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• The best places to go in September: Our top travel picks for a solo holiday

Nina Zietman 22nd Oct 2022 14 min read

For many around the world, September means back to school. But while some are busy sharpening their pencils, seasoned solo travellers get a reprieve from the hordes while the sun still shines in the Northern Hemisphere – especially Europe – and the sea is often at its warmest.

Yes, September is prime time for travelling, not only for the lack of crowds and lower prices, but also that subtle energetic shift that heralds the start of a new season. In Europe and North Africa, the swelter of summer eases off slightly, creating near perfect travel conditions. Meanwhile, countries below the Equator switch from winter to spring, signalling brighter, warmer days to come, including Argentina . Here’s our pick of the best places to go in September for solo travel.

Average temperature: 24°C / 75°F

Why you should visit now:.

If September sunshine is your thing, look no further than Croatia . Boat trips to less crowded islands and bougainvillaea-clad villages await, alongside a thriving festival scene that continues into early autumn. Goulash Disko , an independent, crowdfunded music festival that takes place every September, is a good example. Expect everything from reggae to jungle, psychedelic light displays and blindingly good sunsets on the laidback island of Vis. Bring your swimsuit – the Adriatic is at its best in September.

Expert tip:

Shipwrecks abound off Vis. Adventurous divers should book a trip to swim over two plane wrecks off Komiza.

Average temperature: 25°C / 77°F

It wouldn’t be September without a harvest festival or two. In the Andalucía region of Spain, the grapevines are fit for bursting. Head to the city of Jerez de la Frontera, where celebrations kick off with the Vendimia Festival in early September. Pop by to see ceremonies like the Pisa de la Uva (treading of the grapes) on the steps of the cathedral, followed by two weeks of flamenco shows, art exhibitions and tours of regional bodegas and vineyards.

Go kayaking in Cabo de Gata, a protected national park in Andalucía, known for its wild, crowd-free beaches and excellent snorkelling.

Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F

At the far eastern edge of Europe, where temperatures align towards Asia , Turkey is still super hot in September if you’re chasing the sun. The best way to explore the coastline is by boat. Climb aboard a skippered yacht in Izmir, ready to spend the day snorkelling in sheltered coves and gorging on mezze platters for lunch. Back on dry land, follow in the footsteps of Cleopatra and Mark Anthony by wandering through the ancient ruins of Ephesus.

Try imam bayildi , a popular Turkish dish of aubergines, stuffed with onion, garlic and tomatoes, simmered gently in olive oil.

Average temperature: 25°C / 84°F

After the wishy-washy waves of summer, September promises consistent surf conditions in Portugal . Just an hour from Lisbon, Ericeira is prime for beginners right up to advanced surfers, offering up warm water and balmy evenings in September. Loosen up those limbs with a morning yoga class before a lesson with Ericeira Waves surf school .

Refuel after a salty surf session with an espresso and a pastel de nata . Try  O Pãozinho das Marias in Ericeira – it’s popular for a reason.

Average temperature: 23°C / 73°F

Major holiday season is over, but the chilly wet months are yet to begin, making September one of the best months to visit Brazil . Venture north to the Pantanal, the world’s largest wetland to see jaguars, giant anteaters and South American tapirs. Back in the city, music fans should book tickets to Rock in Rio , one of Brazil’s biggest pop and rock music festivals. Previous headliners include the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foo Fighters and Coldplay.

Stay at Pousada Xaraés hotel for a chance to go piranha fishing on the Abobral River and cook up your catch for dinner.

Average temperature: 15°C / 59°F

Winter is loosening its icy grip on Argentina at this time of year and spring is settling in. The capital Buenos Aires sees blossoms garland the sultry city in a shawl of seasonal colour – including the extravagant purple-flowering jacaranda trees. Salta and the northwest are warm and dry – ideal for accessing the otherworldly Puna de Atacama high-altitude desert region (known simply as “the Puna’”) that borders Chile’s better known Atacama. Way down south, Patagonia also becomes a possibility – with trails and lodges grinding into gear after the long, cold off season.

Argentina’s wine capital Mendoza hosts Wine Week during the final week in September, when 70 wineries offer tastings and restaurants proffer wine by the glass at reasonable prices. DJs join the party after dark.

Average temperature: 27°C / 80°F

The key to cracking Costa Rica in September is nuance. Many will tell you it’s rainy season and therefore the country is best avoided. But that only applies to the Pacific coast, from Nicoya all the way down to the remote Osa Peninsula. Avoid that. Instead head to the Caribbean coast, which is actually at its best in September. The weather is good, the sea is warm, it’s turtle-hatching season on the beaches of Tortuguero – Costa Rica’s “Little Amazon” – and there are fewer crowds as they ebb ahead of October’s off season.

Costa Rica ’s adventure hub, centred around the Arenal volcano, is great at this time of year, as it falls within the Caribbean climate zone. Base yourself in La Fortuna and book trips out for hiking, canyoning and more.

Ready to take off on your next adventure? Join Flash Pack today to discover group solo holidays with like-minded people in their 30s & 40s.

To find out where to go in October , read our expert travel tips, ideas and inspiration. 

Images: Adobe, Flash Pack

The best places to go in April: Our top travel picks for a solo holiday

By Nina Zietman

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The Best Places to Travel in September

By Caitlin Morton

September is the unsung hero of travel months: The busiest vacation season has come and gone, places are less crowded because kids are back in school, and as a result, prices on airfare, accommodations—and even attractions—have dropped. It’s the perfect time to pay a visit to locations that are usually swarming with tourists and enjoy some serious natural beauty , luxury hotels, outdoor adventures, and more than a few glasses of wine. So what are you waiting for? Here are the eight best places to travel in September, from Bali to Nantucket .

Bali is one of the best places to travel in September, thanks to warm temperatures and virtually no rainfall. (You can also enjoy a slight dip in hotel rates during this time, as it falls just after peak tourist season.) All the better to enjoy the island’s famous temples, gardens, monkeys, and surfing beaches. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to regions to explore, from the rain-forested inland district of Ubud to the rice paddies and eclectic shops of Canggu.

But we suggest booking your stay at a hotel or resort where you can get the full Bali experience in one stop, like editor- and reader-approved COMO Shambhala Estate , a five-star refuge for luxury travelers seeking spiritual development with Hindu water blessings and chakra healers. With its three pools, private waterfall, nutritious Southeast Asian food, and hammam spa, you’re guaranteed to leave feeling better than when you arrived. (Right now, Bali's government is hoping to open up to tourists in either late July or early August.)

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Come fall, summer road-trippers give way to migrating wildlife and clear skies in Jackson Hole. The winter frost doesn’t set in until mid-October, meaning you have the whole month of September to raft the snake river, hike and bike through the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and take an early-morning bison safari.

But the best autumn activity in Jackson Hole has to be fly fishing. Hotel Jackson , a LEED-built boutique hotel in the heart of Jackson, is a great place to learn about the sport—the property’s “Fish the Fly Guide” takes guests out on full- or half-day boating trips to some of the best fishing spots in Wyoming. Whether you fish for cutthroat trout on the Snake River or rainbow trout in Yellowstone National Park, fly fishing is definitely one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of this area. Back at the hotel, unwind in the library or enjoy some Mediterranean cuisine at FIGS restaurant.

Geneva, Switzerland

Switzerland opened to Americans on June 28 (vaccinated travelers don’t need to quarantine, while non-vaccinated tourists need to provide a negative COVID test), which is good news for anyone wanting to experience the beauty of the country in September. Geneva is a particularly lovely place to visit come fall, with expansive views of the Alps, Jura Mountains, and, of course, Lake Geneva. This year marks the 20th anniversary of The Patek Philippe Museum, which showcases creations of the brand’s master watchmakers, plus a collection of watches and enamel miniatures from the 16th to 19th centuries.

Be sure to also check out MAMCO, the largest museum of contemporary art in Switzerland with more than 6,000 works. Oetker Collection will unveil The Woodward , a new suite-only hotel on the banks of Lake Geneva, on September 1—aside from incredible vistas, the hotel will feature a massive spa, the longest indoor pool in Geneva, and restaurants helmed by Michelin-star chefs.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

September is one of the best months to visit the Amalfi Coast, with comfortable temperatures (highs in the 70s and 80s) and far fewer crowds than during the summer. And since Italy officially reopened to vaccinated American tourists for quarantine-free travel in June, you can enjoy the beautiful region without having to wait for COVID test results in your hotel room. Spend time exploring the famously colorful towns along the coastline, like the show-stopping views at Positano and the romantic gardens at Ravello.

Book a stay at the blissfully secluded, 20-room Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa , which occupies a restored 17th-century monastery just three miles from Amalfi. After spending an afternoon swimming in the clifftop pool and getting treatments at the spa, enjoy local Campanian specialties at Il Refettorio, the Michelin-starred restaurant.

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Hannah Towey

Cappadocia, Turkey

A hot air balloon ride over central Turkey’s Cappadocia region is an adventure every traveler should experience—especially if you plan your trip right after the scorching hot summer months. The sky-high ride provides 360-degree views of the famous limestone spires and “fairy chimneys”—something you can't get at the ground level. We recommend booking with Kapadokya Balloons , the first company that introduced hot air balloon tourism in Cappadocia. Services include transfers to and from your hotel, snacks, full insurance, and a champagne party after the flight.

Speaking of hotels, head to the tony town of Ürgüp (about a 45-minute drive from Cappadocia) and book a room at Esbelli Evi , a 10-room hillside hotel carved into the rock. Accommodations are undeniably cavelike, with sloping walls and rounded ceilings, but the atmosphere is high-end—think antique writing desks and claw-foot tubs. (As of now, unvaccinated tourists must provide a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arrival.)

When it comes to sheer natural beauty, few countries in Africa rival Namibia . The Namib desert is the country's shining star, from the otherworldly landscapes of the Skeleton Coast , to the shifting dunes of the Namib Sand Sea, to the eerie, sun-blackened trees of Deadvlei. The best time to visit is from July to October, when the temperatures are in the low 70s and there is little chance of rain. It can get a tad tourist-heavy during this time (it’s also peak wildlife-viewing season), but you can dodge the crowds at AndBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in southwestern Namibia.

The lodge has an à la carte menu of adventures for guests, including e-biking around the lodge’s 12-mile path, hiking up to rock paintings in surrounding caves, driving quad-bikes over the dunes, or taking an early morning hot air balloon ride. But the most exciting activity on offer has to be stargazing at the on-site observatory: ​​The lodge borders an International Dark Sky Reserve, providing the rare opportunity to observe the southern hemisphere stars from one of the darkest and most protected skies in the world.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket isn’t just for summering. A fall trip to the island will be relatively quiet and crowd-free, but you can still enjoy the same outdoor activities as during high season. Spend your days sailing, golfing, biking, and walking to nearby lighthouses, or enjoy the lack of lines at Cisco Brewers and The Proprietors . Don’t miss the 10th annual Nantucket Project (September 23-26), an “ideas conference” where celebrities and innovators give live talks and music performances, as well as screen original films.

This year’s line-up of keynote speakers has yet to be announced, but past headliners include Jennifer Garner, Paul Giamatti, Steve Wozniak, and Ndaba Mandela. The event will be held at the White Elephant hotel, which happens to be one of the most beloved properties in Nantucket. The waterfront resort features spacious suites with harbor views, an outdoor heated pool, and a world-class spa, plus some of the best seafood on the island.

If you've already visited Napa and Tuscany, true oenophiles should head straight to Georgia, the tiny nation in the Caucasus that’s been making wine longer than anywhere in the world . Kakheti is the country’s foremost wine region, with 4,250 square miles of rolling vineyards, welcoming wineries, standout local cuisine, and well-priced hotels—and September just so happens to be the peak of harvest season in the region.

The first stop on your tasting tour should be Twins Old Cellar , a family-run operation where visitors can explore the qvevri (the traditional Georgian method of making wine in clay pots) museum and sample three wines and chacha (a potent Georgian brandy). Then drive about 15 minutes to Georgia’s winemaking mecca, Alaverdi Monastery , and explore the 104-variety “vine library” and drink a glass of nutty amber khikhvi wine.

At the end of the day, drive to Kabadoni , a minimalist boutique hotel in the cobblestoned village of Sighnaghi. The vineyard views, colorful Georgian rugs, and local cuisine make it the ideal spot to sleep off your hangover. (Currently, Americans must provide either proof of vaccination or proof of a negative COVID test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.)

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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

An email you’ll actually love

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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32 Best Places to Visit in September in USA (Unique and Cool Ideas You’ll Love)

Posted on Published: June 23, 2022  - Last updated: September 2, 2023

Traveling in the fall feels a little bit like magic. The summer crowds are dwindling away and prices drop to entice eager fall travelers. Amazing destinations await: these are the very best places to visit in September in the USA!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

From majestic mountain peaks to swoon-worthy beaches and some underrated destinations in between, there are some pretty spectacular September vacations in the US!

Whether you’re looking for amazing hiking spots, a weekend away in the city or destinations that shine with fall foliage, there’s something for everyone on this list! Get ready for some awesome places you’re familiar with, and even that you haven’t heard of!

Oh, and by the way, since I haven’t been everywhere yet, I asked my fellow travel writers to help create the perfect list of best places to visit September.

Let’s dive in!

Map of the best places to visit in September

From the national parks in the west to the fall foliage in the east and some perfect spots in between, this list covers a lot of the US!

Use this map as a visual as you plan your fall getaway.

Must-see video: best September vacations

Best places to visit in September in USA

September is a fantastic time to travel, and these are some of the best spots in the United States. Starting this list off with a bang…

1. Moab, Utah

Average temp: high 88, low 54

If you want one of the best places to visit in the USA in September then you can’t beat Moab, Utah.  Not only is this amazing place home to Arches, Canyonlands and Dead Horse State Park, but September is an ideal time to visit since the area as a whole is less crowded.

The temperatures also start to cool down at this time of year with daily highs of 88F and lows of 54F.  You’ll also love that the area is in full bloom, with fall foliage peaking around late Septmeber in the Manti-La Sal National Forest area. 

Go for a scenic, 2-hour drive on the La Sal Mountain Loop Road before visiting Delicate Arch, Devil’s Garden trail and Fiery Furnace at Arches National Park. 

Next, make your way to Canyonlands and be sure to explore both the Needles and Island in the Sky districts. 

In particular, go for a stunning, scenic drive through Island in the Sky . After all, this section of the park is home to no less than ten mesmerizing viewpoints, including the Shafer Canyon Viewpoint, the Greenriver View Point and Buck Canyon Overlook. 

Along the way, you can also stop at the awesome Mesa Arch and do a 1 mile hike here just in time for sunrise. It’s popular though so try to get here at least 1 or 2 hours before sunrise.

Recommended by Jamie of Photo Jeepers

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan (one of my favorite places to visit in September in USA)

Average temp: high 66, low 50

One of the most darling spots you’ll ever visit is Mackinac Island in Michigan. Located on the Great Lakes at the edge of Lake Huron, just before it meets with Lake Michigan, this destination is fabulous for fall.

September is a great time to visit Mackinac Island. Considering it’s northern location, this island is extremely popular in summer. The droves of tourists are dissipating by September, leaving you with the island to explore in a much more relaxing pace.

Go shopping on the quaint Main Street. Enjoy a day at one of the many spas on Mackinac Island. Take a carriage tour or explore the island by foot or bike to see the sights. Enjoy a sunset cruise tour , with beautiful views of the Mackinaw City shore.

Have an adventure on the water and kayak to see awesome views of the shore while getting a bit of exercise. You’ll want to make sure to see Arch Rock, which towers 50 feet above the water and is one of the top attractions for visitors to the island. It can also be seen by land, while walking really close to it.

There are just a few hotels and vacation rentals on the island, but be sure to book early as space is limited.

It’s easy to see why Mackinac Island is one of the best places to visit in September. With so much variety, it has a bit of something for everyone!

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes – follow on Pinterest

3. Stanley, Idaho

Average temp: high 69, low 27

Stanley, Idaho , the gateway to the epic Sawtooth Mountains, is an awesome outdoor playground for your next September getaway. During the day, the temperature will be in the high 60s and the skies are sunny and clear, perfect for exploring Stanley’s alpine wonderland.

September is the perfect time to explore the Sawtooth Wilderness on foot by any of Stanley’s countless amazing hikes.

For example, there’s a number of trails that will lead you past any of Stanley’s 300 glacial lakes , like the Alice Lakes trail. This bucket list-worthy trail can either be hiked as a 12.5 mile day hike or a 21.3 mile backpacking trip and will take you past a crystal clear green lake, dramatically jagged mountain peaks, and sweeping views of the Ponderosa pine tree forests below. 

If you’re looking to dip your toe into white water rafting, September is a perfect time to try out Stanley’s rapids , given that the water level is at its lowest of the year. While you may not be able to take on Class IV rapids in September, you’ll still be able to get a feel for the rushing water, while taking in Stanley’s beautiful scenery. 

After all that physical activity, what could be better than relaxing those aching muscles in any of the area’s gorgeous hot springs ? Some of the best ones to check out are Kirkham Hot Springs, which offers a thermal waterfall. Or try Pine Flat Hot Springs, where you can overlook the Payette River and the rafters floating down it, from your very own natural hot tub.

Stanley, Idaho is one of the best places to visit September for outdoor adventures!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler – follow on Instagram

4. Smoky Mountains

Average temp: high 74, low 50

If you’re looking for the best place to travel in September, then consider the Smoky Mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park spans the Tennessee and North Carolina border.

September is the perfect time to visit the Smoky Mountains due to the mild weather and limited crowds. Summer vacationers have really dwindled and the leaf peeping visitors haven’t started rolling in, as October and November are the best times for fall foliage.

You’ll experience fewer crowds on the trails and roads, making your experience much more pleasant than most other times in the year.

Visit Clingman’s Dome, which provides 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains. For the best waterfall hikes, be sure to hike the Laurel Falls Trail and Grotto Falls Smoky Mountains .

If you like camping, be sure to reserve your campsite early as the park spots fill up fast. Alternatively, Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a great home base for your Smoky Mountain adventures. With plenty of hotels and vacation properties to choose from, you’ll find something to fit your needs and budget!

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

5. Burlington, Vermont

Average temp: high 71, low 51

Burlington, Vermont is a particularly beautiful destination and one of the best places to visit in September in USA. The foliage reaches its peak late in the month and the weather is still warm and sunny in September. 

Any visit to Burlington should first start out in Waterfront Park. The views across Lake Champlain to the Adirondack Mountains are spectacular. Stroll along the waterfront with a maple creemee, an iconic Vermont ice cream treat.

You can also take a cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen on the lake. Narration on the boat ride will give you interesting information about the natural and cultural history of the area. The scenery is superb as you’ll see the mountains around Lake Champlain in fall colors.

