From beach retreats to artsy escapes, take your next solo trip to somewhere spectacular.
There are many reasons to travel solo, such as the freedom of not having to coordinate with others’ schedules and getting to spend time doing only what interests you most. Plus, many destinations offer easy transportation, lots of activities and relatively safe environments that make them ideal for exploring alone. Here are some of the most solo-friendly locations around the world to consider for your next trip.
Norway
Norway is a nature lover’s paradise that offers adventurous travelers some of the best views you’ll ever see. From stunning beaches to breathtaking vistas to mighty fjords, picking just one location to visit is an impossible feat – so why pick? With numerous tour companies operating in Norway, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect solo trip for you.
The Norway Fjord Trekking tour will take you on some magnificent treks, including through the wooded ravine of the Valley of the Waterfalls and across the frozen landscape of the Folgefonna glacier. No matter the tour you pick, be sure to chat with the locals while you’re visiting. Norwegians are a friendly bunch, and they also have the best tips for how to see the magnificent northern lights.
Toyko, Japan
Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and the world’s most populous metropolis; it’s also the perfect destination for solo travel. The city is known for being safe despite its large population and boasts a robust public transit system that is quick and easy to navigate. The number of multilingual signs in the city has also increased in recent years, so you’ll find it easier than ever to navigate on your own – though make sure you still download a translation app.
While in Tokyo, be sure to check out the many museums, gardens and historic temples. The Sensoji temple and Kaminarimon (which literally means “Thunder Gate”) are a great spot to stop for photos. While there, try your hand at omikuji, or fortunes, which are offered in a multitude of languages. (If you end up with an unlucky one, simply tie your paper on the nearby wires to free yourself of the bad karma.) Before you leave the area, be sure to grab souvenirs and traditional snacks from Nakamise-dori, the 250-meter street approaching Sensoji, which contains around 90 shops.
Perth, Australia
As the capital of Western Australia that’s also considered the country’s sunniest capital city, Perth gets plenty of tourism. In fact, it’s set up to make visiting a breeze, offering tourists free public Wi-Fi, free hop-on/hop-off CAT buses and a free volunteer-staffed information kiosk that’s open daily.
Take advantage of the incredible weather in Perth and head to Kings Park – home to 400 hectares of pristine nature and walking trails in the heart of the city – to admire 3,000-plus species of wildflowers. Visit at sunrise or sunset to enjoy stunning views of the Perth city skyline, the Darling Ranges and the Swan River, which winds its way through the city.
If you’re looking for a relaxing self-care holiday, lie out on the soft white sand of one of Perth’s stunning beaches or head to Rottnest Island to escape the rush of the city. While there, snap a selfie with a quokka – an animal known for its adorable smiles and friendly nature.
Beaver Creek, Colorado
For those who love the outdoors, this charming village in the Rocky Mountains offers plenty to do year-round. Hop in an Epic Mountain Express shuttle at Denver International Airport and travel about 130 miles west to your hotel, home or condo. Beaver Creek Resort offers free shuttle service for travel anywhere within the resort, so you’ll have no trouble getting around on your own. Ski and snowboard to your heart’s content in winter, or enjoy solitary hiking, mountain biking and sitting by a peaceful mountain stream during the warmer months. Don’t miss local restaurants like Beano’s Cabin (which you can visit on horseback), the Beaver Creek Chophouse and the Mediterranean-inspired Citrea.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Known for its friendly locals and outstanding cuisine – the latter of which has led many to call the Cayman Islands the culinary capital of the Caribbean – Grand Cayman is easy and affordable to reach on various U.S. airlines. It’s also simple to get around using taxis or car rentals, and this island offers plenty of solitary activities. Be sure to take a charter to Stingray City, where you can touch stingrays as they look for food. Other must-dos include snorkeling or scuba diving with one of 40-plus operators, such as Ocean Frontiers. Stay at a top resort on Seven Mile Beach or consider a condo rental for cheaper rates.
