best solo trips to go on

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

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

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

Perth, Australia

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Asheville, North Carolina

Tuscany, Italy

Santa Barbara, California

New York City

Seville, Spain

Naples, Florida

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Portland, Oregon

New Zealand

Galápagos Islands

Charleston, South Carolina

Athens, Greece

New Orleans

Austin, Texas

San Francisco

Munich, Germany

Florianópolis, Brazil

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The 18 best solo trips in the U.S.

Ready to venture out on your own? Our selection of the best solo trips in the U.S. are the perfect way to get started.

Solo travel is booming—for good reason. Sure, sharing experiences with friends, family, or your significant other is fun, but taking a trip alone is a whole other type of adventure. You can build confidence, take in moments without distraction, and, best of all,   get to do exactly what you want to do. No debates about where to eat or what to see, just you and your whims. Being solo also makes it easier to strike up a conversation with a stranger, be it a local or fellow traveler. 

Fortunately, you don’t have to venture too far to enjoy a fulfilling solo sojourn.  Whether you’ve done this before or are looking to take your first trip alone, we've rounded up the best cities to visit as a party-of-one that will provide plenty of new experiences, whether you're an art enthusiast, foodie or beach lover. From the historic streets of Boston to the mountains of Colorado to the hills of San Francisco , here are some of the best solo trips to take in the US with plenty of itinerary suggestions to boot. 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best solo trips in the U.S.

1.  nashville, tn.

Let your love of music—and hearty Southern cooking—guide your trip through Nashville . For a toe-tapping good time, head to the Basement and possibly catch a 'secret' show from a national headliner in an intimate setting. Before the music, fill up with some finger-licking good Tennessee pork shoulder at Jack’s Bar-B-Cue , where you’ll make friends while waiting in long lines (trust us, it’s totally worth it) or test your limit for spicy food at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack or Hattie B’s . Celebrate a successful solo sojourn by ordering a cocktail at White Limozeen , the pink-hued, Dolly Parton-themed rooftop bar atop the Graduate Nashville .

2.  Marfa, TX

Independent travelers with an artistic side need to visit Marfa, which has quickly become a top destination for artists looking for a productive retreat. Miles away from any other city and hours from the nearest airport, this teeny-tiny small town (population: less than 2,000) in the desert boasts large-scale art installations (including the Instagram-famous Prada Marfa one), the Chinati Foundation art museum, and a historic army fort . Unsurprisingly, there aren’t many hotels here; however, we recommend Hotel Saint George , a minimalist-inspired boutique hotel with a bustling lobby bar and stylish interiors.

3.  New York, NY

While being alone in a city as densely populated as the Big Apple might seem lonely, we guarantee it’ll feel quite freeing in no time. Get in a New York state of mind while heading to the city’s fabulous museums (including the MoMA , The Met , and the Whitney ), gorgeous public spaces and phenomenal performances on Broadway or at the Metropolitan Opera. Don’t forget to get a taste of the world-renowned Brooklyn food scene , and never fear going to a restaurant or bar to dine solo—in New York, that’s standard fare. Make SoHo your home base for exploring by staying at the design-centric Crosby Street Hotel , where guests and locals can mingle throughout the chic public spaces.

4.  Boulder, CO

Hiking boots are a must if you’re visiting Boulder. Skiers and snowboarders take over the city in the winter, and when the weather is good, visitors flock to Eldorado Canyon State Park , Flagstaff , Chautauqua Park , and the Flatirons . Stay in the heart of town at the historic Hotel Boulderado , which puts you within walking distance of the vibrant Pearl Street Mall . Along this four-block-long pedestrian-friendly hotspot, you’ll find a slew of shopping, drinking, and dining options .

5.  Portland, OR

Portland's laid-back vibes and numerous attractions make it ideal for a solo trip. Join fellow foodies as you sample your way through SE Division Street, including a savory breakfast at Pine State Biscuits and a creamy milkshake from Fifty Licks . Then, retreat to nature with a hike through Forest Park ; alternatively, stroll among thousands of flowers in the International Rose Test Garden . Looking to make new friends? Try hitting up a concert at local favorite Mississippi Studios or grab a beer at the city's many breweries. After an action-packed day, retreat to your room at The Nines , conveniently located downtown.

6.  Asheville, NC

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this dynamic North Carolina city is a favorite among artists and outdoor lovers alike. The tranquil waters of the French Broad River, located within the city limits, are perfect for a kayak trip, while the nearby mountains offer plenty of great hikes and look-out spots for photographers and nature enthusiasts. If you want a more refined experience, check out the palatial Biltmore Estate , America's largest privately owned house. You can even spend the night here: Three properties can be found within the 8,000-acre grounds. Beer enthusiasts will also love it here: Asheville has more breweries per capita than any other city in America.