Rent a bike and explore the Burlington Bike Path. You’ll cruise past beaches and breath-taking views as you pedal north. Or enjoy one of the  many hiking areas  within the city limits.

For a bit less active pursuit, visit the Echo Center, a science and nature museum on the Burlington waterfront. Kids of all ages will love the interactive exhibits.

Leave time to wander along Church Street, a pedestrian mall in the heart of Burlington. Enjoy street performers, cute shops and unique dining choices. City chefs specialize in farm to table dishes. And with more breweries per capita than any state, a stop for a craft beer won’t disappoint. 

Just make sure you get back to the waterfront for one of Burlington’s amazing sunsets! Watch the reds and oranges spread across the sky for a perfect ending to the day.

Recommended by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler – follow on Facebook

6. Glacier National Park, Montana

Average temp: high 60, low 38

It’s one of the very best places to visit in September, without a doubt. Nicknamed the ‘Crown of the Continent’ for its majestic beauty, you’ll easily see why in your first visit to Glacier National Park.

September is an especially delightful time of year to visit Glacier. The massive crowds of tourists have vanished , making the countless hiking trails, alpine lakes and stunning waterfalls more enjoyable.

While in the park, you’ll want to experience the stunning Lake McDonald, home to nature’s skittles – multicolored rocks that are vividly beautiful and unique. Also plan to hike the Avalanche Lake Trail , which takes you to the most amazing lake scene.

The shining star of the park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It’s 50 miles of incredibly beautiful views of the jagged mountain peaks, roadside waterfalls and plenty of overlooks to soak in the sights.

Through early September you’ll need a vehicle reservation through the National Park Service. Mid to late September the road is free reign and perfect for exploring.

By mid-September the leaves are typically starting to turn for fall, providing a stunning assortment of fall colors to enjoy. They continue through mid-October when most leaves are gone and winter really starts to set in with falling snow.

Be sure to pack layers in September. The mornings and evenings are cold in the park but the sun warms up nicely during the day, especially in the higher altitudes. Good hiking shoes with traction and trekking poles will come in handy if you plan to hike this park.

7. Siesta Key, Florida (best beach and best place to travel in September)

Average temp: high 89, low 74

If you’re a beach lover, then head to this gem on the Florida peninsula’s west coast. It’s one of the best places to visit in September in the USA because pricing is low, crowds are reduced the weather is still great enough to enjoy the water temperature in the Gulf.

Prices are generally lower in September than in the peak season of summer, winter break or spring break. But it’s also because hurricane season can sometimes be a nuisance. It may be a little more rainy, and be sure to use travel insurance in case you have to reschedule due to an actual hurricane.

Those are obviously not the norm on a daily basis, and it shouldn’t persuade you not to book a trip to this beautiful part of the country.

With sugar-fine white sand beaches, Siesta Key Beach has been rated one of the best beaches in the US over and over again.

You’ll love all the fun things to do in Siesta Key , too. Rent bikes, go kayaking through the nearby mangroves, find some live music, go shopping or dining until your heart is content.

If you’re up for adventure, try kiteboarding or parasailing. Take a day trip to Anna Maria Island or take a dolphin tour.

Siesta Key is truly a spectacular destination and one worth visiting in September!

8. Mendocino, California

Average temp: high 66, low 49

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in September, then consider Mendocino, California.

The September weather in Mendocino is pretty comparable to its “warm” summer months. This is northern, coastal California, so it’s cool year-round.

With temperatures ranging from the mid 50s to highs in the 60s, you can still kayak, canoe and hike in September and rainfall is typically minimal (averages 1 day/month) compared to the rest of fall and winter.

The advantage to September over the summer is that you’ll find less tourists, and get a better deal on a place to stay.   Lodging in Mendocino  is geared more towards charming inns and bed and breakfasts rather than big hotels. 

Downtown Mendocino is filled with quaint boutiques, galleries and restaurants housed in historic Victorian buildings. You can easily walk this pretty little village in a few hours, but you’ll want at least a couple of days to soak in the beauty of the Mendocino Coast. 

Across from the town itself are the trails of the Headlands State Park . Meander along the cliffs and discover crystal clear coves in every shade of blue.

Nearby is Van Damme State Park with an accessible beach on one side of Highway 1 and trails through the Pygmy Forest on the other. This area is teaming with trails and forests, so, if that’s your thing, you could easily spend a week in Mendocino.

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise – follow on Pinterest

Best place to visit in September

Can you believe these destinations? With so many incredible places to see in the US in the fall, it’s going to be difficult to decide.

Let’s keep going!

9. Mt Rainier National Park, Washington

Average temp: high 58, low 39

If you’re looking for the best destination September, look no further than Mount Rainier National Park in Washington. The incredible Mount Rainier is one of the most prominent features in Washington and the Pacific Northwest, and for good reason.

You can see it from Seattle on a clear day, and it’s even more gorgeous up close! There are so many incredible things to do in Mt Rainier . Drive the scenic south side of the park from the Nisqually Enrance to the Stevens Canyon Entrance with roadside waterfalls and scenic overlooks.

Visit Paradise Mt Rainier , where you’ll be as close to the mountain as possible and get stunning views! There are a variety of hiking trails to explore in Paradise, including the Myrtle Falls, Bench and Snow Lake, Narada Falls and Skyline Loop Trail .

September is a great time to visit Mt Rainier because the fall colors are just starting to peek out. Mid September to Mid October the mountain really shines with yellows, reds and oranges.

You’ll also experience far less crowds than in the summertime, which is a bonus!

Be sure to pack layers for a September visit . Good hiking shoes , trekking poles and a hiking backpack will make your time on the trails much more comfortable and enjoyable, too.

10. Puerto Rico (another favorite on this list of best places to visit in September in the USA)

Average temp: high 86, low 75

Puerto Rico has to be on this list of best vacations in September! It’s an adventure destination perfect for excellent beaches, history and plenty of nature activities.

September is one of the best times of year to visit Puerto Rico because it’s the shoulder season. Summertime crowds are gone and holiday travelers haven’t yet arrived, so the pricing is lower. You won’t have to wait as long in lines at restaurants or on tours, either.

Spend a day or two exploring all the incredible things to do in Old San Juan . Go hiking or chasing waterfalls in El Yunque, the USA’s only national rainforest.

If you have a few extra days, be sure to hop over to Culebra Puerto Rico , a tiny island off the eastern coast. It’s home to one of the best beaches in the world, the stunning Flamenco Beach .

Be sure to pack your water shoes , snorkel gear and flip flops for this vacation to Puerto Rico. You’ll love the variety this island has to offer!

11. Telluride, Colorado

Average temp: high 68, low 34

One of the best September vacations in the USA is Telluride, Colorado. Specifically, the late part of September is when the peak fall foliage is out on full display and it’s stunning!

Downtown Telluride is darling and is the quintessential mountain town. With plenty of shops and restaurants, you’ll love walking around here.

If you’re looking more scenic views, be sure to hike Bridal Veil Falls and Power House trail , one of the most popular in the area. Or drive the incredible San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway (including Million Dollar Highway), which is a day trip from Telluride and one of the best scenic drives in Colorado .

Back in Telluride, you can also take a Gondola ride from Ridge Trail to Mountain Villa for more stunning fall scenery. Or hit up a local brewery, one of the best things about Colorado!

12. White Mountains of New Hampshire

Average temp: high 57, low 46

If you love adventure, the outdoors, and waterfalls, you’ll love the White Mountains of New Hampshire! This region in northern New Hampshire is home to spectacular natural scenery and picture-perfect small towns.

North Conway  is one of the most popular towns to use as a base. Here you can take the old-fashioned Conway Scenic Railroad through the mountains, visit Diana’s Baths, a collection of waterfall-strewn pools in the woods, or even drive to the top of Mount Washington, the Northeast’s highest peak!

From North Conway, you can drive the Kancamagus Highway, a beautiful American scenic byway packed with natural attractions, and arrive close to Franconia Notch State Park.

This part of the White Mountains is home to the Flume Gorge, a spectacular natural wonder and one of the prettiest easy hikes around, and Lost River Gorge, filled with caves you can squeeze into along the way.

If you like visiting breweries and distilleries, you’re in luck! This region does stupendously on both counts.

Schilling Beer Company in Littleton serves up small batch European-style beers, a nice contrast to typical New England brewing, and Cathedral Ledge Distillery is the Granite State’s lone organic distillery that makes a fabulous maple liqueur.

The White Mountains are fabulous to visit year-round, but September is a special sweet spot. The White Mountains of New Hampshire make for one of the greatest September vacations in the US!

In September, the foliage is just beginning to turn , but the bright shades that draw leaf peepers don’t arrive until early October. Temperatures still feel like summer during the day, with cool crisp sweater weather after the sun goes down.

September days bring lots of clear blue skies. Kids are back in school, so it’s far less crowded. It might just be the best month to visit of all. 

Recommended by Kate of New Hampshire Way

13. Alaska road trip (best place to vacation in September)

Average temp: high 45, low 33

If you’re looking for the best place to vacation in September, consider Alaska! Home to 5 national parks and even more preserves, this state has unparelled beauty within the USA.

Of course, weather is a big factor when considering a vacation in Alaska! The earlier in the month you’ll get more pleasant temperatures for travel and touring.

September is the shoulder season and many businesses are starting to shut down. There aren’t as many tour companies or restaurants operating in September in Alaska. So have a plan B when road tripping in Alaska!

Road tripping through Alaska can be done in a week, but you’ll see more if you can stay 10 to 14 days. There’s a lot of space between destinations, and the map can be deceiving!

Fly into Anchorage for this epic road trip. From there, you’ll want to see Denali National Park . Home to bear, moose, caribou and so many more amazing animals!

Alternatively, you could head south to see glaciers in Seward, Alaska at Kenai Fjords National Park . Feed reindeer at Eklutna Lake, see ice breaking off the Columbia Glacier or travel the Alaska Marine Highway to the Kenai Peninsula.

An Alaska road trip is an incredible adventure, and one to consider for a September vacation.

14. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Average temp: high 87, low 67

The Gulf Coast of Alabama is home to 32 miles of white sand beaches, and a perfect spot for a fall getaway!

Gulf Shores is one of the best places to visit in September in USA because the summer crowds are back home and prices are lower than most of the rest of the year.

There’s plenty of things to do in Gulf Shores with kids (or those young at heart), like riding go-karts, mini golf, trampoline park and taking a Ferris wheel ride at The Wharf at Orange Beach .

It’s a premier destination for couples and friends trips, too. Go hiking or biking at Gulf State Park , hunt for sand crabs at night or have a legendary milkshake at The Yard.

Gulf Shores, Alabama is a fantastic fall getaway and one you’ll fall in love with!

15. Mammoth Lakes, California (such a scenic spot on this list of best places to visit in September in USA)

Average temp: high 77, low 39

Mammoth Lakes, a charming mountain town located in the Eastern Sierra Nevadas, makes for a wonderful destination in September. The crowds that have been bustling all summer in Mammoth Lakes begin to trickle out in September just as the aspens, cottonwoods and willows start to change into their vibrant fall colors in this sub-alpine setting.

Hike through the gorgeous fall foliage on one of the awesome trails in Mammoth Lakes , such as the trail to Sherman Lakes which winds through a forest of fall colors. The hike to Heart Lake is another good option featuring the fall foliage in Mammoth Lakes Basin.

Driving along Mammoth Lakes Scenic Drive also showcases the spectacular hues of autumn and offers lots of fantastic leaf-peeping opportunities. Be sure to catch a sunset from the viewpoint at Minaret Vista, where you can watch the sky light up in crimson hues that match the changing leaves against a backdrop of the Minaret mountain peaks.

The weather in Mammoth Lakes in September is still warm enough that it’s a good time to visit nearby Mono Lake. This saltwater lake features unique tufa rock formations to marvel at, and you can even take a dip in the water that’s denser than the ocean to keep you afloat.

You definitely don’t want to miss a visit to Mammoth Lakes, one of the best destinations in September!

Recommended by Allison of She Dreams of Alpine – follow on Instagram

16. Asheville, North Carolina

Average temp: high 75, low 58

One of the greatest September vacations in the US is visiting Asheville. This gem in North Carolina has so much to offer visitors! The fall festivities are starting but the foliage isn’t at peak yet, so you’ll experience fewer crowds, mild temperatures and a lot to see and do!

Take a road trip down the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway . With gorgeous overlooks, waterfall hikes and tunnels, it can’t be beat.

Another must-see is the Biltmore Estate. It’s 8000 acres shows off it’s impressive gardens, horse stable, not to mention it’s 175,000 square foot residence!

Asheville in the fall has a plethora of fall festivals to enjoy. Apple picking, wineries and craft brewery events are popular in September. If you want to stretch your legs, go hiking in DuPont State Forest where you’ll find the famous Bridal Veil Falls.

Whether you’re looking for a family vacation, couples getaway or solo trip in September, be sure to add Asheville to your short list!

More of the best places to visit September

Okay, we’re half way done with this epic list! One of my favorite spots is up next…I’ve been there in September twice it’s so nice! 😉

17. Maui, Hawaii

Average temp: high 77, low 60

Maui is on the top of many traveler’s vacation list. But Maui is also one of the best places to visit in September in the USA.

Similar to other locations on this list, September is the shoulder season in Maui. You won’t experience long wait lines in restaurants, on tours or in the airport like you will during summer or winter break.

Whether you are a fan of beaches, hiking or epic road trips, Maui has an incredible variety of things to do, you won’t get bored! For sunshine and gentle waves, visit the famous Kaanapali Beach in west Maui. Hike the incredible Waihee Ridge Trail for epic views of the West Maui Mountains.

Go boogie boarding at DT Fleming Beach on the north shore, or watch the sunset on Haleakala for a spectacular show unlike anything you’ve ever seen! Visit a lavender farm or see the largest tree in the USA – the Lahaina Banyan Tree .

If you love scenic drives, be sure to spend a day or 2 exploring the Road to Hana. And if you’re up for more thrills, try the adrenaline-inducing Kahekili Highway .

No matter how you spend it, a Maui vacation is a destination that’s sure to please!

18. Chicago, Illinois

Average temp: high 74, low 62

Chicago is definitely a must on this list for the best place to travel in September. The summertime heat is gone and the windy city’s winter misery hasn’t yet set in. Fall in Chicago is perfect!

Take a stroll down the Navy Pier, enjoying carnival rides and views of Lake Michigan. Or stand high at 103 floors up on a glass ledge looking over the city at the Willis Tower Skydeck.

Chicago is an art lover’s dream destination. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago , National Museum of Mexican Art or the DuSable Museum of African American History. Catch a show at the Mount Dance Theatre of Chicago, Chicago Shakespeare Theater or the Chicago Magic Lounge.

Get outdoors in September and walk Millennium Park and see the Bean. Visit Maggie Daley Park or the Chicago Riverwalk.

Chicago is full of endless shops and restaurants, too. Be sure to try a Chicago-style deep dish pizza before you leave the city! As someone who’s been to Chicago many times, this city never gets old!

19. Big Sur, California (another favorite on this list of best places to visit in September USA)

Average temp: high 77, low 50

One of the most underrated spots in the country is Big Sur, California. It’s on this list of excellent places to visit in September in USA because of it’s moderate weather and reduction in visitors. Lower pricing accompanies the end of the peak season, so that’s a bonus!

Big Sur is one of the main stops on a San Francisco to San Diego road trip . Located just south of Monterey, California on US Highway 101. It’s an incredibly scenic spot where the mountain cliffs dive straight into the sea, creating a dramatic coastline.

There are so many things to do in Big Sur, you could spend a day driving through it or a week exploring each of the state parks and small towns in the area.

The iconic Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most popular spots along the drive, and one that must be seen! You’ll love the hikes in Big Sur, including the trail to McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and visiting the purple sand on Pfeiffer Beach.

Don’t miss Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where the hiking trails are endless and emerald green water meets the most naturally beautiful beaches! Take the 17 Mile Drive along the coast and do some window shopping in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

September is such a wonderful time to explore the area. You may see some marine fog in the mornings while in Big Sur, but it typically burns off by noon!

20. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Average temp: high 61, low 26

Yellowstone; the first National Park and one of the best and most visited.

While you can visit the park all year round, there are definitely difficulties visiting in certain seasons. For those in the know, the best time to visit Yellowstone is September.

Early September is one of the best times to visit for weather and crowds. With most kids having returned to school, the sweet spot for visiting the two weeks after labor day. However, late September is one of the busiest times in the park.

Although, for good reason, as mid-late September is the elk rut (mating Season) and photographers and visitors descend on the park to witness the fighting between elk bulls. The end of September is also peak for those visiting for beautiful fall colors.  

Yellowstone in September is perfect weather-wise with still late days and all of the park accessible. Mornings in the park can be chilly this time of year, however, it turns the park into an ethereal wonderland as steam from the hot springs clouds features in a fog-like atmosphere. 

For the clearest photos of park landmarks such as grand prismatic pond, going late in the afternoon gives you the least steamy look at the features. 

Staying and camping in the park is possible and September you’ll have a better shot at reservations. It’s still recommended to book early as lodging, especially some of the best in-park hotels do still book up. The closest outside hotels are in Gardiner Montana outside the north entrance and there is free camping possible in national forests outside the park’s boundary. 

Don’t miss this spectacular destination. Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to visit in September in the USA!

Recommended by Anwar of Beyond My Door – follow on Instagram

21. Mustang Island, Texas (one of the most unique and best places to visit in September in USA)

Average temp: high 87, low 75

One of the warmest destinations on this list of best places to visit September, coastal Texas might also be one of the most fun!

Mustang Island is located just minutes away from Corpus Christi, Texas. Famous for its drivable beaches, the Texas coast is vast and full of things to do.

Get a hotel or vacation rental in Corpus Christi or Port Aransas for your stay. Be sure to visit the Horace Caldwell Pier in Port Aransas. It’s a great spot to get unique views of the coast and watch the surfers as they catch waves to the beach.

Further down the coast is South Padre Island National Seashore. Not to be confused with the lively city, this national preserved land is beautiful as it is – natural! It’s a great spot for a beach day, or to adventure onto the water in kayaks or stand-up paddle boards.

In Corpus Christi, visit the Seawall, which was completed in 1941 as a way to preserve the city. Today, it is a great spot for views of the marina, restaurants and seeing the Selena statue.

Like many other spots on this list, September is the shoulder season for tourism, so the prices are lower than typical, making Mustang Island a perfect weekend getaway in the fall!

22. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temp: high 88, low 72

New Orleans has got to be one of the best vacations in September! The city is still very much alive from summer and it’s still hot like it, too.

