, and safety issues. We provide suggestions on different continents.

Relaxing Destinations – Relaxing Places to Travel Alone: Water Destinations Sometimes travel is intense and we need a holiday from our holiday. Not the destinations suggested in this guide. Most are recommended by our readers. They are places you can go for relaxation and return renewed.

Solo At the Beach – Going to the Beach Alone: How to Manage Your Stuff, Relax & Enjoy This is a companion piece to our water destinations guide above. It's hard to relax if you're worried about your stuff. This post will help.

Travel Solo into Nature – Solo Hiking: What You Need to Know to Hike Alone Solo hiking can be relaxing and energizing at the same time. However, it requires a bit more thought than your typical relaxing holiday. This post gives you what you need to know to hike alone, including tips for packing, gear, and great destinations.

Ancestry Travel – Discover Family Heritage through Travel Understanding your family history is about understanding you. Here’s your guide to ancestry travel and your family heritage.

Creative Solo Travel – Creative Travel Tips: Discover More of a Destination and Yourself Solo travel is a perfect opportunity to expand your horizons and try something new. In this guide, you'll learn how to explore local art forms and enjoy new insights into yourself and your destination.

Solo Travel to Feed Your Soul – Destinations for Poetry Lovers: Travel that Feeds the Soul North American destinations for poetry lovers listed state by state and province by province.

Resorts for Solo Travelers – Going to a Resort Alone: How to Enjoy an All-Inclusive Solo So often, people think of resorts for couples and families but not for solo travelers. This is just not the case. This post will help you get all the benefits of a resort solo.

December Holidays – 45+ Solo Travel Destinations for Christmas and New Year’s If home is not where you want to be for the December and January holidays, this post is for you. Over 45 destinations are recommended by us and our readers as places you'll want to travel alone.

Winter Travel Solo – Winter Solo Travel: Destinations, Planning, and Packing Some of us don't want to head for warmer climes during the winter. Some of us embrace the snow and cold for fun. Here's your guide to top destinations and how to plan for the best winter trips.

Summer Solo Travel – Summer Solo Travel: Great Destinations, Good Times Guaranteed Our recommendations for 15 summer solo travel destinations month by month. Australia to Iceland and points in between, where to go and why.

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Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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The 15 best places to travel alone

There’s nothing like gallivanting around the globe on your own. These are the best solo travel destinations in the world

Nothing sounds quite as liberating as upping sticks and going to see the world, at whatever pace, and for however long you want. The freedom of only being tied to your own schedule is the beauty of travelling solo, and it seems like lots of us are catching on. 

Travelling the world alone has only grown in popularity since we came out of pandemic restrictions, with many of us adopting the ‘life’s too short’ mindset, and working up the courage to just book that damn flight. And why shouldn’t we? There’s such an abundance of places to travel solo, some so glorious that you won’t even notice you don’t have company. 

Of course, there are some things to consider if you’re jetting off solo. Safety, especially for women travellers , is an important element to factor into your planning, among plenty of other aspects that need weighing up. We’ve done our research: here is our list of the best solo travel destinations in the world. 

RECOMMENDED:  🧗‍♀️ The best destinations for solo female travel ☀️ The prettiest islands in the world 🌆 The  best cities in the world  🖼️ The most beautiful places in the world

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The best places to travel alone

1.  Iceland

The aptly-named ‘land of fire and ice’ is a magnet for nature fanatics, and perfect for those travelling solo. An abundance of caves, caverns, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and geysers should be plenty to keep you occupied, as the landscape and scope of this Nordic island is second to none. The country’s charming capital, Reykjavik , is jam-packed with activity – why not add the Blue Lagoon or the Laugarvatn Fontana to your to-do list for some solo relaxation? And the best thing about Iceland for solo travellers is the safety. The country is named time and time again named  one of the safest places for travellers , thanks to low crime rates and a generally accepting society. It’s definitely one for the bucket list.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Iceland

2.  East Coast Australia

It goes without saying that Australia is absolutely massive. Mahoosive. Ginormous. And while that fact might make it seem daunting, particularly for those of us travelling solo, most of the action is concentrated on the East Coast. There are plenty of classic routes that run from Adelaide to Brisbane and beyond, allowing intrepid explorers to visit a variety of exciting towns that each seem to have their own magnificent ocean view. Australians are famously sociable, too, so meeting new people will never be an issue in this isolated corner of our beautiful planet.

📍 Discover the best places to visit in Australia

3.  Botswana

For those keen to explore the wonders of Africa, Botswana is likely your best bet. The country has a wealth of wildlife to appreciate and observe, with nearly 40 percent of its land area being devoted to national parks. The Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert and Chobe National Park are world-renowned safari spots, home to everything from giraffes to rhinos. Botswana is also a politically and economically steady nation, and ranks highly on safety indexes for African countries. This, plus the fact that many Botswanans speak excellent English, makes it a great destination to navigate on your solo travels.

4.  Canada

Canada ’s name is one thrown around most often when it comes to solo travel. The population has a worldwide reputation for their friendliness, and the country has everything you could want from a travel destination. Incredible off-the-grid adventure opportunities like visiting the Rockies, Niagara Falls and Banff National Park offer up plenty to see for intrepid globetrotters. However, Toronto is considered one of the world’s most multicultural cities, and Vancouver is famed for its unique urban design, stunning surroundings and the fact it's on the doorstep to some incredible nature. The weather? Not so great, but the people? Incredible.

5.  Vietnam

Vietnam ’s unique beauty and complicated history make it a compelling travel destination, particularly for those doing so alone. The country has grown into a popular travelling hotspot, and that’s led to a thriving social scene – the well-established tourist route means it should be really easy to meet like-minded travellers to journey alongside. Ha Long Bay, Hanoi and the Ha Giang Loop are three of the nation’s tourist highlights. There are also great transport networks, it’s budget-friendly and full of hostels. What more could you ask for when you’re travelling alone?

📍 Discover the  best things to do in Vietnam

6.  Portugal

Portugal’s most popular spots frequently pick up travel awards and plaudits alike, and the hype is not without good reason. Lisbon is a backpacker’s dream, while the dreamlike beauty of Porto attracts wide-eyed adventurers from all over the world.  The Algarve is much more than its budget holiday destination suggests, and the rest of the country is packed with stunning sights and spots. This European treasure boasts 800km of coastline, and it’s a particularly surfer-friendly paradise, thanks to the fact it’s perched on the edge of the Atlantic.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Portugal

7.  Chile

In South America, Chile leads the way in terms of quality of life, and unsurprisingly, lowest crime rate. It’s the perfect destination for people travelling alone thanks to its tight-knit community of backpackers, and, of course, abundance of sights to see. Atacama, the driest desert in the world, is located in the north, while there’s plenty to see in Santiago, the nation’s capital. You won’t go thirsty either, thanks to the fantastic Chilean repertoire of beer and wine. It’s also considered one of the best places in the world for stargazing, thanks to its high altitude.

8.  Slovenia

Small but perfectly formed, Slovenia is a tremendous destination for solo travellers. The old ‘four seasons in a day’ adage is very much alive and well in a place where you can spend the morning skiing in the Alps before heading for a romantic solo sunset on the Adriatic at Piran. The capital, Ljubljana, is the perfect base for exploration, a city of friendly people and social spots an easy bus or train from Slovenia’s famous lakes and less-famous postcard villages. Pro tip: pick up a €15 IZLETka train ticket and get unlimited travel on the weekends.

📍 Discover four Slovenian getaways that are good for the planet

9.  New Zealand

New Zealand is a country that just gets things right. For one, it takes its reputation as one of the safest countries in the world very seriously, meaning travellers can explore in total security. But it isn’t usually safety that brings individual adventurers to New Zealand ; instead, it’s the dazzling landscapes, buzzing towns and cities and convivial people that make NZ the place it is. All of the bigger towns are backpacker paradises filled with history, culture and booze (the great trifecta of backpacking), and the scenery in between is staggering.

📍 Discover the best things to do in New Zealand

10.  Ireland

Irish storytelling is world-famous, immortalised in the novels of Joyce, Stoker, Wilde and the rest. Spend an evening in any Dublin pub and you will almost certainly hear a tale for the ages, as locals spin yarns and transport listeners to a world within a world, one pint at a time. The friendly hospitality of the Irish guarantees good conversation, while the stunning breadth of nature here allows for tranquil walks and plenty of room to think, ideal for solo travel. Getting around also couldn’t be easier, as it looks like Irish railway services are about to be amped up .

📍 Discover the best things to do in Ireland

11.  Japan

It can often feel as though Japan has been organised with solo travellers in mind. The efficiency of its transport links is as legendary as such things can be, allowing vagabonds all the time in the world to hit up the gripping cities and out-of-this-world scenery. (Check out our Japan rail itinerary if you’re planning to see the place by train.) The Japanese are among the friendliest in the world, the food is incredible and the whole experience is exactly that: an experience. It’s also another country that is consistently ranked the safest destination in the world for solo travellers .

📍 Discover the best things to do in Japan

12.  Greek Islands

No matter your preferred form of travel, a spot of island-hopping in Greece is almost a rite of passage for any traveller. That’s why you’ll meet everyone from excitable backpackers to considered veterans of the road here, each with a different story to tell. The Greek Islands are gorgeous and lush, not to mention packed with excellent food. Each one seems ready to capture your heart and convince you to stay forever and ever. Kefalonia and Corfu are the most popular and thus offer endless social opportunities, while the serenity of Naxos and Icaria will appeal to more introverted explorers.

📍 Discover the best Greek islands

13.  Bhutan

What could be safer than a culture so infused with Buddhism? Bhutan is definitely a place to include on your list should safety be one of your top priorities. The Trans Bhutan Trail reopened in 2022 , meaning travellers can follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and monks who trod the 400km route. The architecture is awe-inspiring, and the tiny country is of course perched on the very edge of the Himalayas, meaning the views are truly unmatched. There’s also tranquil lakes, luscious green valleys and dazzling glaciers to admire. Take heed: you will need some extra cash to splash in Bhutan, as the country has a pretty steep tourist tax .

14.  Croatia

Another super-safe solo-friendly destination is this jewel of the Adriatic. Boundless glorious beaches, fascinating mediaeval towns and relatively low prices are what Croatia has become so popular for. The nightlife is another perk of this place – the festival calendar is absolutely jam-packed, and Croatian cities are known for their cheap drinks and plethora of party spots. Eight national parks are also dotted around the country. Like waterfalls? There’s a whopping 90 of them at Plitvice Lakes,  though if you want a dip, head to the smaller falls at Krka National Park instead. Croatia is also an underrated wine producer and, of course, a hotspot for  Game of Thrones  fans.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Croatia

15.  Singapore

The phrase ‘melting pot’ is ridiculously overused, but one place that’s truly worthy of the label is Singapore . The island nation is a glorious meeting of different cuisines and cultures, with a landscape characterised by ancient temples and towering glass skyscrapers. Singapore is also incredibly safe, according to 96 percent of locals who we surveyed last year for our annual list of the world’s best cities . There are plenty of hostels if you’re wanting to meet other travellers. Spend your time soaking up the year-round tropical climate, and make sure to go on a food tour through Singapore’s  markets . 

📍 Discover the best things to do in Singapore

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Best Places to Solo Travel – All 193 Countries Ranked (2023)

The problem with online lists that rank the best places to solo travel is that they’re all subjective. Your idea of what makes for an outstanding solo travel destination might be very different to the writer’s idea.

So, I’ve spent the last month gathering objective data from all over the internet to bring you Nomadic Yak’s official list of the best solo travel destinations – ranking all 193 countries in the world (as recognised by the UN) based on 15 criteria. 

Each country was assessed on the availability, cost and ratings of: accommodation, attractions, day trips, group tours, national parks, transport and safety for solo travellers.

Countries that score highly have lots of hotels, attractions and tours for solo travellers. They are also more affordable, accessible (e.g. more transport options) and safer to travel alone.

This does not mean that you should not travel alone to the countries that rank lower on this list. It just means that lower-ranking destinations are better suited to adventurous solo travellers (e.g. seeing wild gorillas in the Congo or tribal celebrations in Papua New Guinea).

Table of Contents

The Best Places for Solo Travel (Table)

• All 193 Countries Ranked
• Worst Places to Travel Alone
• How I Created the List
• More Solo Travel Tips

Sort by Best Overall (does not factor cost) or Best Value (does factor cost).

The “Best Overall” score does not take into account the cost of accommodation, attractions and transport. It is a good score to sort by if you are not overly concerned about the cost of your solo trip.

The “Best Value” score does take into account the cost of accommodation, attractions and transport. It is a good score to sort by if you are wanting to minimise the costs of your solo trip.

Click the name of the country or see below for more information on attractions, accommodations, tours, costs, safety and more.

Best Places to Solo Travel – All 193 Countries Ranked

[1-19] | [20-39] | [40-59] | [60-79] | [80-99] | [100-119] | [120-139] | [140-159] | [160-193]

Overall Score: 87.74 | Value Score: 81.49 Most popular attraction: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Croatia is the best place to travel alone in the world – beckoning solo travellers with its blend of Mediterranean coastal charm, Balkan history and outdoor adventures. 

Sail the enchanting Dalmatian Islands, dive into the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea and snorkel the mesmerising Blue Cave. Wander through the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik, discover the cascading beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, and unravel the secrets of Diocletian’s Palace in Split.

There are more than 7,500 hotels to choose from in Croatia. The average accommodation rating is 8.90/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $108.40 per night.

There are also more than 8,000 attractions to visit in Croatia. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.58/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $40.36. Plus, Croatia boasts 3,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $86. 

If you’re interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Croatia, there are more than 250 organised tours available. The average group tour lasts 8 days and costs $1,793 (about $253 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 83, Croatia ranks as the 19th safest destination for solo travellers.

2. New Zealand

Overall Score: 87.51 | Value Score: 79.89 Most popular attraction: Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

It’s little wonder why New Zealand is ranked as one of the best places to solo travel – venture through the landscape that inspired The Lord of the Rings, soak away in natural spas and get your heart rate racing with extreme sports.

Skydive or bungee-jump in the adventure capital of Queenstown and poke in and out of Hobbit Holes at Hobbiton. Hike the otherworldly Tongariro Crossing and explore the magical glowworm caves in Waitomo. Then dive into Maori culture at the Te Papa Museum in Wellington or experience a traditional Maori feast in Rotorua.

There are more than 2,700 hotels to choose from in New Zealand. The average accommodation rating is 8.37/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $121.85 per night.

There are also more than 8,000 attractions to visit in New Zealand. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.65/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $34.01. Plus, New Zealand offers more than 1,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $114. 

If you’re interested in joining a multi-day group tour of New Zealand, there are more than 250 organised tours available. The average group tour lasts 9 days and costs $1,566 (about $179 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 90, New Zealand ranks as the 5th safest destination for solo travellers.

Overall Score: 87.29 | Value Score: 81.98 Most popular attraction: Schönbrunn Palace

Austria captivates solo adventurers with its Alpine vistas, Baroque architecture, and rich cultural heritage of classical music and art.

Discover the imperial splendour of Vienna by strolling through Schönbrunn Palace gardens before attending a performance at the Vienna State Opera. Indulge in a slice of Sachertorte or wash down a wiener schnitzel with a stein. Hike amidst the stunning Austrian Alps in Innsbruck and visit the fairytale-like Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart.

There are more than 4,400 hotels to choose from in Austria. The average accommodation rating is 8.33/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $99.95 per night.

There are also more than 10,000 attractions to visit in Austria. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.69/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $16.97. Plus, Austria offers more than 1,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $126. 

If you want to join a multi-day group tour of Austria, there are more than 250 organised tours available. The average group tour lasts 6 days and costs $1,075 (about $166 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 92, Austria ranks as the 4th safest destination for solo travellers.

Overall Score: 87.24 | Value Score: 82.07 Most popular attraction: Brandenburg Gate

A diverse history spanning 600,000 years makes Germany one of the best solo travel destinations in the world – a land of mediaeval castles and half-timbered towns to modern cities filled with beer halls and buzzing art and music scenes.

Dive into history at the Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate, admire the Gothic architecture of Cologne Cathedral, and explore the historic beauty of Neuschwanstein Castle. Revel in the lively atmosphere at the Oktoberfest in Munich or take a relaxing cruise along the picturesque vineyards of the Rhine River.

There are more than 22,000 hotels to choose from in Germany. The average accommodation rating is 8.23/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $111.25 per night.

There are also more than 40,000 attractions to visit in Germany. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.66/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $29.36. Plus, there are more than 2,000 day tours running in Germany, with the average cost of a day trip being $58. 

If you’re looking to join a multi-day group tour of Germany, there are more than 250 organised tours available. The average group tour lasts 7 days and costs $1,193 (about $150 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 85, Germany ranks as the 15th safest destination for solo travellers.

Overall Score: 86.03 | Value Score: 83.00 Most popular attraction: La Sagrada Familia

Spain ranks as one of the best countries for solo travel with its passionate flamenco rhythms, stunning Mediterranean beaches, Moorish history and culinary treats like tapas and paella.

