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.
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!
Read more: The Best Solo Travel Destinations in Europe
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Summer is fast approaching and you want to try travelling alone for the first time. If that’s the case, you’re in luck: this post will tell you exactly where to travel solo in summer. I reached out to some fellow solo travel bloggers and I asked them what their favourite solo travel destinations were. Here’s what they came up with.
Read more: The Best Solo Travel Destinations in Europe
Written by Chrysoula (Travel Passionate)
The sunshine-filled destination of Rhodes in Greece is a wonderful location for a solo summer trip. It has gorgeous beaches, a lively nightlife and a whole host of history and culture to discover.
The Greek Islands are one of the safest places to explore as a solo traveller with warm hospitality, signs, menu and information written in English (as well as many other European languages), and decent flights and public transport so you can easily get around. Rhodes is no different!
First things first: you’ll want to explore Rhodes’ Old Town, a walled city filled with ancient ruins and castles that tell the story of the island’s history. Next you can head out of the perimeter walls. Wander along the harbour, check out local bars, shops and restaurants or head to the beach.
When you want to explore a little further afield, catch the bus to Lindos, a quaint white-washed town that is topped with the magnificent Lindos Acropolis overlooking the sea. Once you’ve spent a few hours discovering Lindos, you might want to head to nearby Anthony Quinn Bay or St. Paul’s Bay Beach for some seaside relaxation. Elsewhere on the island are vineyards, hot springs, monasteries and some epic wind-surfing spots to add to your amazing solo trip to Rhodes.
Written by Diana (The Elusive Family)
Rome is a place of wonder, history and magic. It’s a wonderful place to visit any time of year, and summer is no exception. Though it can get quite warm in Italy during the summer, Rome has a unique feel to it. The experience of venturing throughout the city during this time of year and stopping by gelato shops or popping into a wine shop or pizza parlour makes for an amazing experience.
When visiting Rome as a solo traveller, it is crucial to ensure you purchase tickets in advance when you can, such as for the Colosseum and to go early to the museums including the Borghese Gallery and Capitoline Museum. As a solo traveller, you have an advantage over the thousands of other tourists. Many of them are travelling families and tend to be about later in the day. Group tours are a great way for the solo traveller to get in on some amazing tours being offered in the city.
Must do’s include visiting the Roman Forum, Colosseum, Pantheon, including getting a gelato at Gelateria della Palma nearby, throwing a coin in the Trevi Fountain, visiting the Catacombs and spending the evening exploring Trastevere. Be sure to stop by one of the boats on the Tiber River and get information on the evening festivities which are amazing for solo travellers.
Visiting the Vatican museums and Sistine Chapel in Vatican City is a must. However, be sure to be one of the first in line to beat the crowds that begins to show up late morning. Finally, treat yourself to a dinner at any of the numerous restaurants and head over to the Spanish steps for a quick visit followed by a cup of coffee at Café Greco.
Written by Pashmina (The Gone Goat)
Belgium’s most celebrated historic city, Bruges in Western Flanders, might seem touristy and a path that is filled with well-heeled travellers. But if you look past the touristy sights, connect with the locals and even see the countryside on a bicycle, Bruges may just be one of the best solo travel destinations in summer.
There’s a reason why Bruges was dubbed as the Venice of the North. Admiring the city’s architecture, or even casually strolling through the streets with a waffle in your hand, it is easy to pause and take in the surroundings. When the crowds get overwhelming, rent a bike in Bruges and ride to the border with the Netherlands in Sluis.
Along the way you’ll see the Belgian countryside and get to see the postcard-perfect village of Damme where a themed book market every Sunday of the month. Imagine carefully reading through the books while enjoying your own company with nature on a bicycle – that definitely sounds like the perfect itinerary for a well-spent solo trip.
Written by Vicki (Vicki Viaja)
If you want to have an amazing solo trip in summer, Barcelona is the place to go. Not only is it a wonderfully beautiful city, but it’s also easy to meet new people and other travellers with dozens of events taking place every day.
With its Gothic architecture, the streets of Barcelona’s city centre provide a romantic medieval Catalan charm mixed with a modern vibe of many trendy restaurants, pubs, and tapas bars. During the summer is also the best option to spend some time at the beach where you can either relax by yourself or join a volleyball game.
Moreover, there are many attractions to see throughout the city. The most famous of all is the Sagrada Família. You can either buy a simple entrance ticket and visit by yourself or join a group tour. Either way – this famous cathedral designed by Antoni Gaudí is an absolute must-do when visiting the Catalan capital even if you just spend a day in Barcelona.
But there are many more sights throughout Barcelona that are worth a visit, such as Park Güell or Barrio Gótico. During the summer, you can spend all night outside sipping delicious Spanish vino or Sangria and enjoy the amazing Catalan cuisine.