Parades, outdoor concerts and other live events make September the perfect time to visit New Orleans. And if you love football, it’s the official kick-off of the Saints season.

New Orleans is such a unique destination, offering visitors a wide variety of activities. Dive into the food scene in NOLA! From Jambalaya to Gumbo, Craw Fish to Po-Boys, the food here is some of the best in the south!

You won’t want to miss the ghost tours or swamp tours . Oh, and don’t forget to walk and dine the French Quarter where you’ll get the quintessential New Orleans experience!

23. San Diego, California (one of the best ideas for September vacations yet)

Average temp: high 77, low 66

San Diego in September is an ideal time to visit. The kids have headed back to school so the summer vacation crowds have started to die out, yet the weather is still perfect. 

September weather in San Diego averages a balmy high of 77 degrees and the chance of any rain is very slim (one of the dryest months of the year). What more could you ask for in a travel destination? 

You’ll get to enjoy the nice weather and fall activities that are beginning! Pumpkin patches and fall markets will start to pop up all around San Diego in September but there are also many other types of activities that can be done too!

If you’re a nature lover you’ll be in heaven! There are endless places to go hiking for all different skill sets, an abundance of water sports in San Diego to try like surfing or kayaking, and many different lakes that are great for fishing, camping or picnics.

If you’re seeking adventure ride a hot air balloon on a crisp evening for sunset, or go on one of the amazing road trips from San Diego that can easily be done in a just few hours. Those of you who enjoy city life can try out different restaurants and cute coffee shops, go shopping, or book a hotel day pass at an aesthetic boutique hotel and hang out at the pool!

As you can see the best place to travel in September is San Diego for just about anyone! 

Recommended by Chelsey of Chelsey Explore – follow on Instagram

24. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Average temp: high 77, low 46

Badlands National Park is one of those places that gets some moody weather. During summertime it’s consistently over 100 degrees, and in the winter it’s often impassible due to snow, ice or extreme wind.

So to say September is the best time to visit Badlands National Park might just be an understatement! With pleasant weather and very little rain, you’ll feel like you’ve just won the jackpot with a visit here in the fall.

Badlands National Park is one of the most underrated in the entire park system. The unique landscape seems like you’ve stepped onto another planet!

One of the best things to do in Badlands National Park , and a great way to see the sights is to drive The Loop, which is Highway 240 south from I-90 . See Panorama Point and Pinnacles Overlook. Hike The Notch Trail, one of the most popular trails in the park with 360-degree views of the incredibly unique land formations.

You can see Badlands National Park in a day, so for the rest of your vacation I’d recommend a stop at Mount Rushmore. For more nature, drive the Needles Highway and camp or hike in Custer State Park .

Best destination September

Rounding out the last portion of this list of the best places to visit in September in USA. There are a few here you maybe haven’t considered for a fall getaway. More surprises in store – below!

25. Las Vegas, Nevada (one of the most unique recommendations for best places to visit in September in USA)

Average temp: high 96, low 57

It’s probably not on the top of every list because of the heat, but it’s certainly worthy of the list! The best destination September is Las Vegas, Nevada.

The trick to enjoying Las Vegas in the heat is to get outside early and in the evenings, and avoid the hottest part of the day, 12-4pm. So with that said, there’s tons to do in Vegas that’s not gambling or casinos!

See a great show! Comedy, dancing or concerts, there’s something for everyone in Vegas. Oh, and the restaurant scene is absolutely incredible!

Or my favorite, visit one of the amazing natural landmarks or conservation areas nearby. With a variety of day trips from Las Vegas, visit Zion National Park, Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire State Park , or do the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive.

Vegas in September is certainly cooler than the summer, and the perfect weather for hotels with swimming pools .

26. Nederland, Colorado

Average temp: high 65, low 34

Nederland Colorado is one of the best places to visit in September in USA for wanderlusters who thrive exploring unique places.  Its proximity to both Denver and Boulder also draws nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts to Nederland from spring through fall.   

The small mountain town of Nederland is only 32 miles from Denver but feels miles away. The town is a bit quirky and has adopted the motto “Keep Ned Weird.”  It has a hippy-like, artistic community vibe nestled into the beautiful Rocky Mountains. The quirk is endearing and worthy of the town’s protection efforts.

September is an ideal time in Colorado for mild days and cool nights.  Nederland is great for hiking, biking and exploring nature. Plus, in mid to late September, Nederland visitors enjoy photographing the iconic aspen leaves as they turn a beautiful golden. 

Nederland’s East and West Magnolia mountain biking trail system contains multiple loops which can be combined for over 44 miles of epic single-track.   

Hiking to Lost Lake on the Hessie trail is a popular activity in Nederland. The 4-mile out and back moderately rated trail is heavily trafficked in summer. However, the crystal clear waters of Lost Lake are worth joining the crowds. Weekends attract large enough crowds to warrant a free shuttle service from the local high school.

Nederland visitors love the history of the  Carousel of Happiness almost as much as listening to the Wurlitzer band organ’s rendition of popular songs while riding the one-of-a-kind carousel animals.

During the Vietnam war, an American soldier found comfort in a small music box in a faraway land. He vowed to build a carousel in the mountains if he made it through the war. 

Scott Harrison survived Vietnam and kept his promise. It took him 2 decades to procure a rare 1910 Louff carousel and hand carve each animal before opening it to the public in Nederland!

Recommended by Kara of Trying to Unwind – follow on Instagram

27. Savannah, Georgia

Average temp: high 86, low 70

Savannah certainly makes the list for the best place to vacation in September. It’s a charming city year-round, but September is particularly delightful. With off-season prices, you’ll be able to take advantage of all that there is to do in Savannah without the higher price tag.

Wander, shop and dine through Broughton Street and visit the iconic Forsyth Park. Discover history at Old Fort Jackson or Savannah’s First African Baptist Church . Learn the spooky side of the city’s history with a haunted ghost tour .

Don’t miss the many events and festivals in Savannah in September. The highlight is the Savannah Jazz Festival . Music lovers will enjoy this week-long festival of free music throughout the city.

With warm temperatures in September, it’s still perfect for swimming. Hit the beach at Tybee Island Beach!

28. Sarasota, Florida

One of the best places to visit in September USA for art and history is Sarasota, Florida.

Sarasota is known as the “Circus Capital of the World” thanks to circus magnate John Ringling’s building his opulent mansion on 20 acres of waterfront property in the 1920s.

Known as Ca’ d’Zan (House of John), this Venetian Gothic palace sits next to Sarasota Bay. The owners threw gala parties with guests ferried in gondolas. In 1936, Ringling bequeathed the mansion to the State of Florida.

Plan to spend at least 4 hours visiting the Ringling campus, which includes the Museum of Art as well as the circus museum, mansion, and outdoor garden.

Art lovers will also enjoy the Sarasota Art Museum. This contemporary art museum offers “art for all, every day.” Tickets are free on the second Sunday of the month. Community activities include fiber art projects, musical interludes and children’s storytelling.

Sarasota also is home to outdoor bicycle art sculptures located on the waterfront and around town. Visitors to Sarasota will find their calendar packed with opportunities to see plays. Check out the Florida Studio Theatre for plays and dates.

And while enjoying this lively beach town, be sure to check out the best Sarasota restaurants , from amazing seafood to local wineries, there’s a bit of everything!

Recommended by Terri at Female Solo Trek – follow on Pinterest

29. Mount Hood, Oregon (an absolute gem and one of the best vacations in September)

Average temp: high 67, low 47

A Pacific Northwest gem, Mount Hood, Oregon is by far one of the best places to visit in September in USA!

It’s classic landscape is the perfect backdrop for renting a canoe at Trillium Lake or Lost Lake, hiking at Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain or check out the falls at Zigzag Falls.

Of course, you can’t miss the Mt Hood Scenic Loop. The 105 miles takes you through forests, winding mountain roads and alongside the Columbia River. Plan a day for this scenic route so you have plenty of time for overlooks and photos, and even a picnic lunch.

You’ll want at least a long weekend to enjoy the Mt Hood region . Although if you’re an avid hiker, perhaps a week would be more adequate to enjoy the hikes in the area!

30. Coastal Maine

Average temp: high 69, low 52

Like so many other tourist destinations, September is a great time to visit Maine (aka “Vacationland”) due to the summer crowds having died down.

Maine in September is usually sunny, yet cool especially in breezy coastal towns. It’s a great time to take a drive up the coast and hit all the great spots from Kennebunkport all the way to Bar Harbor. 

While Maine may be famous for its delicious and plentiful lobster, other seafood is delicious there too. Specifically, September brings the  Pemaquid Oyster Festival  to Damariscotta – a beautiful quaint town in midcoast Maine.

If you can’t be in town for the festival itself, try stopping by  Glidden Point Oysters  in Edgecomb. You can take a tour, learn to shuck your own oysters, and grab a beer.

And since foodie tradition states that you should only eat raw oysters in months that contain the letter “r’, September is the perfect time to visit. Though be assured that oysters are delicious any time of year. 

After you’ve satisfied your appetite, explore the outdoors! Maine is home to many beautiful hikes.

The reduced crowds in September mean less foot traffic on paths and better photo opportunities. Try  Wolfe’s Neck State Park  in Freeport or  Acadia National Park  in Bar Harbor for some of the most scenic spots.

When you’re ready to rest your head, there are a handful of really amazing places to stay in Maine. Whether you’re looking for something urban or something that will allow you to feel one with nature, Maine has it all.

In Kennebunkport, check out  Hidden Pond Resort  for a serene environment. Usually quite the splurge, September is when summer prices begin to come down and a deal can be found. If you find yourself in Portland for the night,  Blind Tiger Guest House  is brilliantly decorated and right near the heart of all the hustle and bustle. 

You’ll love visiting Coastal Maine, one of the best places to visit in September USA!

Recommended by Lauren of Family Recess – follow on Instagram

31. Sandusky, Ohio (underrated spot on this list of best places to visit in September in USA)

Average temp: high 74, low 57

Sandusky, Ohio may not come to mind when you consider the best place to visit in September. But it definitely is worthy of a spot on this list!

Sandusky is home to the Cedar Point Amusement Park , which is the 2nd oldest operating park in the country. It’s for the adrenaline lovers only, as the rides in this park are comparable to no other place. Simply thrilling!

If you prefer a water activity on Lake Erie, you’ll want to make sure to visit over the weekend. Since it’s the end of high season, many tour companies are operating on weekends only by September.

Anyway, try kayaking, parasailing or stand-up paddle boarding right on Lake Erie.

For more things to do in Sandusky , hang out in downtown Sandusky at Washington Park, soaking in the green space. Or visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum , a family-friendly destination in Sandusky. Check out the Jackson Street Pier and get fun views of the marina.

Be sure to visit one of the many wineries in the region – a delicious way to taste your way around Sandusky and Lake Erie!

September is a great time to visit Sandusky because the summertime crowds are gone and winter temperatures haven’t set in . Oh, and it’s a relatively affordable destination anyway, but prices dip even further in September. 😊

32. Big Island, Hawaii

Average temp: high 87, low 73

The Big Island of Hawaii, also known as Hawaii Island, is a year-round destination to visit and enjoy nature at its best.

September is a fantastic time to visit the Big Island because it’s the shoulder season and most summer vacationers have gone back home. You’ll experience the island with far less crowds!

If you love to the outdoors, you’ll love  hiking around the Big Island . There are so many amazing hiking trails within the state and national parks to visit on the Big Island.

With fabulous weather, mostly sunny days and average temperature in the mid 70s to mid 80s, it’s a perfect time to be outdoors! Plan a road trip or visit any of the major attractions around the island.

You can easily base yourself in Kona (west side) or Hilo (east side) and do day trips to visit the many places of interests, monuments parks and of course the gorgeous beaches here.

The eastern side of the island is more lush with botanical gardens, waterfalls and the national park to visit. While the west side has the gorgeous white sand beaches, cool towns, resort areas and Kona town to also explore.

In any case, the Big Island is one of the best places to visit September as you will enjoy visiting the entire island without all the massive crowds.

Recommended by Noel of This Hawaii Life

Whew! What a list! There are so many incredible places for a fall getaway in the US – how will you ever choose?!

Whether you’re planning a couples’ getaway, family vacation, solo reprieve or friends’ trip, there are so many ideas here!

Let’s go through that list again, in a quick manner…

Best place to travel in September

• Mackinac Island, Michigan
• Stanley, Idaho
• Smoky Mountains
• Burlington, Vermont
• Glacier National Park, Montana
• Siesta Key, Florida
• Mendocino, California
• Mt Rainier National Park, Washington
• Puerto Rico
• Telluride, Colorado
• White Mountains of New Hampshire
• Alaska Road Trip
• Gulf Shores, Alabama
• Mammoth Lakes, California
• Asheville, North Carolina
• Maui, Hawaii
• Chicago, Illinois
• Big Sur, California
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
• Mustang Island, Texas
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• San Diego, California
• Badlands National Park, South Dakota
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Nederland, Colorado
• Savannah, Georgia
• Sarasota, Florida
• Mount Hood, Oregon
• Coastal Maine
• Sandusky, Ohio
• Big Island, Hawaii

Related content to read next: 32 Awe-inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe 37 Absolute Best Places to Visit in August (Amazing Spots You’ll Love) 26 Best National Parks to Visit in October (Amazing Spots You Need to See) 31 Best Places to Visit in November USA (Fun & Unexpected Ideas You’ll Love)

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Shawn Lewis

Wednesday 2nd of August 2023

Puerto Rico should really not be on the list of places to visit in September as it is the peak of Hurricane season.

Friday 4th of August 2023

That's exactly why it's on the list :) Affordable prices! Hurricanes don't hit every area of the Caribbean every day, even during peak season. Buy travel insurance and be smart about storms and warnings.

Bea Pinnegar

Tuesday 28th of June 2022

Woah, September definitely sounds like the best month to visit the USA - whether it's the mountains, the beaches or the cities! Thanks for sharing this lovely guide - your photos are just simply stunning!

anukrati dosi

Sunday 26th of June 2022

Idaho indeed looks stunning. Loved it.

simplyjolayne

Saturday 25th of June 2022

The pictures alone are bucket list inspiring. I love the Fall colors around the world, so that is what I would be hoping to see the beginnings of in September.

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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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.

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

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.

20 best places to travel alone to and go on a solo adventure

Travel Travel Inspiration Solo Travel Solo Vacation 2022

2021 is finally behind us and things are looking up in the new year. The COVID-19 vaccination drive is in full effect and many countries are opening up their borders to welcome tourists. If you’ve been cooped up at home in the last year and are waiting to explore new places, discover exciting cultures, and have fulfilling experiences that satiate your soul, you finally can! Solo travel is amongst the most satisfying ways to travel to a new place and we have put together an all-inclusive list of the best places to travel alone in 2022.

There’s nothing quite like being by yourself while traveling and exploring new places with no expectations and the stress that comes with planning a trip accommodating different personalities. With this handy list, you’ll learn more about some of the best solo travel destinations and effective insider tips and tricks to planning a solo trip.

Solo Travel Destinations 2022

20 Best Places To Travel Alone In 2022

• Best Places To Travel Alone In 2022 - Asia
• Best Places To Travel Alone In 2022 - Europe

Best Places To Travel Alone In 2022 - Americas

Best places to travel alone in 2022 - africa, best places to travel alone in 2022 - oceania.

• How to choose the best solo travel destination?
• Secret Tips for Solo Vacations
• FAQS about Solo Vacations 2022

Note: All currency exchange data is as of November 11, 2020 from XE Currency Converter .

Best Places To Travel Alone In Asia

Average daily budget.

Solo travel is one of the best ways to experience the astounding and vibrant cultural goldmine that is Japan. From Kanazawa to Kyoto, the country is home to quite a few exciting solo travel destinations that offer a good mix of safety and interesting things to do. Some places in Japan you can plan a solo trip to include Osaka, Matsumoto, Seto Inland Sea, and more. Each of these destinations offers a singularly unique experience designed to enthrall and delight you. From historic Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines to fascinating museums like the Kyoto Rail Museum, Osaka Museum of History, and Kyoto Kyocera Art Museum, Japan’s best solo travel destinations are packed to the brim with remarkable experiences you can enjoy by yourself. Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, another reason why you should plan a solo trip to this fantastic county.

A sovereign country located on the southern slopes of the Himalayas is a solo traveler’s paradise. With abundant natural beauty and welcoming and gentle locals, Nepal is a great place for a solo trip. Your solo trip to Nepal can begin at its capital Kathmandu where you can visit the famous Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Monastery. Bhaktapur and Patan are also both great destinations if you’re looking to explore authentic Nepalese architecture and culture. While in Nepal, you also need to visit Pokhara, home to the magnificent Phewa Lake and a host of water-based activities and adventures. If you’re looking to experience the majesty of Mount Everest, head over to the South Base Camp and embark on the Everest Base Camp trek. Good food, friendly people, and plenty of gems of nature await you in Nepal!

3 South Korea

A fascinating, travel-friendly country, South Korea offers a bouquet of enriching and fun experiences designed for solo travelers. Koreans are extremely friendly people and even if you go to remote parts of the country where locals might not know English, they’ll do your best to help and guide you in any way possible. The cheap public transport and general affordability in terms of food and stay make South Korea the perfect solo travel spot. Some solo travel destinations in South Korea are Seoul , Jeonju, Samcheok, Jeju, Gangeung, Busan, Gapyeong, and Boseong. From tours of the Korean DMZ and visits to quirky coffee shops to Korean cooking classes and stays at Korean Temples, you’ll find plenty of solo-travel friendly experiences waiting for you in beautiful South Korea. You can also visit the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Bukchon Hanok Village, which is located right next to the palace.

One of the best beach destinations in the world, Thailand has a lot more to offer, particularly for solo travelers. The Land of the Smiles is home to beautiful destinations like Ayutthaya and Sukhothai that feature stunning temple ruins, Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai where you can embark on glorious treks and visit colorful hill tribes, and Khao Sok National Park and Erawan National Park where you can witness breathtaking waterfalls and engage with an array of native wildlife. Solo travelers can also visit Kanchanaburi, located on the banks of River Kwai, and get enlightening insights into the county's recent war history. Apart from the many destinations that grace Thailand, the county's food is another reason why it's a must-visit for solo travelers. The street food scene in Bangkok is truly marvelous and you can explore the colorful streets while munching on local delicacies.

Vacation 2022 Guide: Plan Your Perfect Holiday Destination Post-COVID

Pest places to travel alone in 2022 europe.