Revel in the flamenco rhythm of Seville, visit the masterpiece of Sagrada Família in Barcelona, and wander through the narrow streets of the Albaicín in Granada. Bask in the sun at the beautiful beaches of Costa del Sol or venture to the picturesque islands of Ibiza and Mallorca for a blissful escape.

There are more than 25,000 hotels to choose from in Spain. The average accommodation rating is 8.35 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $86.05 per night.

There are also more than 60,000 attractions to visit in Spain. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.68/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $17.56. Plus, Spain boasts 10,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $87. 

If you’re looking to join a multi-day group tour of Spain, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 8 days and costs $1,188 (about $153 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 83, Spain ranks as the 23rd safest destination for solo travellers.

Overall Score: 85.76 | Value Score: 79.58 Most popular attraction: Universal Studios Japan

Japan captivates solo adventurers with its juxtaposition of ancient traditions and futuristic technology, serene Shinto temples, bustling urban centres and steamy yokocho alleyways.

Experience the serenity of Kyoto’s traditional tea ceremonies, marvel at the futuristic cityscape of Tokyo, and immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Shibuya Crossing. Explore the ancient temples in Nara and soak in an onsen for a relaxing respite in the picturesque Japanese countryside.

There are more than 13,000 hotels to choose from in Japan. The average accommodation rating is 8.27/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $105.10 per night.

There are also more than 100,000 attractions to visit in Japan. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.53/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $14.61. Plus, Japan boasts over 3,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $193. 

If you’re interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Japan, there are 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 10 days and costs $2,711 (about $278 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 83, Japan ranks as the 22nd safest destination for solo travellers.

7. Cambodia

Overall Score: 85.76 | Value Score: 82.86 Most popular attraction: Angkor Wat

Cambodia is not only one of the best places for solo travel but it is also one of the cheapest – beckoning solo explorers with its ancient Khmer culture, ancient temples, lush jungles, laidback islands and communist horrors.

Embark on a spiritual journey at the majestic Angkor Wat – visit the mysterious Bayon Temple and witness the sunset over the temples of Ta Prohm. Experience traditional Khmer cuisine in the bustling markets of Siem Reap or relax on the idyllic shores of Sihanoukville. Then learn from the terrors of Pol Pot’s communist regime at the Killing Fields in Phnom Penh.

There are more than 1,100 hotels to choose from in Cambodia. The average accommodation rating is 8.59/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $60.70 per night.

There are also more than 3,000 attractions to visit in Cambodia. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.62/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $24.20. Plus, Cambodia boasts 1,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $41. 

If you’re interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Cambodia, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 9 days and costs $992 (about $120 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 68, Cambodia ranks as the 76th safest destination for solo travellers.

Overall Score: 85.73 | Value Score: 80.43 Most popular attraction: Acropolis of Athens

Greece entices solo travellers with its sun-drenched islands, ancient ruins, and a delightful Mediterranean lifestyle of olives, ouzo, and hospitality.

Get sun-drenched on the idyllic beaches of Santorini, explore the ancient ruins of the Acropolis in Athens, and wander through the narrow alleys of charming old towns like Nafplio. Indulge in mouthwatering Greek dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, and baklava while savouring the vibrant atmosphere of local tavernas.

There are more than 11,800 hotels to choose from in Greece. The average accommodation rating is 8.32/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $151.25 per night.

There are also more than 10,000 attractions to visit in Greece. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.72/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $14.27. Plus, Greece offers 8,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $164. 

For those interested in joining a group tour of Greece, there are 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 9 days and costs $1,926 (about $220 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 73, Greece ranks as the 57th safest destination for solo travellers.

Overall Score: 85.59 | Value Score: 84.10 Most popular attraction: Bran Castle

Romania is a hidden gem for solo travel, boasting mediaeval castles, Transylvanian folklore, and the majestic Carpathian Mountains.

Discover the fairytale-like castles of Transylvania, including Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend. Explore the vibrant streets of Bucharest, known as “Little Paris,” and embrace the natural wonders of the Carpathian Mountains or the mystical beauty of the Painted Monasteries in Bukovina.

There are more than 8,100 hotels to choose from in Romania. The average accommodation rating is 8.72/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $117.25 per night.

There are also more than 5,000 attractions to visit in Romania. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.65/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $10.27. Plus, Romania boasts 1,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $42. 

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Romania, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 7 days and costs $1,525 (about $215 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 80, Romania ranks as the 37th safest destination for solo travellers.

10. Australia

Overall Score: 84.96 | Value Score: 75.16 Most popular attraction: Sydney Opera House

Australia’s vast outback, golden coastline, curious wildlife and laid-back lifestyle make it one of the best places to solo travel.

Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, hike through the majestic Blue Mountains, and witness the beauty of Uluru at sunrise. Kick back on Bondi Beach in Sydney, indulge in the cafe culture of Melbourne, and the laid-back charm of the Gold Coast. And don’t miss the chance to see Australia’s kangaroos, koalas and crocodiles.

There are more than 7,700 hotels to choose from in Australia. The average accommodation rating is 7.99/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $238.55 per night.

There are also more than 40,000 attractions to visit in Australia. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.67/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $78.59. Plus, Australia boasts over 4,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $96.

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Australia, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 8 days and costs $1,255 (about $157 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 86, Australia ranks as the 13th safest destination for solo travellers.

11. United Kingdom

Overall Score: 84.93 | Value Score: 78.37 Most popular attraction: London Eye

The United Kingdom entices solo travellers with its mediaeval history, iconic landmarks, and a charming mix of bustling cities and serene countryside.

Wander through the historic streets of London, marvel at the majestic beauty of Edinburgh Castle, and witness the mysterious Stonehenge. Experience the artistic vibe of Manchester or indulge in the literary heritage of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare.

There are more than 21,600 hotels to choose from in the United Kingdom. The average accommodation rating is 8.13/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $128.75 per night.

There are also more than 80,000 attractions to visit in the United Kingdom. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.62/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $35.56. Plus, the United Kingdom offers over 7,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $162.

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of the United Kingdom, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 11 days and costs $2,171 (about $192 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 77, the United Kingdom ranks as the 49th safest destination for solo travellers.

Overall Score: 84.77 | Value Score: 80.93 Most popular attraction: Trevi Fountain

Even since ancient times, Italy has been considered one of the best places for solo travel, with its ancient Roman ruins, delectable pastas and pizzas, classical art and timeless charm.

Marvel at the architectural wonders of Rome, including the Colosseum and Vatican City, and get lost in the enchanting canals of Venice. Explore the Renaissance art in Florence, indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, and bask in the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast.

There are more than 49,400 hotels to choose from in Italy. The average accommodation rating is 8.51/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $86.60 per night.

There are also more than 100,000 attractions to visit in Italy. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.73/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $17.21. Plus, Italy offers over 20,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $114.

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Italy, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 8 days and costs $1,658 (about $202 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 77, Italy ranks as the 46th safest destination for solo travellers.

13. Tanzania

Overall Score: 84.39 | Value Score: 69.15 Most popular attraction: Serengeti National Park

The diverse wildlife of the Serengeti, the snowy peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Bantu culture make Tanzania the best country for solo travel in Africa.

Embark on a safari adventure in Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro Crater and spot lions, rhinos, leopards, elephants and buffalo. Stand in awe at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro and immerse yourself in rich Maasai culture before unwinding on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar.

There are more than 1,600 hotels to choose from in Tanzania. The average accommodation rating is 8.67/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $242.45 per night.

There are also more than 6,000 attractions to visit in Tanzania. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.56/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $71.98. Plus, Tanzania boasts 1,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $211.

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Tanzania, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 8 days and costs $2,632 (about $339 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 59, Tanzania ranks as the 92nd safest destination for solo travellers.

Overall Score: 84.37 | Value Score: 78.96 Most popular attraction: Torres del Paine National Park

Chile is easily amongst the best solo travel destinations with its Mapuche culture and stunning landscapes, from the otherworldly Atacama Desert to the ancient glaciers of Patagonia. 

Explore the vibrant street art scene in Valparaíso, witness the surreal beauty of the Torres del Paine National Park, and experience the bohemian atmosphere of Santiago. Sample Chilean wine in the fertile valleys or indulge in fresh seafood along the Pacific coast. You could even venture out to see moai stone heads on Easter Island. 

There are more than 4,300 hotels to choose from in Chile. The average accommodation rating is 8.49/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $219.55 per night.

There are also more than 6,000 attractions to visit in Chile. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.63/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $27.21. Plus, Chile offers 1,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $93.

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Chile, there are 240 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 8 days and costs $2,636 (about $333 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 79, Chile ranks as the 40th safest destination for solo travellers.

15. Ireland

Overall Score: 83.94 | Value Score: 77.94 Most popular attraction: Giant’s Causeway

A land of myths and legends, Ireland calls to solo adventurers with its rolling green hills, sheer white cliffs, lively pub culture and Celtic history.

Explore the iconic Cliffs of Moher, visit the historic castles of Dublin, and immerse yourself in Irish folklore at the Ring of Kerry. Embrace the friendly atmosphere of traditional Irish pubs and savour dishes like Irish stew and colcannon.

There are more than 1,300 hotels to choose from in Ireland. The average accommodation rating is 8.17/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $115.15 per night.

There are also more than 10,000 attractions to visit in Ireland. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.62/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $17.24. Plus, Ireland boasts over 1,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $88.

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Ireland, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 7 days and costs $1,734 (about $246 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 83, Ireland ranks as the 21st safest destination for solo travellers.

Overall Score: 83.91 | Value Score: 79.27 Most popular attraction: Niagara Falls

The vast and diverse landscape of Canada is the perfect solo travel destination thanks to its breathtaking national parks, French-Canadian cities and friendly locals.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the majestic Rocky Mountains, experience the multicultural ambience of Toronto, and explore the historic charm of Old Quebec City. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors, from hiking to whale watching. And don’t miss your chance to shred Canada’s world-famous ski resorts.

There are more than 5,500 hotels to choose from in Canada. The average accommodation rating is 7.82/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $101.20 per night.

There are also more than 40,000 attractions to visit in Canada. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.66/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $28.27. Plus, Canada offers over 2,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $120.

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Canada, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 9 days and costs $2,420 (about $264 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 88, Canada ranks as the 9th safest destination for solo travellers.

17. Costa Rica

Overall Score: 83.83 | Value Score: 79.57 Most popular attraction: Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio

Costa Rica is one of the best places to solo travel (particularly for nature lovers and Americans) – a paradise of billowing volcanoes, powerful waterfalls, lush rainforests and pristine beaches across 28 national parks. 

Explore the diverse wildlife in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, zip line through the lush canopies of Arenal Volcano National Park, and unwind on the beautiful shores of Manuel Antonio National Park. Embrace the country’s eco-consciousness and enjoy sustainable tourism experiences.

There are more than 2,600 hotels to choose from in Costa Rica. The average accommodation rating is 8.47/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $95.10 per night.

There are also more than 5,000 attractions to visit in Costa Rica. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.68/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $16.09. Plus, Costa Rica boasts over 3,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $103.

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Costa Rica, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 10 days and costs $1,741 (about $182 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 64, Costa Rica ranks as the 84th safest destination for solo travellers.

18. Sri Lanka

Overall Score: 83.42 | Value Score: 82.07 Most popular attraction: Sri Dalada Maligawa

Sri Lanka is an island paradise that allures solo travellers with its ancient temples, golden beaches, lush tea plantations and abundant wildlife like elephants and leopards.

Explore the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Sigiriya, go on a safari adventure in Yala National Park, and visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. Savour the flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine, from spicy curries to hoppers, and relax on the beautiful shores of Mirissa or Arugam Bay.

There are more than 6,977 hotels to choose from in Sri Lanka. The average accommodation rating is 8.59/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $100.55 per night.

There are also more than 8,000 attractions to visit in Sri Lanka. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.58/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $37.34. Plus, Sri Lanka offers over 5,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $55.

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of Sri Lanka, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 10 days and costs $1,299 (about $126 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 60, Sri Lanka ranks as the 90th safest destination for solo travellers.

Overall Score: 83.29 | Value Score: 76.66 Most popular attraction: Eiffel Tower

Solo travellers fall in love with France’s Gothic architecture, slow pace of life, and world-renowned cuisine.

Wander through the romantic streets of Paris, visit the iconic Eiffel Tower, and explore the magnificent Palace of Versailles. Indulge in delectable French foods, from croissants and escargot to fine wine and cheese, before spotting Mona Lisa in the Louvre or snapping a photo of the Arc de Triomphe.

There are more than 46,200 hotels to choose from in France. The average accommodation rating is 8.16/10 and the average price of a room for a solo traveller is $232.90 per night.

There are also more than 80,000 attractions to visit in France. The average rating for the top 15 attractions is 4.64/5 and the average price of entry for a solo traveller is about $26.31. Plus, France boasts over 6,000 day tours, with the average cost of a day trip being $104.

For those interested in joining a multi-day group tour of France, there are more than 250 organised tours to choose from. The average group tour lasts 7 days and costs $2,023 (about $284 per day) for a solo traveller.

With a safety score of 64, France ranks as the 85th safest destination for solo travellers.

The Best Places to Travel Solo in 2023

With travel well and truly back in our lives, there’s no better time to book a solo trip. I spent my twenties living out of a suitcase, calling many cities and countries home for a time. Whether I was renting an apartment in the heart of Berlin during October or spending a week learning how to make macarons in Paris, I’ve certainly learned first hand which cities and countries are the best for solo travelers. So here we have the best places to travel solo in 2023 across the globe.

The best places to travel solo in 2023

I’m sure you’re wondering, what exactly makes a destination good for solo travelers? Overall, I’ve chosen these destinations based on how they rank across a few key categories. Those that offer safety, affordability, accessibility, diversity of attractions, and social opportunities are those we have chosen as being ideal destinations for solo travelers.

So, without further ado, these are the best places to travel this year if you are a solo traveler.

Known for its hospitality, safety, and efficient transportation system, Japan is a popular destination for solo travelers. There are plenty of things to see and do, including exploring ancient temples, visiting bustling cities, and indulging in delicious Japanese cuisine.

Favourite city: Kyoto

Favourite attraction: Fushimi Inari Shrine

Best for: Train travel with ease

Iceland is a great place for those looking to enjoy the beauty of nature. It’s also a safe and easy country to travel in, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, whale watching, and exploring ice caves. Although the climate can be harsh and changeable, that really just adds to the excitement of an Iceland road trip.

Favourite city: Reykjavik

Favourite attraction: Diamond beach

Best for: A scenic road trip

New Zealand

With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and laid-back atmosphere, New Zealand is a great destination for solo travelers. The country is also known for its adventure activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and white-water rafting.

Favourite city: Queenstown & Wanaka (tie)

Favourite attraction: Roy’s Peak Wanaka

Best for: A slow roadtrip in a van

Costa Rica is a great destination for solo travelers who love nature and adventure. The country is home to lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and plenty of opportunities for activities like surfing, zip-lining, and hiking.

Favourite city: Puerto Viejo

Favourite attraction: Manuel Antonio National Park

Best for: A relaxed atmosphere & immersion in nature

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a city that is easy to navigate and has a lot of attractions for solo travelers. From the Van Gogh Museum to the Anne Frank House, there is plenty to explore. It’s also known for its laid-back atmosphere, making it a great place to meet other travelers.

Favourite attraction: Van Gogh Museum

Best for: An urban escape with small town charm

If you’re in search of a country in Europe that is flying under the radar, look no further than Slovenia . From being home to the most underrated European capital city ( Ljubljana ) to a whimsical lake said to be the most romantic on the continent ( Lake Bled ), there are plenty of things to see and do across the country. A week is the optimum time to explore by train or rental car.

Of all the best places for solo female travel, Bali has got to top that list. There is perhaps nowhere else on earth as soul-fulfilling as Bali. My favourite area to stay is in Canggu, which has become really popular over the last few years. Regardless, it is still here where you will find the best cafes and co-working spaces, so it is perfect for female entrepreneurs!

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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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10 top spots for solo travelers in winter (or any other time of year)

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

Trekking to Machu Picchu is just one of many South American adventures that's perfect for solo travelers © Getty Images / iStockphoto / Andres Jacobi

The idea of traveling alone can be daunting if you've never taken a solo trip before. Checking in for your outbound flight is easy – it's only when you arrive alone in an unfamiliar destination that it all becomes real. But any initial doubts are fleeting. By the time you've checked into your hotel and hit the streets looking for your first meal, nerves will already be giving way to the thrill of being somewhere new.

A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether you're embarking on an epic multicountry trip or taking an impulsive city break, some places are more suitable for a solo travel experience than others. There are destinations that are naturally suited to solitude, and destinations where travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people.

Best of all, there are solo travel destinations in every corner of the globe, so you can take a solo trip in the depths of winter as easily as you can at the height of summer. Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, organized by interest. Whether you’re into raves, relaxation, hiking or sightseeing, these spots are certain to get your solo travel adventure off on the right foot.

