I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: solo travel is amazing. But if it’s your first time, or even if you’re a seasoned solo traveller, it could be difficult to figure out where you should go.
That’s why I asked some of my fellow travel bloggers what the best solo travel destinations are, according to them.
This is what they came up with.
- Best solo travel destinations in Europe
- Where to go in Asia as a solo traveller
- Solo travel destinations in Africa
- Best solo travel destinations in the Americas
- Oceania’s best solo travel destinations
This is going to be a long post, so feel free to use the links above to skip to the sections you’re most interested in.
Let’s go!
Best solo travel destinations in Europe
Read more: The Best Solo Travel Destinations in Europe
Krakow, Poland
By Bridget at The Flashpacker
Kraków ticks all the boxes as a perfect solo travel destination.
Thanks to its compact size Kraków is easy to explore. But if you need to reach places further afield, its efficient modern tram network allows you to navigate your way with ease. Aside from pickpocketing that blights most large cities, Kraków’s old city is safe.
Kraków is also relatively cheap, with its large student population keeping things real. Away from the more touristy bars and restaurants, you can dine like a king for peanuts. Don’t leave town without tucking into a steaming plate of pierogi.
The city’s range of accommodation options, from hostels to more upmarket establishments, will suit all budgets. I stayed in a centrally-located modern 4-star hotel for £60 per night.
To best explore Kraków’s well- preserved historic centre, a walking tour city operated by Free Walkative! should be central to your Kraków itinerary. As a solo traveller, one of these walking tours is also a fantastic way to meet people!
Day trips are another way to make friends on the road. If time permits, take an excursion to the Wieliczka Salt Mine or to the former concentration camp of Auschwitz. I guarantee that a visit to Auschwitz will linger long in your memory.
Nuremberg, Germany
By Marta and Milosz at BackpackersWro
Nuremberg is the second-largest city of the German state of Bavaria and the unofficial capital of Franconia. You can get to Nuremberg by air – the airport is located 7 km from the city or by train, e.g., from Munich.
In our opinion, Nuremberg is a very safe city with many attractions. The accommodation offer is at a high level and affordable prices. In Nuremberg, you can relax in hotels, apartments or hostels.
Even for one day in Nuremberg, it is an ideal place for long walks, tasting local cuisine, and visiting museums.
If history peaks your interest – in particular, World War II – you like trains and historic architecture, you will love the local museums! Once there, don’t miss Imperial Castle, Tiergärtnertorplatz, Old Town and the Beautiful Fountain, and Nuremberg Transport Museum.
Most attractions in Nuremberg are located within the city center, which can be easily reached on foot.
If you like to try real Bavarian cuisine, “Drei im Weggla,” “Bretzel” and “Schaufele” are a must! If you are planning a visit to Nuremberg in winter, try to visit the Christmas Market. It is one of the best-known and most beautiful markets in the region.
North Macedonia
By Stella Jane at Around The World in 24 Hours
There are many reasons why North Macedonia is one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe. It’s full of stunning natural beauty, the capital city of Skopje makes a great homebase for short day trips around the country, and it’s off the beaten track, so you won’t be surrounded by other tourists.
But the best reason to visit North Macedonia is the people. Macedonians are so excited to see tourists visiting their tiny country that they will give you the warmest of welcomes.
Sometimes the life of a solo traveller can be lonely, but there’s no way anyone could feel lonely in North Macedonia.
Skopje has more than enough activities to entertain solo travellers. Everyone will want to see the famous giant white statue of a soldier on a horse in the center of town. (Because of a dispute with Greece, North Macedonia is not allowed to call the statue Alexander the Great.)
Macedonian food is not famous, but it is delicious. Don’t miss local cheeses, burek pies, and the famous pepper spread ajvar. Skopje has several craft breweries as well where you can go meet locals.
The most beautiful place for a solo traveller to visit in North Macedonia is Lake Ohrid. Whether you get out on the water or go shopping for the famous Lake Ohrid pearls, you’ll never forget your time in such a gorgeous place.
Tallinn, Estonia
By Ann at The Road Is Life
Tallinn, Estonia isn’t Europe’s most well-known travel destination, but over the years its increasing popularity continues to draw many tourists and solo travellers alike.
The infrastructure, reasonable prices, friendly locals and all-around good vibes is what makes Tallinn the perfect town for any solo traveller. It’s still relatively undiscovered yet touristy enough that you’ll have no trouble meeting other travellers.