With a robust train infrastructure and generally acceptable safety levels, Germany has many beautiful destinations perfectly suited for solo travelers. You can visit Hannover for its beautiful churches and museums, visit Martin Luther's hometown in Eisleben, explore the old-world charm and architecture of Munich, experience peak Germany at Berlin with its fabulous art scene and modern landmarks, stroll through wooden parklands at Dresden, and much more. Effectively, there are countless destinations in Germany suited for solo travel and you can do a lot in a week from hiking tall mountains to witness majestic castles to attending thrilling techno parties. Germany also happens to be amongst the more budget-friendly tourist destinations in Europe.

Top Recommended Experiences in Germany

Often ranking high in the list of best solo travel destinations, Iceland is the perfect place to visit on your own. Boasting an intoxicating blend of the adventure associated with the wilds and our peaceful connection with nature. The island destination is home to calming hot springs, waterfalls adorned with rainbows, glorious wild horses, and a general sense of wonder encapsulating everything you set your eyes on. Apart from its many natural treasures, what makes Iceland the perfect solo travel destination is the people. According to numerous reports, Iceland is home to some of the friendliest people in the world and they do great work to offset the cold temperatures with their warmth and kindness. You can also meet loads of fellow solo travelers in Iceland and form genuine connections with like-minded people. Iceland also features a Ring Road which connects to most of the spots in the country, making travel seamless.

Top Recommended Experiences in Iceland

Pints of Guinness, the greenest grass you've ever seen, rolling hills, and breathtaking architecture are some of the elements that define the beautiful country of Ireland. Amongst the best places to travel solo, Ireland offers everything you would want out of a solo trip and more! You'll find a great choice of accommodations in the city for different budgets, a well-developed public transport system featuring both buses and trains, and the iconic pub life that's come to being associated with the country. There are plenty of options for pocket-friendly day trips in Ireland including Wicklow and Glendalough, Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands, Connemara and Kylemore Abbey, and the general Northern Ireland area. What makes Ireland a great destination for your solo trip is the fact that locals are easy to talk to and generally a friendly bunch.

Spain is a great solo travel destination for a variety of reasons. Thanks to its robust transportation system, getting around in the country is easy. And with plenty of visitors heading to Spain throughout the year, you won’t ever be alone, especially if you visit some of the popular cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville . If you’re planning a classic backpacking trip, you can head to the bigger cities in Spain including Barcelona , Valencia, and Madrid , or head over to the southern part of Granada which brings together Moorish architecture and fantastic historic sites boasting a unique culture. If beaches and a killer nightlife are what you’re looking for in your solo trip to Spain, make your way to the Balearic islands. Want to experience the local food of Spain? The northern cities are where you should be for some of the best food in Europe. Apart from being budget-friendly, Spain also boasts a well-connected network of rail and buses.

Top Recommended Experiences in Spain

If you love the outdoors and want a safe and friendly place to travel to by yourself, Canada is the country to be in. In Canada, you can experience a variety of different cultures at once, at any time of the year, making it the go-to destination for solo travel. In Canada, you can visit Banff and Icefields Parkway in Alberta, explore the many lakes of Winnipeg, Manitoba, the cafes and European charm of Montreal, the museums, art galleries, and parks of Ottawa, the breathtaking Killarney Provincial Park in Ontario, the calming and relaxed Sunshine Coast in British Columbia, and many more. Add to it the impossibly friendly people that call the country home and the budget-friendly accommodation and travel options, Canada is the perfect destination for solo travelers.

One of the most popular solo travel-friendly countries in South America, Chile is the perfect destination for a solo adventure. Boasting breathtaking mountains, enormous glaciers, and vast deserts, Chile is a traveler’s paradise and you’ll find plenty of fascinating experiences waiting for you here. It’s not just pretty sights and natural beauty in this country though and Chilean cities are cosmopolitan and vibrant, with the capital Santiago featuring a kicking nightlife and decadent food. Apart from being a generally great place to visit, what makes Chile a great country for solo travel are warm and hospitable people. Some of the places you can visit in Chile as a solo traveler include Torres del Paine National Park, San Pedro de Atacama, Puertos Varas, Easter Island, and Patagonia, and many others. Each of these places offers a unique experience making your trip to the country truly remarkable.

3 Costa Rica

A solo trip to beautiful Costa Rica is the perfect introduction to Latin America and allows you to experience authentic Latin American culture and traditions without any distractions. The country features transportation, accommodation, and tours designed for every type of budget. Costa Rica is believed to be amongst the safest countries for tourists and boasts of sustainable wildlife tourism as well. Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Puerto Viejo, Nosara, and La Fortuna are all solo traveler-friendly destinations in Costa Rica. You can also try whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, head to the Osa Peninsula and venture deep into the beautiful rainforest, and make a stop at San Jose to embark on a fabulous culinary tour. During your solo trip to Costa Rica, you’ll get to explore an exciting variety of locations, including jungle, cloud forests, and beaches, and even volcanoes!

The United States of America is a haven for solo travelers and offers an exciting array of destinations, each one wildly different from the previous. You can visit New York City and experience it in all its glory including the iconic Times Square and Manhattan Bridge! You can also attend an iconic Broadway performance if you’re looking for the authentic New York City experience. Orlando, Florida is another great city for solo travelers in the USA. Home to numerous theme parks and beaches, this sunny city is perfect for you. If you want something cute and quirky, make your way to Portland. From Japanese gardens to bookstores and unique boutiques, Portland will keep you engaged throughout your trip. The USA is home to numerous other cities offering solo traveler-friendly experiences and attractions and with a robust transport network, you can easily travel around the country.

Top Recommended Experiences in USA

Kenya is one of the best countries for solo travelers looking for a safari experience or hitting the coast. The beautiful country is home to some of the most iconic reserves in the world including Masai Mara, Laikipia, and Amboseli. Solo travelers looking for a coastal adventure can visit Malindi for its social and integrated vibe and friendly locals. If you’re hoping to learn more about the diverse culture and traditions of Kenya, head to the Rift Valley and experience authentic Kenyan cultures. Craving some peace and solitude? Explore the little-visited Kenyan coastal town of Kilifi for a fun break away from the crowds that head to Mombasa and Diani. What’s great about a solo trip to Kenya is that even when you travel alone, you’ll find plenty of friendly travelers from around the world willing to share their experiences with you.

An African kingdom founded in the 15th century, Malawi was once part of the Maravi Empire and is located in Africa’s Great Rift Valley. Boasting a diverse terrain, Malawi is long and thin and a majority of the tourist attractions are located around towns and villages on the shores of Lake Malawi. Offering the perfect balance of peace and liveliness, Malawi is amongst the best solo travel destinations in the world. While in Malawi, you can visit Mount Mulanje, officially the highest mountain in Central Africa, Nyika National Park, and Makuzi Beach in Northern Malawi, and the bustling capital city of Lilongwe. If you’re looking for an exciting backpacking experience, you can also visit Mushroom Farm in Livingstonia. Malawi is home to an interesting blend of activities and experiences designed for solo travelers and is quite safe to visit as well.

The crowning jewel of North Africa, Morocco attracts visitors across a wide spectrum. From solo female travelers to families, luxury seekers to budget travelers, the beautiful country brings in travelers of every ilk. Boasting a blend of desert light and beautiful riads, authentic cultural experiences, decadent food, and budget-friendly prices, Morocco is amongst the best solo travel destinations in the world. Marrakech and Fez are the two classic Imperial cities of Morocco and also its most popular tourist destinations. Marrakech features an exciting medley of experiences from the narrow streets of the old medina and the offbeat activities at Djemaa el-Fna to the bars and clubs in Gueliz. Fez is home to the Al-Attarine Madrasa, the Mosque and University of Al Quaraouiyine, the Merenid Tombs, and the legendary Jewish Quarter.

A solo trip to Tanzania is the best way to experience and engage with the rich culture of the country and meet fabulous, like-minded travelers along the way. For solo travelers looking for some solace, Zanzibar, Mafia, and Pemba are some of the best Indian Ocean island options. You can explore the northern region of Tanzania via the expansive safari circuit which is both safe for solo travelers and an engaging and interesting way to explore the country’s beauty. During your solo trip to Tanzania, you can also visit iconic landmarks including Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Safe, affordable, and easy to navigate, Tanzania makes for the perfect solo trip adventure in Africa.

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1 Australia

One of the most visited countries in the world, Australia is a classic tourist destination that attracts everyone from backpackers, world trippers, and everyone in between. From Sydney 's wild nightlife to the marvelous Great Barrier Reef, Australia is packed to the brim with exciting things to do for solo travelers. First-time visitors to Australia, in particular, will enjoy the solo trip experience as it allows them to explore and discover everything that makes the country special without any distractions. Some of the must-visit places during your solo adventure in Australia are Sydney for the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach, Melbourne for its food and culture, Queensland for the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays, Fraser Island, and of course, the iconic Ayers Rock in Uluru. Getting around in Australia is possible with a mix of flying between states and taking the bus for shorter journeys.

Top Recommended Experiences in Australia

Amongst the most breathtaking countries in the South Pacific, Fiji is an archipelago hosting over 330 islands and 540 islets spread over millions of square miles. Boasting luxurious accommodations, a rugged landscape, beaches lined with palm trees, rainforests, exotic coral reefs, clear lagoons, and fascinating culture, Fiji is a great solo travel destination. While the primary islands of Fiji, Vanua Levu, and Viti Levu, offer stunning resorts and hotels, you can head to Yasawa Island, Saweni Beach, Suva, and Coral Coasts if you want more budget-friendly accommodation. If you're planning a solo trip to Fiji, make your way to Beachcomber and Bounty islands in Mamanucas for the perfect experience. If you want to relax on an island by yourself, choose the likes of South Sea Island or Tivua Island.

3 French Polynesia

French Polynesia is an island nation made up of several archipelagos in the glittering South Pacific. The French Polynesia region is divided into many different areas, with each offering a unique reason to visit. Looking for something mountainous and green-heavy? Head to the Marquesas Islands. Want a luxurious break away from the routine? Bora Bora and Tahiti feature stunning overwater bungalows. You can also swim with whales at Moorea and Tahiti and trek glorious mountains at Moorea and the Marquesas. Diving enthusiasts will also find plenty to love in the French Polynesia region. Getting to French Polynesia can be expensive though since the only international airport in the area is Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti.

4 New Zealand

While couples and groups of travelers visit New Zealand for its abundant natural beauty, it's an attractive destination for solo travelers due to being one of the safest countries in the world. New Zealand is smaller and cheaper than Australia, and generally easier to get around. The country is tailor-made for tourists who love adventure and being in the outdoors. If you're hoping to socialize with fellow backpackers during your trip to New Zealand, make your way to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Some of the destinations in New Zealand you must visit during your solo trip are Auckland, The Coromandel, Rotorua, Wellington, Taupo, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Nelson, and many more. New Given its small size, New Zealand features a collection of easy-to-navigate highways and clear road signs ensuring you get around the country without even needing Google Maps!

How to choose the right solo travel destination?

• Keep your budget in mind while picking the place to travel. Make sure it is affordable and something you will look back at without regrets.
• Pick the right seasons when you would want to visit the destination.
• Travelling today is all about putting your safety first. Make sure the destination you pick is safe and open for travellers. Check out our guide on how to travel in 2022 .
• Your interests must align with what the destination has to offer. On the contrary, you might also stumble upon activities that you’ve never experienced before and begin to love it. Either way, keep a tab on what you can do and see in the location.
• Every country has its own rules and regulations. Ensure that you can abide to them before picking your destination to solo travel in 2022.

Best Places To Travel Alone in 2022 - Tips

• Depending on the type of trip you want, you should engage in different levels of planning. For instance, if you like knowing exactly what you’ll be doing during your trip, making the necessary bookings in advance is recommended. But if you’re planning a backpacking trip, you don’t need to plan too much. A general idea of where you’re headed, the transportation, food, and accommodation options available, and any other basic information is all you need.
• For solo trips, packing light is always recommended since you’ll be on your own and will have to carry the luggage by yourself.
• A solo trip doesn’t have to be lonely. Mingle with fellow solo or group travelers you meet along the way and be open to new possibilities and experiences.
• Traveling alone gives you ample time to explore new places in detail. A major aspect of this is getting to interact with locals and learning fascinating details about the place you’re visiting directly from them.
• As a rule of thumb, spend as little time in your hotel room as possible. Go out whenever the opportunity arises and discover local places to eat and shop at.
• When you travel alone, there are certain things you will end up doing by yourself like having meals. Don’t shy away from the experience and if you’re feeling awkward, try asking a local to order for you to start a conversation.
• Guided tours are perfect for solo travelers who don’t have the time to explore new places and attractions at their own pace.
• Carry all the essentials you might need when you’re out and about in a new place. Also, write down the name and address of the hotel you’re staying at and the contact details of your emergency contact.

Best Place To Travel Alone In 2022: FAQs

Where should i go for my first solo trip.

There are numerous places around the world perfectly suited for solo trips. For your first solo trip, you can visit Seville in Spain, Bangkok in Thailand, Paris, Buffalo in New York, Redding in California, Belgium, Tokyo, Siargao in the Philippines, and Coffee Bay in South Africa.

Where can a single woman travel alone?

Some places a single woman can travel alone include French Polynesia, Lombok in Indonesia, Galapagos, Tofo in Mozambique, Sunset Beach in Zanzibar, Tokyo, Reykjavik in Iceland, Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, Hawaii, and many more.

What should I carry along on my solo trip?

Some essentials you need to carry along on your solo trip include a sturdy and comfortable backpack, reusable water tumbler, a multi-purpose knife, first-aid kit, universal adaptor, multi-purpose shoes, cash hidden away in different pockets of your backpack, airtight waterproof bags, an emergency information card, and a couple of padlocks.

Where is the safest place to travel solo in 2022?

Some of the safest places to travel solo in 2022 are Thailand, Nepal, Iceland, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Peru, Australia, Botswana, Canada, Denmark, and Portugal.

Are solo vacations fun?

Yes, solo trips are loads of fun, especially if you’re the kind of person who enjoys their own company. All you need to do is choose a destination that aligns with your travel goals, do a little bit of research, and have a positive attitude about new experiences.

Where can I go alone to relax?

Some of the places you can go alone to relax include Seville in Spain, Costa Rica, Stockholm in Sweden, Belfast in Ireland, The Maldives, Langkawi in Malaysia, Phuket in Thailand, and Casa Palopo in Guatemala.

Where can I go alone for a cultural experience?

Places you can go alone for enriching cultural experiences include Japan, Malaysia, Iceland, Germany, Thailand, California, New Zealand, Peru, Botswana, and Hawaii.

Where can I go alone to try out adventure activities?

Some of the countries you can go to alone to try adventure activities include Brazil, Greece, Spain, Thailand, Portugal, Italy, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Argentina, Australia, Vietnam, and Norway.

What are the best places to travel alone in Europe?

The best places to travel alone in Europe are Amsterdam, Munich, Lake Bled, Tresco, Budapest, Aarhus, Ericeira, Palma de Mallorca, Copenhagen, Vienna, Edinburgh, and Paris.

What are the best places to travel alone in Asia?

The best places to travel alone in Asia include Kuta Lombok in Indonesia, Pai in Thailand, Siem Reap in Cambodia, Tioman Island in Malaysia, Phong Nha Kw Bang in Vietnam, and Gili Air in Indonesia.

What are the best places to travel alone in Africa?

Some of the best places to travel alone in Africa are Northern Senegal, Mauritius, Malawi, Meknes in Morocco, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Sossuvlei in Namibia, and Serengeti in Tanzania.

What are the best places to travel alone in North America?

The best places to travel alone in North America include Orlando, New York City, Portland, San Diego, Austin, Charleston, Washington DC, Seattle, Big Sur in California, Bayfield in Wisconsin, and New Orleans.

What are the best places to travel alone in South America?

Some of the best places to travel alone in South America are Rio de Janeiro, Machu Picchu, Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, Easter Island in Chile, Zona Cafetera in Colombia, and Galapagos Islands in Ecuador.

What are the best places to travel alone in Oceania?

The best places to travel alone in Oceania include Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Bora Bora, Tasmania, Tahiti, Fiji, and the Marshall Islands.

Born and brought up in Bengaluru, Preetha is an introvert living amidst the toil of the metro, chasing her dreams. She is a movie buff, a bibliophile and is fond of old school music. She has an eye for aesthetics and can draw and paint as good as a ten-year-old. She has been passionate about writing since her teen years and is currently exploring herself and the world, one word at a time.

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30 BEST Places in the USA for Solo Female Travelers in 2024

05/07/2023 by Kristin Addis 28 Comments

The United States is gorgeous, from sea to shining sea. I love being from such a huge and varied country with all kinds of different landscapes, cultures, and sights. If I spent my lifetime only exploring the States, I’d have so much variety it would still feel like I’d traveled far and wide.

It’s incredible that in one country you have some of the highest mountaintops, tropical beaches and icy glaciers, and rocky deserts with some of the most breathtaking formations on planet Earth.

So for those who want to test out solo traveling at home before they go abroad, or if you’re from elsewhere and want to see what the US has to offer, you’ve made a great choice. But with so many options, you might be wondering where to start. For a visual tour, watch the video below, or keep reading for an explanation of each below:

These are some of my favorites in the USA, plus the advice of several other solo female travelers to get you started:

Table of Contents

1. Maui, Hawaii

I forgive you if you don’t think of Hawai’i when you think of great places to travel solo, and I wouldn’t have either until I actually went to Maui alone last year. It was fantastic! There was so much to do , from a women’s surf school to driving the Road to Hana to joining snorkeling trips.

I thought I would be surrounded by honeymooners, but I actually found that people were very outgoing and friendly, coupled off or not. I highly recommend Maui solo, much to my surprise!

Book your stay in Maui here.

Book guided tours in Maui here .

2. The Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places for adventurous solo female travelers. With volcanoes, world-class dive and snorkeling sites , interesting beaches, and miles of hiking trails, there’s more to discover on the Big island than any other island in Hawaii. In fact, it’s larger than all of them, combined! After visiting more than six times, my favorite things to do are swim with the Manta rays at night, hike to the Captain Cook memorial, and join boat tours.

It’s easy to meet friends through activities, at the beach, and by going on day tours. The island is easy to navigate with a rental car, as there is one main road that circles the entire island. Most people consider going to the more tourist-heavy islands like Oahu , but the Big Island is amazing, too.

Book your stay in The Big Island here , or consider staying in a real treehouse (!).

-READ MORE-

The perfect Hawai’i Big Island itinerary

The best beaches on the Big Island of Hawai’i

24 amazing things to do on the Big Island of Hawai’i

3. Alabama Hills, California

The Alabama Hills is BLM land, meaning it’s owned by the public (the Bureau of Land Management), with arches, beautiful views of the eastern Sierras, and lots of Hollywood history. I did a solo road trip here and enjoyed every minute of it. If you are a photography lover, the Alabama Hills has plenty of photogenic stops, including the popular Movie Road (pictured above), Mobius Arch (go at sunset!), Boot Arch, and Miss Alabama herself.