South America: best for solo adventures

With mountains to climb, rivers to raft, ancient ruins to uncover and jungles to explore, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. And the northern hemisphere's winter is South America's summer – the prime time to visit Patagonia and the Andes. From well-trodden paths in Argentina , Chile and Brazil to virgin jungle trails in Ecuador and Colombia , the continent has something for every kind of adventurer. You'll certainly never struggle for company on the trek to Machu Picchu !

Don’t let the continent's size daunt you – with easy border crossings and well-established traveler hubs, South America is ideal for solo overlanding. The well-worn Gringo Trail, which takes in the continent’s most popular destinations, ensures recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction. This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes solo travel simple.

Epic solo travel experience : Mountain biking down Bolivia ’s infamous Death Road (the name is an exaggeration, in case you were worried) and debriefing with your fellow riders over a few beers afterward.

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

Whether you loved or loathed Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal solo travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love , there’s no denying that Bali has a special magic. The island's artistic and spiritual center, Ubud , is where the author found love (and presumably ate and prayed) and it remains a wonderfully laid-back place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. And Bali is a year-round destination – summer is peak season, but the island has a quieter and calmer charm in winter.

Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud attracts throngs of solo travelers, meaning no probing glances if you arrive alone at a morning yoga class or ask for a table for one in one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes. To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills around town.

Epic solo travel experience : Getting up super early before the heat climbs to join a holistic class – you find lessons in everything from yoga and meditation, and you can follow up with a massage at a tried and tested spa such as Taksu Spa .

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

Some say you are more likely to get into Berghain , the most famous nightclub in Berlin , if you arrive alone. Whether or not that’s the case, the rumor demonstrates the German capital’s natural affinity for solo travelers. Legions of solo citybreakers are drawn by Berlin's deserved reputation as one of the friendliest, most inclusive cities in Europe, and by its famous nightlife.

Berlin is one of the best places in Europe to party, offering a collection of colossal clubs and graffiti-spattered beer gardens, but going clubbing is just one of many things to do in Berlin. Thought-provoking history surrounds you from the moment you arrive, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Holocaust Memorial , while quirky cafes, cool boutiques, weekend flea markets and a growing food-truck scene provide more leisurely delights. Berlin is an easy place to wander alone, or join a walking tour for some company.

Epic solo travel experience : Heading out to a bar or nightclub and seeing where the night takes you. For some guided imbibing, join a beer tour with Brewer's Berlin Tours or Berlin Craft Beer Experience .

East Africa: best for a group tour

Have you always dreamed of viewing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda , meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya  or spotting the “Big Five” in Tanzania , but were daunted by the logistics of tackling East Africa independently? A group tour can simplify the experience of visiting this stunning region of the world, and provide a buffer for the sometimes challenging experiences Africa can throw at first-timers.

East Africa’s tourism infrastructure is well developed and traveling solo in most countries here is quite achievable (particularly in Kenya and Tanzania), but joining a group tour means you can bundle together a string of big game-viewing safaris in multiple countries, without getting hit by additional lone traveler charges or facing the daunting prospect of arranging multiple tours and transport.

Best of all, tours in these bucket-list destinations attract a diverse group of travelers, meaning you’re much less likely to be the only solo traveler sandwiched between canoodling couples, or the only 20-something in a coach full of empty-nesters.

Epic solo travel experience : Catching the great migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya – an almost Lion King -esque parade of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and predators.

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

With all manner of cultural attractions to explore, a growing collection of hostels and guesthouses, loads of free things to do , and one of the world’s best public transport systems (including excellent airport links), there are few more stress-free solo travel experiences than landing at Singapore 's award-winning Changi airport on a tropical afternoon.

Whether you choose to amble with an audio guide through the Chinatown Heritage Centre , gawp at the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay , plunge into a lavish rooftop pool, or join the hordes feasting in Singapore's hawker food courts , the city is perfectly suited to solo travel. An added bonus is the city's cosmopolitan attitude – locals don't bat an eyelid at the daily influx of international arrivals, and there are few hassles and scams to worry about.

Epic solo travel experience : Checking out the cozy cafes and quirky boutiques in the gentrified 1930s housing estate of Tiong Bahru .

Rome, Italy: best for culture

From ancient icons such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that is St Peter’s Basilica , Rome ’s cityscape is a kaleidoscopic canvas of artistic flair, architectural wonderment and historical marvels. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two months, there's so much to see that there's little risk of becoming bored.

Though English is not as widely spoken as in some European nations, it’s hard to feel lonely among the 14 million other tourists who visit this cultural hub each year. And solo dining means you only have to worry about keeping one palate happy in Rome's fabulous restaurants . But don’t pack too much into your itinerary, as Rome rewards relaxation; mingling with strangers over a glass of vino at sunset is an essential pastime in The Eternal City.

Epic solo travel experience : Visiting St Peter’s Basilica and walking the 7km (4.3 miles) of artwork-filled halls that comprise the Vatican Museums .

Portland, Oregon: best city break

One of the USA 's hippest hubs, Portland has all the cultural advantages of a major metropolis, but the down-home intimacy of a small town. This affable attitude reverberates in the town’s urban wineries, microbreweries and coffee shops, where conversation flows quicker than the drinks can be poured. And with its patchwork of small, friendly neighborhoods , it's easy to discover this easy-going city one district at a time.

There’s more to this bastion of counterculture than its love of a good chinwag, with a host of whimsical attractions highlighting its quirky streak, from a museum dedicated to vacuum cleaners to an urban herd of goats. It’s also a cinch to navigate, with good public transport and a popular bike-share scheme. And while Portland is famous for its artisan restaurants, a more sociable – and undeniably more fun – way to dine is at the city’s 500-or-so street food carts.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the Alberta Arts District; for the company of fellow art enthusiasts, time your visit to coincide with the Last Thursday art walk .

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

It's a close-run thing, but for solo foodie travel, one destination stands above all others for travelers who view the world through the prism of a knife and fork. The capital of northern Thailand – and once the center of an independent kingdom – Chiang Mai offers the entire Thai package in one compact location: stellar food, rich culture, ancient ruins, responsible elephant encounters , relaxed nightlife and an easy-going traveler scene that's easy to plug into.

Every time of day is snack time in Chiang Mai. From the city's impressive northern Thai restaurants to its fun-filled and frenetic night markets and hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving the city's famous kow soi soup, the city always has a fork or spoon in hand. What makes Chiang Mai especially suited to solo travelers is its collection of cooking schools – ideal places to meet new people and learn how to cook up a perfect bowl of phat thai , green curry or hot and sour tom yam soup.

Epic solo travel experience : Learning to cook Thai food, of course! Most courses start with a market trip so you can learn to identify local ingredients before you start pounding herbs and spices to make your own curry paste ( Small House Chiang Mai is one recommended school).

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

Enchanting atolls aren’t reserved for honeymooners. Pastel-hued, car-free Caye Caulker has always been a great place for solo travelers thanks to its compact size and easy-going, backpacker-friendly vibe, which draws a relaxed, international crowd in search of a less commercialized slice of paradise.

It’s easy to lose days lounging at The Split , the island’s premier beach, but there are plenty of other activities on offer, from snorkeling and diving on teeming reefs to kayaking to lesser-visited parts of the island while keeping a beady eye out for crocodiles. 

Join other travelers at local reggae bars during the afternoon happy hour before sampling Creole-style street food come nightfall. What's arguably the greatest blessing of solo travel? You don’t have to share your shrimp and swordfish dinner!

Epic solo travel experience : Snorkeling or diving in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve , which teems with turtles and small sharks.

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

It would actually be hard to explore the East Coast of Australia alone. So many travelers follow the snaking stretch of road that runs from Sydney to Cairns that solitude is often harder to find than companionship. For travelers in search of natural wonders, excellent infrastructure, abundant tours and group activities and raucous late-night revelry, there are few places to match it.

But it’s not just the good-time vibe that makes this stretch of coastline so spectacular. The classic road trip route is studded with bucket-list attractions, from lolling on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach to rambling through the ancient Daintree Rainforest or blowing bubbles on the Great Barrier Reef . Consider renting a car to explore – the most memorable moments will likely come from interactions with locals in coastal surf towns and one-pub villages in the Outback an hour or two inland from the coast.

Epic solo travel experience : Joining a tour with the East Coast's Indigenous people. Tours led by guides from Aboriginal communities will show you a less-seen side to this well-explored land.

You might also like: Female solo travel: what it's like to travel solo at every age How Black LGBTIQ+ travellers navigate a challenging world What it's like traveling with kids as a single parent

This article was first published November 2017 and updated December 2021

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Home » Blog » Our Top Destinations for Solo Travel in 2023

Our Top Destinations for Solo Travel in 2023

23 Sep 2022

9 Minute Read

At Not In The Guidebooks , we are huge advocates for solo travel . And whilst travelling alone can be one of the most liberating, thrilling experiences of a lifetime as you discover destinations at your own pace and rhythm, solo travel doesn’t necessarily mean travelling alone.

A solo travel experience could be anything ranging from trekking a remote mountain range alone in Kyrgyzstan, to joining a bunch of adventurous, like minded travellers on a surfing holiday in Spain . All that matters is that you expand your horizons, meet new people and travel on your own time, doing the things you want to do and visiting the places you want to see.

With all this in mind, let’s take a look at some of our top destinations for solo travel in 2023, to give you some inspiration for your next unforgettable adventure.

Solo Travel in Europe

For many, the easiest continent to hope from country to country is also the easiest to set off on a solo travel expedition.

Whether you decide you’re going to interrail from city to city, settle on one country and explore the off the beaten track towns and villages that lie in rural heartlands, or join a group of other travellers to discover a new corner of the continent, wherever you look there are wonderful solo travel opportunities in Europe.

1.      Granada, Spain

Situated at the foot of the might Sierra Nevada mountain range in the southern Spanish region of Andalucía, Granada is the perfect city for anyone on the hunt for a solo holiday in Spain that gets them to the very heart of authentic Spanish culture.

With an incredible history and beautiful architecture, it’s a treat to explore on your own as you wander the narrow alleyways and lanes, but there’s also a bohemian buzz to the city in its many bars and cafes that lend a real energy to the city.

Combine learning Spanish to truly integrate yourself into the culture of the city with hiking in the stunning mountains, flamenco workshops with professional dancers, or learning to cook truly authentic Spanish food, all with other travellers who share your passion for the new.

2.      Lake Garda, Italy

There’s something undeniably alluring about Lake Garda in Italy, perched as it is in the spectacular setting of Alpine greenery with snow-capped mountains glistening in the distance. For those who want to be truly alone when they travel, the lake itself can offer an escape on kayaking trips, or you can head into the mountains for some breath-taking hikes.

And for those who want to experience a thrill and a buzz in a more cosmopolitan sense, there are jaw-droppingly beautiful towns situated all around this lakeside paradise serving up some of the best food and wine in the country at every turn.

To really immerse yourself in this culinary culture, meet other food-obsessed travellers on a cooking holiday in Lake Garda , where you can master authentic Italian cooking whilst enjoying this most beautiful of natural settings.

3.      Lisbon, Portugal

Setting aside the fact that the Portuguese capital is one of the most compelling travel destinations on earth as it is, the life and vibrancy you’ll find on the cobbled streets and winding stairways of Lisbon makes it the perfect place to visit if you’re a solo traveller ready to mingle with the locals.

With so much to explore by day, with fresh seafood restaurants by the harbour and panoramic views over the city from any of the seven hills the city sprawls over, and then a maze of fado houses, wine bars and bustling dives to explore by night, Lisbon is ready-made for solo adventures.

Its proximity to the coast also makes it the ideal city from which to enjoy a surfing holiday in Portugal , where you can spend your days learning to master the waves, and your evenings enjoying Lisbon’s legendary nightlife with other, like minded travellers.

Popular Solo Traveller Holidays

Spanish & Hiking in Granada

Italian Cooking in Lake Garda

Solo travel in latin america and africa.

If Europe is your first consideration for a solo travel adventure then that makes complete sense, but for those looking to get a little further afield, there are destinations ready-made to provide the perfect experience for independent travellers.

From golden sand beaches in Central America to white-washed towns on the Atlantic coast of Africa, there is a treasure trove of destinations out there to discover, but we’ve tried to narrow that exhaustive list down to just three of our favourites for 2023.

1.      Buenos Aires, Argentina

There are few cities on earth that can live up to Buenos Aires when it comes to just how much of a good time you can have within a set of city limits. It’s a city that crackles with energy in a haze of smoke from parilla cooking succulent steaks and the blinding flares of fanatical football fans, where you can find an untold number of hidden gems like quiet, dusty bookshops, and covered markets serving up a huge variety of Argentinian culinary treats.

Of course, all this makes Buenos Aires perfect for a solo holiday. Whether you spend your time seeking out late night jazz clubs, joining in the breathless pace of Buenos Aires club culture, or deep-diving into the chequered and fascinating history the city boasts, you are never short on options.

For those looking for other people to share their experience of the city with, one of the best ways we believe it can be done is by throwing yourself into tango culture , a dance that defines the locals personality and identity – and there are plenty of options for solo travellers to do just that on their Argentinian adventure.

2.      Essaouira, Morocco

An ancient, unspoilt port town on the west coast of Morocco , Essaouira has retained its delicate blend of Berber, Chiadma and colonial influences for centuries now, and a visit to this beautiful, blue-trimmed collection of ancient medinas and narrow lanes.

It makes a wonderful base for anyone on the hunt for authentic Moroccan culture, whether you stroll along the harbour engulfed in the scents of grilling seafood, or wander the spice-scented lanes that lie in the maze of alleys, you’re sure to find the very best of the slow-paced, coastal Moroccan lifestyle here.

And whether you want to hit the waves on a surf holiday , learn to master classic Moroccan dishes on a cooking holiday, explore the region on horseback or even simply learn to capture your surroundings like a pro on a photography holiday, Not In The Guidebooks will be able to point you in the right direction to find people that share your passion.

3.      Puntarenas, Costa Rica

This isn’t exactly one single destination (the actual town Puntarenas doesn’t have a huge amount to shout about), but as a region, this stretch of Pacific coastline along the west coast of Costa Rica is a seemingly endless stretch of palm-fringed beaches, jungles alive with wildlife and small, fishing villages set against blood-red sunsets across the ocean.

Here you could easily explore for as long as you wished, enjoying a Costa Rican wildlife holiday in the twisted mangrove forests, seeking out thrills at any of the numerous high rope courses, or simply lazing each day away and drinking in the slow, easy pace of life afforded to you by a tropical climate and a simple way of life.

If you want to push the boundaries with other travellers who have made it to Puntarenas , then a surfing holiday is the perfect way to do it, or learn to enjoy every moment with yoga sessions in a natural setting that create that perfect zen moment, where you can really feel as if you’ve properly got away from it all.

Here at Not In The Guidebooks , we scour the globe for incredible experiences and itineraries that help you have the most memorable holidays of your life. Whether that’s going on a family adventure with your older kids to somewhere like Thailand , Namibia or even Greenland , or heading on a solo adventure to surf and learn Spanish with a group of like-minded travellers, what ties all our experiences together is that they aren’t your typical tourist trip.

With Not In The Guidebooks, we show you the local, authentic side to a destination by putting you in touch with the people who know best – the locals. With them as your guides, you know that you are spending your time enjoying the very best that their home has to offer, and will leave having not just seen a place, but experienced it.

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by Elizabeth Gorga January 23, 2024

• While Abroad

Solo travel can be intimidating. After all, planning an overseas adventure with another person can be daunting enough when it comes to organizing flights, accommodation, visas, and travel routes.

It’s tough being stuck at home—let your dreams of future travel keep you motivated!

Handling all of the nitty gritty on your own makes the whole process a little extra overwhelming, and it holds so many wanderlusters back from traveling the world and exploring their dream destinations.

But do you know the hardest part of solo travel? It’s making the decision to go.

You won’t always have a travel buddy, but this should never hold you back from exploring the world. Even if you do, solo travel is a unique experience that everyone should have at least once.

So leave your partner at home, part ways with your friends for a while, and take a trip that is just for you . No matter your gender, nationality, age, or sexuality, there are plenty of beautiful, culturally-rich solo traveling destinations around the world where you’ll feel safe to explore on your own terms.

KEEP READING: 15 Best Solo Trips to Bookmark for Later

Why travel alone.

If the hardest part of solo travel is making the decision, just say yes and let the rest fall into place. Traveling alone is a totally different travel experience than you’ve had before, as you can make your own decisions and worry only about what you want to do.

It means finding your own rhythm. You are in control, both physically and financially, and your trip can be whatever you want it to be.

You’ll become more confident, assertive, decisive, adaptable, and independent—all the things that come with international travel, but to an even higher degree because you’re forced to figure it out on your own.

And while alone time might sound scary, there is no better way to get to know yourself and appreciate the company you keep.

11 best destinations to travel alone

Wondering where to travel solo? According to GoAbroad, here are the best countries for solo travel that will make every dream come true.

Can’t wait to get out there and start exploring again? Neither can we!

The USA’s northern neighbor is a mecca for solo travelers and one of the best countries to travel alone. Canada is perfect for outdoorsy travelers—from wild tundra to lush rainforest, rugged mountains to coastal beach towns.