7.  Boston, MA

While Boston might loom large in American history (it is the oldest city in New England, after all), you can walk the narrow winding streets and explore the relatively small center in a day. The nearly 400-year-old town is full of hidden treasures that can be discovered on a self-guided walking tour. Tired of trekking on foot? Try one of the trolley tours—the guides are top-notch, and you might just make some friends while aboard the bright vehicles. Also, history buffs will especially appreciate staying at The Liberty , a 19th-century-era jail-turned-luxury hotel.

8.  Bozeman, MT

Even when you're alone in Bozeman, you're never lonely. The city is beloved not just because it's the perfect home base for solo activities like hiking, skiing, and horseback riding but also because the scene in town boasts interesting museums, distilleries, breweries, and restaurants. When you've had your fill of Palisade Falls, the Gallatin Canyon, or Bridger Bowl , stroll around the laid-back town's historic brewery sector or dig into the heritage of this wild northern landscape at the Museum of the Rockies before heading back to your room at the upscale Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman .

9.  Chicago,IL

With top-notch museums and parks and a public transportation system that rivals any other across the country, Chicago is a winning bet for a vacationer still unsure about the pros of solo traveling. Indulge in some retail therapy along the Magnificent Mile (North Michigan Avenue) and visit an amazing spa for some much-needed R&R. Along the Magnificent Mile, you’ll also find a slew of splurge-worthy stays, including The Peninsula. In terms of entertainment, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Check out the city’s top comedy clubs , including The Second City and the Laugh Factory . Or, if it’s postcard-worthy views you’re after, make your way to one of the city’s many rooftop bars .

10.  Seattle, WA

Make sure to pack a comfy pair of shoes when visiting the city’s top attractions , including the Space Needle , Pike Place Market , Fremont , and Pioneer Square . Art lovers will also appreciate a stay at Hotel Max , followed by visits to Chihuly Garden & Glass , the Seattle Art Museum (SAM), and the Frye Art Museum . Before you skip town, grab a cup of the world-famous coffee from a local café (we recommend Elm Coffee Roasters ) and hop on one of the Puget Sound ferries to take in the scenic landscape, including the skyline, waterfront, and, in the hazy distance, Mount Rainer.

11.  San Francisco, CA

In a city that fully embraces free spirits, your desire to fly through local museums, restaurants, and eclectic neighborhoods solo will see you fit right in. Tourist sights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island , and hopping aboard one of San Francisco’s historic cable cars. Once you've checked those off your list, explore one of the city's charming neighborhoods, such as Hayes Valley, Noe Valley or Pacific Heights. Try the Proper Hotel, which features a swanky rooftop bar, for accommodations.

12.  Florida Keys, FL

If it’s sunny days, warm temperatures, and turquoise water you’re after, look no further than this laid-back locale. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride around the Keys, stopping at cafés and shops along the way. In the afternoons, head for the beach with a book and get ready to meet fellow travelers with a colorful cocktail in hand at the beachfront bars. If you want ultimate peace and seclusion, head straight to Little Palm Island , a private island resort about 30 minutes away from Little Torch Key via boat.

13.  Washington, D.C.

Visiting D.C . solo allows you to explore the entire city at your own pace. Many  museums are free and deserve an entire day of exploring—like the National Gallery of Art , the National Museum of African American History & Culture , and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History . In the evening, take in a transformative performance at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts or enjoy a play with a side of history at Ford's Theatre , where President Lincoln was assassinated. Prefer to shop and eat your way through vacation? Make sure to visit Dupont Circle and Georgetown , where splurge-worthy stays–including the Four Seasons –abound.

14.  Austin, TX

Young-at-heart solo travelers will find Austin’s lively spirit infectious. The city attracts creative types, many of which regularly flock to local music venues. Visit the Continental Club for fun-filled nights, take a stand-up paddleboard tour of Lady Bird Lake , and stroll down South Congress Avenue , dotted with fantastic shopping. Of course, no trip to Austin is complete without some good ol’ Tex-Mex, and options abound, including Veracruz All Natural , Gabriela’s , and Matt's El Rancho . Once you’ve hit food coma status, head back to your room at the trendy LINE hotel and hop into bed.

15.  Philadelphia, PA

Whether you’re a history buff looking to delve into our nation’s past, you want to eat your way through vacation, or you simply need some time by yourself, Philadelphia is the place for you. Stay near Center City (you can’t go wrong at The Loews ) and the whole shebang will be easily accessible: Gorgeous Rittenhouse Square —and the surrounding shopping area—is a stroll away, as is Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell . Art enthusiasts should visit the magnificent Barnes Foundation and the sprawling galleries at the Philadelphia Museum of Art . Foodies, on the other hand, will appreciate the city’s booming culinary scene , including top restaurants like Laser Wolf and Vernick Food and Drink—just be sure to save room for a cheesesteak or two.