As a solo traveler, you’ll get lots of solitude in the Alabama Hills and the other deserts on my California deserts road trip , which I loved. This is one of the beautiful things about traveling in this part of the world: all the wide-open spaces and the spiritual vibe. Plus, you can’t beat the stargazing or the sunsets!

The ultimate Alabama Hills, California guide

4. San Francisco, California

Whenever people who aren’t from the state visit California, almost everyone ends up falling in love with San Francisco. As a native Southern Californian, it’s in my DNA to roll my eyes and find this offensive, but deep down, I silently agree. The Bay Area in general is beautiful and temperate, and has a unique culture. My European friends often say it has a charm that reminds them of home.

I love it for the ease of getting around on the BART system, how small and contained the city itself is, and how picturesque and multicultural it is. Try a yoga or meditation class, head there during Pride, or see some live music at the Outside Lands festival. It’s the perfect place to jump off from or end up in when on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway too!

Book your stay in San Francisco here.

5. Big Sur, California

I’ve looked on every continent and I still haven’t found anywhere as beautiful or majestic as Big Sur on the central coast in California, though it’s seen its fair share of disasters lately. Still, when accessible, McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is one of the dreamiest waterfalls I’ve seen.

Big Sur is a fantastic place to unwind. If you want to meet others, the campsites can be pretty social. However when I’m out there, I find the best companions are the dolphins and whales jumping out of the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, and the squirrels and deer on the trails.

For more on my favorite state and national parks in California, check out my musings on Alamo’s Scenic Route.

Book your stay in Big Sur here.

6. Lake Tahoe, California

One of my favorite spots to explore on my own is in my backyard – Lake Tahoe! There are nearly limitless trails to discover (like in Emerald Bay ) during the summer months , including Tallac pictured above.

For those who don’t feel comfortable hiking or biking on their own, there are multiple companies that offer guided tours . There’s also much to do that doesn’t have to do with hiking, like taking pictures at some of the most beautiful parts of Lake Tahoe , especially in springtime . If you’re into skiing, sledding, or just taking a scenic gondola ride, winter in Lake Tahoe has so much to offer as well.

Need a place to stay? We’ve got you covered with a list of the best Airbnb’s and boutique hotels .

7. Mendocino, California

If you’re looking for moody coastline, crashing waves, spotted seals, incredible sunsets, adorable BnBs , and an abundance of inspiration, Mendocino is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

This is more of a retreat for those who want some peace and quiet. Walk along the coastal bluffs, explore Van Damme State Park, check out the glass sand beach in Fort Bragg, and eat delicious food at the Noyo Harbor Inn.

8. Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington

When it comes to national parks in Washington , Rainier is easily my favorite. It’s such a prominent volcano, you can see it from most major freeways and suburbs of Seattle. Hiking around it is also easy enough, with trails like the Skyline trail serving up beautiful views all along your way.

Rainier is a popular national park, so if hiking solo , you’ll rarely be truly alone.

9. Seattle, Washington

If you want to visit a city teeming with activity but still find time for solitude, head to Seattle where the various neighborhoods and activities provide opportunities for both, sometimes even on the same day. Here you’ll find cultural foods , fantastic museums , and beautiful public parks. Talented local musicians perform throughout the city on most nights, so you’ll hear jazz, experimental, rock, punk, metal, baroque, blues, hip-hop.

You can navigate the city via public transit by day, or taxi/ride-share by night. Seattle is very solo-traveler friendly, so you’ll notice other people dining and enjoying the musical ambiance alone. Don’t hesitate to reach out and get past that ‘Seattle Freeze’ as people are friendly once you start the conversation.

Book your stay in Seattle here.

10. Portland, Oregon

The beauty of Portland is that a solo traveler can be as social as they’d like in the city and then retreat to the forest for solitude at any time. Portland is just a short drive away from the Columbia River Gorge , where you’ll find the majestic Multnomah Falls, among others.

In the city, you’ll enjoy bearing witness to all of Portland’s quirks, like its quintessential underground donut scene . Biking is quite popular in Portland, and you can join in on the cycling fun by taking a bike tour that focuses on the city’s vibrant art and poetry culture.

11. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas wouldn’t have been the first place that I would have expected to be awesome traveling alone, but with so much to do, it’s actually perfect! People are in a good mood. They’re there to be social and have a good time. I almost always make friends when I visit, whether with a group, or by myself.

There are fun indoor activities like the famous wax museum, Madame Tussaud’s , and there’s so much to see that isn’t on the strip, like the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam . These are my favorite day trips to take from Las Vegas. Las Vegas is also an excellent jumping-off point if you want to explore Reno (below). You can plan your road trip based off this guide .

12. Reno, Nevada

My current hometown , Reno is truly the biggest little city in the world. Because of it’s pretty small size but excellent amenities, Reno a wonderful place to travel alone. It’s a hub for those looking to get lucky at our casinos, and the perfect spot for events like the balloon race each September, when hundreds of hot air balloons take to the sky. Thanks to the art, food and culture boom of the last decade, there are tons of funky little cafes and restaurants.

If you love nature, there’s a place for outdoorsy people, too, who want to hike or ski in and around Lake Tahoe. You’ll find bobcats, the extraordinary lake, migratory birds, hiking trails, mountains, salt pans, sand dunes, brilliant stars, and hundred-year-old trees. In Reno, you’ll have the time and space to take it all in.

13. Page, Arizona

Page is the jumping-off point for several of Arizona’s most beautiful places. I was blown away in particular by Horseshoe Bend and of course the famous Antelope Canyon. Since this part of the world attracts so many travelers, I found it easy to have conversations with others who were free-camping with me, and even made a friend when I ventured to the paid campsites for a shower (but not in the shower itself, we met in the parking lot later, I swear).

If you’re considering which of the two canyons to visit, I did a comparison of Lower and Upper here , though both are worth checking out for different reasons!

Book your stay in Page, Arizona, here.

See tours available in Page here .

14. Moab, Utah

Utah is one of my favorite states to road trip through solo . I’ve done it twice and I’d do it again!

Although Zion National Park is gorgeous, and I love the national forests around Provo, it’s Moab that I find the best as a solo female traveler. Moab is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. There are tons of parks like Canyonlands and Arches National Parks as well as Dead Horse Point State Park . Basically it’s one of the most gorgeous areas on earth, with a high concentration of incredible rock formations and free campsites, and plenty of things to do .

I tend to find that when a place attracts people because of common interest, especially something outdoorsy, it tends to be social. Moab is no exception. It’s a favorite amongst van-lifers, which means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet others on the trails, in cafes, and at viewpoints .

Book your stay in Moab here .

15. Sun Valley, Idaho

Idaho really must be one of the most beautiful states in the wintertime . I stayed in Sun Valley for a winter and fell in love with the tranquil views, the spectacular sunsets, and snowmobiling when my legs were too tired from snowshoeing and skiing.

Sun Valley is a quaint town with fantastic skiing and snowshoeing, natural hot springs, and locals who are more than happy to have a conversation with visitors and newcomers. If you want to venture outside of Sun Valley, there are tons of amazing hot springs to check out. You can find my itinerary here .

Book your stay in Idaho here , or stay in a cozy, heated treehouse !

16. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in Montana is a magical slice of outdoors heaven that is perfect for solo travelers with an adventurous spirit and who thrive in solitude. Here you’ll find crystal-clear lakes, abundant greenery as far as the eye can see, and some of the best stargazing in the US.

Don’t be intimidated by the park’s size, because it’s totally doable to visit for just a couple of days. Check out everything you can do in Glacier National Park in just 48 hours for inspiration.

17. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe seems like the more upscale, artsy, and design-focused part of New Mexico — and I love it! While other parts of the state have their own character, Santa Fe served up that quintessential Southwestern vibe that most people picture when they think of New Mexico.

This is where you’ll find some of the finest restaurants, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA). The Meow Wolf Museum was a trippy wonderland, and the galleries of Canyon Road had me enchanted. It’s a solo traveler’s paradise, with many awesome things to do .

18. Bayfield, Wisconsin

Midwesterners are known for being friendly, and they lived up to their reputation when I visited Bayfield, Wisconsin. It’s an artsy town with outgoing residents, and it’s small enough that it feels intimate, yet big enough that there is plenty to do. Join a kayaking or boat trip, or take a drive around to the various orchards.

There are plenty of beaches and quirky hangouts as well, and camping opportunities abound. If you visit in the winter, the famous caves ice over, which looks incredible. If you’re into photography and the outdoors, then you will absolutely love this little town on Lake Superior, the jumping-off point for the Apostle Islands .

Book your stay in Bayfield here.

19. Chicago, Illinois

Visiting such a large city solo gives you a sense of anonymity that can be exciting. When I lived in Chicago, I loved going on solo adventures all over town and discovering cultural gems, quirky restaurants, and unexpected museums. Each neighborhood in Chicago has a personality of its own, filled with endless adventures. Whether you’re staying for a couple of days or a few weeks, you can be sure that Chicago lives up to the hype of its being one of the most fascinating cities in the country.

No matter if you visit during the frigid winter or the lively summer, don’t miss out on an architecture boat tour — Chicago is bursting with history, and many stories come to the surface through its unique architectural history. You can also take a tour of the legendary Art Institute of Chicago before opening hours, for a VIP experience.

I recommend that solo travelers choose accommodations that are in the Loop (downtown) area or close to an L train (Chicago’s metro) for easy access to public transport. This will give you the freedom to move around town without having to navigate the buses or use rideshares, which can get expensive, especially if you’re on your own.

If you are looking for ways to save money, check out all these incredible things to do in Chicago for free !

20. Detroit, Michigan

Although it’s known as the Motor City, there’s so much more to Detroit than cars and engines. It has a reputation for being one of the most historically rich destinations in the country, let alone the Midwest. It’s famous for its contributions to music, industry, and architecture especially.

Start your solo trip to Detroit with a walking tour that highlights the city’s beauty and architectural gems. You also won’t want to miss a trip to Belle Isle, a massive, 982-acre island park home to a conservatory, aquarium, museum, and nature center. Who knew you could find a peaceful green paradise in such an industrial place?

That’s what makes Detroit so special for a solo trip, though. You could spend hours walking around town, getting a feel for its urban flair, and then head somewhere else to connect with nature and find solitude.

There is so much to do in Detroit , you might find yourself going back over and over again for a solo trip or otherwise.

21. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is the perfect place for solo female travelers ; there’s something for everyone here (check out our vegan guide !). You’ll find a fascinating and rich cultural history, one that you can discover over a long weekend, and then of course NOLA is known for Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras . If it’s your first trip, stay in a boutique hotel on Royal Street, right near the allegedly haunted LaLaurie Mansion , or check out our list of boutique hotels in New Orleans . While you may have heard of the Garden District and the French Quarter, you absolutely cannot miss the Bywater district where you’ll find hipster art and culture with a Southern twist.

Though New Orleans is a large city, you can easily get around via public transportation (bus or streetcar), or navigate on foot. You’ll be surrounded by tourists and locals and as with any city, exercise precautions. Our New Orleans packing list will help pack to get the most out of your trip.

Book your stay in New Orleans here.

22. Austin, Texas

In recent years, Austin has completely exploded in popularity. More and more young people are choosing to transplant themselves to this hip Southern city, and I can’t blame them. There’s so much to do there — from catching live music to the summer street festivals and top-notch museums, this city has it all.

Austin is the perfect solo destination for travelers who enjoy meeting other people on the road. It’s very social, with bustling restaurant, café, and bar scenes. Go vintage shopping at North Loop Vintage Shops, see the city via bike tour , or connect with your inner child at the Museum of Ice Cream . It’s no wonder Austin is such a popular destination for travelers, solo or otherwise.

23. Big Bend, Texas

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and that’s certainly how it felt exploring Big Bend National Park . The sky, the landscape, and the wide open spaces felt endless. Plus, Texans are friendly.

Check out the Windows, watch the sunset on the Rio Grande, and hike til your heart’s content in one of the biggest national parks in the system.

24. Nashville, Tennessee

Famously a destination for girls’ trips and bachelor bashes, Nashville has a bit of a reputation for being a party city. Maybe as a solo traveler, this is exciting to you. If it’s not, no worries! There is much more to Nashville than its vibrant nightlife.

Nashville is bubbling over with historic sites, street festivals, live shows, and much more. It’s also one of the cheapest destinations in the USA and has plenty of free things to do . The Tennessee State Museum and Cooter’s Place Museum are among many free museums one can visit; there are also plenty of parks and the legendary Music City Walk of Fame.

When you travel solo, you don’t have anybody to split transportation and accommodation costs with, so finding affordable destinations makes a big difference in how much you can stretch your dollar. Nashville is my top pick for an affordable solo trip.

25. Islamorada, Florida

Also known as the Village of Islands, Islamorada is a beautiful destination for a solo traveler. The best time to visit is during the winter or early spring when hurricanes are raging somewhere else. When you get here, it’s super easy and affordable to navigate the town with the free taxi-service in electric vehicles called Freebee .

Islamorada has beautiful snorkeling (interested in snorkeling in Key Largo ?), awesome fishing opportunities, and uninhabited mangrove islands to explore. If you rent your own boat, you can go to some of the best off-shore reefs and fishing spots; if you rent a kayak, you can check out the historic ghost town of Indian Key. 

Water-based activities aren’t for everyone though, so hop on the road and drive over to Windley Key to walk along giant walls of carved limestone. Islamorada also has a thriving local arts culture, supported especially by the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District. Plus there are beautiful beaches (check out the best beaches in Key Largo ), and vibey restaurants where you can find locally caught seafood, live entertainment, and activities like feeding the tarpon. Uniquely situated among the rest of the Florida Keys, you can also conveniently take a bus north towards Key Largo or south towards Key West , stopping at tropical destinations along the way like those in Marathon and Big Pine .

Book your stay in Islamorada here (the hotel also offers fishing charters!).

26. Miami, Florida

Colorful and vibrant, Miami stands out as one of the most unique cities in the US. Between hearing salsa at all hours of the day in Little Havana and finding murals from world-renowned artists throughout the city, your senses will be delighted here.

If you thought Miami was all about crowded beaches and roaring nightclubs, think again. It’s a great place for solo female travelers, because of the abundance of things to do in Miami . Plus, the city has an excellent reputation for being extremely hospitable, and even quite safe in general.

Whether you are looking for a beach vacation where you can soothe your worries with a dip in the ocean or a full-on intercultural experience, you’ll find it in Miami.

27. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is dripping with Southern charm, and definitely has plenty to do to keep any solo traveler occupied. Some travelers describe it as the closest thing to a fairytale, and judging by the elaborate architecture, towering oak trees with Spanish moss, and overall historical atmosphere, I think they’re right.

Fall in love with Savannah by hopping on an e-bike tour to see the city’s highlights. As it’s such a globally recognized soul food destination, get a taste by taking a food tour . Both of these activities are great if you want to have a bit of social interaction with other travelers, but if you want to hit the town solo, make sure to spend time strolling through the Historic District and River Street.

Ready to be enchanted? Check out this ultimate Savannah Guide for more ideas of what to do and where to eat.

28. Washington, DC

Our nation’s capital city is undoubtedly the mega-hub for incredible historical sites and museums, such as those at the National Mall . Personally, I prefer going to museums solo, so I can move through each exhibit at my own pace. I’m that girl that needs to read every placard and see every little thing, so going by myself gives me the freedom to do that without holding anybody else up.

If this is also you, Washington DC will be heavenly to visit alone. Get up before dawn to see the way the rising sun illuminates the Lincoln Memorial, because nobody can stop you. This city is truly magical at sunrise, before the hustle and bustle of the day begins.

You can also grab a seat on a historic hop-on-hop-off landmarks tour for another self-paced option. Or, if you prefer your history lesson a bit spookier, check out this haunted history ghost tour .

The Northeast

29. cape cod, massachusetts.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts is a family-friendly beach destination. Because it’s safe, easy to explore and absolutely gorgeous, it’s especially suited to solo female travelers. It’s also only an hour away from Boston and Providence.

If you have a car, you can more efficiently explore the ocean beaches and epic sand dunes. On the bay side, you’ll get breathtaking sunsets, which are even more spectacular at low tide when the colors reflect off the sand flat puddles.

If you like to hike, try the 25-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail , which runs from Wellfleet to Dennis. You can rent a bike in outposts along the trail and deviate to marshes, lakes and cranberry bogs. If you’re looking for a more relaxing adventure, Wellfleet has drive-in movies and a weekend flea market. Gay-friendly Provincetown has restaurants serving the legendary clam chowder, nightlife, shop-til-you-drop opportunities and whale-watching excursions .

Book your stay on Cape Cod here.

30. Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson Valley nothing like New York City , yet the Big Apple is only an hour away. Here you’ll find farmers markets and mom ‘n’ pop shops in place of grocery stores and chain restaurants, and gorgeous views accessible via many outdoor activities, such as rock climbing and hiking. Some of the best rock climbing is at “the Gunks,” or you can explore trails at Harriman or Bear Mountain State Park or experience the Walkway over the Hudson .

There are so many pocket towns, called “hamlets,” where you can walk through orchards, browse in art galleries, and skip along the railway. The valley is also an excellent place for a road trip, especially during the fall when all the leaves are starting to change color.

Though the United States is huge, and no list could ever do justice to the wealth of places to see and experience, these are a few of our favorites. I hope this list helped you to get a sense of where to start — or continue — your solo journey.

If you have some favorite solo spots to share, please tell me in the comments below!

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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Ijana Loss says

01/21/2018 at 7:31 am

I’ve actually been kind of thinking I wanted a list like this for a while! There are tons of articles about the best places in the USA to visit, but this list pertaining specifically to solo travel is great! And I love how many of these places don’t need a car to get around; I would much rather use public transport or my feet if possible

Kristin says

01/22/2018 at 2:22 am

Which is a rarity back home, but I agree!

01/21/2018 at 3:32 pm

Hey there! Glad you have added a post about the US, this is awesome. I love the Western US in my travels, hard to believe it is the same country! Here are my thoughts to add to this nice post plus some Eastern US call-outs solo or with friends, hope this is helpful as I have traveled a lot of the East:

1. Minneapolis and New Orleans: travel 3-4 hours north of Minneapolis to Lake Itasca, and an hour downstream of New Orleans and you will get to see the beginning and end of the mighty Mississippi River! There is St. Paul, MN, Minneapolis’ sister city, interesting history and it is the capital of Minnesota. You can walk in comfort for miles through downtown Minneapolis even in winter through the Minneapolis Skyway System, an engineering achievement.