The locals are friendly and laid back, and there is so much to explore, whether you want to gain a cultural experience in the cities or immerse yourself in nature. Depending on your nationality, it can be easy to get a work visa if you’re part of the Commonwealth, which means you’re bound to meet other solo travelers.

So if you’re lucky, maybe your short-term solo trip will turn into a year abroad, spending winters shredding down mountains and summers kayaking on crystal clear rivers.

• When? July through September for optimal weather
• Activities? Adventure travel , work abroad
• Try This Program: EA Ski and Snowboard Instructor training

First-time solo travelers who have always dreamed of a Eurotrip will find that England is one of the best solo travel destinations. The country is safe, modern, easy to navigate, and English-speaking, minimizing the culture shock that goes with exploring a new destination abroad.

Solo travelers can get the quintessential British experience in London, filled with red telephone booths, straight-faced guards at Buckingham Palace, and tea shops on every corner. Others may opt to venture outside of the capital city and soak in the culture of Cambridge and Bath, or explore the beautiful coastline in Cornwall.

• When? All year round
• Activities? Au pair , study abroad , intern abroad
• Try This Program: Intern in London with The Intern Group

3. Netherlands

The Netherlands’ super-chilled-out vibe and liberal lifestyle makes it one of the best solo travel destinations for every type of traveler, no matter your age, nationality, gender, or sexuality. Everyone is accepted here.

Amsterdam continues to make every list of the best destinations to travel alone because of how easy it is to hang out solo. You can rent a bike and explore canal-lined streets, sip lavender lattes in cozy cafes, gorge on mouthwatering stroopwafels at local markets, and meet friends in hostels to go out with and explore the epic nightlife.

• When? April to mid-October
• Activities? Study abroad , intern abroad , work abroad
• Try This Program: Europe Tour with Gapforce

Iceland? Yep—it’s worth the wait.

The mostly-frozen Nordic island of Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, so solo travelers can put their minds at ease. Iceland is small and intimate, the kind of place where everybody knows everybody, and the locals will help you out no matter where you want to go. 

Nature lovers will be in heaven with opportunities to explore black sand beaches, epic fjords, active volcanoes, and even sleep under the Northern Lights. While the country is on the more expensive side, Iceland continues to be one of the top solo traveling destinations because of how easy it is to get around as a tourist without worrying much about safety.

• When? July and August for warm weather and midnight sun; February, March, September, and October for views of the Northern Lights
• Activities? Volunteer abroad , adventure travel , study abroad
• Try This Program: Nature Tour with Worldaway Adventure Tours

5. Thailand

Southeast Asia is a major hub for backpackers, and Thailand is a top spot for every traveler’s SE Asia route. It’s cheap, easy to travel around, and there’s a little something for every traveler, making it one of the best solo travel destinations.

City lovers can get lost in the crazy streets of Bangkok, while others may opt to travel north to Chiang Mai to explore over 300 Buddhist temples. Perhaps you’ll choose to disappear into the foothills of Pai, a tiny hippy village where you can spend your days riding motorbikes through canyons or nestled into a bookstore with a hot cup of chai.

And of course, you won’t want to miss the islands in the south where you can snorkel over insane reefs and dance until sunrise on the beach under the full moon.

• When? December for optimal weather and tons of festivals
• Activities? Volunteer abroad , teach English abroad , adventure travel
• Try This Program: Volunteer with ELI Abroad

6. Nepal  

Nepal typically attracts travelers for picturesque climbs in the Everest and Annapurna regions. While these trails are definitely worth the visit, Nepal is much more than Himalayan mountains. 

The Nepali people welcome every type of traveler with open arms, hoping to make you feel at home and show you the best parts of their country. It’s one of the most religiously harmonious countries in the world, making it one of the safest destinations to travel alone.

You can visit Buddha’s birth place, practice yoga where it originated, or laze about with other solo travelers in the lakeside village of Pokhara. Not only is Nepal one of the best countries to travel alone, but it will pull on your heart strings and you’ll never want to leave.

• When? Mid-October to mid-November
• Activities? Volunteer abroad , adventure travel , teach English abroad
• Try This Program: Volunteer with IVHQ

7. Sri Lanka

Don’t forget to pack a journal for trips like these!

This tiny island south of India is another one of the top solo traveling destinations in Asia. Sri Lanka is a predominantly Buddhist country, meaning locals are friendly and accepting of every type of traveler, no matter where you come from.

While Sri Lanka is often overlooked by solo travelers in Asia, it is starting to become a hot spot because of how easy it is to travel the country solo.

Whether you prefer to spend your time on white sand beaches, surfing in crystal blue waters, or immersed in the undeveloped hill country for adrenaline-pumping hikes and picturesque train rides, Sri Lanka’s natural beauty will not disappoint.

• When? December to March for west and south coasts, April to September for east and north coasts
• Activities? Adventure travel , volunteer abroad , teach English abroad
• Try This Program: Gap Year with Oyster Worldwide

8. New Zealand  

New Zealand features some of the most stunning, untouched natural scenery, from its snow-peaked mountains to turquoise lakes lined with purple lupins. Nature alone will make you feel at peace, but that’s not all these islands have to offer.

New Zealand draws solo travelers from around the globe with its working holiday program, allowing under 30s to spend a year working and traveling through the North and South islands. 

Rent a campervan and hit the road to visit Hobbiton in the north and glaciers in the south. Get your adrenaline fix in Queenstown, where you can ski, abseil, or bungy jump in canyons. And if you ever start to feel lonely, book yourself into a hostel dorm and you’ll be sure to leave with a road trip buddy.

• Activities? Work abroad , au pair , adventure travel
• Try This Program: Working Holiday Visa with BUNAC

9. Australia

Similar to New Zealand, Australia offers a working holiday visa that makes it easy to visit the Land Down Under and get a true cultural experience through working abroad. With a massive backpacker scene, Oz is one of the best solo travel destinations—especially if you have access to a car.

Road tripping is perfect to do alone, or with new mates you’re bound to meet in the many hostels along the coasts. Follow millions of backpackers on the east coast pilgrimage, making pit stops to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, surf in Byron Bay, wander Circular Quay, and visit beach towns on the Great Ocean Road.

While it is a more expensive destination, it’s easy to make your money back with the working holiday visa program.

• Activities? Work abroad , study abroad , au pair , intern abroad
• Try This Program: Intern in Melbourne with the Intern Group

There’s more to Peru than Machu Picchu.

Always dreamed of going to South America? Peru is one of the best destinations to travel alone in South America, with diverse cultures, climate, and a big backpacker scene.

Not only is it easy to meet new people, but you’ll also have access to tons of bucket-list-worthy spots, from the Inca Trail to the Amazon Rainforest. While its reputation for safety may not match that of New Zealand or Iceland, Peru is still a fairly safe destination in this part of the world.

Be sure to brush up on your Spanish before you go, and keep your wits about you, as you would with any international travel.

• When? December to February, especially on the coasts
• Activities? Language immersion , study abroad , volunteer abroad
• Try This Program: Learn Spanish with Cross-Cultural Solutions

11. Botswana

Certain parts of Africa may get a bad rap when considering where to travel solo, but Botswana is plenty safe and one of the best countries for solo travel in Africa. It screams adventure with some of the greatest wildlife on the planet.

Explore the Okavango Delta, where big cats roam freely, or cruise in a four-wheel-drive through the Kalahari Desert, the largest stretch of unbroken sand in the world.

The safari lodge system makes Botswana an ideal location for glamping, and the roads are better than anywhere in Africa, making it easy to get around and explore the country to the fullest. The best part: rather than hanging with other travelers, you’ll find yourself making friends with elephants instead. 

• When? May to September
• Activities? Adventure travel , work abroad , volunteer abroad
• Try This Program: Volunteer with Volunteer World

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Take time for yourself with these solo traveling destinations.

The open road is still out there and waiting for you.

Solo travel isn’t all puppies and rainbows, but it’s definitely a unique travel experience that will help you grow as a person and quench your soul’s deepest desires. Sure, it’ll be intimidating at first, but if you dive headfirst into the unknown, you won’t regret it.

Whether you’ve always dreamed of a legendary Eurotrip, living on the cheap in Southeast Asia, road tripping through gorgeous natural scenery, or immersing yourself in a completely new culture, you can have it all with solo travel.

There are incredible destinations to travel alone all over the world. So what are you waiting for?

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The 2023 solo travel index

Traveling alone can be one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences of someone’s life. You can explore different cultures and open your mind to new ways of living while also meeting new people. Exploring the world on your own terms gives you the opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. You’ll be forced to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and navigate unique and exciting civilizations. You’ll also have complete control over your itinerary, so you are free to travel on your own time and to the places you really want to visit. Pop your bags into luggage storage upon arrival and jump straight into a new city, from the capital of Croatia, Zagreb to Malta’s Valletta . Traveling on your own can however be a pretty daunting experience, and knowing where the best places to explore solo can be tricky to pin down. Luckily, for those thinking of embarking on a solo adventure, we have analyzed a number of popular destinations around the world to uncover which are the best, safest, and most affordable for solo travel in 2023.

The best countries for solo travel in 2023

1. Croatia - 7.58/10 Solo Travel Score Croatia is home to some absolutely stunning natural beauty, from its crystal-clear waters, and scenic national parks, to its beautiful coastal towns. The country also boasts a number of olive groves, pine tree forest trails, and exquisite sandy beaches. Croatia likewise provides residence to the iconic Pearl of the Adriatic, the city of Dubrovnik , one of the country's most popular places to visit. For solo travelers, there is an abundance of outdoor activities on offer across the country, including hiking, swimming, kayaking, and sailing opportunities. Or, for food lovers, there are 17 restaurants per 100,000 people, so you’ll always be able to find fresh and delicious seafood here. You can expect to find affordable accommodation in this country too, with average hostels costing $14.31 (£11.52 / €13.26). Croatia is also one of the safest on our list for solo travelers, with a safety index rating of 75.4/100 and a crime index score of 24.6/10. Reflecting on our 2021 solo travel study , Croatia has jumped three places, claiming the top spot for 2023. 2. Malta - 7.05/10 Solo Travel Score Malta is known for its historical ties to multiple dynasties and the many fortresses and temples that they’ve left behind throughout the years. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, between Sicily and the coast of North Africa, Malta has exceptional weather, with a high average temperature of 67.3°F and low average rainfall of 414mm per year. With its rich cultural and historical heritage, Malta has many ancient sites and landmarks to explore, especially on your own, and the country offers a whopping 353 attractions per 100,000 people. Solo adventurers can take as much time as they like to soak up the fantastic history and culture of the island. Malta’s capital, Valletta , is particularly well known for its stunning Baroque palaces, gardens, and churches. In 2021, Malta also ranked in second place, proving its continued popularity as a solo travel hotspot. 3. Slovenia - 6.66/10 Solo Travel Score With plenty of adrenalin sports on offer, Slovenia attracts the more adventurous traveler and those who love the outdoors. Slovenia has the beauty of Austria and Switzerland without the tourists and it is also much more affordable, coming in at around $23.40 (£18.85 / €21.68) per night for a hostel. Slovenia has some amazing natural beauty too, hosting a variety of scenic mountains and coastlines in the heart of Europe. The country is home to 80 natural thermal springs and healing waters, making it a popular destination for solo adventurers big into health and wellness retreats. This destination also has a strong safety index score of 75.8, paired with a crime index score of 24.2, making it one of the safest destinations on our list. Slovenia has seen a significant jump in its ranking, moving up a total of six positions since 2021.

The best country for…

Attractions - Iceland (583 per 100,000 people) Iceland ranks as the country with the most attractions per 100,000 people on our list, so you’ll know you will never be bored traveling solo in this country. You can find the most thrilling geological landscapes in Reykjavík , Iceland’s capital, from volcanoes and geysers to hot springs and fjords. Why not also take a trip to Iceland’s infamous Blue Lagoon - a geothermal spa located in a lava field, famous for its milky blue waters and rejuvenating properties?

Restaurants - Singapore (212 per 100,000 people) Singapore is well-known for its exceptional cuisine and variety, from classic Malaysian laksa and Indonesian satays all the through to southern Indian curries and spicy Chinese stir-fries. Singapore’s thriving blend of cultures and cuisines drives its bustling street markets and exciting restaurant scene which demand to be explored.

Cost of public transport - Sri Lanka ($0.16 / £0.13 / €0.15 average cost of a one-way public transport ticket) As a solo traveler, you’re likely to need to make use of public transport to get around. Of the countries we analyzed, Sri Lanka had the most affordable price for a one-way ticket, at just $0.16 (£0.13 / €0.15). Sri Lanka is a beautiful country home to a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, including Adam's Peak.

Cost of a hostel stay - Nepal ($3.60 / £2.90 / €3.34 average cost of a nightly hostel stay) For solo adventurers on a budget, Nepal is your best choice. You can find cheap hostel stays in Nepal for around $3.60 / £2.90 / €3.34 per night. Purse strings can be tight for any adventurer, but this can be especially true for solo travelers who cannot share travel costs.

Number of hostels - Croatia (19.44 per 100,000 people) Croatia has the most hostels for its population at 19.44 per 100,000 people, so, you’ll always be able to find an affordable place to stay on your next visit to Zagreb . Hostels are a great place for solo adventurers, as they provide you with a great opportunity to meet new people who are also on an adventure of their own.

Safety - Japan (76.9 index score) Japan has the highest safety rating of the countries we’ve analyzed here, meaning the more safety-minded adventurer will feel right at home in cities such as Tokyo and Osaka . Japan also retains the lowest crime index score at 23.1/100. One of the safest countries you can visit, Japan is perfect for solo travelers who like a peace of mind while they travel without company.

Temperature - Singapore (average of 82°F year-round) Weather is always a big consideration for travelers and Singapore has the highest average temperature of the countries we analyzed at a massive 82°F. However, if you’re expecting blazing sunshine, Singapore will more likely deliver a tropical climate, with high humidity and rainfall.

Rainfall - Jordan (average of 97mm per year)

Jordan has the lowest average annual rainfall on our list at 97mm per year. If you’re set on avoiding downpours while you travel, then Jordan is the destination for you, situated in the Middle East, it has an arid desert climate and very little rainfall.

Methodology

We used various online articles and lists to build an initial list of countries considered to be good for solo travelers, before analyzing each one on the following factors. Each factor was made up of sub-factors. We gave each country a normalized score out of ten on each factor, before taking an average across each of these scores to reach our final overall solo index travel score out of ten. Factors included were:

●     Things to do (number of attractions and restaurants) ●     Affordability (costs of public transport, food, and hotel stays) ●     Accommodation (number of hotels and hostels) ●     Safety (crime and safety index scores) ●     Weather (average temperature and annual rainfall) Each sub-factor was weighted to form a total factor (for example, the number of attractions and restaurants per 100,000 people were given weightings of 50% each to form the full factor “Things to do”). Attractions, restaurants, and hotels were taken as the total listed on Tripadvisor , calculated per 100,000 people. The average cost of a one-way ticket on public transport was taken from Numbeo . The average cost of food (taken as the price of a meal at an inexpensive restaurant) was taken from Numbeo . The average cost of a hostel stay was taken from Price of Travel (as the nightly rate for the cheapest well-located and well-reviewed hostel). The total number of hostels listed on Hostelworld , calculated per 100,000 people. Crime and safety index scores were recorded from Numbeo . The mean annual temperature was taken from Wisevoter . The mean annual precipitation was recorded from climateknowledgeportal . For countries where full data sets were inaccessible, these were removed from the final analysis. All data is correct as of 10th May 2023.

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Planning to Travel Solo in 2023? – 7 Travel Destinations for You

Posted by Nomad Girl | Mar 2, 2023 | Travel Tips

The urge to travel solo is becoming more popular and can stem from different motivations and impulses. Whether you're planning to understand yourself better, celebrate a milestone achievement, or just need a well-deserved break from reality, traveling solo is an adventure you won't forget.

If you've never gone on vacation alone before, the experience may initially seem intimidating. However, traveling solo doesn't necessarily mean you'll be on your own the whole time. You can easily organize group tours, stay in social accommodation, or use apps to meet other solo travelers .

If you're looking for some inspiration as to where to explore, we've come up with our favourite destinations for solo travellers.

1. Costa Rica

If you're looking for a change of scenery from your everyday life, Costa Rica is the ideal location. The rich diversity here allows for lots of different activities, such as hiking , fishing, and ziplining. The whole country is a place of rest and relaxation, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature.

A well-planned trip to Costa Rica can easily take you around the nation, both starting and ending in the vibrant city of San Jose. Aim to spend a couple of days in each location so that you have a chance to fully explore the rainforests and lava fields.

The great thing about Costa Rica is that you can pack in as much or as little as you want. Some days you may decide to go spot sloths and howler monkeys on the stunning cloud forests and others you may cycle with other keen travellers past the coastlines.

First-time solo travellers who've always dreamed of a trip to Europe will find that England is a great destination. Not only is the country modern, safe, and English-speaking, but it minimizes the culture shock that usually comes with visiting new destinations.