There are a few experiences you cannot miss out on when visiting Tallinn. Start off by exploring the charming streets of the UNESCO listed Old Town. Whether you take the free walking tour or navigate the cobblestone alleys on your own, you’re bound to fall in love with the beautifully preserved medieval architecture.
The Old Town is packed full of stunning historic buildings, impressive cathedrals, and is surrounded by 14th century city walls and towers.
Tallinn’s vibrant and quirky bar scene is the perfect way to meet other travellers. You might want to join one of the many fun pub crawls that operate regularly. Or, alternatively, you can venture out on your own, which is sure to be just as fun.
Tallinn is a safe, fascinating and diverse city to visit. It’s an excellent solo travel destination seeking old-town European vibes without the mass tourism attached.
Romania
Having visited some of the best places in the world affected by over-tourism such as Machu Picchu, I cannot emphasize how much over-tourism can affect your travel experience. Selfie sticks smacking you in the face, losing your friends in the stampedes of tourists, over-tourism is not fun for anybody.
For that reason, I suggest visiting Romania. An affordable Eastern European country, Romania is a beautiful place filled with history and nature. For example, the colonial city of Sibiu is filled with medieval architecture and an existing outside wall that was used for defense. In fact, there is so much culture and history in that city it became the European cultural capital in 2017!
Related: Studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain (European Capital of Culture in 2002)
The most famous place in Romania must be Bran Castle, the alleged birthplace of the famous legend, Dracula. However, Bran Castle is a place that is quickly becoming the target of over-tourism. Many travellers are coming from all over the world to see the legend with their own eyes.
But luckily, Bran Castle isn’t the only castle in Romania, nor is it the best one. Visitors can go to Peles Castle or Corvin Castle, both of which are ridiculously beautiful and full of history.
Ukraine
By Kamila at Kami and The Rest of the World
Ukraine isn’t very often on the radar for tourists, but this country has so much to offer and is a great destination for solo travellers.
You can find everything here: beautiful cities with Central European heritage (like Lviv or Chernivtsi), mountains, Black Sea resorts (Odessa), impressive cities with the Soviet past and the picturesque golden domed churches – there are just so many places to visit in Ukraine!
Getting around is super easy when you use the trains. It gets a bit more challenging with local minibuses, but friendly locals will definitely look after you. Yes, even if you don’t know the local language.
Ukraine uses the Cyrillic alphabet and I would recommend learning at least the letters to be able to read the signs or names of the places. Even if the situation in the eastern part of the country is still unstable due to the conflict with Russia, the rest of Ukraine is safer than you might think, although petty crime still happens. Just don’t do anything that you wouldn’t do at home and you will be fine!
One more reason to visit Ukraine is the prices – the country is very affordable, one of the cheapest in Europe. You will get a really good standard and some great experiences that won’t drain your wallet!
Porto, Portugal
By Delahaye of Hues of Delahaye
Porto is an excellent solo travel destination, and here’s why.
Even though Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, it has small-town charm and a laid-back atmosphere.
Hilly streets, picturesque viewpoints, undeniably stunning architecture, delicious fresh food, and welcoming locals are ever-present. You’ll never feel like you’re in a major city.
There is no language barrier as most people in Porto speak English. However, the basic olá (hello) and obrigada (thank you) in Portuguese is always great to know.
The city is compact and easy to navigate, with most attractions within walking distance of each other. This makes Porto a great city to explore by foot on your own.
According to World Peace Index (2018), Portugal is the 4th most peaceful country in the world and the 3rd safest country in Europe.
These are just a few things that make Porto a great city for solo travellers.
But that’s not all, there are so many things to do in Porto. From strolling around the charming Old Town and Ribeira district. Visit the São Bento railway station or go Port tasting. Cruise along the Douro River for spectacular views of Porto and the famous six bridges that cross over it.
You can even walk across the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge. A majestic Porto landmark that connects the Ribeira area to Vila Nova de Gaia. And don’t forget to look out for the mesmerising azulejos tiles seen throughout the city.
If you are looking for a vibrant and fun place to travel solo, visit Porto. It is one of the best destinations for solo travellers!