2. Oregon coast: One of the most breathtaking views and experiences I have ever had was a rare sunny day along the Oregon coast. I got to see the coastline specifically near Florence, Oregon with rocks sitting on the beach several stories tall, temperate rain forests (not all rain forests are tropical) with trees hugging the cliff sides maybe 1000 feet steep if not more, sliding down to the beautiful blue ocean. Then there are the huge sand dunes (not like Namibia, but really neat). June is the best time to get it to clear up, that is the catch, having the weather cooperate (visibility).

For those who are on the Eastern side of the US, besides Cape Cod you’ve got:

3. The warm ocean beaches stretching from North Carolina (south of Cape Hatteras) to Florida: NC is quiet/quaint, South Carolina lots to do, so need to avoid busy season, Charleston, SC my favorite for history, Georgia coast for nature (loggerhead nesting) or for rustic privacy (11 private islands) or resort fancy vacations, Florida for tropical feel or exciting Miami, or more relaxed feel of the Gulf coast, or see the Everglades, swim with manatees and dolphins. 4. The FL Keys: Drive it or bike it, includes incredible bridges like the Seven Mile Bridge over the water 5. Niagara Falls, 6. New York City (you can go solo here, I have, the food is great, Manhattan is fun, 15% is park land, can do it too at a reasonable price if flexible), 7. Washington, D.C (use mass transit you are set, so much history and history being made, Smithsonian, it’s all free! Saw every museum then they built 3 more!), 8. West Virginia-Virginia Blue Ridge Parkway down to NC Smoky Mountains: For those into mountains instead of beaches, not as steep as the West, but so green, lush, and prehistoric (most diverse species of trees in North America)! 9. Maine coastline up to Canadian border: Gorgeous, rocky coastline, ending your trip at Pembroke, ME and see the “Reversing Falls” (yes the tides are so big there that the roaring cascades stop and reverse, need to get there 1 hour or so before high tide). If go into Canada, Bay of Fundy tide change biggest in the world. You can do a lot of this by bike! I have this in my travel plans soon!

I’d love to visit the Keys

02/27/2018 at 6:25 am

Yes, the Keys are great and offer some fantastic diving opportunities among other things. Morehead City, NC as well as Flower Garden Banks off Texas are great options as well in this regard! (but nothing like Rajat Ampat I am sure and I can only speak for the East Coast, I bet you could list off the top of your head spots to go out West! 🙂 ).

04/25/2019 at 3:58 am

Omg – you have to go to the Keys. I think Key West is closer to New Orleans than Miami. And, while you are at it jump down to the BVI.

Brittany Quaglieri says

01/22/2018 at 11:37 am

As a born-and-raised Cape Codder, I enthusiastically second it as a great destination for solo travelers! I take a solo trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket (sometimes both!) every year. Thanks for including me in this post!

03/15/2018 at 11:08 am

GReat list! I would add Portland Oregon, and Eugene and Bend Oregon!

JD White says

03/23/2018 at 10:46 pm

Wow, what a list! I’d have to agree on San Francisco. I definitely left my heart there last April! Have you considered exploring more in the prairie regions? I might have some suggestions!

03/25/2018 at 8:20 pm

Feel free to add them here!

Alissa M says

05/28/2018 at 4:17 pm

Charleston SC is also a gorgeous destination & one easy to traverse solo. Historic neighborhoods are breathtaking.

One can easily walk much of the city, along with a free trolley and many bicycle cabs

05/29/2018 at 12:51 am

Thanks for the addition! I’d love to check out the South.

03/28/2019 at 11:46 pm

Hi Kristin,

I’m planning a trip to Alaska for northern light in September, I want to visit some places in the west coast of US after 1 week in Alaska.

My questions are: 1. Can you share typical places suit for solo traveler in the west coast as I plan to spend 1 week there? I’m not into shopping 2. Is it safe for girl to travel alone there 3. Are there public transportation eg: subway, bus

The itinerary is : Ho Chi Minh city –> Alaska –> West Coast –> Ho Chi Minh city

Thank a lot advance. Leu

04/01/2019 at 5:14 pm

Hi Leu, There will probably not be dorms in Alaska that you can use. I wish that hotel availability was better there. It might be more expensive but worth it! I would travel there solo, though Anchorage does have some crime. Sadly the public transport in Vietnam is much better than in the US so renting a car is best!

George Fox-Edwards says

04/30/2019 at 5:49 am

I wish I’d read this post when I roadtripped the West coast of the US! So much adventure to be had, let alone epic sights to see. Can’t believe I’d never heard of Moab before, that’s been swiftly added to the bucket list!

05/01/2019 at 6:23 pm

Moab is soooo awesome!

Solo Female Traveler says

09/13/2019 at 8:29 pm

Oh my gosh. My next travel destination: The Big Island! I definitely believe Hawaii is the most friendliest place and ideal for solo travelers. Amazing post! 🙂

09/16/2019 at 1:37 am

John Harper says

01/11/2020 at 4:42 am

Las Vegas is on my bucket list. This list is awesome to explore USA. What time do you recommend to visit Big Sur?

01/12/2020 at 9:32 pm

Probably September. The weather is still nice and the kiddies are back in school so fewer tourists. However that’s close to our burning season which seems to be a yearly thing now so hard to say.

02/07/2021 at 6:36 pm

I’ve been looking where to vacation as a solo female for a year now. I want to pull the trigger this March. I’ve narrowed it down to Utah or South Dakota. History and mountains are my interest. Thanks for the website. It was very informative

02/09/2021 at 9:43 am

Denise says

09/12/2021 at 10:57 am

I am turning 50 in March and would like to plan a trip that involves being active : like hiking , yoga beaches . Any advice ?

Mikaela says

03/02/2022 at 8:54 pm

I am planning a little solo road trip around the Southwest this spring and am really wondering about the free campsites you mentioned around the desert, especially Utah! I am sure I would stumble upon them somehow during my wandering, but for the sake of some broad planning and peace of mind, could you reccomend some free campsite areas? How did you find them, asking around or a cool website or both? Any tips are greatly appreciated ??

03/07/2022 at 10:09 am

Yes, look specifically for Bureau of land management areas on maps. When you are on BLM land, look for little side roads. Those almost always lead to an area where you can camp. You just have to be at least a mile from the road and not visible from major roadways. You also have to leave no trace so keep in mind that these areas do not have any services including bathrooms. Quite often, you will also need a 4WD vehicle. You can also look at freecampsites.net or the dyrt. Sometimes those are decent resources.

Chrish Smith says

03/02/2022 at 9:55 pm

I read a lot of Blog Post on Solo Travel but this blog are really interesting and I never read blog topic like this. Your writing skill Awesome!

03/07/2022 at 10:07 am

12/01/2023 at 6:13 am

My name is Donna,I would like to go on a Solo weekend, where no driving is involve,just walking from sites to sites and affordable. And Amtrax is my way of getting to my weekend getaway. 3-4 hours is my train ride.

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25 Best International Destinations for Solo Travel

When you’re looking to travel alone, these are the safest, most exciting, and all-around best destinations for flying solo.

Sometimes you are your own best company. Whether you want to plan a romp around Japan on your own terms, or your friends can’t fit that Scottish sojourn into their schedule at the moment, there are a variety of reasons to travel alone.

The benefits of traveling solo range from the freedom to fully indulge your every whim to a sense of empowerment to opportunities for reflection, self-discovery, and new friendships.

Whatever your reasons, traveling solo can be one of life's most rewarding experiences. And, whether you're about to embark on your first solo trip or your 20th, tackling a trip by yourself can be incredibly nerve-wracking. 

We wouldn't want a lack of company to keep you from booking that ticket, so we've come up with a list of countries ideal for both first-time and experienced solo travelers, including safe destinations where you can expect a warm welcome. We take you through longtime favorites like Mexico, as well as destinations that are becoming increasingly popular with solo travelers like Egypt and Croatia.

From castle crawls in Germany to seeing the Northern Lights in Norway, here are the best countries for solo travel abroad.

There's a reason why Iceland has consistently ranked among the hottest destinations in recent years: The country is a haven for travelers who love the outdoors, with caverns and caves to explore, volcanoes and glaciers to hike, and geothermal spas to soak in — and since it's the most peaceful country in the world, according to a recent Global Peace Index report, solo travelers can explore the country worry-free.

If you're traveling to Reykjavík, consider taking a day trip to the ever-popular Blue Lagoon , or go whale watching in Faxaflói Bay. For those wanting to get out of the city, Thingvellir National Park  offers camping, hiking trails, horseback riding, and the freshwater Silfra fissure, considered one of the best diving spots in the world.

2. Costa Rica

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Costa Rica has long had a reputation as one of the happiest countries in the world, and it's easy to see why. In Costa Rica you'll find plenty of outdoor activities to please your adventurous side, from whitewater rafting down the Reventazón River and zip lining through gorgeous rainforests to rappelling down waterfalls and hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park .

If you need a bit of respite amidst all the activity, Arenal has hot springs perfect for relaxing, or you can enjoy the white sands and wildlife at Playa Manuel Antonio, a tropical beach in Manuel Antonio National Park .

3. New Zealand

New Zealand is a popular destination for backpackers, outdoor enthusiasts , and thrill-seekers striking out on their own — maybe because it's the second most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index .

The country is a haven for outdoorsy types and one of the best places to meet fellow travelers. You can take a cruise through the fjords, rainforests, and waterfalls of Milford Sound; heli-hike your way through Franz Josef Glacier ; trek part (or all) of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing ; explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves ; or go whale-watching in the Bay of Plenty .

If you need some down time from all your adventuring, take a day trip to Waiheke Island for wine tours or make your way to the Hobbiton Movie Set to wander the real-life version of the Shire. With so much to do, you won't miss having a travel buddy.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

With a thriving backpacker culture and accommodating resorts, Mexico is an optimal place for any type of solo trip. Locals are friendly and the country is dotted with cultural sites and a beautiful natural landscape — never mind all the tacos, empanadas, and tortas!  

There are Mayan ruins near Cancun, whale watching in Los Cabos, Instagram opportunities in Tulum, tamales and mezcal in Oaxaca, and a thriving art scene in Mexico City.  

5. Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its stunning beauty and there may be no better way to see the country than by train. Purchase a Swiss Travel Pass , which gives you unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat, and journey past stunning waterfalls, forests, and lakes. Then, hop off the train to hike the Alps, visit medieval castles, and drink Swiss wine.

In the country that invented milk chocolate, indulging in the decadent, creamy treat is a no-brainer. But instead of simply picking up a bar of Toblerone or Lindt Chocolate at the nearest grocery store, take a chocolate-themed walking tour in Lucerne or Zürich, or visit one of the area's several world-famous chocolate factories.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Chile's landscape is as beautiful as it is diverse. Whether you explore Torres del Paine National Park or the San Rafael Glacier in Patagonia, climb an active volcano in the Lake District, or camp underneath the brilliant night sky in the Atacama Desert , you're sure to find an adventure that suits your fancy.

In Santiago, adventure meets culture, and the city is easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. You can hike San Cristóbal Hill or Santa Lucía Hill for panoramic views of the capital, browse the boutique shops, cafes, and cocktail bars in the Bellavista neighborhood, or explore the city's many museums and art galleries.

7. Netherlands

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

For any first-time solo travelers, the Netherlands is a great place to get your newly-independent feet wet. In Amsterdam, with its laid-back and friendly culture, do as the locals do: Get around by bike. Start in Vondelpark , a popular urban park, then bike to world-famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum , passing the city's picturesque canals and bridges along the way.

Head to the Netherlands between mid-April and the first week of May, and you'll be welcomed by a glorious array of the country's most beloved flower: the tulip. The Keukenhof , also known as the Garden of Europe, is located just outside Amsterdam and boasts over seven million bulbs and hundreds of varieties of tulips. Or, go to Noordoostpolder to see even more colorful blooms during the annual Tulip Festival .

Spain has a little bit of everything to please everyone: art museums, gorgeous architecture, delicious food, stunning beaches, exciting nightlife, and jaw-dropping hikes.

In Barcelona, wander Park Güell , a public park that doubles as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features modern architecture, sculptures, and mosaics designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Continue your Gaudí tour at Sagrada Família before moving onto the Picasso Museum . When you start to get hungry, make your way to Mercado de La Boqueria , the oldest market in the city.

You can also find some of the world's best beaches in Spain, such as Ocata Beach near Barcelona and Socorro Beach in Tenerife. The brave and truly adventurous can join an organized hike through Caminito del Rey in Málaga or begin their journey along the famed Camino de Santiago.

Austria is a must-see for solo travelers with a taste for fine culture. See for yourself why Vienna is known as the City of Music and attend a concert at the State Opera House or the Musikverein . The city also boasts hundreds of museums, prime for exploring in between experiencing traditional Viennese coffeehouse culture.

In Salzburg, backdrop to "The Sound of Music," fans of the musical can take themed tours of the city and round out their trip by visiting Mozart's Birthplace and climbing to the top of Hohensalzburg Fortress for unforgettable views of the city.

10. Denmark

Denmark is another easy-to-tackle country for solo travelers. Start in Copenhagen and head to the Nyhavn district to see the city's iconic wooden ships and colorful townhouses lining the canal. Afterward, take a stroll through Tivoli Gardens . While beloved for its amusement park, the popular attraction also features flower gardens, bubble fountains, and an aquarium.

Shakespeare aficionados should head to Kronborg Castle : The UNESCO World Heritage site inspired Elsinore Castle in "Hamlet." While there, take the train to nearby Hillerød, where you'll find Frederiksborg Castle, home to the Danish Museum of National History .

First stop: Tokyo. Whether you shop in the luxurious Ginza neighborhood, ride to the top of one of the world's tallest towers , tour the Sensō-ji temple , dine on ramen at Ichiran Shibuya (the famous chain serves steaming bowls of ramen at no-frills booths), or take a leisurely stroll through a traditional Japanese garden, you'll never run out of things to do in the glitzy city.

If you need some rest from the hustle and bustle, you can take a bullet train to Kyoto, where you'll find a plethora of shrines, gardens, and temples. Since the tea ceremony has its roots in Kyoto , you may wish to partake in the tradition while you're there. Be sure to visit during the springtime to see the gorgeous cherry blossoms in bloom.

Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

Visit Norway during the summer for warmer weather and lots of outdoor attractions and activities. In Oslo, you can explore the capital's many museums, restaurants, and parks by walking, cycling, or taking public transportation. Or, book a spot on a Hurtigruten coastal steamer — there's no single supplement on select voyages — and cruise through the country's famous fjords on a multi-day adventure, stopping at numerous ports of call along the stunning coastline to hike, kayak, safari, and more. You'll even cross the Arctic Circle!

On the other hand, if seeing the Northern Lights tops your list, a trip to Norway between November and March will land you there during peak aurora borealis season. For optimum viewing of the natural phenomenon, head to the heart of the aurora zone: the city of Tromsø.

13. Ireland

If the idea of traveling by yourself to a country where you don't speak the language makes you nervous, then opt to visit Ireland. In Dublin, you can take a literary walking tour of the UNESCO City of Literature , browse Grafton Street's bustling shops, and cozy up in the Guinness Storehouse with a pint of the world-famous stout.

With its stunning scenery and friendly inhabitants, Galway is not to be missed, either. While you're there, stroll along the lovely Salthill Promenade, or park yourself in a traditional pub in Eyre Square to listen to live Irish folk music. If you're looking to get out of the city, hop on a ferry to the nearby Aran Islands to explore medieval ruins and forts, or take a public bus to the iconic Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking views.

14. Uruguay

This South American country is perfect for those who just want to relax by the ocean and soak up the sun. Punta del Este may be best known for its gorgeous beaches, like Playa Mansa and Playa Brava. But, if you want to escape the crowds, consider visiting the more secluded beaches in Jose Ignacio and Rocha.

Montevideo isn't short on beaches, either, and for those who want to mix up sunbathing with cultural experiences, the capital also offers historical attractions, museums, and traditional Candombe music and dance performances.

15. Albania

Its friendly locals and gorgeous scenery makes Albania an up-and-coming destination for solo travelers. Journey to the Blue Eye spring near Saranda and you'll encounter some of the bluest, clearest water in the world. Since you might find the water too cold to swim in, head to the Albanian coast for fun and sun on any of the country's beautiful beaches, or soak in Përmet's Benja Thermal Baths — they're said to have healing properties.

You may also want to consider taking a day trip to Berat — nicknamed the "town of a thousand windows" — to marvel at the city's stunning architecture. From the Ottoman-era buildings and medieval castles to the mosques and Holy Trinity Church, you'll quickly see why the city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site .

16. Vietnam

Endless adventure awaits in Vietnam. Hop on a boat that departs from Hạ Long and cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, home to some of the world's most striking blue water and natural landscapes. Take a guided tour of Hang Sơn Đoòng , the largest natural cave in the world. Visit Hội An during the full moon and you'll be welcomed by the awe-inspiring sight of hundreds of lanterns floating down the Thu Bồn River during the city's monthly full moon festival.

In Ho Chi Minh City, you can indulge in street food at Bến Thành Market, one of the city's earliest surviving structures, and brush up on Vietnam War history during a tour of the War Remnants Museum and the Củ Chi Tunnels. Travel to Hanoi to explore the capital's impressive historical and cultural sites, and take a leisurely stroll around Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

17. Germany

Germany has several major cities that are accessible to anyone traveling on their own. Hop on a bike in Berlin to explore the city's abundance of museums, historical sites, cafés, nightclubs, and parks. You can also visit Munich during Oktoberfest , but if you'd rather avoid the crowds, you can enjoy the city's beer gardens any time of year. And if you head to Frankfurt, you'll discover an eclectic array of museums, cafés, boutiques, restaurants, and a lush botanical garden in the increasingly popular city.

You should also consider planning side trips to see some of Germany's famous castles — there are over 20,000 of them. From the Gothic-style Liechtenstein Castle to the dramatic Neuschwanstein Castle, visiting any of Germany's magical old sites will have you feeling like you stepped straight into a fairy tale.

18. Finland

Thanks to the camaraderie of the traditional sauna experience , it's easy to meet people in Finland as a solo traveler — the country is home to over three million saunas, from Helsinki to Tampere and Savonlinna.

But there's more to Finland than saunas. In Helsinki, you'll find magnificent architecture, museums, parks, markets, and more — all easily accessible by foot or public transportation. Travel to the coasts to see a lovely array of lighthouses, or head to Rauma or Loviisa to spend a day in a wooden town. While it may be best to go to "The Land of the Midnight Sun" in the summer, visit during the winter for peak viewing of the Northern Lights.

19. Scotland

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

With extensive folklore, outdoor adventure, and stunning beauty around every corner, Scotland is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself. It’s a safe, cozy sojourn for anyone who loves postcard-perfect views. Explore Edinburgh by bike, stopping at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and Holyrood Park . 