Paris, France
Paris is an extremely walkable city, ideal for individuals exploring on their own. Mass transit options, including the Métro and bus system, are also easy to navigate, and a Paris Visite travel card covers unlimited trips for a set number of days in its fee. Make like a local in Paris and find a spot along the Seine to enjoy a baguette and bottle of wine; you can also grab a Paris Museum Pass and admire the amazing artwork at the Musée du Louvre (try Friday night when it’s open later to avoid crowds), the Centre Pompidou and the Musée d’Orsay. Keep in mind that museums and monuments are usually closed on Mondays or Tuesdays.
For accommodations in the city, you will enjoy staying on the Right Bank to be close to many attractions, while charming vacation rentals are plentiful on the Left Bank. The city also offers an array of budget-friendly hostels where you can meet fellow solo travelers.
San Diego, CA
There are so many options for where to go and what to do in San Diego that this California destination works for many types of solo travelers. Visitors can sunbathe and surf at Pacific Beach, then go shopping and get a close view of seals and sea lions in La Jolla, or enjoy the nightlife in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. If you love comics, be sure to plan your solo trip for July so you can attend Comic-Con International, the largest annual convention dedicated to comics and pop culture in the U.S.
Meanwhile, outdoor lovers can soak up some California sun while hiking through a nearby state park or wandering around the spacious Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo.
Rome, Italy
Rome should be on every solo traveler’s bucket list. The city is home to world-renowned artwork, the famous Colosseum and Vatican City – the smallest sovereign state in the world and seat of the Roman Catholic Church. Italians tend to speak English and are generally warm and friendly people, making it easy to socialize and find your way around while flying solo; just beware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas. The bus system can be a convenient mode of transportation (though buses do get crowded in the peak summer season), especially with the Roma Pass, which includes free public transport and reduced entry to 45-plus popular tourist attractions.
Sitting in the center of the city around popular Rome sites like Trastevere and the Spanish Steps are several convenient accommodation options, It’s also easy to tour the city with hop-on/hop-off companies which offers excursions to the city’s ancient catacombs and areas beneath the Colosseum, among other options.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Solo travelers seeking clear skies and a laid-back trip should consider visiting Santa Fe. Offering more than 320 days of sunshine per year and plenty of things to do, this Southwestern city – the oldest capital in the U.S. – is known for its art scene and beautiful scenery. Visitors can go hiking or skiing, dive into the heart of Santa Fe’s art scene on historic Canyon Road, or check out more than 20 museums, including the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.
To reach the city, you can opt for a road trip or fly into Santa Fe Regional Airport; another option is flying into Albuquerque International. Travelers can then get around on foot, by bike or via the city’s bus system.
Asheville, North Carolina
Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is a friendly, art-focused mountain town that also happens to be home to the Biltmore Estate, an 8,000-acre property once owned by George Vanderbilt. The city features more than 100 art galleries and offers opportunities for solo hiking, biking, kayaking and even fly-fishing. With a growing culinary scene and more breweries per capita than any U.S. city, Asheville is also a great place to explore fun and funky restaurants and sip local beers.
Various domestic airlines fly into Asheville Regional Airport, but many East Coast-based travelers can easily reach Asheville by car, making it a great option for solo day trips or weekend getaways.
Tuscany, Italy
For the ultimate solo getaway, consider walking along the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route that runs through much of the Tuscany region, including popular hill towns like Siena and San Gimignano. Chandi Wyant, an American author who lives in Italy, shares her experience hiking the trail alone in her book “Return to Glow: A Pilgrimage of Transformation in Italy.” She describes how she found friendly locals who helped her along the way and enjoyed much soul-searching during the journey.
English is widely spoken and many types of experiences are available. Plus, each town’s plethora of Italian trattorias are likely to welcome anyone with open arms and ample charcuterie and wine.
Santa Barbara, California
Enjoy top-notch shopping, wine tasting and scenery in Santa Barbara, a California city known for buildings with red-tile roofs and its many paseos (hidden walkways) that descend deep behind the main thoroughfare of State Street. The Funk Zone district is brimming with wine tastings, nightlife and galleries, while the Old Mission Santa Barbara showcases the city’s rich history.