If you really want the quintessential British experience, then London is the place to be. The streets are packed with traditional tea shops, bars, and restaurants, and there are countless green spaces in the city where you can unwind.

Then there are the ever-serious guards standing outside Buckingham Palace, who can be seen marching around the palace courtyard during the iconic changing of the guard which occurs daily.

3. The Netherlands

The chilled-out vibe of the Netherlands is a great solo travel destination regardless of your gender, sexual orientation, or nationality. Everyone is accepted and welcomed here, which is reflected by the friendly locals.

The city of Amsterdam is the most popular destination in the country and is explored best by hiring a bike. Zip past the canal-lined streets and head into one of the cozy cafes – and don't forget to try one of the local delicacies, the stroopwafel.

Amsterdam is also highly regarded for its nightlife scene, with plenty of venues and styles of music available. Staying at a hostel ensures that you meet other like-minded individuals to go out with.

4. Thailand

Almost every budding solo traveller has considered the Southeast Asia route at some point. The area is a major hub for backpackers, with Thailand being the most popular.

The bustling streets of Bangkok are great for those used to the city, whereas the charming Buddhist temples of Chiang Mai are ideal if you prefer a more cultural experience. Either way, there's something here for all traveller types and so many different ways to spend your days.

You definitely don't want to miss the islands in the south, where you have the option to go snorkeling over incredible reefs, followed by dancing on the beach as you wait for the sunrise.

5. Sri Lanka

To the south of India , you'll find a tiny island that has been a much-loved travel destination for many years. As Sri Lanka is a mostly Buddhist country, you'll find that the locals here are incredibly welcoming and charming irrespective of where you come from.

The undeveloped hill country makes for intense hiking ventures and stunning train rides across narrow bridges. Alternatively, you're able to simply relax on the golden coastlines and go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters.

If this wasn't enough, the country has also mastered the flavors of its national dishes, which include dhal curry, kottu roti, and watalappan. It truly is a feast for all the senses.

6. Australia

What makes Australia so easy to visit is that it offers a working holiday visa, allowing keen travelers to properly experience the Land Down Under. It's highly recommended that you get help from a immigration consultancy called  IMMagine Immigration , which will make the process of obtaining a visa super easy!

With one of the largest backpacker populations in the whole of the world, Oz is ideal for solo travelers – especially if you have access to a vehicle.

Going on a solo road trip is a great opportunity, as is meeting others to travel with during your stay. We recommend making stops as you follow the east coast so that you get the chance to go snorkeling in the Great Barrier reef and go surfing in Byron Bay .

Whilst Australia is quite expensive, it's well worth it and you can easily earn money whilst you're there through a working holiday visa program.

With numerous beautiful islands and a rich history, Greece is a country you need to have on your must-see list. Whether you're a foodie, partygoer, or history buff, there is something in Greece for everyone.

The country is safe for solo and female travelers, with locals being friendly and helpful. The islands of Ios and Mykonos and great for meeting other travelers , whereas Athens is where the most popular attractions can be found, including the Acropolis.

If you plan to see as many islands as possible, you can simply organize a sailing trip. This not only allows you to island hop with ease but it's also a great way of meeting like-minded individuals.

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10 of the Best Solo Travel Destinations for 2023

Looking for the best solo travel destinations for 2023 check out this list of 10 amazing places to explore this year, from vibrant cities to stunning natural landscapes..

Looking for the best solo travel destinations for 2021? Check out this list of 10 amazing places to explore this year, from vibrant cities to stunning natural landscapes.

Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, or you’re craving some adventure and want to explore a new place, we’ve got you covered with our list of the 10 best solo travel destinations for 2023.

What to Look for in a Solo Travel Destination

When choosing a destination for solo travel, it’s important to consider your own personal preferences and travel style. Are you looking for a place where you can relax and recharge, or somewhere that offers more in the way of adventure and activities? Do you want to be completely immersed in a new culture, or would you prefer somewhere with a more familiar feel?

It’s also important to consider your safety as a solo traveller. Some destinations are more safe and user-friendly for those travelling alone than others. When researching potential destinations, be sure to check out local travel advisories and safety information

Benefits of Solo Travel

Solo travel can offer many benefits, both practical and psychological. On a practical level, solo travel gives you the freedom to travel on your own schedule and at your own pace. You can choose which sights to see and activities to do, without having to compromise with travel companions. And you don’t have to worry about coordinating travel plans with anyone else.

There are also many psychological benefits to solo travel. Stepping out of your comfort zone and venturing into unfamiliar territory can help you to develop a greater sense of confidence and independence. And travelling solo gives you the opportunity to really get to know yourself – something that can be difficult to do when you’re constantly surrounded by other people.

Solo travel also allows you to be more mindful and present in the moment. Without the distraction of other people, you can take the time to really appreciate the beauty of your surroundings and savour the experience of being in a new place. You can also take the opportunity to practice self-care and do things that make you feel good, such as indulging in a spa treatment or taking a yoga class.

Tips for Enjoying Solo Travel Safely

While solo travel can be an incredibly enriching experience, it’s important to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety. When travelling to unfamiliar places, be sure to do your research in advance and familiarise yourself with the local customs and laws. It’s also a good idea to let someone back home know where you’ll be and when, in case of emergencies.

When out and about, be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. And finally, be sure to take out adequate travel insurance before setting off – you never know when you might need it.

The Top Solo Travel Destinations for 2023

So without further ado, here are our picks for the 10 best solo travel destinations for 2023:

Seville, Spain

The stunning Andalusian city of Seville is the perfect place for a solo traveller looking for a mix of culture, history and relaxation. Wander the narrow streets of the old town, marvel at the beautiful architecture of the Alcázar palace, and enjoy some of the best tapas in Spain. Seville is also a great base for exploring some of Andalusia’s other highlights, such as the picturesque white villages of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Prague, Czech Republic

Lapland, Finland

Lapland – the northernmost region of Finland – is an ideal destination for solo travellers who are looking for some adventure. During the winter months, you can enjoy activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Or you can go in search of the northern lights – one of nature’s most spectacular displays. In summer, there’s plenty to keep you busy too, from hiking and mountain biking, to canoeing and kayaking.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is a mecca for solo travellers who love outdoor adventure. Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by mountains, this picturesque town is the perfect base for enjoying activities such as hiking, bungee jumping and white-water rafting. Queenstown is also home to some of New Zealand’s best vineyards, so be sure to sample some of the local wine while you’re in town.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu – the legendary ‘Lost City of the Incas’ – is one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological sites. Located high in the Andes Mountains, this Unesco World Heritage Site can only be reached by foot or by train. The hike up to Machu Picchu is challenging but rewarding, and once you reach the summit you’ll be rewarded with incredible views over the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a popular solo travel destination for its good weather, beautiful beaches and friendly locals. The city has a wide range of attractions to keep solo travellers busy, from hiking up Table Mountain and exploring the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, to visiting Robben Island – the site of Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment. And with its convenient location on the southern tip of Africa, Cape Town makes a great base for exploring some of the continent’s other highlights.

Tokyo, Japan

As the world’s largest metropolis, Tokyo is a great solo travel destination for those who want to experience everything that Japan has to offer. From exploring the city’s many temples and shrines, to shopping in the vast array of department stores and street markets, to sampling the delicious food on offer – there’s something for everyone in Tokyo. And with its efficient public transportation system, it’s easy to get around even if you don’t speak Japanese.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Last but not least on our list is Jordan – a country that offers solo travellers a wide range of both cultural and natural attractions. Visit the ancient city of Petra , explore the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum desert, or take a dip in the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea. And don’t forget to try some of the great local cuisine while you’re here.

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Where to go as a solo traveler right now, from Iceland to Uruguay

No plus one, no problem..

Travelers are going all in on solo vacations this year: In a recent study of 2023 trends, Skyscanner found that 54 percent of Americans are considering traveling by themselves, and a whopping 71 percent say that a solo trip would be good for their mental health. Ahead, a list of nine top spots for vacationing on your own, whether you’re looking to sightsee in London or surf in Costa Rica.

Our selections take into account safety, single-friendly lodgings, and activities well-suited for one. Plus, each trip is sure to make you rave to the folks back at home—even if you’re already looking forward to your next trip without them.

With its simple-to-navigate public transit system, welcoming pub culture, and plethora of free museums and galleries such as the Tate Modern and the British Museum , the British capital makes for a great international stop for solo travelers. Going it alone means you can often snag last-minute tickets to West End shows, and at dinnertime, there always seems to be a free seat at the bar no matter how trendy the restaurant. This comes in particularly handy at spots that don’t take reservations, like 40 Maltby Street , a wine bar with small plates where the wait staff is so chatty and informative that you won’t miss traveling with a group.

When it comes time to sleep, London is brimming with smart hotels that offer cozier (read: tinier) room categories designed for solo travelers who’d rather spend money on activities and meals than lodging: Among the finest are The Pilgrm , in the shadow of Paddington Station ; Mama Shelter , which is strolling distance from fantastic bars in Bethnal Green and Hackney; and the London-born Hoxton chain, which recently opened its fourth London location in Shepherd’s Bush and features rooms cheekily (and honestly) described as Shoebox, Snug, and Cozy.

What one reviewer said of The Pilgrm:

Reykjavík, iceland.

Consistently ranked one of the safest cities in the world, the Icelandic capital is so compact that in many ways it feels like a small town: As you make your way around the circuit of must-visit spots, from the famed Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand to the Hallgrimskirkja church to the Harpa Concert Hall, you’ll find yourself running into the same batch of outdoor adventurers, Nordic design lovers, and locals. In other words, it’s quite easy to make fast friends. To that end, a perfect place to start is the Kex Hostel , which occupies a historic biscuit factory and offers both shared bunk dorms and private rooms. But more important are the public spaces: a barbershop, a pop-up bar, and a book-filled lounge, where the Icelandic indie folk band Of Monsters and Men once played.

Of course, traveling solo also offers a wonderful excuse to let go of distractions and fully commune with Iceland’s near-mythical natural splendor , including the milky and mineral-rich Blue Lagoon , the hexagonal basalt-rock columns at Reynisfjara Beach , and the geological wonders of the Golden Circle Route drive.

Melbourne, Australia

If Sydney is all about hanging out with your pals on Bondi Beach, Melbourne is much more attuned to the introspective soul. You can spend your days wandering through the National Gallery of Victoria , catching a cutting-edge Melbourne Theatre Company show at the Southbank Theatre , or renting a car to go explore the wineries of the Yarra Valley . The new Lyf Collingwood hotel is perfectly designed for solo travelers, with One of a Kind studios that go for about $100 a night, plus shared amenities like a kitchen, a co-working space, and a laundry room, complete with a Ms. Pac-Man to play as you wait. Best of all, it’s a stone’s throw from Smith Street , which Time Out recently named the coolest street in the world, thanks to its rowdy music venues, elegant wine bars, and quirky record stores and vintage shops. Blessed with one of the most impressive coffee shop cultures in the world, Melbourne is also a perfect place for digital nomads to post up with their laptops and get to work. Inviting cafés range from Industry Beans Fitzroy , with its cheerful living wall, to Mr Tulk , which shares a 19th-century building with the State Library Victoria .

Sure, the whizz-bang energy of Japan ’s capital city can make it seem a bit impenetrable at first. But it only takes a few interactions to realize that you’re in good hands here as a solo traveler. This is a city of connoisseurs, so if you show a little interest in, say, the craft cocktails being shaken up at the eight-seat Bar Gen Yamamoto or the ramen being lovingly made at the Michelin-starred Nakiryu , you’re sure to be received with a smile. If you plan to spend your days exploring rather than hanging out back at the hotel, Japan is the birthplace of the capsule hotel concept, with standouts like Nine Hours Otemachi and The Millennials Shibuya offering big values. And thanks to the world-famous bullet train system, solo travelers have a world of day-trip possibilities just a quick ride away, including Shizuoka , with its Mount Fuji views and Sumpu Castle Park ; Hakone , known for its geothermal hot springs; and Kamakura , an ancient village dotted with Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, all under 100 miles away.

José Ignacio, Uruguay

According to the 2022 Global Peace Index, Uruguay ranks as the continent’s safest country, but it might not immediately leap to mind when you’re envisioning a dream trip to South America. It should—especially the boho-chic beach resort of José Ignacio, a formerly sleepy fishing village that was put on the tourist map when Argentine chef Francis Mallman opened a restaurant on these shores in the 1970s. Today, the culinary standout is Parador La Huella —number 25 on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list—where chef Vanessa González whips up a menu of wood-fired and raw seafood.

José Ignacio has a robust lineup of stays that run the gamut from the laid-back Posada Arenas de José Ignacio , where the warm owners make solo travelers feel like part of the family, to the grand Estancia VIK , where you can take private polo lessons or join a gaucho on a horseback ride across the pampas. If your taste runs more bookish than beachy, consider a stay at the newly opened Rizoma , a wooden-clad bookshop that doubles as a café, ceramics studio, and four-room hotel. Before you go, bask in the solitude of "Skyspace Ta Khut," James Turrell’s art installation located on the grounds of the Posada Ayana resort .

Quebec City

For those looking to take their first step into international solo travel, Quebec City is a bit like a bike with training wheels: You’ll get the experience without needing the expertise. (And while it’s officially Francophone, you can get by easily with English.) Best of all, its warren of cobblestoned streets—some dating back to the 17th-century—hide a Parisian arrondissement’s worth of bistros, fromageries, and patisseries. Noteworthy newcomers on the restaurant scene include Restaurant Alentours , where only three ingredients (salt, milk, and yeast) come from more than 93 miles away, and the playful fine-dining spot Restaurant Le Clan , which brings a touch of whimsy (mounted jackalope heads, a cartoon “Last Supper” painting) to a 17th-century building. Continue your historic exploration at La Monastère des Augustines , a wellness hotel built inside a 1639 monastery that housed the continent’s first hospital north of Mexico. The hotel offers a wide range of spa treatments, but don’t miss your chance to visit the city’s many Nordic spas, such as Sibéria , which sits within a peaceful forest on the outskirts of town.

What one reviewer said of Sibéria Spa:

Nosara, costa rica.

Costa Rica is proud to tout its pura vida, a motto and way of life that translates to pure, or simple, life. A shining example is Nosara , a Pacific Coast beach town that’s remained blissfully free of big developments thanks to the protected Ostional National Wildlife Refuge , where the vulnerable olive ridley sea turtle nests. These days, their numbers are matched only by the surfers and yoga devotees on nearby Playa Guiones , which reportedly boasts well over 300 (and some say 365) surfable days a year. Come here alone, and you’re almost guaranteed to find camaraderie at one of the area’s famed surf camps, such as the O.G. Safari Surf School or Surf Simply , a surfing school cum resort. If you’d rather chill than pick up a new skill, the eco-minded Olas Verdes Hotel is set back in the jungle behind the beach, and it’s the ideal place to unwind with a massage. Or they can set you up with a snorkeling trip or an ATV tour or a horseback ride on the beach or…

Bologna, Italy

If you want to hone your cooking craft on an Eat, Pray, Love –style pasta pilgrimage, there are few spots as delicious and welcoming as Bologna. Book a room at the Art Nouveau I Portici Hotel Bologna, which is home to the city’s only Michelin-starred restaurant , and then get cooking. The capital of Emilia-Romagna is home to many, many cooking classes , where instructors like Grazia Azzaroni will teach you how to make fresh pasta and ragù (aka “Bolognese sauce” to non-locals).

And you won’t be the only one learning here: The University of Bologna is the oldest continuously operating university in the world, and that influx of students gives the city a youthful and forward-thinking air. Once you’re done strolling around the historic center, the robust regional railway system offers easy access to other world-class food cities, like Parma , the birthplace of prosciutto and Parmesan cheese, and Modena , home to Osteria Francescana , which has been called the world’s best restaurant.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai may be Thailand’s second city, but the atmosphere at street level is far more laid-back than in high-rise-heavy Bangkok . Hidden away in the country’s mountainous north, it’s a strollable city of Buddhist temples, such as Wat Chiang Man and Wat Phra Singh , where it’s not uncommon to get into long conversations with friendly monks. Or, book a popular Monkchat Meditation Retreat for a slightly more structured experience; held at the MCU Buddhist University campus, the program invites guests in for discussions with monks on topics like their daily life, Thai culture, and Buddhism, with experiences from a half-day up to four days. For incredibly affordable rooms starting around $30 a night, we’re partial to the BED hotel chain, which has four locations around the city, including BED Phrasingh and BED Nimman .

Food lovers can find similar bargains at Chiang Mai’s many restaurants and night markets, where you can sample khao soi (coconut curry soup with egg noodles and fried noodles) and sai ua (spicy herb sausage). If you don’t know where to begin, let the experts of A Chef’s Tour show you the ropes, as they chauffeur you around the city by songthaew , which is sort of like a bus made out of an old pickup truck. For a more upscale experience, the Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is priced surprisingly reasonably for a five-star hotel (starting from around $300 a night), with plenty of activities to keep solo travelers from getting bored, including muay thai kickboxing and Thai massage lessons.