Written by Karen (Wanderlusting K)
The Netherlands is one of my favourite solo travel destinations! As a traveller who first visited Amsterdam on her first big solo trip turned resident of the Netherlands, I fully endorse this country as being one of the best solo travel destinations due to its reliable train system, numerous cycling paths, and general safety.
With the warm weather, it’s easy to enjoy Amsterdam (and the rest of the Netherlands), exploring it on foot or by bike. If you’re a foodie, you will fall in love with the Dutch sweets from stroopwafels to pancakes. History lovers will find solace in enjoying the beautiful facades of the various buildings as well as the rich histories behind the buildings that you can learn about at many museums.
Similarly, art lovers will find that the world-class museums (such as the Rijksmuseum and the Mauritshuis) make for the perfect solo trip to enjoy viewing the Dutch old masters without anyone rushing you out of the museum. When travelling solo in the Netherlands, I always love to get lost in a city prior to finding a cozy cafe with a view to get a coffee (or a beer) to watch the sunset. The evenings last long in summer, perfect for saving up the energy to go out with your new mates from your hostel!
Related: How to spend 72 hours in Amsterdam
Written by Elisa (World in Paris)
Paris is one of the best solo travel destinations in the summer for first-timers. The days are longer and the weather is good. And apart from the usual top tourist sights the city proposes great festival and events. Yes, the French capital is marketed as a “romantic city” and “the city of lovers”. But it is also a great destination for solo travellers.
You don’t need much company to enjoy the great artworks of the Louvre or to sail and admire Paris’ most beautiful avenue on a Seine river cruise. You can also decide to take a stroll through the beautiful parks of the city. Or why not enjoy your favourite coffee while people watching from a typical Parisian cafe? If you want to meet some people, small group walking tours with a local guide are another great way to explore Paris. Guided tours are great to get a better knowledge of the city and its culture. Moreover, there is a big choice of walking tours, from historical tours to tours by neighbourhood or food & wine tours.
Finally, Paris is surrounded by beautiful small towns and French castles. These are very easy to explore by train on your own. Versailles Palace and Gardens, Fontainebleau or cute towns like Provins or Chantilly are great solo travel destinations for a memorable day.
Written by Arzo (Arzo Travels)
Zurich is one of my favourite solo travel destinations – while I love to visit Zurich at any time of the year (except for the winter), my favourite season is the summer. I am normally not a summer fan but Zurich in the summer is special.
The weather in the summer months can be moody – but most of the time it is warm and sunny and thus perfect to flock to Lake Zurich and spend your days there.
Lake Zurich is so clean and nice that you can take a swim there. It is one of the very few lakes I actually swim in. There are some nice places where you can take a rest, picnic and hop into the water (close to the “Rentenanstalt”).
At the end of the day, head to the other side of the lake and listen to the fun and great musicians – if you want to meet people, this is a great place to do so. Many young people bring their own drinks, sit down, listen to music and enjoy the lovely and friendly atmosphere. It is so easy to talk to people at that time and it is a great way to end a day.
But of course, you can do even more in the summer months: enjoy some hikes to the house mountain Uetliberg, have a coffee in one of the modern and fancy bars at the lake, and decide on which day trips to go. Whether you stay two days in Zurich or longer – in the summer months, you cannot stay long enough!
Written by Becki (Meet Me In Departures)
Spain is one of the easiest solo travel destinations. There’s great food, awesome culture and some fabulous little gems, such as Segovia.
Segovia is a UNESCO listed city you could easily spend a couple of days in, although it’s equally a super easy trip to do from the nation’s capital, Madrid.
Segovia has three main landmarks on offer. First and foremost is the infamous El Acueducto or the Aqueduct of Segovia, said to be built by the devil himself. There is also the Alcazar of Segovia, which looks a little bit like the Magic Kingdom at Disneyland and Segovia Cathedral. Of course, the Aqueduct takes the glory, but there are a ton of other things to see and do in this ancient walled city.
While you are visiting Segovia, you have to call into a cute little cafe called Limón y Mente, just off the Plaza Mayor. They serve a local sweet treat called a ponche segoviano. This delicious treat is a sponge-like cake, with a sweet sticky filling inside. The cake is then covered in marzipan before being dusted with icing sugar. Delicious!
Related: Studying abroad in Spain
Written by Ann Marie (Eco Conscious Traveller)
Thailand is one of those perfect solo travel destinations for people who want to mingle and make friends to travel further afield with! I travelled there on my own and made friends easily. I definitely recommend the islands of Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao!
Koh Pha Ngan is famous for its crazy full moon party – if you don’t make it at the right time of the month, there’s also the half moon party and many other moon parties. Koh Tao is an awesome island for diving. If you do a diving course you’ll easily make loads of friends – group activities are always a good way to go for social souls! There’s also a crazy pub crawl on the island starting in a bar called Choppers almost every night of the week so a good option for partying.