Other fun activities include hiking the Santa Ynez Mountains and sampling wines in nearby towns like Los Olivos and Solvang.
Iceland
Iceland is a great destination for solo travel. Most Iceland locals speak English and are known for being warm and friendly; as well as Wi-Fi access and cellphone reception are both very good. The country is often called the Land of Fire and Ice because of its abundant natural wonders, from glaciers and volcanoes to waterfalls and hot springs. Consider a visit during the summer months to enjoy nearly 24 hours of sunlight while participating in outdoor activities like ice climbing, caving, cycling and hiking.
Reykjavik, the country’s capital and most populous city, is a good home base thanks to its proximity to Iceland’s international airport and its multitude of shops, cafes, museums and art galleries. In urban hubs, you’ll find plenty of traditional accommodations, but in Iceland’s small towns, you’ll find the most success with Airbnbs or camping. Keep in mind that travel insurance is typically an important addition to any Icelandic trip. When you’re dealing with anything from volcanic eruptions to sand storms to winter weather, extra protection will keep your trip and your wallet safe.
New York City, New York
This city’s vast cultural diversity makes it a popular option for solo travelers with varying interests. With three airports, two major Manhattan train stations and a subway system that takes you nearly anywhere you want to go, New York City is easy to reach and explore.
To escape the crowds, avoid Times Square and instead wander around quieter areas like the hip Meatpacking District, the charming West Village and trendy Brooklyn. You can stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge’s elevated pedestrian walkway to get a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline. After sightseeing, sit for a slice of New York-style pizza at a local joint like Joe’s Pizza before bedding down for the night.
Toronto, Canada
Situated about 100 miles north of Buffalo, New York, the Canadian city of Toronto offers plenty of culture and green space to explore within the confines of a thriving city. Get around town on the GO Transit network of trains and buses or by riding the TCC streetcar; you can also stick to the downtown area and use the PATH, a mostly underground pedestrian walkway network, to explore on foot. Top attractions include the CN Tower (one of the world’s tallest towers at roughly 1,815 feet), Yonge-Dundas Square, CF Toronto Eaton Centre and the Toronto Zoo.
Purchase the Toronto CityPASS to easily see multiple attractions for a reduced price and bypass long ticket lines, or download Pass TO Savings, a free mobile pass that provides savings on the city’s top attractions and experiences. If you’d rather enjoy the outdoors, check out Centre Island, which sits less than 3 miles south of the city center, or head to High Park, Toronto’s largest public park.
Seville, Spain
For a taste of Spain, plan a solo trip to Seville, the capital of the country’s autonomous Andalusia region. Featuring an extensive bus system and one metro line, Seville is fairly simple to navigate. Top city sights like the Catedral de Sevilla, the Torre del Oro and La Giralda towers, and Alameda de Hércules park sit in the heart of downtown. Once the sun sets, check out the nightlife scenes in the Alameda and Triana neighborhoods. Be sure to save time for a flamenco dance lesson or a football (soccer) match.
Naples, Florida
Naples, on Florida’s Gulf Coast, offers plenty of sunshine, pristine beaches and a high-end atmosphere. To get to the city, visitors can fly into Southwest Florida International Airport, which is located about 35 miles north in Fort Myers. After driving to Naples, solo travelers can head to the beach or check out the upscale shops and eateries lining the historic city center’s famed Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South.
Ljublana, Slovenia
Unlike other European cities, the capital of Slovenia offers spectacular scenery without hordes of tourists, making it a great vacation destination for those traveling alone. To get your bearings, join a two-hour tour of the historic city center and Ljubljana Castle from the Ljubljana Tourist Information Centre, which includes a funicular ride to the castle. You can also take a boat cruise down the Ljubljanica river to see the Dragon and Triple bridges, explore Tivoli Park, or wander among the ancient Roman ruins of a 2,000-year-old city.
The official Ljubljana card grants you access to more than 20 local attractions, plus unlimited rides on public transportation. Visitors can also access an hour of complimentary internet in the city center. If you tire of Ljubljana’s many offerings, travel around 35 miles northwest to Bled to see its stunning lake and 11th-century castle.