You’d be remiss not to try the country’s world-class golf while you’re there — you’ll have more than 550 courses to choose from. 

Feeling brave? Head to the Scottish Highlands to seek out the legendary underwater monster at Loch Ness, and while you're there, visit Urquhart Castle , which dates all the way back to the thirteenth century.  

20. Australia

This popular solo travel destination is considered to be an exceptionally safe place with a wide range of areas to explore. Start in Sydney, with its friendly vibe and thriving art, food, and sport scenes, where you can walk around Sydney Harbour or explore the white-sand shore at Bondi Beach. Hit the epic swells of Victoria and then ride the tram around Melbourne for a coffee shop crawl. You can also hit hiking trails in Tasmania to experience Australia's natural splendor by foot. Speaking of, the Great Barrier Reef awaits snorkelers off the coast of Far North Queensland. 

You’ll probably want to fly between destinations — this is a huge country, after all — but you can also rent a car and indulge in an Australian road trip. Or, go old-school and traverse the country by train on The Ghan , where you can experience the outback on a journey from Adelaide to Darwin.    

Getty Images/Julia Gnther/EyeEm

From the slopes of British Columbia to the cosmopolitan wonders of Toronto , Canada has tons to keep you entertained, even when you’re alone. Our neighbor to the north is a quick flight (or a reasonable drive depending on where you’re coming from and going to) and accessible in terms of language, exchange rate, and transportation.   

If you opt for Canada's largest city, explore the arts and culture of Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre , eat your way through St. Lawrence Market , or get to know the city's eclectic range of neighborhoods. Over in Vancouver, you can bike your way through the waterfront city, or cross the vertigo-inducing Capilano Suspension Bridge , a 450-foot-long, 230-foot-high bridge cutting through lush woodland. Go straight to Alberta to explore Banff National Park ’s famous glacial lakes and Rocky Mountain vistas.   

22. Thailand

Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

Thailand has long been an affordable destination and, because of its safe, accessible atmosphere, it’s becoming just as popular with solo travelers. Explore the delicious food, thrilling nightlife, and tranquil spas of Bangkok. The tropical paradise also has beautiful beaches — we recommend those of Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands — for lounging the day away by the Andaman Sea.  

Public transportation is easy and readily available, from trains, subways, buses, and taxis to long-tail boats and tuk-tuks. Head here in mid-April for the Songkran Water Splashing Festival to celebrate the Buddhist New Year with parades, street parties, and performances. 

23. Croatia

Dreamer4787/Getty Images

If you’re feeling spontaneous, book a solo trip to Croatia, where you’ll be able to stretch your budget across spectacular beaches , rich history, and delectable cuisine. With a desirable exchange rate and friendly locals, this is perfect for any party of one. Become a beach bum on the unspoiled shores of the Dalmatian Islands. You’ll have the blue waters, white sands, and dramatic limestone cliffs to admire as you lounge by yourself. Then, eat your weight in white truffle pasta and fresh seafood before walking it off around Dubrovnik’s medieval Old Town.  

Anton Aleksenko/Getty Images

Egypt is becoming more desirable for solo travel. A cruise down the Nile might be the best (not to mention safest and most convenient) way to see the African country alone. Eat delicious falafel in Cairo, explore the Great Pyramids in Giza, and discover ancient temples and tombs. And then return to your five-star accommodations before sailing off to the next archaeological wonder.  

There are also new (or updated) sights to see in the ancient destination. In 2022, the Avenue of the Sphinxes in Luxor reopened after years of renovations. And, be on the lookout for the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, which should open sometime in 2023. 

25. England

Take solitary strolls along stunning cliffs, around quaint, small towns, or down urban streets in England. London is a natural choice for any Americans traveling across the pond. Traipse around Trafalgar Square , see the Rembrandts and Cézannes at the National Gallery , or enjoy a proper afternoon tea service at The Lanesborough . 

But, of course, there are also the charming English towns that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. One of the best parts of traveling to England is the history and you’ll find plenty of that in its storybook castles and the industrial-age towns of Yorkshire.   

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USA Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

250+ usa tours for singles / solo travelers with 13,559 reviews.

• Mountain Hikes
• Hiking & Trekking

7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour

The tour was fantastic. The group became friends quickly. Our guide, Hogan, was great! He was knowledgeable and had a great rapport with us. We had a great time!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons Adventure

Tim was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and always upbeat. Time with the wildlife expert was phenomenal. the tour itself was excellent. The good ranking has to do with communications from Intrepid Travel, which were poor and lead to changed air flights and other headaches.

• Christmas & New Year

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

Excellent tour of the Mighty 5 in Utah. Our guide Robin was knowledgeable and accommodating throughout the tour. Just enough time was allocated for hiking the trails, viewing the sites in the distance and even visiting the Visitor Centers in each park. Hotel/motel accommodations were good and chosen for access to restaurants. Lunch stops with corresponding places to eat were well planned and the food and service was good. We thoroughly enjoyed our time.

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

Our tour of the Mighty Five was amazing. This was our first group tour experience and the bar is set high for future adventures.

3 Day Southwest USA National Parks Tour from Las Vegas

Very well organised tour and a friendly and knowledgeable guide. The lodgings were also a good size and near to the parks. Definitely worth the time!

• In-depth Cultural

Wild West – 5 days

Overall, fantastic tour. Our tour guide Jacob was excellent, very knowledgeable and helpful. However, the hotel on third night was mediocre at best ( we had to spend the whole night on a smoke filled room, that after having changed from another even worse room. I thought all the hotel rooms are no smoking zones). I hope the company can improve on that for future tours. Apart from that, it was a truly memorable tour. Highly recommended.

Western USA National Parks Loop

We had a wonderful tour. Our tour guide was John Harris, he did an outstanding job making sure everyone had a great experience, had enough water and went out of his way too accommodate everyone’s dietary needs. We would highly recommend taking this tour, leave all the worries to your tour guide just sit back be driven to all the parks with lunch and snacks provided each day. Great way to experience the parks.

• Cultural Photography

Magnificent West - 7 Days

Excellent trip. There was a lot of driving but it was worth it. We had excellent guides with information that wasn't listed on the website. There was a lot of driving but many stops to break that up. I have been on a number of tours in America and Europe and found the hotels on this tour to much nicer than in the past. The tours of Monument Valley and Antelope Canyon were nothing less than SPECTACULAR. The guides on the bus and at the sites were more than knowledgeable. The bus was top of the line. I have already spread the name of this company to friends and family. Next year I will be looking for my next trip with this company. Judy Lockie, Ontario, Canada.

Alaska Kenai & Denali Adventure

was very good, MS. RACHEL DE GENNAO BEST OF THE BEST WOMAN. SHE EXELLENT ORGANIZER, SHE HAVE KNOWLEDGE ABOUT ALASKA, SHE IS VERY FRIENDLY AND BEAUTIFUL GIRL. I BE GLAD HAVE DAUGHTER LIKE SHE. STEVE VEPRIK. ,

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

Rachel De Genaro -our guide was excellent. It is unbelievable how well she preformed all the roles of a guide, cook, shopper, driver and care taker to all of us. She was phenomenal! She was calm and organized. She as well as the people in our group made the trip more fun and enjoyable. Thumbs up!!!! G adventures though could have been a better communicator as to what to expect and prepare

Vegas to San Fran

Majestic Alaska (10 Days)

The trip was a once in a lifetime experience with so much packed into just a few days. There are some things that I thought should have been done differently but overall the trip was amazing.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Nature's Best: Alaska

Our Tour guide, Wayne, was fantastic! He went above and beyond; to make sure we were comfortable on the bus and on the tours! He also got us as close as he could when there were animal sightings! Lane, our driver, was also an excellent driver; and he kept us safe on the narrow and winding Mountain roads! Hats off to these two!

• Photography
• Walking Adventure

Yellowstone / Grand Teton 4 Day / 3 Night Wildlife Adventure

Great trip. Fantastic Guide (Daniel). Just the right size (9 passengers), and length of time (4 days). Saw lots animals and scenery. Snow added charm. Daniel was expert at finding wildlife snd very knowledgeable. We had a great time. Highly recommend Brush Buck

Magnificent West – 8 days

Everything was excellent, our tour guides were really good and accommodating!

What people love about USA Solo Tours

What a lifetime experience everyone needs Jun 2023 • Solo Within 7 days, we drove in 3 states, visited 5 national parks / 2 state parks, hiked 60 miles, made friends from 7 different states/nations, and eventually traveled through the iconic Route 66 back to Las Vegas. What a lifetime experience everyone needs Day 1 - Zion National Park Day 2 - Bryce Canyon National Park Day 3 - Canyonlands National Park Day 4 - Arches National Park Day 5 - Monument Valley Navajo Nation Day 6 - Grand Canyon National Park / Antelope State Day 7- Grand Canyon back to Las Vegas via Historic Route 66 AMAZING!

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Solo Traveler

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

Group Trips for Solo Travelers: 100+ Tours & Cruises Await

Zero – 20% max single supplement.

A centralized list of group trips for solo travelers from a variety of travel companies.

Don't bounce around from site to site to see what individual companies are offering solo travelers. See it here, one list, many companies, all offering group trips for solo travelers, tours and cruises, with low or no single supplement.

Go to our All Trips page to see solo travel group tours and cruises by advertiser. Are you interested in advertising trips for solo travelers? Please contact Simon .

Use the filters to find the solo travel group tours or cruise that's right for you.

• Africa  (14) Asia  (12) Australia and South Pacific  (3) Central America and Caribbean  (8) Europe  (75) Middle East  (6) North America  (17) Polar Regions  (9) South America  (9)
• Active  (53) Budget  (11) Bus tour  (21) Cruise  (28) Cycling  (3) Educational/History  (56) Food and/or Wine  (30) Luxury  (16) Self-guide  (1) Self-guided  (0) Seniors  (41) Small Group  (91) Walking/Hiking  (35) Women Only  (9)
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Grande Atlantic Crossing Singles

Sharing is caring!

See all from Single Travel International .

JWP Kingdom of the Sky 2025

Adventure through South Africa and Lesotho, exploring life in the mountains and desert.

See all from Blue Sky Expeditions .

Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks

Utah is home to several stunning national parks, each offering their own unique landscape.

See all from Tours of Distinction, Inc. .

Amsterdam to Vienna

Visit the most beautiful & historic sites on the Rhine. 15 days. 8/05/24.

See all from CroisiEurope Cruises .

Women’s Retreat in England

2025: A transformative journey to reconnect to your body, heart and soul. ALL ROOMS SINGLE

See all from Spiral Path Journeys .

Visit China on a Cultural Tour

An 11-day China Cultural tour visiting Shanghai, Xi'an (Terracotta soldiers) and Beijing

See all from Travels with Talek .

Portugal for Solo Travelers

Soak in the country’s scenery and sunshine alongside solo travelers.

See all from EF Go Ahead Tours .

Hawaiian Vacation Escape

Idyllic islands, a strong Polynesian culture and customized, unique excursions await you.

Malta, Italy, Isle of Beauty

French Riviera to the Maltese capital, NO single suppl. on an 11-day Mediterranean cruise.

See all from Yacht Cruise Company – Boutique Cruise Specialist .

Inside Vietnam

Learn about ancient and modern history on this epic journey across Vietnam.

See all from Explore Worldwide .

Prague, Vienna & Budapest

On this splendid Central Europe tour, you’ll discover the former Habsburg Empire.

See all from Cosmos .

Greenland challenge sailing tour

Adventure beyond the Arctic Circle. Explore the wonders of the Arctic on board a yacht

See all from Iceland Challenge Travel .

Wonders of Egypt ‘Solos Only’

Sights to behold, a destination like no other. Join a small group tour, solos only.

See all from Encounter Travel .

New Zealand NYE’25 Singles Cruise

Spend New Year down under, combine w/Vistas, Vineyards, Kangaroos Tour for max experience!

Cruise The Romantic Rhine

5 Day sailings. May through August departures. FREE solo supplement or 25% off.

Ancient Sicily

Discover ancient sites and famous wine and cuisine on this two-week tour.

Ireland For Solo Travelers

Join our trip – Ireland for solo travelers, where green landscapes & frothy Guinness await

Netherlands, Belgium & France

The best of the Netherlands, Belgium & France in a small group. Time to spoil yourself!

Solo explorer. Iceland

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Iceland

Newfoundland & Wild Labrador

Hike in Torngat Mountains National Park. Enjoy Inuit culture. Visit Battle Harbour.

See all from Adventure Canada .

JWP Water and Desert 2025

Embark on adventure in Botswana, exploring life on water, in the bush, and in the desert

Morocco Sahara Odyssey

16 days—from $4395 per person, including airfare

See all from Overseas Adventure Travel .

9 Days in Morocco (30s & 40s)

Morocco Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Marrakech, Fes & Sahara Desert!

See all from Other Way Round Travel .

China Cultural Tour

Discover China. Visit Shanghai, Xi-an (terracotta soldiers), Beijing and Xitang.

Banff & Jasper Adventure

Explore wild landscapes and indulge your adventurous side on our Banff & Jasper Adventure.

See all from Active Adventures .

Christmas in Paris

A magical Christmas in the City of Light? Join us for an unforgettable experience.

See all from Paris Personally .

New Year’s Eve Singles Cruise

12/27-1/4 RING IN THE NEW YEAR with singles 50+. Leisurely explore the Western Caribbean!

Malta Unveiled ‘Solos Only’

Captivating Malta! An exclusive small group 7 day tour.

Colors of Provence- AmaWaterways

Reserve Colors of Provence by March 31st. no additional supplement!

See all from TourWithOrit .

Greece & The Islands. Solos Only.

Discover the mainland highlights & opt to join the Greek Islands extension tour.

Cuba Cultural Tour

See the best of Cuba. 7 cities. Approved for US citizens. 11-days, Low Single Supplement

Douro River valley – Uniworld

The UNESCO-designated Douro Valley runs through Portugal and into Spain.

12 Days in Peru (30s & 40s)

Peru Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Lima, Amazon & Machu Picchu !

Food and nature challenge Iceland

9 days adventure with small group and private guide. Taste Iceland with us.

Great Rivers of Europe

16 days, starting from $3,695

North India. ‘Solos Only’

A 14 day small group tour of Rajasthan and extension option to Varanasi

Leisurely Walking in Spain

Sep 1 – 7, 2024 discover Barcelona and the Costa Brava on beautiful, half-day excursions.

See all from The Blue Walk .

Choose Your Savings

Save $1,000 on ANY 2024 departure OR Save up to $3,000 on July-October adventures.

Scandinavia Explorer

A 20 day grand tour of the highlights, Sweden, Finland, Norway & Denmark.

Paris, Normandy and The Loire

Tour France the perfect way. See the highlights of Paris, the Loire Valley and Normandy.

Greek Islands for Solo Travelers

Explore the best of the Greek Islands alongside fellow solo travelers.

12-night Walking Tour in Greece

Athens, then Island Hop through Amorgos, Naxos, and Santorini. Explore authentic Greece.

Grand Tour of the United Kingdom

An experience of a lifetime awaits you on this guided tour of Scotland, Wales & England.

Harvest Tour

A beautiful week in Italy! 15 meals, 3 wine tastings, daily guided tours. October 13-20/25

See all from Italian Excursion .

Spring Food & Wine of Umbria

Italy as the Italians do! Fresh, local food and unique wines of the region. May 14-21/24.

Mallorca Island Sunshine – Spain

A four star hotel on this Spanish Island from only $1495. Culture & History in Palma City.

See all from Friendship Travel Singles Holidays .

Saint Lucia Caribbean Luxury – 5*

All-inclusive Caribbean resort incl spa treatment each day. On the beach, upto 30 solos

Central Europe for Solo Travelers

Join fellow solo travelers to see the cities and sites of Alpine Europe.

Christmas Tenerife Island Europe

Christmas sunshine. A Canary Island with amazing walks and culture in north of Tenerife.

Greenland & Wild Labrador

Cross the Arctic Circle. Hike in Torngat Mountains National Park. Enjoy Inuit cultural.

Experience Italy as the Italians do! Local food and wine small tours. May 12-19/25

Newfoundland Circumnavigation

Witness sublime hospitality. Striking wildlife and scenery. Hike Gros Morne and Red Bay.

Into the Word in Israel Sept. ’24

An 11-day Israel trip to educate and enlighten you in the Holy Land visiting many sites.

See all from Travel Planners 4 U .

Barcelona, Madrid & Seville

One week. Three vibrant Spanish cities. Explore alongside fellow solo travelers.

Woman Only Egypt Explorer

Discover Egypt on this 12-day escorted small group woman's only tour for over 50's.

Leisurely Walking in Switzerland

A dream vacation exploring the Lucerne and Lauterbrunnen regions by foot, ferry and rail.

Ultimate South Island Adventure

Experience an unforgettable journey on our signature 14-day New Zealand adventure.

Mighty Five Adventure

Explore the beauty of Utah's Mighty Five National Parks on a 9-day small group adventure.

12 Days in Brazil (30s & 40s)

Brazil Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Sao Paulo, Paraty, Ilha Grande & Rio

Irish Discovery

Lush landscapes, vibrant cities & historic attractions await on this guided Ireland tour.

Japan: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji and Kyoto

Get to know Japanese culture—and your fellow travelers—on this immersive tour of Japan.

Danube River Christmas Markets

Get into the Spirit of Christmas on a Danube River cruise & Europe's Christmas Markets.

Treasures of Peru

October 1-9, 2024: Peru's history, culture, folklore, archaeological sites, fusion cuisine

See all from Pack A Fork! Unique Cultural & Culinary Adventures .

Harvest Tour October 7-14, 2024

Slow Travel for a Beautiful Week in Italy. No single supplement fee!

Kenya Wildlife Safari

Majestic wildlife, vibrant culture, and warm locals make for the ultimate mix.

To Italy with Love – Sept/Oct 24

Sept 24-Oct 8, 2024. A unique intimate group tour of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.

See all from To Italy with Love .

11 Days in Mexico (30s & 40s)

Mexico Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Mexico City, Oaxaca & Tulum !

Venice, Florence & Rome

Mangia your way through Italy with fellow foodies.

Taste of Bordeaux – Amawaterways

From romantic walks to red wine, Bordeaux is the cultural capital of all that!

Yacht Cruise Costa Rica

-20% Cruise the Costa Rican coast aboard a small yacht. Sailings April 28 – July 14

Italian Riviera and Lake Como

By foot and rail experience off-the-beaten-path Cinque Terre, Portofino, and Lake Como.

New Mexico Women’s Retreat 6/2024

Embark on a heart-led journey amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Northern New Mexico.

Colombia All-In (30s & 40s)

Colombia Group Tour for Solos 30s & 40s – Medellin, Cartagena, Bogota & Tayrona !