16.  Detroit, MI

Formerly down-and-out Detroit has experienced quite the renaissance in recent years. Today, the city is a dynamic canvas for art, music, and thought. Hoof it around the Grand River Creative Corridor , the Dequindre Cut Greenway , and the so-called Guggenheim Ghetto to take in some incredible street art at your own pace, or head to landmarks of Tha D's Motown heritage like the Motown Museum and the homes of hitmakers Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Aretha Franklin. When you've worked up an appetite, follow your nose for some Detroit-style pizza at Loui's or Polish dumplings at Pietrzyk Pierogi . Finally, rest your head at the chic, centrally located Detroit Foundation Hotel , so you’re never too far from all the action.

17.  San Diego, CA

San Diego is all about the beach, surf, and California burritos. The 1,200-acre Balboa Park deserves a full day (or two) of your attention. Here, you’ll find gardens, hiking trails, museums, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo . After a day of museum hopping and wildlife spotting, you’re sure to work up an appetite. So, make your way over to the Gaslamp Quarter neighborhood and take your pick of eclectic eats, including American Junkie for pub grub, the Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse for top-notch chops, Asti Ristorante for Italian fare, and Bang Bang for fresh sushi. Stay close to all the action (or, in this case, incredible eats) by booking a room at the Andaz San Diego .

18.  Phoenix, AZ

Excellent eats, stunning desert surroundings, and gorgeous sunny weather: Expect all this and more in Phoenix. While visiting Arizona’s capital city, take advantage of the plentiful hiking opps, including Papago Park, Camelback Mountain  and Phoenix Mountains Preserve . Later, bar-hop your way through downtown Phoenix ( Khla , Barcoa Agaveria  and Baby Boy are a few of our favorites). Finally, catch up on some R&R at the tranquil Royal Palms Resorts & Spa , where you can lounge by the pool, people-watch in lush courtyards, hit the spa, and take cocktail-making classes—all while admiring beautiful flora and Camelback Mountain in the distance.

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The Best Solo Travel Destinations in the United States for an Unforgettable Adventure

Whether you're looking for activity or relaxation, your dream trip awaits.

While traveling with friends and family can be a lot of fun, going somewhere alone has its perks. You get to choose everything — the destination, the hotel, the itinerary, the restaurants, how much money you spend and beyond. Only one opinion matters...yours. It's also a great way to push yourself out of your comfort zone, meet new people (if you so choose), unplug, rejuvenate and bask in moments of reflection — or even just escape reality for a few days.

Whether you're planning your first adventure on your own or are a solo travel veteran, choosing a destination can be overwhelming, especially if you still have a lot of places to check off your bucket list . The good news is, you don't have to go far for the adventure or relaxation you crave, because there are plenty of options across the U.S.

Weighing variables such as walkability, safety, self care opportunities, number of historic sites and museums and access to nature, we've come up with a list of the best places in the U.S. for solo travelers — ranging from mountain and beach destinations to small towns and large cities. Time to book your ticket for one, plan your itinerary (or don't, remember, it's your trip!) and answer to no one except yourself for a few days.

Saratoga Springs, New York

This beautiful upstate New York town is a short Amtrak ride from the city, so it's ideal for NYC residents looking for a quick solo escape. Watch a horse race at the historic Saratoga Race Track, jam out at a concert at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center and enjoy the mineral spring baths (where the city gets its name!) at the Saratoga Spa State Park. Oh and don't miss the fabulous dining and shopping up and down Broadway.

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Waco, Texas

Ideal for the Fixer Upper fan looking for a low-key getaway, the heart of Chip and Joanna Gaines's Magnolia empire is a fun Texas town that's a short drive from both Austin and Dallas. Stop at Magnolia Market for tasty treats and farmhouse chic shopping. Beyond Magnolia, there's boutique shopping, wine and beer tastings and an impressive nightlife downtown. For more fun, tour the Dr. Pepper Museum, check out the Mammoth National Monument or visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

You'll feel like the main character in a storybook in Carmel-by-the-Sea — but in addition to marveling at the fairytale-like village, there's plenty to do. You'll find the famous Pebble Beach golf course, the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and the white-sand Carmel Beach all nearby. Pro tip: Carmel Bakery and The Cottage of Sweets are great treat-yourself stops.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a prime destination for art lovers, as it's home to both the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and the original Meow Wolf (an experimental, immersive art exhibit that doubles as something of a psychedelic escape room). Art galleries, antique stores and craft shops line picturesque downtown Santa Fe, which is also a great place to try New Mexico's famous red and green chiles. Don't forget to book a spa day at the Inn & Spa at Loretto .