Seattle, Washington
Head to the Pacific Northwest to explore this vibrant city full of natural beauty. If arriving by plane, hop a ride on the Link light rail to reach downtown from the airport. You can also use the monorail, buses or streetcars to get around the city (consider an ORCA regional day pass for unlimited rides on most modes of transportation).
There are plenty of things to see and do in Seattle, from the iconic Space Needle to the bustling Pike Place Market, where the original Starbucks store is located. For a dose of nature, head to Snoqualmie Falls, amble through the 9-acre Olympic Sculpture Park or book a whale watching excursion.
Thailand
Many travel bloggers report Thailand as a safe destination for solo travel, including the busy city of Bangkok. In the Thai capital, visitors will find top sights like the aptly named Grand Palace and foodie-centric Khao San Road, plus an impressive nightlife scene. To get around the city or to other parts of Thailand, vacationers can take advantage of the country’s many modes of transportation, which range from familiar choices like trains, subways, buses and taxis to local options such as long-tail boats and three-wheeled motorcycles known as tuk-tuks.
Portland, Oregon
Portland’s reputation of having open and free-thinking residents makes it ideal for solo travelers. It’s also the ideal destination for “weird” (always a compliment in Portland) travelers looking for a like-minded community to explore. Consider biking – it’s a favorite of locals – or using the MAX Light Rail or the Portland Streetcar to get from point A to point B. Nicknamed “Beervana” because of its top-notch craft beer scene, Portland is home to 70-plus breweries.
Portland also features cool neighborhoods like the Pearl District, Hawthorne and Belmont, as well as great solo spots such as the Portland Japanese Garden and Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest new and used bookstore. Stop by Voodoo Doughnut to try bacon-topped and Captain Crunch-covered doughnuts, among other varieties.
New Zealand
Often labeled one of the safest and friendliest countries in the world – and thus one of the best countries to travel alone – New Zealand is an ideal option for those venturing out on their own. Known for its gorgeous landscapes featured in films like “The Lord of the Rings” and “A Wrinkle in Time,” this island nation beckons to outdoorsy types. You can take your time exploring its many black sand beaches, fjord-filled national parks, glowworm caves and hot pools.
Base yourself in Queenstown (known as the adventure capital of the world) so you can easily reach historic Arrowtown, sip wine in Gibbston Valley’s vineyards and shop while taking in views of Lake Wakatipu. Located on the South Island, Queenstown is also popular with adventure newbies and enthusiasts keen on pushing their comfort zone with activities like skydiving, bungee jumping and whitewater rafting.
To get from city to city, rent a car or secure an InterCity FlexiPass that’ll allow you to travel by bus; you can take a plane or ferry to travel between the country’s North and South islands. Affordable and traveler-approved hostels in New Zealand’s major cities and towns provide plenty of opportunities to bond with other travelers.
Galapagos Islands
This collection of islands, which you can fly to from Guayaquil and Quito, Ecuador, is a safe natural paradise known for its protected wildlife, including sea lions, coastal birds and marine iguanas. Because of ongoing conservation efforts, multiple travel documents and an entrance fee are required upon arrival in the Galápagos Islands, so traveling alone through a tour company is often the easiest way to visit.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a walkable city filled with friendly locals, antebellum homes, gourmet restaurants and charming boutiques. Solo visitors won’t want to miss the chance to bike or take a carriage ride through the historic downtown area. Travelers visiting Charleston will want to save time for a food tour or walking tour to get a better feel for the city and its offerings. A boat trip to Fort Sumter National Monument, a stroll along The Battery to Waterfront Park and a visit to the South Carolina Aquarium are additional must-dos for tourists.
Sydney, Australia
Australia’s most populated city may take some time to reach, but its ample activities and world-famous attractions make it a superb spot for a solo vacation. Water lovers can explore Sydney Harbour and surf at a beach like Bondi, Manly or Cronulla. Those keen on enjoying a solitary stroll can head to the Royal Botanic Garden, which offers free tours daily, or try the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk.