Both islands have incredible beaches and I also love the beaches on Railay (Railay’s on the west and Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan on the east). If you’re looking for solo travel destinations and really want some time out by yourself there are lots of quieter islands too, such as Koh Chang – a good option not far from Bangkok. Enjoy!
Written by Mike (Live Travel Teach)
One of my favourite solo travel destinations in summer is Java, Indonesia. I personally loved the adventurous volcano hikes and how much more affordable it was than the more touristy Bali. I took public transportation between cities and found guest houses everywhere I went. The people I met told me to watch the sunrise over distant mountains as two volcanoes slowly erupt inside the Tengger Supervolcano. The most famous of these peaks is Mount Bromo, which is constantly erupting, but mild enough that many people hike across the sand sea to the rim.
Mount Ijen is another amazing volcano where you can see a blue fire volcano just a half day away from Mount Bromo. I heard stories of sea turtles hatching along Java’s coast and know many other solo travellers who went all the way north to Borobudur, a 9th century temple and the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Basically, Java has LOTS to do and the great thing about visiting in the summer is that the Indonesian monsoon season doesn’t follow Southeast Asia. Most of the popular solo backpacking spots are getting torrential rains for the summer. Java, however, is pristine at that time of year and should definitely be added to your list!
Written by James (Travel Collecting)
Rajasthan is great for solo travellers, because there are so many opportunities to meet local people and other travellers. A great way to meet local people is to take classes. In Jaipur, you can take a workshop on hand block printing, for example. It’s also possible to learn traditional tie and dye and to take Indian cooking classes. These are also a great way to meet like-minded travellers. You can also do fun activities, like taking a camel safari into the desert and adventure activities such as zip-lining over Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur.
The one downside to travelling in Rajasthan in summer is the heat. I personally like dry desert heat, but it does get very hot. If you need to cool down, head to Mount Abu, where there is a lovely hill station and plenty of other travellers hanging out. Alternatively, go to Udaipur, which is set around a beautiful lake.
Another great way to meet people, cool down and experience Indian culture is to stay at a heritage hotel. Splurge a little on one with a pool; you’re bound to meet other travellers. Many hotels also have rooftop restaurants, with breathtaking views and cooling night breezes. There is so much variety in Rajasthan that every solo traveller should experience it at least once.
Read more: 3 week Rajasthan road trip itinerary
Written by Priyanko (Constant Traveller)
Vietnam is a fabulously cheap solo travel destination for anyone looking for a wholesale immersion into Southeast Asian culture. Summertime is ideal for exploring the breadth of the country, as there is little chance of getting caught in tropical storms. You are likely to find a lot of other solo travellers as well.
If this is your first time in the region, fly in to Ho Chi Minh City first. This is the most ‘Westernised’ city in Vietnam with the tourist district full of great bars and an eclectic nightlife scene. Dip your toes in the country’s history with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels or take a ride along the Mekong Delta.
Fly in to Hoi An, an impossibly cute city where you are sure to feel like you have time-travelled to the past. The pedestrian area is worth strolling around. From ancient temples to old preserved houses and even cooking classes on offer, this is a city that will stay with you long after you’ve left it.
Come to Hanoi and gorge on the fabulous street food while taking in the sights. From the country’s military history to the embalmed Ho Chi Minh and historic Old City, Hanoi is full of things to see and do. If possible, do try to go on a trek to the mountains of Sapa and take in the sights of Halong Bay before departing the country.
Written by Michael (197 Travel Stamps)
Tokyo is different. It is huge, full of people, quirky, hectic and yet relaxing at the same time. You can walk over world’s busiest pedestrian crossing in Shibuya one minute and relax in Yoyogi Park a minute later.
Tokyo is also a place where tradition and the modern world meet like nowhere else. You can stroll the streets of the traditional Asakusa neighborhood to discover the old way of living in Japan or you can watch the endless lights of Akibahara.
Travelling to Tokyo is a perfect solo travel destination in summer, since you will be able to explore the beauty of the city in perfect weather conditions. I especially like travelling to Tokyo as a solo traveller because I’ve had so many opportunities to meet fellow travellers and engage with them. One of my best experiences was spending a night in a capsule hotel in the neighborhood of Shibuya, one of the best areas to stay in Tokyo. While the entire experience felt so truly Japanese, it was also a great opportunity to meet and start conversations with fellow travellers.
Related: 15 essential experiences for your first time in Tokyo
Written by Marie (Be Marie Korea)
Summer in South Korea gets extremely hot, so it’s best to escape the big cities, like Seoul and Daegu, and make your way to the coast line. The best place to escape to is Busan on the south coast. It is the third-biggest city of South Korea, but, as it is located along the coast, it is much fresher than other major cities. Busan has many stunning beaches and coastline activities like surfing.