Aegean Islands, Athens & Istanbul

17 days—including 7 nights aboard the 50-passenger M/V Arethusa or M/V Athena

Mardi Himal Trek -9 Days

Offers a perfect opportunity for exploring the beautiful Himalayan region of Nepal.

See all from Marvel Treks and Expedition .

Borneo Highlights. ‘Solos Only’

Its natural beauty leaves visitors in awe, and wildlife like no other.

Heart of the Arctic

Explore the coasts of Greenland & South Baffin Island. Encounter famous Inuit art-making.

Ice Challenge in Iceland

3 or 6 days, small group tour. Discover the magic of Icelandic glaciers in an advanced way

AmaWaterways -Flavors of Portugal

Reserve select 2024 Europe sailings and pay no additional supplemental fee.

Highlights of Albania

Journey through the beautiful Albanian Riviera and discover the land of eagles.

See all from Exodus Adventure Travels .

Music Cities USA

The magic and music of Memphis, Nashville, and the Biltmore Estate.

Experience The Authentic France!

Small, private, hosted, guided tours over 10 days: a VIP experience for solo travelers!

See all from Experience (my) France .

High Arctic Explorer

Cruise at the foot of icebergs. Seek seabirds, polar bears, and walruses.

Scandinavia. Solos Only.

Enjoy long days of sunshine; Sweden, Finland, Norway & Denmark small group discovery.

Simply Japan

Travel from super-modern cities to villages and temples that remain unchanged from time.

Vistas, Vineyards, Kangaroos Tour

Jan 2025 Enjoy gems of the southern coast, combine w/New Zealand NYE'25 for max experience

11-Day Cultural Trip thru Italy

Travel thru the most historical & romantic cities in Italy on this 11-day cultural journey

Experience Iceland Oct. 2024

7 day island journey see the Blue Lagoon, the Northern Lights, waterfalls & Viking World!

To Italy with Love: Sep 2024

Sept 10 – 24, 2024. A unique intimate group, 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.

Kenai Fjords Adventure

Experience the wonders of Alaska's wilderness on this 6-day small group adventure.

Portugal: Walking in Madeira

Explore verdant landscapes on one of the most scenic islands in Portugal.

Explore Greek Islands and more

Fly to Athens and explore Greek Islands with solo group tours each week of summer.

Italian Splendour. Solos Only.

Small group discovery from Rome to the northern lakes with all the major highlights.

UNESCO HERITAGE 2024 Cruise

30% off Peloponnese and UNESCO Greek World Heritage sites, Nov 2-9 20% single supplement.

Colours of Morocco ‘Solos Only’

A boutique adventure with all the major highlights captivating the immense diversity.

The Best of Greece

On this Greece tour, discover the highlights of historical, mythical, and modern Greece.

Africa Safari and Beach in Kenya

3 nights on safari and 4 nights at the beach – a great win centre combination in Kenya.

8 Days in Croatia (30s & 40s)

Croatia Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Split, Hvar & Dubrovnik

Egypt & Nile River Cruise

Soak in Egypt's iconic ancient sites—and sail along the Nile—with fellow solo travelers.

Thailand: Bangkok To Phuket

Hop between Thailand's temples, markets, and islands with fellow solo travelers.

Cycle the Baltics

Discover the best of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania by bike.

Portugal painting OR sightseeing

Paint and improve your art skills OR join a trip with sightseeing included. NEW 2024 dates

Amazing Oregon

June 22-July 2, 2024, Portland, Columbia River Gorge, Williamette Wine Country & The Coast

Yellowstone Adventure

Explore amongst the numerous natural wonders of America's oldest national park.

Romance of the Rhine & Mosel

16 days, NOW starting from $3,295

Walking In Madeira

Walk along ancient footpaths and irrigation channels on this unique volcanic island.

Walk the Cote D’Azur and Villages

May 27-Jun 2: Discover coastal walks, lively markets, and the colorful French Riviera

Desert Solo Adventure Awaits 2024

All Female African journey ignites souls, explores wildlife, fosters conservation efforts.

Amalfi Coast Walking

Walk the ancient stone stairways and limestone cliff paths of Italy's Amalfi Coast.

Chile & Peru Singles 50+ Cruise

Mar 2025 Boutique cruise plus exclusive flight over the mysterious Nasca Lines in Peru!

India’s Golden Triangle

Enjoy a perfect introduction to the best of northern India.

Eastern Europe to the Black Sea

14 days, NOW starting from $2,995

Seine River Cruise from Paris

Culinary delights and countryside this river cruise is the perfect way to discover France.

Rome, Florence & Venice

Your dream of visiting the shining cities of Italy on a budget can come true.

The Northwest Passage

Explore the best of Greenland & the Canadian Arctic on this ultimate small-ship expedition

To Italy with Love: May 2024

May 1-15 & May 15-29 – A unique intimate group of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.

Lisbon, Seville & Madrid

This tour of Spain & Portugal introduces you to fascinating cities & cultural discoveries.

Peru, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca

Oct 1-12, 2024. Extend the main tour to Lake Titicaca; visit the people of Uros Islands.

A Week with the French

An experience for all your senses, spend a very French week in Paris with us!

Pleasures of Portugal

Travel through Portugal's highlights in a small group at a relaxing pace.

Gems of the Adriatic

The best small group tour featuring Croatia and Slovenia.

Must-See Paris

First time visiting Paris? There's no better way than to come with Paris Personally!

Historic Baltic Republics

Journey through the capitals and countryside of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

Patagonia Hiking Adventure

Behold jaw-dropping scenery as you hike, bike, and cruise your way through Patagonia.

Northern Spain Culture & Cuisine

10-day tour visiting iconic cities of northern Spain, cultural experiences

Uniworld – No supplement!

Book now to save big, with Single Supplements waived on select departures. Click on link!

Iceland In-Depth

Iceland is still being formed by water, ice, and fire and closer than you believe…

Tournament of Roses Parade 2024

Get ready to experience the magic and splendor of this iconic New Year’s Day event.

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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The 13 best solo cruises for 2024 (no supplement fare).

Set sail for a solo adventure at sea.

The Best Solo Cruises

Getty Images

Relax by the pool, attend shows, dine with new friends and more on your next solo cruise.

Whether you're embarking on your first cruise alone or you've been on solo cruises before, single travelers will find more options than ever when it comes to cruising solo. Many cruise lines offer single staterooms with the same amenities as other cabins, at a price similar to what you'd pay with double occupancy fares. You'll also find special promotions where the single supplement fee is reduced or waived, making it more affordable to reserve a spacious stateroom or luxurious suite with even more amenities – including personalized butler service, an added perk of booking with many luxury lines .

If you're ready for a maritime adventure, an extended vacation or simply a quick getaway from home, these top cruise lines offer some of the best options for solo travelers on waterways around the world.

Lines with solo accommodations and waived fees

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Launched in 2010, Norwegian Epic was the first cruise ship in the industry to feature studio accommodations for solo travelers. Norwegian Cruise Line offers this category on nine of the 19 ships in its fleet, including the newest ship, Norwegian Viva. These cabins, at an average size of 100 square feet, are designed and priced with the solo traveler in mind. They have no single supplements – and studio rooms on board Norwegian Bliss even boast virtual windows.

Guests of the studios get access to the private Studio Lounge. In this exclusive space, you can socialize with other solo travelers and enjoy complimentary refreshments. There are also singles meetups throughout the voyage and plenty of fun-filled onboard activities to mingle with like-minded cruisers. Solo travelers can check out all the fun for singles on Norwegian Viva this winter on a cruise to the Caribbean , or in spring 2024 as the ship sets sail for the Mediterranean .

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers interior and balcony solo cabins for single cruisers on its Meraviglia-class ships: the MSC Meraviglia, Bellissima, Grandiosa, Virtuosa and the newest vessel in the fleet, MSC Euribia. The second-newest ship, MSC World Europa, has 28 cabins – 10 Studio Interior and 18 Studio Ocean View staterooms – designed specifically for solo travelers. MSC World America, set to debut in 2025, will also feature the solo studio staterooms.

During voyages with MSC Cruises , single cruisers are invited to a complimentary, hosted cocktail party to mix and mingle with other solo travelers. The daily program is also an excellent source to discover additional activities, entertainment and opportunities to meet other cruisers. You'll have onboard special events like the themed 70s-inspired Flower Party and the White Party, where the ship is decked out in festive white decor and guests don their best white attire. In addition, there are various sports tournaments, or you can show off your culinary expertise during a MasterChef competition.

MSC's Caribbean and Bahamas cruises departing from Miami and New York City feature an overnight visit to Ocean Cay, the line's private island and marine reserve. While there, singles can participate in fun-filled evening activities like a Champagne Sunset Cruise or a glow paddleboarding excursion in the lagoon, then attend the lively Luna Libre Party and the lighthouse show.

Find an MSC Cruises itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

Three of Holland America Line's newest ships each offer 12 solo cabins to accommodate single travelers: the Pinnacle-class Nieuw Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Konigsdam. These ocean view staterooms range in size from 127 to 172 square feet and feature the same amenities as the double occupancy cabins but with a double bed. The cruise line's Single Staterooms are priced for one person. If a guest chooses to book a different stateroom, single supplements for double occupancy cabins are as much as 100% over the standard fare, depending on the voyage and the cabin category.

Long committed to solo travelers, the line offers many activities where guests can meet other singles such as wine tastings, cocktail mixers, exercise classes, daily quizzes, sports challenges and more. If you're a solo traveler and a member of AARP, Holland America is now the exclusive cruise benefit provider to AARP's members. Solo cruisers will have access to an AARP member-only onboard credit that ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the itinerary and stateroom category.

For itineraries, Holland America's Alaska cruises and cruisetours are perfect for solo travelers, offering many opportunities to connect with fellow cruisers. Another favorite for singles is the line's fall voyages sailing from Boston to Québec City or Montreal.

Explore Holland America Line deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International features studio staterooms on select ships that range in size from 101 to 199 square feet. These solo accommodations include interior rooms, virtual balcony staterooms and a super studio ocean view stateroom with a balcony. The cabins do not carry the single supplement fee singles encounter when booking other types of staterooms, making them an attractive option when traveling alone.

Once on board the ship, solo cruisers will have countless options to engage and socialize with other travelers. When it comes to dining with Royal Caribbean , make a reservation at the Japanese restaurant Teppanyaki for an entertaining meal with new friends, or join fellow foodies for the intimate Chef's Table experience (the dining venues vary by ship). Singles can also participate in onboard activities like trivia contests, drink seminars, escape rooms, dance classes and pool parties.

If you need more thrills to stay busy and to meet people, Royal Caribbean's ships feature world-class shows and entertainment alongside adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions. If you're sailing in the Caribbean, there are plenty of opportunities to meet and chat with other passengers at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Luxury line Atlas Ocean Voyages offers single cruisers 183 square feet of beautifully appointed space in solo accommodations that come without single supplement fees. These ocean view staterooms feature a queen bed, a panoramic picture window, a private spa bathroom with a rain shower and body jets, a stocked minifridge replenished daily with personal favorites, and other luxurious amenities. Single guests can also book other stateroom or suite categories with single supplements starting at 50% of the double occupancy price.

The line's three intimate yacht-style cruise ships – World Navigator, World Traveller and the new World Voyager, whose inaugural season begins in Antarctica in November 2023 – are all-inclusive . Meals at all the dining venues, premium beverages and wines, gratuities, culturally immersive excursions, and more are included in the fare. With fewer than 200 guests on board, there's an atmosphere of conviviality on these ships – especially when exploring remote destinations with like-minded and adventurous travelers during expeditions in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Celebrity Cruises

Tim Aylen | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' new Edge-class ships offer some of the best options for solo cruisers. The line's two newest vessels, Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent (set to debut in late 2023), each boast 32 single staterooms with an Infinite Veranda. In addition, Celebrity Apex has 24 solo cabins, and Celebrity Edge features 16 staterooms for individual guests. These one-person accommodations offer a minimum of 131 square feet of space and the same upscale amenities you'll find in other category staterooms on their ships. Solo guests can look for special promotions where the single supplement is waived on select Celebrity voyages throughout the year.

Once on board the vessel, check out the daily program for activities conducive to meeting others – like wine tastings, cocktail-making classes and more. You'll also enjoy thrilling top-notch entertainment around the ship in The Theatre, The Club and Eden. A few popular cruises for singles are the line's Caribbean and Mexico itineraries on Celebrity Beyond.

Book a Celebrity Cruise on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The hip vibe on board the adults-only Virgin Voyages ships is ideal for solo cruisers looking to meet other travelers. Its superyacht-style ships – Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady – offer 40 interior cabins ranging in size from 105 to 177 square feet. There are also six Sea View staterooms with portholes boasting between 130 to 190 square feet of space. These Insider and Sea View cabins are designed and priced for single travelers, with amenities like high-tech mood lighting and roomy rain showers. The line also runs promotions where solo cruisers can book double occupancy staterooms without paying a single supplement.

Activities and festival-like entertainment around the ships foster fast friendships. Diners will enjoy the interactive experience at Gunbae, the lively Korean barbecue venue. The "grog walk" is a fun pub stroll where solo sailors can join fellow mates while sipping and snacking their way through all the signature bars. For even more fun, check out the evening shipwide events such as the themed Scarlet Party, which features live music and immersive experiences. The line also hosts meetups for singles throughout each voyage.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Avalon Waterways

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways' river and small-ship cruises traverse waterways around the world, including in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The company waives the single supplement on a selection of staterooms, including its Panorama Suites, on select European and Asia departures. The company recommends booking early as the specially priced cabins do sell out. Solo travelers make up about 10% of the passengers on this river cruise line .

Avalon's fleet of Suite Ships operates in Europe and Southeast Asia and features cabins with a minimum of 172 square feet. About 80% of the staterooms are Panorama Suites, which have 200 feet of living space, beds with a view and the river cruise industry's only open-air balcony. With Avalon excursions, solo cruisers have opportunities to meet like-minded guests during immersive tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, yoga or fitness classes, biking or hiking trips, and more. Single guests can choose to dine at tables for just two people or ones that can accommodate up to eight passengers.

Read: Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

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AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Two single occupancy staterooms are available on four of AmaWaterways' river cruise ships: AmaDolce, AmaDante, AmaLyra and AmaCello. These accommodations do not have single supplement fees. Solo cruisers can also book staterooms with a 20% single supplement on select sailings in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that this pricing does not apply to certain stateroom categories and suites.)

With the friendly, small-ship atmosphere, solo cruisers will find it comfortable to socialize with other passengers and the crew. Onboard activities and immersive excursions also create opportunities for fostering friendships, especially among like-minded travelers. Excellent options for solo cruises include themed sailings centered around music and wine or the magical Christmas markets itineraries along the Danube, Rhone and Rhine rivers.

Explore AmaWaterways deals on GoToSea.

Lines with discounted supplement fares

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara's special offers for solo travelers include reduced single supplements of 25% to 50% of the double occupancy rate on select sailings. The line's four midsized sister ships – carrying no more than 700 passengers – are mostly all-inclusive. Amenities included in the cruise fare include most meals; standard spirits, wines and beers; bottled water, soft drinks, and specialty teas and coffees; shuttle service in port; gratuities; and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings ashore or Destination Celebration experiences on the ship. Dining at the two specialty restaurants is an additional cost unless guests have accommodations in the Club World Owner's Suites, Club Ocean Suite or Club Continent Suite.

Single guests on Azamara cruises will find events during the sailing and venues around the ship where you can mix and mingle with other solo travelers and chat with the friendly crew. Intimate and culturally immersive excursions also create opportunities to meet passengers with similar interests. Azamara Onward, the latest ship, boasts the new Atlas Bar, a great spot to meet other travelers.

For itineraries, Azamara's signature "Country-Intensive Voyages" are a favorite of solo cruisers, including the 10- or 11-night Greece Intensive Voyage. For an extended sailing, check out the festive 12-night Carnival in Rio Voyage, which features a stop in Rio de Janeiro during the city's famed Carnival.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Cunard Line

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line features dedicated solo staterooms on its three ships, priced at approximately 166% to 174% of the equivalent double occupancy cruise fare. Guests can choose between a spacious Britannia Inside or Britannia Oceanview cabin, or opt for a larger stateroom with a single supplement. For a little "me time" pampering while on board, solos will appreciate 24-hour room service, complimentary Penhaligon's toiletries and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine. Single guests will also be invited to get-togethers. You can either dine alone at venues around the ship such as the main dining room or choose to share a table with other passengers.

With an international mix of travelers, single cruisers will find many opportunities to meet and chat with others, especially during a Transatlantic Crossing. During the sailing, you'll find many enriching and relaxing activities that encourage socializing. According to Cunard , there's a sense of camaraderie and a passion around the voyage – and the unique travel experience of crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Find a Cunard Line cruise on GoToSea.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Luxury line Silversea Cruises offers 25% single supplements on various voyages throughout the year, including expedition cruises to destinations like the Galápagos Islands , Antarctica and the Arctic, and Greenland. The line's all-inclusive fares include luxurious ocean view suites, gourmet dining, complimentary wines and spirits, gratuities, onboard enrichment and entertainment, shore excursions, and more. Solo travelers will even have personalized butler service to indulge their every whim.

The line's fleet of a dozen intimate ships, carrying no more than 728 guests, offers a clubby atmosphere perfect for meeting solo and like-minded travelers. Single guests will also have the opportunity to engage with other solo passengers during a welcome reception with Champagne at the beginning of each voyage. Popular itineraries for Silversea's single cruisers include its Transoceanic journeys, a bucket list trip for many cruisers .

Explore Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has special offers throughout the year where solo cruisers can take advantage of reduced pricing equal to double occupancy fares or discounts on the single supplement starting at 25% above the double occupancy fares. These rates are available on select voyages, including expedition cruises. Frequent solo cruisers and members of the luxury line's Seabourn Club Diamond Elite will also find reduced single supplements on Diamond Elite Single Supplement Sailings. In addition, club members receive invitations to exclusive events, where they can meet and mingle with fellow cruisers. Solo passengers are also invited to sit with the ship's officers, crew and entertainers at dinner – and there are hosted get-togethers for single travelers.

Solo cruisers will enjoy beautifully designed oceanfront suites and all-inclusive amenities on board Seabourn 's intimate ships. These perks include world-class dining; complimentary premium wine and spirits; a spa and wellness program in partnership with Dr. Andrew Weil; included gratuities; and the line's enrichment series, Seabourn Conversations. Single cruisers looking for an extended holiday will enjoy longer voyages on the line's newest purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit.

Compare Seabourn cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. She used extensive research and experience as a solo cruiser to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Party Cruises
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• Solo Travel for Women: The Best Places and Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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