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The 10 best places to travel alone

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on July 2, 2022 |

Backpacking and solo travel go together like peas and carrots, like Forrest and Jenny. Why should we wait for our friends to be ready to explore the world when we can venture out solo, meet heaps of incredible new people and discover an inner independence and sense of freedom that we never knew existed? More and more solo travellers head to hostels each year to take advantage of the social areas and friendly, laid-back vibes. But where are the best places to travel alone?

We’ve looked into the solo travel hotspots around the globe to give you the 411 on where to visit on your next independent adventure. It’s time to treat yourself to the trip of a lifetime! Here are our 10 best places to travel alone based on where the most solo bookings are.

📍  San Francisco, California  📷 @izzyworldwide_

The USA is one of the best solo travel destinations thanks to its diversity. In other words, The USA really does have something for everyone – from the sunny surf havens of California to the iconic skyscrapers of NYC, surreal landscapes like the Grand Canyon to the music and foodie hotspots in the South. And the best part? You’re travelling solo, so it’s totally up to you to pick the adventure you wanna have. The US is a wonderfully accessible spot for first-time solo travellers, with excellent infrastructure and high safety levels. Add to this some classic American friendliness and a bit of Southern Hospitality, and it’s no surprise that The USA sees some of our biggest numbers of solo traveller bookings!

It can be rather expensive to visit, which is where hostels come in to save the day. By sharing dorms, not only will your budget stretch way further, but you’ll also meet all kinds of amazing people that’ll make your solo adventure anything but lonely. In the mountains of Colorado, The Bivvi  brings warm, family vibes that can melt through the snow. Here travellers share beers around the campfire and stay in for cosy movie nights, after spending their days hanging out on awesome group activities like white water rafting and hiking!

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Check out all of our hostels in the USA

So old chaps, second on our list of the best places to travel alone is England, a great first step for anyone who’s a little nervous about travelling solo. It’s safe, modern and easy to get around, plus it’s so small that you won’t have to face any bum-numbing 24-hour train journeys on your own! London is constantly one of our highest-booked cities for solo travellers who want that quintessential experience – red buses, black cabs and a trip to Buckingham Palace to say hey to King Charles. Not to mention local faves like a curry on Brick Lane, a pint in a traditional pub and some of the best nightlife in Europe. Venture outside the capital to discover creative hubs like Liverpool and Bristol, historic gems like Cambridge or Bath, South Coast arty vibes in Hastings or Brighton, and the surprisingly beautiful beaches of Cornwall. For more England inspo, check out 22 places that travel bloggers love .

For a London hostel with an unbeatable social atmosphere, try Selina, Camden . Not only is it in the heart of one of the city’s most famous neighbourhoods, an absolute must-visit for music lovers, but it also has it’s own vegan eatery.

Check out all of our hostels in England

📍  Barcelona 📷 @nattaliarr

Every region in Spain has a distinct, vibrant culture, meaning that you can spend months embarking on an epic Spanish adventure and never get bored. Although each city has its own unique feel, there are a couple of things that connect them all. Firstly, the welcoming hospitality that makes solo travellers feel instantly at home. Secondly, Spanish food is out of this world – seriously! Indulge in tapas and sangria until you’re sleepy enough to slip into a siesta. Dreamy right?! So, what Spanish spots should solo travellers hit up? Big hitters Barcelona and Madrid are so packed with things to do, plus so many other backpackers, that it’s impossible to really feel alone. For a chilled-out time, San Sebastian is a foodie’s dream with incredible surfing spots, or for a spot of Andalusian tradition, the flamenco shows in Seville are legendary.

La Banda Rooftop Hostel  is a favourite with solo backpackers who love getting involved with the drinking games, live music and artsy nights on the beautiful rooftop. There’s a family dinner every night and the staff will take you on a bike tour of the city to make you fall deeper in love with Seville.

Check out all of our hostels in Spain

4. Australia

📍  Queensland  📷 @abenteurvanlife

Perhaps the first place that springs to mind when you think of the best solo travel destinations, Australia is practically a rite of passage for travellers. The backpacker scene here is second to none, with hostels all around the country filled with party-loving travellers wanting a slice of the land down under. Most find it difficult to leave, which is where the Australia Working Holiday  comes in, allowing solo travellers to settle down for a bit and start their own global fam. And with the money they save working, they’re able to visit the most incredible spots this country has to offer. We’re talking cosmopolitan Sydney, trendy Melbourne, the idyllic Whitsunday Islands, the vast Outback, the awe-inspiring Great Barrier Reef… seriously, we could go on all day. It’s safe to say Australia is one of the best places to travel alone!

Being lonely is impossible at Australia’s fun-loving hostels. The parties at Gilligan’s Backpacker Hotel & Resort Cairns  are legendary, which is no surprise when you’ve seen their massive lagoon-style swimming pool, open-air bar, massive sports screens and on-site nightclub!

Check out all of our hostels in Australia

📍 Venice 📷   @iamjoshstratton

Sure, I could tell you about the classic beauty of Rome’s architecture, the romance of Venice’s waterways, the fairytale-esque cliff-hugging houses in Positano, or the enthralling history of Pompeii and Herculaneum, but I know what you’re really looking for from a trip to Italy… food, glorious food. Widely considered the centre of the carb universe, Italian food is globally renowned, and you’ll get the best quality straight from the source. Avoid the tourist traps and instead ask the hostel staff for insider tips on where the locals eat. And PLEASE, for the love of Cheesus, head to Naples to try pizza in the city where it began. The amazing train network in Italy makes it a dreamy solo travel destination, as it couldn’t be easier to explore the country on your own stress-free. Why not extend your solo trip by grabbing an Interrail pass and travelling even more of Europe on a budget?

If you are looking for an oasis after your city exploring, you could do far worse than booking a few nights at Hopestel Secret Garden Hostel . Not only does this hostel have a secret garden (surprise!) but it’s also a fantastic place to meet other solo travellers.

Check out all of our hostels in Italy

6. Thailand

📍 Wat Arun, Bangkok 📷  @_nana.kweku_

Thailand is without a doubt one of the best solo travel destinations on earth, a fact that’s evident from the thousands of lone wanderers who head there every year. The chaotic charm of Bangkok, the laid-back hippy vibes of Chiang Mai and Pai and the paradise-like islands in the south are just some of the things that pull us in… and the insane nightlife, incredible food and world-class hostels don’t hurt either. You may feel a million miles from home when you touch down in this unique country, but nothing brings solo travellers together like a few cocktail buckets on Bangkok’s Khaosan Road. P.S. Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party is every bit as wild as you might expect. You have been warned!

Most travellers land in Bangkok, thanks to its mega international airport and easy access to nearly everywhere else in Thailand. This city is way more than a jumping-off point, with some of the very best street food, canal markets, art galleries and temples. If your priority as a solo traveller is being close to the city’s famous nightlife then Lost Inn BKK is near the legendary Khaosan Road. It’s close to plenty of temples too, so make sure you have some hangover-free days to absorb the city.

Check out all of our hostels in Thailand

📍 Berlin 📷  @hopewarrenx

Known for its beer, bratwurst and the best (and most exclusive) nightclubs in the world, Germany is an awesome solo traveller destination that’s perfect for meeting fellow backpackers. In summer, the capital Berlin is essentially one massive beer garden with locals and travellers alike sharing a stein of the cold stuff. Its notorious nightlife scene is unrivalled in Europe, and bouncers are known to favour individuals and smaller groups, so you’ll have no trouble getting in as a solo traveller. Munich’s beer-fuelled Oktoberfest is a true bucket list event that every backpacker should experience at least once, and if you visit on your own you can guarantee you’ll be leaving with several boozy new buddies. But there’s a lot more to Germany than partying, which you’ll discover when you leave the cities and head to the epic natural landscapes and fairytale castles of the countryside.

In Berlin, Circus Hostel  has heaps of social spaces for solo travellers to hang out, like an on-site microbrewery and an Instagrammable cafe/restaurant. It’s right in the city centre, so you’ll never have to worry about being far from the action when you want to head out on a solo mission!

Check out all of our hostels in Germany

📍 Paris 📷 @avrilstoriesmx

Paris might be known as the city of love, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be one of the best places to travel alone too! Eating croissants overlooking the Eiffel Tower, sipping wine in swanky bars, catching a show at the Moulin Rouge or taking a stroll through the Louvre are all equally as fun without a romantic partner – or even better, with a new hostel BFF. It’s why Paris remains one of our top-booked cities for solo travellers. There’s way more to France though, so if you’re the type of traveller who prefers lesser-known places, we think you’ll love Hossegor, one of our best backpacker destinations for 2020 . It’s a surfing hotspot with hippy vibes, amazing beaches and lots of cute cafes where coffee doesn’t come at Parisian prices.

One of our favourite French hostels for solo travellers is Paris’  Les Piaules , a fully renovated Art Deco building in the beautiful Belleville neighbourhood. It’s surrounded by cafes and bars that locals love, but when you’re not sampling them you can hang out in the hostel’s games room or swanky rooftop terrace with your new roomies.

Check out all of our hostels in France

📍 Kyoto  📷 @swepix_

Visiting parts of Japan feels like taking a trip into the future, with its insane technology, huge modern cities and space-inspired pod hostels. The bright lights of Tokyo are as exhilarating as they are overwhelming, and the street food is truly sensational. But it’s also a country of unspoiled nature and centuries-old tradition. Visit gorgeous temples and sleep in traditional ryokans, spot geishas gracefully walking through the streets of Kyoto and be inspired by the postcard-perfect Mount Fuji. The Japan Rail Pass makes it easy for solo travellers to navigate the country, with a super-efficient, high-speed service that gets you between cities comfortably for a pre-paid bargain price. Pod hostels are also a godsend, offering solo travellers the privacy of their own room while keeping the cheap prices and social benefits of dorm living.

Solo travellers can’t go wrong staying at Guest House Ga-Jyun. This hostel has superb ratings and is a solo traveller favourite. It’s easy to get to many of the must-see sights in Kyoto and we hear their breakfast is generous! So fill yourself up, make new friends and explore traditional Japan.

Check out all of our hostels in Japan

10. The Netherlands

📍 Amsterdam  📷  @tiara.moon

The Netherlands is truly one of the best solo travel destinations with some of the friendliest locals in the world. The home of gorgeous tulip fields, winding canals and, of course, legalised marijuana, The Netherlands will forever be one of our favourite places to visit in Europe. Whether you’re cycling around Amsterdam or admiring Rotterdam’s unusual architecture, you may be a little more – err – laid back than usual while in The Netherlands, making it the perfect destination to travel alone, meet new people and open yourself up to new experiences.

The ultra-stylish King Kong Hostel Rotterdam  is conveniently located in the city’s coolest neighbourhood, so you’ll have no problem channelling your inner hipster. There’s a lively bar and cafe, as well as an outdoor social space that comes alive in summer. The staff’s expert local tips make exploring Rotterdam on your own a total breeze.

Check out all of our hostels in The Netherlands

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Have we sparked your interest in solo travel? Keep reading: 👇

👭  Fun and easy ways to meet people while travelling solo

✌ Nervous about solo travel? Here’s why you shouldn’t be

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25 Unexpectedly Awesome Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

06/18/2023 by Kristin Addis 60 Comments

Welcome, fellow solo traveler. This is where your adventure begins. Solo traveling is a beautiful gift. You’re going to learn so much about yourself, make so many fabulous new friends, meet so many beautiful strangers, and see so many vibrant landscapes and skyscrapers, too. The world is your oyster, but the question is, where do you start?

When I see lists like these I often just see suggestions for places women should travel to solo based on only one thing: safety. While crime stats are worth noting, they’re not the defining factor for a great place for women to travel alone. The best destinations aren’t just the popular and well-trodden ones, either. Some of the best places to travel to by yourself might be in the places you least expected, or didn’t even know existed yet.

The best destinations for solo female travelers will be where locals are particularly friendly and welcoming, or it’s social due to a shared interest like surfing or diving, and even though it might be off the beaten path a bit, it’s not so remote that you’ll be the only one there. It still has that special charm that makes it feel authentic and inviting.

Sounds amazing, right? So where can you find these places? I’ve searched high and low, and these are some of my favorite destinations for solo female travel – they might surprise you:

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Table of Contents

1. Lombok, Indonesia

…because it has everything Bali had once upon a time.

Many people, myself included, are put off by Bali’s overtourism , where there’s constantly bad traffic, beaches littered with trash, and long waits for photos at popular Instagram spots. So where can one go in Indonesia where there are stunning waterfalls, nice beaches and a social yet laidback atmosphere, like Bali once upon a time had? The answer is Lombok . Not only is Lombok overall a wonderful alternative to Bali, but also cheaper. As a solo traveler, I find it easier to socialize and connect with other solo travelers in Lombok, as people tend to hang out at the same spot, like Kuta , or go to the same beaches.

A Complete Guide to Lombok

How to Find the Tiu Kelep Waterfall In Lombok

The Ultimate Kuta, Lombok Guide

2. Siargao Island, The Philippines

…because there’s nothing like a little solo motorbike adventure.

Siargao Island is a water-lover and general adventurer’s dream. You can go on a little solo motorbike adventure, as the roads are mostly flat and easy. It is also a surfer’s paradise with a playful soul to it, so if you are a surfing enthusiast, or have been thinking of picking it up, Siargao is perfect. The island’s popularity is growing rapidly, but the atmosphere remains laidback and relaxing. This means that it’s just as easy to meet others as to be by yourself. I was able to hang out with surfers on the beach, talk to other people in restaurants and cafes, and retreat to my little corner in an adorable guesthouse every night. It’s perfect!

A Complete Guide to the Philippines

How to spend 5 days on Siargao Island

What changed my mind about the Philippines

3. Singapore

Who doesn’t appreciate extravagance?!

This thriving island country and city is unique compared to the rest of Southeast Asia. It’s home to the largest port in the region, making it one of the most prosperous and busiest Southeast Asian countries. You’ll find evidence of such development in the clean streets, skyscrapers, strictly-enforced laws, and a plenitude of things to do, like hopping around at the speakeasy cocktail bars or walking through the Gardens by the Bay. It’s definitely a more expensive country, but if done right, you can easily explore on a budget with this list of free things to do .

Here’s a 3-day itinerary by a local

4. Tokyo, Japan

The capital of dining alone.

The language barrier may make you feel a little bit intimidated at first, but virtually everything from public transportation to ordering food from a local restaurant is so organized and systematic, it makes traveling in Japan such an easy and enjoyable experience. In cities like Osaka and Tokyo, there are all kinds of interesting things to do , including all kinds of themed cafes, unique museums where one can easily spend hours in, and beautiful parks perfect for people watching. Visiting Japan is also perhaps the best place to master the art of dining alone. Many solo travelers are afraid of eating alone, but in Japan, eating alone is completely normal. There are even restaurants that sell on “low interaction dining”!

This is the only all-female Kaiseki restaurant in Tokyo

Here’s an island paradise near Tokyo

5. Chiang Mai, Thailand

…because there are so many epic day trips to keep you busy.

Thailand is famously a great place for solo female travelers because of how friendly the locals are and the overall abundance of other backpackers. It’s easy to meet other travelers here who might be down to explore different hikes, temples, and other excursions just outside of Chiang Mai. This northern Thailand city is also known for its outstanding gastronomy, and traveling solo means that you can eat your way through Chiang Mai without anybody stopping you. Yum!

9 Awesome Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Hidden Thailand: 8 Amazing Day Trips From Chiang Mai

5 Delightfully Unique Temples in Chiang Mai, Thailand

6. Reykjavik, Iceland

Because it is literally the safest country in the world.

Iceland is ranked the #1 safest country in the world by Vision of Humanity , and I can attest, people left their cars running while they went grocery shopping! That’s how sure they are that nobody will steal their car. Iceland’s landscape is so unique and stunning, plus it’s great for a road trip . Reykjavik has social hostels as well, where you can find adventure partners. This guide has everything you need to know about Iceland.

7. Lisbon, Portugal

Feel like you’re part of a painting with pastel-colored buildings.

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is one of Europe’s most charismatic cities because of its beautiful hills, walkable layout, and the River Tagus. You’ll find ornate architecture that adds to the city’s vibrancy, and plenty of things to do like admire the hilly vistas from Alfama or the Tagus Estuary, pastel-colored buildings and the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge from St. George’s Castle . There are also some must-visit museums like the National Azulejo Museum where you’ll find decorative ceramic tiles that date back five centuries. If you love beaches, Lisbon is a great jumping-off point to go explore the shorelines on the Atlantic Ocean.

8. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

…because this is one friendly road trip.

It’s the small towns on Ireland’s least populated coast that can be the most social. In a country that’s already pretty friendly, I found that people were especially friendly along the Wild Atlantic Way on the Connemara Coast . Just walk into any pub and within a few seconds someone will be talking to and joking around with you.

9. Berlin, Germany

Where you can truly be yourself.

Berlin is hands down, one of the coolest cities in the world. It’s like Brooklyn meets San Francisco with an LA vibe. Whatever you identify yourself as, you can easily find your tribe here. The city is filled with creative people, alternative things to do , and delicious food to devour . I never felt like the odd one out being a solo girl in the city, because people couldn’t care less (in a good way). You can dress like a unicorn and barely anyone would bat an eyelash. What’s not to love about that?