Apart from being a great solo travel destination in summer, it is also great for solo travellers all year around. The city is easy to navigate, safe and friendly to foreigners. At one of the many hostels around Haeundae beach, it is easy to meet other travellers and go out together for the evening. It is also quite popular for hostels to organize events and pub crawls, especially in the peak season.
It is recommended to stay at least 2 days in Busan, as there is so much to visit and to see. Book a hostel around Haeundae beach as that’s where all the bars and beach restaurants are.
Written by Jules (Don’t Forget To Move)
In the Indonesian island of Lombok, secluded white sand beaches, gorgeous waterfalls and volcano hikes await the solo traveller looking for a new adventure this summer. This island paradise is just a short trip away from the crowded tourist island of Balii, yet offers so many of the same amazing qualities in a travel destination. Starting in the small tourist hub Kuta Lombok, solo travellers have many opportunities to meet other adventurers or venture off on their own to explore.
If you’re up for a challenge, rent a scooter and head out on a self guided tour of the island. In the south, there are over two dozen stunning beaches that you can get to within an hour’s drive of Kuta Lombok. Each beach is more secluded and isolated than the last. Head inland to find uncrowded waterfalls where it’s just you and Mother Nature admiring the powerful water flowing over the rocks. Or if you’ve had enough of your solo adventures and want to party it up with other crazy tourists, hop a boat over to Gili Trawangan island, where a party awaits every night. With so many things to see in Lombok the only problem you’ll have is fitting them all into your itinerary!
Written by Bradley (Dream Big, Travel Far)
Somewhere I strongly believe all passionate travellers should try to visit in Sri Lanka. Having visited in the summer of 2018, I really was shocked by how many incredible things there were to do there and how breathtakingly beautiful the country was. Best of all, Sri Lankan people are very friendly and welcoming which really helped make for the ultimate getaway.
Which is even better if you are travelling solo and are always looking for friendly new people to meet. There is a very sociable vibe amongst the main backpacking destinations, and you have ample chance to meet fellow travellers and share in adventures. And these adventures can be anything you wish! Around the coast, there are some of the world’s best surf spots.
Then, further inland, there are tonnes of wonderful hiking opportunities that offer up dramatic views. Getting around Sri Lanka is very easy and there are public buses and trains that allow you to get from town to town very quickly and very cheaply. Or for a true solo adventure, you can even rent a tuk tuk and drive yourself around, like I did!
Written by Daniela (Andes and Beyond)
If you’re looking for a different kind of experience this summer, give it a try with Peru’s Amazon rain forest. July, August and September are relatively dry months and therefore a good time to visit this fascinating, wild and yet fragile region of our planet.
Peru’s most popular Amazon tourist destinations are Iquitos, which is situated directly at the Amazon river and can only be reached by plane (or boat), Puerto Maldonado in the south of the country and Tarapoto in the high jungle in Northern Peru.
There are direct flights between Iquitos and Tarapoto but you’d need to fly back to Lima to reach Puerto Maldonado. In all three places, you can either book accommodation in the city and do some half-day or day tours or you can choose a tour of two or more days and stay at a jungle lodge.
As it’s not advisable to venture out alone into the jungle, it doesn’t really matter if you’re travelling solo or not. You’ll be spending quite a bit of time with other people, anyway. Make sure to book with a local company for your tours.
For half-day or day tours, it’s not necessary to make reservations in advance, there are plenty of local options which tend to be cheaper, too. If you have two days left before returning home, I recommend visiting Ica and the Huacachina desert oasis which can easily be reached from Lima by bus.
Written by Daisy (Beyond my Border)
Colombia can be counted among the most beautiful solo travel destinations. During my solo backpacking trip across the country, I fell in love with the country’s gorgeous landscape, fun-loving people, and vast greenery. One of my favourite backpacking towns within Colombia was the Cocora Valley in Salento. Located in the premier coffee region of Colombia, Salento was a calm space that oozed a sense of serenity. Its tranquility and natural beauty are ever more present in Cocora Valley, which is a known valley where hundreds of wax palm trees tower over the small roads along undulating hills.
As a female traveller, I always take precaution prior to a solo trip. I thought Salento and Cocora are both great solo travel destinations not only because of their beauty, but I felt completely safe while embarking upon my backpacking journey. There were lots of other backpackers I met on the road, and plenty of female travellers at that. In addition to coffee bean tours and lots of hiking, you can enjoy the colourful architecture and charming streets. There is a lot to do in and around the town, which makes it the perfect solo travel destination during the summer.
Have you ever travelled by yourself? What’s your favourite solo travel destination in the summer?
Thanks for reading!
-S
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