Helsinki, Finland
By Chrysoula at Travel Passionate
If you’re looking for somewhere both safe and fascinating for your next solo travel destination, look no further than the Scandinavian city of Helsinki. The Finnish capital has become a popular destination for all travellers thanks to its varied attractions, delicious dining options, and decent travel connections to the rest of Europe and beyond.
English is widely spoken throughout the whole of Finland, so you won’t have to look far to find someone who can speak your language and help you get around. Not that you will need much help, mind you, as the public transport systems are great and pretty self-explanatory!
Helsinki is a laid-back, welcoming city that has a whole host of attractions to keep even the most discerning traveller entertained. Whether you want to explore museums, art galleries, cathedrals or theme parks, Helsinki has you covered.
The Uspenski Cathedral, Temppeliaukio Church, Sibelius Monument, and Helsinki Senate Square are all must-sees, and when you’re not sight-seeing you can simply relax and enjoy the vibrant bar and café culture on offer throughout the city.
Helsinki has some wonderful hostels and guest houses that cater to solo travellers and there are some great tours you can join if you’d like to meet other people while learning about the city.
Best solo travel destinations in Asia
Philippines
By Linn at Brainy Backpackers
With more than 7000 islands, super-friendly people and a lot of sun and outdoors activities, the Philippines makes an incredible destination for solo travellers.
Whether you want to experience the Philippines off the beaten track, go on an organized tour, climb active volcanoes, go scuba diving with Thresher sharks or chill with a book in a hammock, the Philippines has it all.
The country is not yet as exploited by tourism as Thailand, except from maybe Palawan and El Nido, but the locals are just as friendly. Go to the eastern Visayas and there are fewer tourists around.
You can experience some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in southern Leyte, incredible rock formations at Biri Island, caves and kayaking in Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park or chase waterfalls in Biliran.
You can also see one of the smallest primates on earth, the Philippine Tarsier, in the Philippines. These animals are nocturnal and while you can see them in certain sanctuaries in Bohol, you should be skeptical about visiting them. The tiny primates commit suicide when kept in captivity and handled by humans. Therefore, you should never pay to see them in captivity or being held by staff and never take selfies with them or hold them.
Jaipur, India
By Shalini at Eager2Travel
Jaipur is one of the popular places to visit in Rajasthan. It is one of the best solo travel destinations in India due to its connectivity with the rest of the country. You can find a direct train and buses or just fly into Jaipur International Airport.
Jaipur is known as the Pink City of India, due to its beautiful palaces, colourful streets and warm people. The handloom and crafts market of Jaipur is world-famous. You can buy colourful Kurtis, Jutis and jewellery.
The traditional Rajasthani meal is a must-try. The sunrise at Nahargarh fort is definitely worth waking up for. You can also find many walking, cultural and wildlife tours on Airbnb.
If you have time you can visit the only Bramha Temple in the world in Pushkar, pay respects at Dargah Sharif in Ajmer and go for jungle safari in Ranthambore.
The people of Jaipur are very warm and welcoming. Ola and Uber work well so you should have no problem with finding cabs too. Overall the place is best suited for first-timers going for solo travel.
Laos
By Ming Lee at Flyerism
Southeast Asia is one of the most diverse regions in the world. This is one of the reasons why it has always been a top choice for solo travellers. A few areas in South East Asia can get really touristy during high season, particularly in Thailand and Vietnam.
So, instead of the obvious choices, Laos should definitely be on your bucket list, especially if you travel alone. Here’s why:
#1. Laos is less touristy as compared to its neighbors. You won’t see loud and noisy tourists swarming to the heritages sites. That said, Laos is moderately popular among backpackers. It’s still easy to meet people, especially in Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang.
#2. Laos is inexpensive. A double room in a mid-range hotel is typically priced at USD 25-50 per night. A meal at a restaurant should cost you from USD 2 – 5. As Laos used to be a member of Indochina, you will come across surprisingly good French restaurants, coffee, and baguette at the fraction of what you would pay in first world countries.
#3. The major cities are well connected by charter van and tourist buses. As well, there are frequent (and cheap) flights connecting the cities (Luang Prabang and Vientiane) to other major cities in Cambodia, China, Korea, Kuala Lumpur, Vietnam and Singapore.
#4. Laos is very safe. Most of the locals are welcoming and accommodating.
#5. Laos has some of the best waterfalls in Southeast Asia, i.e. Kuang Si (Luang Prabang) and Khone Phapheng Falls near Four Thousand Islands.