Why I decided to leave Berlin (after 5 years)

10. Québec, Canada

…because it’s one of the safest and friendliest places you will visit.

Quite possibly the safest and most scenic place to drive through, Québec is a special place with endless beauty to offer to its visitors. If you are looking for a comfortable solo road trip experience with great accommodation choices, delicious food, and friendly locals, Québec is perfect for just that. Come for the beautiful fall foliage, but stay for the food, hospitality, and uncrowded adventures in a beautiful part of Canada.

The perfect fall road trip in Québec, Canada

11. The Bahamas

…because an island vacation is the ultimate “treat yo’self”

Maybe you wouldn’t think the Bahamas would be a solo female traveler destination because of its reputation as a honeymoon spot , but think again! With hundreds of islands to choose from, you can have the island vacation of your dreams here. Swim with nurse sharks, play with the famous Exumas pigs, snorkel, dive, and have a blast all on your own terms in the Bahamas.

Things to Do in the Bahamas

How to Swim with Pigs in the Bahamas

The Ultimate Staniel Cay Guide

12. Iguazu Falls, Argentina

…because waterfalls are best when shared.

Iguazu Falls is one of Argentina’s most-visited attractions and for good reason, I mean just look at that beauty. There are plenty of social places to stay, from mid-range hotels to hostels. A friend of mine told me he enjoyed his guesthouse so much that it took him three days to actually leave the hostel and go see the waterfall!

13. El Chaltén , Argentina

The most social place in Patagonia.

Much of Patagonia, particularly along the Carretera Austral , is remote and quiet, but if you’re solo, El Chaltén is the best mix of nature and social opportunities. The hostels are warm and friendly places, many of the hikes and campsites are well-loved, and it’s easy to meet others on the more trodden hikes. Far from the cat calls of Buenos Aires, I found El Chaltén to be a breath of fresh air.

The Best Hiking in El Chaltén, Argentina

14. The Riviera Maya, Mexico

…because having cenotes to yourself is magical.

Renting a car and heading from Cancún through Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and down to Bacalar is an epic road trip in itself. With pristine cenotes, white sand beaches, and Mayan ruins along the way, being able to take this trip at your own pace is liberating. Plus, Tulum and Bacalar are particularly social, meaning you can easily make friends and share the experience with other travelers.

Things to in and around Cancún

How to get between Cancún and Tulum

Cenotes in Cancún & Tulum

15. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Perfect for times when you don’t want to hike solo, but you’re solo.

Even if you start out alone in the 5-day W or the 8-day O Circuit trek in Torres del Paine National Park , you’ll come out of it with a bunch of new friends. For the same reasons that I loved the Annapurna Circuit, I love the social atmosphere amongst campers and hikers on this trek, particularly on the back, ‘O’, part of the trail where fewer hikers go and the crowds are more intimate. Refugio Dickson, in particular, was tons of fun thanks to the social rangers who played music and organized soccer games.

The perfect 9-day Torres del Paine O Circuit itinerary

16. Costa Rica

Where you can soak up the salt and sun.

Between the beaches , tours , volcanoes , and road trips , you’ll soon discover some of the most beautiful parts of Costa Rica . It’s easily the world’s eco-tourism capital, so make this your next destination if you love nature. Because of its unique geography (Atlantic and Pacific coasts, mountains, rain forest), there’s so much biodiversity to discover. But, Costa Rica is one of the most visited places in Latin America, so it can also be one of the more expensive destinations. Here’s a breakdown of what a trip could cost you .

Here’s a guide on what to wear

Figure out the best time to go here

Itinerary for one week, two weeks and one month

17. Coffee Bay, South Africa

…because Africa isn’t ‘scary’ after all.

Africa gets a bad rap as being a scary place to travel through, and while it’s important to take precautions ( here’s a list of them ), that doesn’t mean solo female travelers should write it off. I love how laidback Coffee Bay (and that whole coastline) is and how many other cool backpackers are always passing through. It’s easy to meet other people, go on long walks along the bluffs on the ocean, and take in gorgeous nature. While South Africa does have a pretty high crime rate, the bulk of it is in the cities . I loved the little towns like Coffee Bay where there weren’t many people or worries around at all.

The essential guide to solo female travel in Africa

7 reasons to visit South Africa, the Rainbow Nation

18. Tofo, Mozambique

I maintain, Africa’s not that ‘scary’.

I love Tofo, Mozambique because of the type of adventurous and interesting people it attracts. It seems like most travelers in Mozambique have a cool story, and have arrived by word-of-mouth. There are only a couple of backpackers accommodations there (I stayed at Fatima’s), and scuba dive shops, but both are excellent places to meet other solo travelers.

Why going alone to Mozambique was the best decision ever

How to travel through Mozambique

19. Sunset Beach, Zanzibar

Beach Bums, Unite.

The white-sand beaches and baby blue waters of Zanzibar are legendary, and there’s so much to do there from diving to swimming, boating, and perusing the markets in Stone Town. It’s attractive for a lot of reasons. I remember laughing and dancing at the reggae bar there with Masai warriors dressed in regalia, local beach boys, and tourists from all over, loving how communal and inviting it was. Even if you go there solo, you can find your people. Just lock up your stuff in the safes, as there’s some petty crime.

5 steps for perfect Zanzibar style

20. New Zealand

Unlimited doses of nature.

New Zealand is made up of two gorgeous islands, North and South, and both are worth visiting for the iconic places , especially those that are off the beaten path . You could easily spend a year here exploring all that this beautiful slice of the earth has to offer. If you love nature, you’ll be in paradise with dolphin watching , hiking trails , glaciers , fjords and beaches. There’s something for the more adventurous too, like skydiving and bungee jumping!

New Zealand packing list

South Island itinerary

21. French Polynesia

…because its friendliness and hospitality is out of this world.

Remember travel before the Internet was so ubiquitous, before Instagram was even a thing, and before the birth of “influencer”? Allow me to introduce you to French Polynesia , where the locals immediately treat you as though they know you, the environment is preserved and treasured by the locals, and you can truly come back to yourself. While Bora Bora may make solo travelers feel a little bit out of place, French Polynesia has way more than that to offer, and I can almost guarantee you that you will have a wonderful time as a solo girl. This is a country I know I will be returning to again and again.

I spent 22 days with whales

An ode to the places we keep secret

22. Montana , USA

…because it is so meditative and relaxing!

Montana is the type of place where the locals deeply value nature they’re blessed with, and where visitors can find abundant yoga classes, opportunities to walk among ancient trees, and ample opportunity to relax and reflect. Country roads make way for organic grocery stores, crystal shops, and artist galleries. I was lucky to be able to experience Montana through the locals’ eyes, and found many meditative things to do and places to go, including Crystal Sound Bowl Meditation and standup paddleboarding.

The relaxing side of Whitefish, Montana

23. New Orleans , USA

Stay entertained!

New Orleans turned out to be one of the most enjoyable solo trips I’ve had. I spent a week in the Big Easy , and was kept entertained by the huge variety of things to do. Even when I dined alone in restaurants , the wait staff and the others were totally open to talk, and almost everyone I met had a suggestion for me on where to go next. I never felt like the odd woman out either as I sometimes do in beachy or couples’ destinations.

An awesome New Orleans itinerary

The vegan’s guide to New Orleans

24. Maui, Hawaii, USA

…because it’s for more than just honeymooners.

It’s crazy to think that Hawaii would be a good place to travel to solo, but I was delighted to find that there were tons of things for me to do even though I wasn’t on my honeymoon. I made friends easily while snorkeling, found a lot of active adventures, like hiking to waterfalls on the Road to Hana , and found a surf school especially for women as well!

23 of Maui’s best things to do

Secrets of the Road to Hana in Maui

25. California, USA

You may just fill your heart with gold.

If you’ve never been to the Golden State , there’s a lot of places you’ve got to see . The state’s beautiful landscapes, views and national parks have inspired artists, poets, photographers and writers. Plus there’s a lot of fun and fame when it comes to Disney Land and the Hollywood Sign. Other must-sees include the the Golden Gate Bridge, deserts , and the redwoods, and you can also tour a good bit of the Pacific Coast (here’s a great guide for a Pacific Coast road trip ).

Solo female travel guide to California

Guide to Southern California

After traveling for over seven years, mostly by myself, I’ve found some really special gems around this world that seemed to have that special something that was missing from many others, and all of these places have that.

I was delighted to find, sometimes in places I least expected, that such friendly people and amazing social atmosphere could exist, and that’s the beauty of traveling on your own.

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Megan Thudium says

01/20/2017 at 12:17 pm

I love how your places are “off the beaten path.” I’d also add Austria and New Zealand to the list. I loved traveling these places solo.

Kristin says

01/20/2017 at 12:42 pm

Also great places that I need to see more of!

Ijana Loss says

01/21/2017 at 9:40 am

I would love to go all these places! Thank you for picking places that aren’t just the typical “safe countries” lol because honestly most places are safe enough as long as you’re smart and there’s so much more to the world when you open up to places you wouldn’t normally consider. I’ve been considering taking a hiking themed trip which many of the locations you listed would be perfect for, maybe I just need to bite the bullet and do it.

01/23/2017 at 10:31 am

Pick Patagonia!

01/23/2017 at 5:23 pm

Yes that’s what I was thinking!

01/22/2017 at 2:04 am

While we havent visited (yet) majority of places on this list we can definetely confirm that Phong Nha ke Bang felt as a very warm and welcoming atmosphere, people came across as genuinly kind if you have any troubles. The owners of the housestay we lodged at also kindly invited us to share their familly dinner and have a nice discussion about the area.

01/23/2017 at 10:32 am

That’s so sweet they invited you to join them for dinner! I loved the welcoming atmosphere there and the people I met.

01/23/2017 at 10:33 am

I agree Europe is good, although there are pickpockets and cat callers in some parts but that’s part of being a female sometimes, sadly.

01/24/2017 at 6:11 am

Hi Kristen!!

Love your blog, was wondering…for your Iceland trip, how many days do you recommend? I’ve heard a long weekend is great especially if you’re flying from the east coast since it’s a relatively short flight. Also best season/months to visit?

01/24/2017 at 10:33 am

I really loved visiting in October since I got changing leaves and the northern lights. I did 11 days and it felt short, but you could also maximize a long weekend and see a lot if you stick to the Golden Circle: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/iceland-golden-circle-self-drive/

01/26/2017 at 5:37 pm

Thanks so much for the tips, Kristin** ❤️ 🙂

Crazy Travelista says

01/24/2017 at 8:18 am

Love this list so much! I haven’t heard of so many of these places, so I’m extra intrigued! Patagonia is high on my list! Although I’m so not a camper, hence the reason I’ve avoided it thus far haha. Are there other ways to do Patagonia, maybe more glamping style? It’s so hard to find good info on it. Or maybe it’s that there is so much info that its overwhelming.

01/24/2017 at 10:31 am

If you went to El Chalten you could stay in town and do day hikes without having to camp. Much of the rest of it isn’t glamping style, though. You can sometimes stay in the refugios, but they’re usually quite basic as well. Seems like a good place to try camping out. You might really like it!

Arianwen says

01/24/2017 at 3:29 pm

This is an awesome list. I’ve been to quite a few of these by myself as well. I loved Pai and Don Det. Lucky for me, I met people to trek the Torres del Paine with, but it was still a surprisingly sociable experience. I never thought we’d be drinking boxed wine with other campers in the evenings!

01/25/2017 at 11:07 am

The boxed wine! Haha same here.

01/25/2017 at 3:47 pm

Thanks for the great list! I will definitely be referring to this when I pick where to travel over the summer:)

01/30/2017 at 6:40 am

Adding these to my list!!

01/30/2017 at 11:56 am

Amazing places. All on my to-visit list. Looking forward to my next vacay. Don’t know where to go yet though.

Kate - Travel for Difference says

01/31/2017 at 1:27 pm

Such incredible destinations! It’s great to see some inspiration for solo travellers, especially to locations that are far from the traditional ‘London’ or ‘NZ’. Great post!

Krista @ Gringita says

02/02/2017 at 12:18 pm

Some places in Peru are awesome for solo travel as well! Notably Lima and Cusco! Though not all of Peru is safe for solo female travelers (I do not recommend going into the Amazon! but that is in any country with Amazon jungle).

Sophiya says

02/03/2017 at 1:42 am

Sounds like a great list! I haven’t been to all that places, but looks very amazing and wonderful. After reading this blog, I definitely visit to all these places. Thanks @Kristin for sharing these interesting places.

02/24/2017 at 7:37 pm

This list is just what I needed to read right now. I’m a copywriter and have been trying to plan my next solo trip – did any of these spots stand out as good for working from? I always seem to pick spots with questionable Internet and want to make sure I get it right this next time!

02/24/2017 at 11:58 pm

I would just recommend getting a local SIM card. I’m sitting in Tanzania right now working from 3G and I’m not paying much for it. In Africa it’s a must, I’d say. China is OK but you need a VPN, and naturally the European destinations will have better Wifi

Mehndi says

10/05/2017 at 7:03 am

This is a great list! Im looking into starting properly travelling and am trying to plan a few good adventures! this really helped me out!

Alice Teacake says

01/24/2018 at 9:19 am

Hi Kristin! I love it that you’ve got Ireland, Coron in the Philippines and Phong Nga in Vietnam on your bucket list. I’ve been to them and can vouch that they rock for solo female travellers 🙂 You’re always pushing boundaries and comfort zones and you’ve got some great hiking spots on here. Thank you for the continuous inspiration. Love what you’re doing. Keep it up!

01/25/2018 at 3:24 am

Aw thank you Alice! Glad you like the post and that you’ve been there and love those places too!

Maritza says

02/15/2018 at 2:37 pm

Hi any info on Canary Islands?

Loved your book and blog!

02/15/2018 at 4:46 pm

Haven’t been yet!

Undefined Journey says

04/14/2018 at 8:14 pm

I just love your blog, there are so many places where I can go

05/05/2018 at 9:55 am

I just came back from Coffee Bay and I loved it! I’m from Johannesburg so I know what the crime is like but I felt completely safe in Coffee Bay. Everyone is super chilled and the beaches are beautiful and wild. Great list, by the way. I had a similar experience on Annapurna – hikers are just cool people 🙂

05/08/2018 at 4:07 pm

I loved how chilled Coffee Bay was too!

05/13/2018 at 10:51 am

Hi Kristin, Just discovered your blog this weekend and have been reading all the articles since then! Just wondering if you’ve ever been to/heard much about Guatamala? I’m considering my first solo trip there this summer before I get married next year and was curious if it would make for a good first time solo trip destination.

05/13/2018 at 11:10 am

I’ve only visited Tikal, the big Mayan ruins there. I have heard it’s awesome, though. Nice, conscious communities as well are around. I’d go there in a heartbeat!

05/13/2018 at 3:17 pm

Oh perfect! Thank you very much! Now to take the plunge….

melissa says

06/09/2019 at 9:01 am

Greetings! Glad to have found you. Any trips in July? I would sign up immediately! What is the average age of travelers?

selinacantrell says

07/14/2019 at 8:28 pm

Me and my friends are planning to go to spain this January. We would love to see some nice beaches with clear water and some stunning scenery. We were thinking Majorca,Ibiza and Canary Island, we are up to some adventures and experience a great nightlife in our travel. Can anyone suggest any ideas or tips? Any help is kindly appreciated 🙂

08/18/2019 at 1:09 am

Love your blog, was wondering and this Pai Thailand destination is good for female travellers and this is the best place I had a great experience at this place. and Thank you for sharing these options.

08/18/2019 at 8:26 am

I know that it’s changed since I was last there and has become a lot more touristy, but I hear it’s still pretty cool. I loved it and went solo three times. Even considered living there for a while.

Solo Female Traveler says

08/31/2019 at 10:29 pm

Oh my, I loved this article. Very informative.

08/31/2019 at 10:30 pm

Very valuable information! Thank you

Alysse Chase says

12/28/2019 at 3:32 pm

Yes! Thank you for this list ?I’ve been thinking about traveling solo for years but have had an internal debate over where I actually should go. This is perfect! Does anyone have experience using travel apps like Fairytrail or Couchsurfing to meet people while traveling solo? Appreciate the help! ?

12/28/2019 at 8:34 pm

I’ve met people couchsurfing and it’s hit or mess tbh but the hits are so great! You can also check out my facebook group for solo female travelers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BMTMSoloFemaleTravelConnect/

Luna Jennifer says

01/10/2020 at 2:09 am

It’s been inspirational to read these posts!

Dolakh Thapa says

01/13/2020 at 4:57 am

Thank you so much for placing Annapurna Circuit Trek, Nepal in your 20 most awesome destinations. Nepal is really a perfect destination for adventure lovers. I request you to try Everest Base Camp Trek as a solo female traveler in visit Nepal 2020.

01/13/2020 at 6:07 pm

I’d love to do more trekking there. Are there trails with fewer people?