Other top city sights include the iconic Sydney Opera House, the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Sydney Cricket Ground Museum. All are accessible by light rail, train, bus or ferry. To save on fares, visitors can request a free reloadable Opal card, which comes with ride discounts.
Athens, Greece
Imagine exploring Greece on your own as you marvel at its magnificent ruins and artifacts. Athens is where you’ll find top-notch institutions like the National Archaeological Museum and the Benaki Museum – plus the famous Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and other surrounding monuments.
You can get around the city by trolleybus, bus or metro, and a tram is available for travel to and from the local beaches. A quiet walk along the waterfront makes for a lovely evening, as does exploring Athens’ historic city center, which is one of the largest pedestrian zones in Europe. When you need a break from sightseeing, stop for a drink at a local cafe or bar.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Spend some time in Cajun Country in the beautiful city of New Orleans. There are many ways to experience this Southern city, though solo travelers might want to steer clear of the partying on Bourbon Street after dark (even if you are fun-loving).
Start by eating your fill of beignets, sipping a strong hurricane cocktail, and noshing on jambalaya and gumbo. After, you can enjoy fun and safe activities like a stroll through the historic French Quarter, a tour of a local cemetery and a ride on the St. Charles streetcar, the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world. Consider bedding down at city hotels which overlook the Mississippi River.
Austin, Texas
It’s easy to get around Austin, whether you’re driving, riding the bus or MetroRail, renting a bike, or hiring a pedicab. This relaxed Texas city – known for its superb music scene and creative atmosphere – is a safe and exciting getaway for solo travelers. Visit one of 250-plus live music venues, have a drink on happening Sixth Street, or walk along the Lady Bird Lake hiking and biking trail. If you have a car, drive outside the city to the Texas Hill Country, which boasts historic towns and more than 50 vineyards.
San Francisco, CA
Getting to and around San Francisco on your own is a cinch thanks to the city’s large international airport, cable cars, streetcars, trains and buses. Can’t-miss activities to add to your solo itinerary include exploring Telegraph Hill’s Coit Tower, taking a hop-on/hop-off Big Bus sightseeing tour across the Golden Gate Bridge and walking through the city’s historic Chinatown neighborhood. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, savor a classic seafood dinner at the Fog Harbor Fish House (which overlooks the bay) before retiring for the night.
Ireland
Solo travelers will be hard-pressed to find a country as friendly and easy to explore as the Republic of Ireland. The country’s friendly populace and abundant public transportation make travel a breeze. Fly into one of Ireland’s five international airports, then hop on a train for intercity travel, grab a local bus to explore the countryside or rent a car to set your own itinerary.
In Ireland’s capital, Dublin, you’ll find a thriving music scene and nightlife, the Guinness Storehouse, and Dublin Castle. Head to Galway – a UNESCO City of Film boasting a bohemian vibe – to enjoy chic boutiques, delectable dishes and easy access to some of the must-see landscapes Ireland has to offer. Must-visits for any traveler are Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. Travel down to County Cork in the south to see the iconic Blarney Castle. While kissing the Blarney Stone is a must-do, the gardens (with the fascinating Poison Garden) at this historic site shouldn’t be overlooked.
Munich, Germany
If Oktoberfest, the largest public festival in the world, is the first thing you think of when someone says Munich, you wouldn’t be alone. This German city may be best known for the traditional Bavarian festival featuring beer, pretzels and Lederhosen, but it’s also a great location for solo travelers year-round. Visitors can navigate the city’s 27 distinct districts by foot, bus, streetcar (Straßenbahn), underground train (U-Bahn) and aboveground train (S-Bahn). A Munich Card will get you free local travel on these services and major discounts on 100-plus offers for sightseeing, museums, restaurants, shopping and more.
Head to the heart of the city to see the famous Glockenspiel, explore the Marienplatz and Viktualienmarkt, or view the city from above in the Munich Town Hall Tower observation deck. You can also breathe in some nature amid the city’s extensive parklands; the English Garden, for example, is Germany’s largest urban park. Sports lovers can enjoy soccer matches (better known as football in Germany) at the Allianz Arena as well as tours of the FC Bayern Museum and Olympiapark, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics.