Seoul, South Korea
By Max at Dame Cacao
Seoul is one of the largest cities in the world, yet it remains relatively untouched by its booming tourism sector. This is in part because the Korean tourism board has masterfully planned its fame around the things which its citizens are already interested in and doing.
Seoul is not only a point of sales for cosmetics and K-pop; Seoulites themselves actually shop in Hongdae and Gangnam, picnic on the Han River, and drink soju in barbecue spots across the city. Despite a steady increase in visitors from around the world, Seoul manages to retain its cultural grounding through its temples, night markets, and blended fashion.
Korean cuisine is also hotter than ever, with traditional Korean eateries seamlessly connected to western cafes & international restaurants in every neighborhood. Plus, deciding where to stay in Seoul as a solo traveller is never an issue, as there are hundreds of youth hostels, guest houses, and business hotels scattered across the city.
Visitors from all over will be thrilled with the well-connected metro & bus system, copious & affordable street food, and endless free sites to explore both inside and just outside of Seoul.
Best solo travel destinations in Africa
Tunisia
By Stephanie at The Africa Cookbook
A great, slightly off-beat, solo travel destination for you to consider in 2020 is the country of Tunisia.
Because the major cities are connected by a system of inexpensive and reliable louages, or minivans, most of the country is accessible to a solo traveller who’s not looking to spend a fortune on transportation but wants to cover a lot of ground.
Some of my favorite places in Tunisia include Tunis, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, Bizerte, and Kairouan. In a week, you can easily see two to three cities, but if you have two weeks you can see most of the country’s important sites, including all eight of the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In Tunisia, you explore a balance of ancient Roman history, Carthaginian history, Ottoman and Islamic history, and Berber history. However, if you come during the warm months, you can also relax at one of the country’s fabulous Mediterranean beaches. While here, make sure to see some of the cities’s amazing medinas, or historic marketplaces. Several of these are designated UNESCO sites and Tentative UNESCO sites, and each has its own unique vibe.
The personal highlight, for me, though, was eating my way through Tunisia. Tunisian food is rich in flavor, with delightful tagines and couscous dishes.
Best solo travel destinations in the Americas
Chile
By Coni at Experiencing the Globe
South America as a solo traveller, especially if you don’t speak Spanish, might sound intimidating – even more so if you’re a woman! But fear not, I have the answer. Go to Chile!
The news nowadays is focused on the riots and the protests going on in the country, but let me assure you (since I’m Chilean) that it is still the safest country in Latin America, and all the tourist sites are open, ready to welcome you.
Chile is a great solo travel destination because of its people. They will try to make you feel at home, helping you in whichever way they can. It has become more and more know over the years, so you will also get to meet other travellers (a lot of fellow solo adventurers, in my experience).
But the best part is the country’s diversity. Within its borders you can go from the desert to the glaciers, and from the sea to the mountains, having plenty to see in between: the famous Easter Island with its stone faces, the full of street art hills of Valparaíso, the beautiful wine country, the stunning Lake District, home of Chile’s capital of adventure: Pucón, where you can even climb an active volcano, and the unique architecture of Chiloé.
Need I say more?
Medellín, Colombia
By Daniel at Layer Culture
When doing solo travel and looking for the best places to visit, Medellin in Colombia is a superb option.
Located within a valley, Medellin is Colombia’s second-largest city and has something for everybody. If you like the idea of connecting with local culture and engaging in local experiences when you travel solo, Medellin is a great place to be.
Many solo travellers to Colombia pass through the city at some point so you can meet likened travelers if you desire. A popular neighborhood for both locals and tourists is El Poblado which is located in the north of the city and where you can find cultural tours and even learn Spanish without breaking the bank.
The best time to visit Medellin is during the winter months and from October to March the climate is very pleasant. If you want to venture out of the hustle and bustle of the city, you can go to one of the many pueblos within the Antioquia region and learn about coffee or go for a hike.
Medellin and surrounding areas are relatively safe when you stick to the recommended towns, and the people are very welcoming when it comes to receiving new visitors. The local culture in the region is very unique to Colombia and many people find themselves not wanting to leave.
Philadelphia, USA
By Derek at Robe Trotting
A fantastic destination for solo travellers is the vibrant American city of Philadelphia. It’s full of American history, friendly locals, a fantastic food scene and world-class museums.