Sabrina says

02/20/2020 at 11:05 pm

3 of them I have travelled solo…. Iguazu, Torres del Paine and El Chalten. And it’s been amazing. I would also add Austria to that list (well i’m from there, but still, it’s so safe and easy going)

02/21/2020 at 9:05 am

True and Austria is so pretty!

Mary Ann Siwek says

06/07/2020 at 8:15 pm

I want to travel to Thailand and Japan

Kimberly Roth says

05/04/2021 at 7:05 pm

i love that you picked El Chalten! I traveled there in 2019 solo and had a fabulous time. El Calafate and Puerto Madryn were great too. Another place I would recommend for solo travel is Australia. Everyone is very friendly and there’s tons of things to do.

05/05/2021 at 7:57 am

great suggestion!

Tong Metal says

05/05/2021 at 1:32 am

I just want to ask if a solo female traveler also love safari or wilderness travel, its more fantastic to see solo female travel experience this one

Angela says

04/18/2022 at 12:07 am

Hello! Do you have any advice about pick pockets when taking your own travel photos? That’s my biggest fear especially when travelling at very touristy places like Italy!

04/18/2022 at 2:42 pm

I don’t usually set up a tripod in a super crowded area, particularly in Europe. I’d ask someone else to take the photo for me in that case – ideally someone who also has a camera and is taking photos too.

Isa Sirbegovic says

07/10/2022 at 8:32 pm

Such a great blog! I’ve been wanting to start up more solo travel, but it can be so intimidating! I appreciate all the research that went into this post.

Rosieaustin says

01/02/2023 at 11:34 pm

Awesome list. thank you for sharing

09/03/2023 at 8:42 am

NOLA as a destination for solo female travelers?! I live here and for your info, we not only have the second highest murder rate in the country, but we also have the highest murder rate of women! There is not a neighborhood untouched by crime. I would never venture to walk the streets – ANY street (and natives will agree) – anywhere in NOLA by myself after dark; and during the day you should always be on your guard. You’re obviously not from here.

09/08/2023 at 6:00 am

Hi Suzy, I had a great time solo in NOLA and walked around plenty alone, but it was always during the day and I agree, any city in the US would require one to be on their guard and is best avoided on foot at night.

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USA TODAY 10Best

Best Place to Propose (2023) January 13, 2023

No. 10: Cannon Beach - Cannon Beach, Oregon

Oregon's often-photographed, four-mile Cannon Beach, with Haystack Rock as its crown jewel, offers a dramatic backdrop for proposals. Rising 235 feet from the edge of the shoreline, couples can walk right up to Haystack Rock at low tide. Ask for your love's hand in marriage amidst colorful starfish and other tide pool creatures. After the proposal, wonder to the charming coastal town of Cannon Beach for a dinner of fresh seafood and a celebratory toast.

No. 9: Wild Goose Island Overlook - Glacier National Park - Montana

Nature lovers and photo buffs alike will appreciate a proposal at the Wild Goose Island Overlook in Glacier National Park. From this vantage point, you and your loved one can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the majestic mountains that soar above the edges of Saint Mary Lake, with Wild Goose Island at the center of it all. Time your proposal just before sunset for a truly dramatic moment, and don't forget to bring your camera! 

No. 8: McWay Falls - Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park - Big Sur, California

There's no place like Big Sur to pop the big question. Offering the very best of Big Sur country, the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a haven to acres upon acres of redwoods, tan oaks, madrones, chaparrals and the 80-foot McWay Falls, which cascades from granite cliffs into the ocean waters of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. McWay Falls is the perfect spot to fall in love all over again.

No. 7: Fern Grotto - Kauai, Hawaii

Take a riverboat cruise through the lush river valley of Wailoa State Park in Hawai'i to Fern Grotto for a postcard-perfect proposal. This fern-covered cave, set in a tropical garden, is one of many natural wonders in the park. With multiple waterfalls, hiking trails, a picnic area in a riverside coconut grove, and dining and shopping at Wailua Marina, Fern Grotto and Wailoa State Park constitute an excellent day trip for nature lovers and lovers alike.

No. 6: Grand Canyon National Park - Grand Canyon, Arizona

Show how grand your love is by proposing at the Grand Canyon. Whether you pick a spot along the canyon rim or pop the question while in a cozy cabin at Phantom Ranch at the bottom, it's sure to be majestic. Hopi Point on Hermit Road is prime for sunset-viewing, but everybody knows it. Expect crowds and buses. For less crowds, opt for Mohave or Pima points, also on Hermit Road. For a memorable sunrise, try Mather or Yaki points. Planning tip: Storms are common in July, August and September. 

No. 5: Rocky Mountaineer - Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Nothing spells old-fashion romance like luxury train travel, and with Rocky Mountaineer, you'll be on track for a perfect proposal. Rocky Mountaineer luxury train service operates mid-April to mid-October. In addition to three Canadian routes, the U.S.-based "Rockies to the Red Rocks" route traverses vast canyons, natural archways and pristine desert beauty between Moab, Utah, and Denver, Colorado. Enjoy glass-dome coaches and locally inspired cuisine. See the sights by day, and sleep in luxurious hotels by night. For a special touch, opt for SilverLeaf Service, which includes oversized glass-dome windows, meals served in the comfort of your seat and access to an outdoor viewing area.

No. 4: A Flight With Maverick Helicopters - Multiple Locations

Imagine flying over the majestic Grand Canyon, the sparkling lights of the Vegas Strip, or the lush sea cliffs of Molokai, Maui, as you pop the question to your beloved. Maverick Helicopters operates first-class tours of these iconic U.S. destinations to create memories of a lifetime. Maverick's state-of-the-art aircraft accommodate seven passengers and offer modern comforts, including wraparound glass for maximum visibility, climate-controlled cabins, voice-activated communication systems and theater-style leather seating.

No. 3: Grotto Falls - Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Like a scene from a fairytale, imagine walking hand-in-hand through an old-growth hemlock forest and proposing at Grotto Falls at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Towering 25 feet high, the waterfall is worth the effort. It can be reached on foot via the Trillium Gap Trail, which is rated moderate to difficult. Just short of three miles roundtrip, it takes two to three hours to get to the falls and back.

No. 2: Love Park - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

What better spells love and happily ever after than artist Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE sculpture in LOVE Park in Philadelphia? Art lovers, in particular, might enjoy an afternoon at the Barnes Foundation and Philadelphia Museum of Art, before stopping at the sculpture to snap a photo and secure a forever yes from your mate. Confident individuals can sign up in advance for a Wednesday Wedding ceremony, which are available on a "first-come, first-serve" basis at the sculpture, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. from March to October.

No. 1: Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens - Fort Bragg, California

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens offers 47 acres of stunning flora and carefully cultivated gardens of all kinds, each with their own unique appeal. Ask your beloved surrounded by heritage roses, among succulents and Mediterranean beauties, or while standing on the coastal bluff, where whales may be your sole witnesses! The Gardens offers a perfect backdrop for picnicking and proposing. For couples who want to tie the knot immediately, elopements are welcome. Generally speaking, simply keep your party under 10 people and make sure everyone pays regular admission! Full details are outlined on the website.

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Ava roxanne stritt.

Ava Roxanne Stritt has been called the most...   Read More

Ava Roxanne Stritt has been called the most influential person in the world for spa travel and also a top authority on luxury and wellness travel. Her fans say she is responsible for turning the spa day into a wellness adventure! You can find her always searching for unique experiences.  Ava writes for multiple print and online publications such as   Spa Travel Gal and many more. You can also find her here @SpaTravelGa l  

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Dynie is the creator of NapaFoodGalTravels and has...   Read More

Dynie is the creator of NapaFoodGalTravels and has been a food, wine and travel journalist and digital influencer living and indulging in life in the Napa Valley and around the world for over 25 years. She was founder, publisher and editor of GuestWest Magazine, Napa Valley’s first luxury lifestyle magazine; Food and Flavor Editor for Napa Valley Life Magazine and contributor to a variety of food and wine publications. Always seeking out the next wine region or food and wine festival to experience around the US and around the world to add to “Dynie’s Delicious Destinations.” Follow NapaFoodGal on Twitter , Instagram and Facebook .

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Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

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Sherry hasn’t set foot on an airplane in more than 25 years.  Instead, she relies on cruise ships, river ships, trains and road trips to travel the world.  In that time, she’s been on more cruises than she can count and includes her solo cruise and travel adventures on her website,  CruiseMaven.com .  Her articles have been published in major newspapers and magazines - in print and online.  During a year and a half of living in Alaska, Sherry has cruised and spent time at every port in the Last Frontier except for Nome.  She’s become an avid transatlantic cruiser since 2005, as that is the only way for her to get to Europe without flying. Sherry hopes to inspire and encourage her readers to travel slow and travel solo, experience new cuisines and cultures. 

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Solo travel ‘more than doubled’ among Millennials in 2023

Abta has revealed a year-on-year rise in solo travel, with group trips for strangers and a desire for ‘me time’ driving bookings. olivia palamountain reports.

Recent research from ABTA (a trade association for British travel agents) has shown a significant increase in the number of travellers opting to holiday alone.

According to its Holiday Habits report findings, 16 per cent of travellers went on solo trips in the 12 months to August 2023, compared to just 11 per cent during the previous 12-month period.

This uptick in solo travel represents a notable year-on-year increase and surpasses even pre-pandemic figures from 2019, when 13 per cent of travellers reported having holidayed alone in the 12 months to July of that year.

The data also revealed that solo travel is particularly popular among younger age groups, with nearly one in five (19 per cent) of 25- to 34-year-olds saying they had travelled by themselves, the highest percentage of any age group.

However, the most significant year-on-year increase was observed among those aged 35-44, where solo traveller numbers more than doubled from 6 per cent in 2022 to 13 per cent in 2023.

One style of solo travel that has gained traction, especially among younger age groups, is “independent travel”, where individuals travel alone but as part of a group trip.

While 7 per cent of all respondents said they travelled in this way in the 12 months to August 2023, this figure doubled to 14 per cent among 18-24-year-olds.

Graeme Buck, director of communications at ABTA, says that “society has evolved considerably in recent decades, with more people living alone and solo travel shedding its past stigma of loneliness”.

Indeed, the Google search term “solo travel” has increased in popularity every year since 2009. ( Regiondo ).

Buck attributed the rise in solo travel to increasingly busy lives driving a need for “me” time, as well as the widespread use of smartphones and travel apps making travelling alone much easier.

According to a survey of female solo travellers by Solo Traveler, 46 per cent said that the feeling of freedom and independence drives their decision to travel alone.

Another 22 per cent said they don’t want to wait around for other people, while 15 per cent of respondents claim that solo travel is a way to challenge themselves and gain confidence.

Buck also highlighted the various travel styles available for solo travellers, ranging from entirely independent trips to joining group tours where individuals have the freedom to choose their desired holiday while sharing the experience with like-minded travellers.

As the trend of solo travel continues to grow, it is evident that more and more people are embracing the opportunity to explore the world on their own terms, seeking out unique experiences and personal growth along the way.

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20 Best Places in the US to Visit if You’re Traveling Solo

Posted: February 23, 2024 | Last updated: February 23, 2024

As a solo traveler, it can be hard to know the best places to visit. You want to feel comfortable enough to explore, have plenty of things to do, and always stay entertained. Here are the 20 places to visit in the U.S. if you’re traveling solo.

Bozeman, Montana

TimeOut writes, “Even when you’re alone in Bozeman, you’re never lonely.” This is because there’s so much to do in Bozeman. You can try outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, or horseback riding. Otherwise, you can visit the Museum of the Rockies to learn about the history behind the iconic mountains.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is home to some of the best museums and parks in the U.S., and with its efficient public transportation system, it’s easy to work your way across the city. For some retail therapy, you can head to the Magnificent Mile or even try out one of Chicago’s luxury spas.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle has so many different attractions to visit. There’s the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Pioneer Square. It’s a great city to visit if you love art, as it’s home to the Seattle Art Museum and the Frye Art Museum. Also, thanks to its local coffee shops, Seattle has some of the best coffee.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco has a sense of free spirit, which has been embraced by solo travelers. For example, SF Travel writes that San Francisco has a welcoming spirit that isn’t just for lovebirds but also for people traveling solo. You can visit the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and ride on the famous cable cars.

Florida Keys, Florida

If you’re after a more laid-back experience, then the Florida Keys are the perfect destination. The keys have warm weather, sunshine, and stunning blue waters. If you want to explore, then the best way is to rent a bike and stop off at local cafés when you need to refresh.

Mendocino, California

If you want to visit the coast, then make sure to head to Mendocino. There are stunning coastal walks with views of crashing waves. To stop yourself from becoming bored, try heading to Van Damme State Park to explore the glass sand beach. For food options, there’s Noyo Harbor Inn, which will give you a serene setting and great-tasting food.

Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington

A place for a great hike, along with incredible volcanic views, is Mt. Rainier National Park. This is supported by Be My Travel Muse , which writes, “It’s such a prominent volcano, you can see it from most major freeways and suburbs of Seattle.” If you enjoy your alone time, then it’s the best place to head.

Portland, Oregon

Portland has many cultural quirks, which makes it a great place for solo travelers to explore as it’s so hard to become bored. The city has an underground donut scene and a vibrant art culture. You can experience this culture through a bike tour that is centered around art and poetry.

Las Vegas, Nevada

While Vegas is known for being a party place, it’s also great for solo travelers who are looking for entertainment. As a solo traveler, you can head to fun places such as Madame Tussauds wax museum. You can also take day trips to the Grand Canyon to experience one of the natural wonders of the world.

Reno, Nevada

Trip 101 writes, “Reno, Nevada, has so much to offer to the solo traveler that you are sure to have your itinerary full of activities that you can do and places you can visit just by yourself.” Reno is known as “the biggest little city” due to having so much to do.

New York City, New York

New York has lots to offer solo travelers, such as exploring iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Central Park. You can visit a huge number of museums and cultural sights and even use the New York CityPASS to save money.

Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson has many outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and even wildlife spotting in the Teton Mountain Range. After a hectic day of exploring, you can relax at the Astoria Hot Springs to recharge. Other activities include exploring the town’s bars, restaurants, and shops, all of which are in a walkable area.

Austin, Texas

Rough Guides writes, “There are a wide array of solo-friendly outdoor activities, from strolling sun-speckled parks to paddling along Lady Bird Lake.” You’ll never be lost for things to do on your own in Austin. Other activities include exploring Austin’s music scene or enjoying its food trucks and farm-to-table restaurants.

Honolulu, Hawai’i

Honolulu not only has great beaches but also incredible hiking trails. You can relax on Waikiki Beach or climb a volcano for some breathtaking views. Make sure to fully immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture by visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center and Iolani Palace. For evenings, Honolulu has delicious seafood and the traditional luau experience.

Boston, Massachusetts

If you want to explore Boston’s rich history, then you can walk the Freedom Trail or explore landmarks such as the Old State House. For a more contemporary experience, Boston is also home to the Museum of Fine Arts. The city has diverse neighborhoods, all with their own unique shopping and eating experiences.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville seems to have everything that a solo traveler needs. For example, Explore Asheville writes, “Mountain views, incredible food, wineries and plenty of space for solitude make Asheville, North Carolina, a prime destination to take a vacation by yourself.” You can enjoy outdoor activities or visit attractions such as the Biltmore Estate.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe has a great arts scene, which makes it a great stop for solo travelers, especially if you love immersing yourself in culture. You can visit galleries and museums, such as the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. If you want to travel around the city on foot, then make sure to explore Santa Fe’s unique architecture.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston has many historic streets to wander through, where you can admire its architecture and beautiful gardens. The landmarks to head to include the Fort Sumter National Monument and the Charleston Museum. Make sure to also enjoy the southern hospitality of Charleston with its seafood and Lowcountry dishes.

Nashville, Tennessee

Visit Music City writes, “As the master of your own schedule, visit the city’s many museums, art galleries, and attractions at your own pace, or hop on a comprehensive, guided ride through Nashville.” If you’re a lover of country music, then Nashville is the best place to head, thanks to its numerous musical landmarks.

Sedona, Arizona

If you want to head somewhere that feels spiritual, then Sedona is the best place, thanks to its red rock landscapes. You can hike through the red rocks or try some meditation to really feel zen. For something a little more thrilling, take a jeep ride through the desert and learn about its geology and history.

Read More: 17 Things Society Can No Longer Do Because Gen Z Said So

Gen Z, our digital-native, trendsetting generation, is making waves in the cultural sea, steering the ship of societal norms in fresh and unexpected directions. As they charter new territories, there are certain practices they’d rather we say goodbye to. Curious? Let’s take a look at 17 things the rest of us can no longer do because Gen Z said so.

17 Things Society Can No Longer Do Because Gen Z Said So

18 Common Traits Found in Adults Who Had Unhappy Childhoods

Being a parent is a hard job, so even those who are truly trying their best will often miss the mark on creating the best environment for their children. Unfortunately, this means that many of us grow up with far-from-perfect childhoods that affect us into adulthood. Here are 18 common traits found in adults who had unhappy childhoods.

18 Things Old People Just Can’t Get On Board with Today

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