There are so many things to do in Philadelphia, but it’s frequently overlooked for more famous nearby American cities like New York City and Washington DC. It’s larger and more fun than Washington and easier to navigate than New York City without the high prices.
The fact that tourists often skip Philadelphia makes it a perfect destination to visit on a trip to America. With a decent public transportation network and cheap ridesharing apps like Lyft and Uber, it’s easy to get around for anyone travelling alone. Philly is also safe and walkable because it’s mostly flat and it’s designed in a grid system of blocks. You can walk from one end to the other in about 40 minutes.
Solo travellers will love Philadelphia’s museums, like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Franklin Institute of Science and The Mütter Museum of Medical Oddities.
Philadelphia was also the birthplace of The United States. Independence Hall, the building where America’s founders signed The Declaration of Independence is open daily for free tours. In that neighborhood, you can tour many other relics of American history.
There’s also a great food scene in Philadelphia. There are fine dining options, especially in The Rittenhouse neighborhood and along the 13th Street Corridor. Check out El Vez or Jamonera for a great meal. Solo travellers should also check out local favorites like a cheesesteak, soft pretzel, and Italian water ice.
Museums, food, history, and friendly locals make Philly a great stop for any travelers who want a more intimate, less-touristy American city break.
Las Vegas, USA
By Jordan at Georgia Girl Meets World
A surprising solo travel destination is Las Vegas. Although it’s known for gambling and groups visiting to party, Vegas has much more to offer. From concerts and shows to shopping to even hiking and outdoor activities close by, solo travellers won’t run out of things to do, even if gambling isn’t of interest.
A popular activity that is enjoyable for any type of traveller is to see a show. Whether interested in a Cirque du Soleil show, a concert, or a magic show, Vegas has it all.
Another non-gambling solo activity is to visit the Neon Museum. This outdoor museum offers day and night tours of historic signs from the Vegas strip. With knowledgeable guides to inform visitors of the intriguing history of Sin City and some pretty awesome photo opportunities, the Neon Museum is a can’t-miss while visiting Las Vegas.
With so many things to do, including many solo activities, Las Vegas is a great destination for those looking for a unique solo trip in 2020.
Toronto, Canada
By Pari at Traveling Pari
Year after year, Toronto gets voted one of the best cities to live in. In fact, most Canadian cities make this list. However, what’s special about Toronto is that it’s also been voted the sixth safest city in the world by the Economist. This is great news for solo travellers who list safety as their number one concern.
In addition to being a safe place, Toronto is also a welcoming place for people from different parts of the world. One wouldn’t expect, but when you visit the city, you’ll see that it’s a melting pot of different cultures. This can be seen clearly in its diverse neighborhoods. Solo travellers, especially people who travel for long periods of time, sometimes, may feel lonely and homesick. In Toronto, since it has so many diverse neighborhoods, it’s easy for a solo traveller to find a place that feels familiar and a bit like home. If you need a guide on the best place to stay in Toronto, please see the linked article.
Of course, as a tourist destination, there’s also plenty to see. The famous Niagara Falls is just two hours away and if you are looking for a nature escape, you can visit the nearby Algonquin Provincial Park. All in all, Toronto is a perfect solo travel destination.
Best solo travel destinations in Oceania
Ambrym, Vanuatu
By Josh at The Lost Passport
Vanuatu is a quiet chain of 83 islands in the South Pacific Ocean. Although it lies just over 2,000 kilometers north east of Australia, and accessible by direct flight, it is still largely untapped by tourism.
Vanuatu’s island of Ambrym is even more remote. Ambrym is packed with opportunities for the intrepid traveller, including the live volcanoes of Mount Benbow and Mount Marum, natural geothermal hot springs, intensive multiple day hiking trails, and untainted cultural villages.
Don’t expect to find too many pre-organised tours out here though, this is about getting on the ground and figuring some things out for yourself. A good starting point for these activities is chatting with Sam at Sam’s Bungalows at Craig’s Cove.
Getting to Ambrym is quite easy, with multiple flights per week from Port Villa and the surrounding islands like Santo and Malekula. The truly intrepid might even consider reaching this remote island by a small cargo boat, though I warn, they are highly unreliable.
If you are planning to travel Vanuatu, then Ambrym must be on your list!
Are there any great solo travel destinations I missed? Let me know in a comment!