Burlington, Vermont

If relaxation is what you crave, Burlington is a bucolic little town with a laid-back atmosphere. Saunter through the lovely Church Street Marketplace, tour the Ben & Jerry's factory, grab a cold drink at a craft brewery or take a cooking class at Essex Resort & Spa (just a short 20-minute drive away). When the weather's warm, partake in all of Lake Champlain's fun — from boating and sunbathing at the beach to hiking along the shore. Or visit during the fall, when the foliage is nothing short of superb.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff has as many activities as a big city, but with a small town vibe. It's close to natural and historical wonders, like the Grand Canyon, Walnut Canyon and the Wupatki National Monument, but you won't need a car to see them — plenty of tour operators are located in Flagstaff. If you're into space, the famous Lowell Observatory — a.k.a. where astronomers first discovered the ex-planet Pluto — is just outside of town. The city's downtown is a destination in its own right, with restaurants and bars to fill your time between adventures in the desert.

Portland, Maine

Ranked one of the 25 safest places to live by U.S. News , Portland is a pristine New England seaside city with beautiful lighthouses, an art museum and opulent Victorian mansions. Stop by any of the waterfront restaurants for the fresh catch of the day, or pop into a local brewpub for a pint.

New York City, New York

Big city energy seekers, this one's for you! Solo travelers will never run out things to do in the city that never sleeps. Visit some of the world's best museums, catch a Broadway show or join the hunt for the "best" slice of pizza or bagel in the city — both matters of some dispute. You'll need the extra carbs to explore the vast city by subway, from Central Park and Battery Park to the hipster enclaves of Brooklyn and the multi-cultural offerings of Queens.

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

The Poconos, a mountainous region in northeastern Pennsylvania filled with ski slopes and charming small towns, is a great option for adventure and relaxation seekers alike. You'll need a car to get around, but driving through the scenery — especially in the fall — is one of the area's highlights. Hit hiking trails, like the one to Bushkill Falls, and stop at local gems, like Callie's Candy Kitchen. If you're seeking relaxation (and a spa) more than action, stay at one of the many resorts in the Poconos, like Skytop Lodge.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is best known for its historic district, filled with beautiful architecture, museums, art galleries and lush green squares — all ideal for solo exploration. Plus, the "Hostess City of the South" is a foodie paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants and cafes serving all sorts of delicious cuisine. But don't forget to make time for Southern food while you're there!

Boise, Idaho

Another one of the U.S.'s 25 safest places to live , Boise is surrounded by mountains, making it a scenic location and hiker's paradise. The city itself has quite a few green spaces, including the Idaho Botanical Garden and Camel's Back Park. On Saturdays from mid-April to mid-December, it hosts the Capital City Public Market, filled with local food and craft vendors. If you happen to visit in late summer, don't miss the magical annual Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic held in Ann Morrison Park.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor is an under-the-radar town perfect for museum lovers, thanks to the University of Michigan. Worth a visit are the institution's Museum of Art, Museum of Natural History and Museum of Archaeology. We also suggest strolling through the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and catching a show at the Hill Auditorium. Off campus, visit the Nickels Arcade for shopping and eats.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

To put it simply, Oklahoma City is an underrated destination. Between its boisterous Bricktown neighborhood, unique Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens and whitewater rafting and kayaking facility, you might be surprised by how much there is to do. For food and accommodations, check out the newly-opened National Hotel, housed in a former bank (psst, there's a cocktail bar in the old vault).

Reno, Nevada

Sure, Las Vegas might get most of the attention in Nevada, but Reno is a more approachable destination for a solo trip. Yes, there are casinos here, but you'll also find impressive art and automobile museums, a lovely rose garden and the Nevada Historical Society. In the winter, skiing is nearby, and in the early fall, Reno hosts the world's largest free hot air balloon event. "The Biggest Little City in the World" certainly lives up to its moniker.

Tampa, Florida

Most travelers are familiar with South Florida's hotspots, but Tampa to the west (also considered one of the safest cities to live in the U.S. ) is rightfully drawing attention. Its most famous attraction is Busch Gardens, but the city has more to offer than roller coasters. Head to the Tampa Riverwalk for waterfront dining, or visit Ybor City for lively nightlife, classic cigar lounges and the original 118-year-old Columbia Restaurant — home to one of the tastiest house salads you'll ever eat and a must-see flamenco show.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville has an impressive range of offerings for all types of interests. Are you a fan of history? There's the Biltmore Estate.Shopper? Head for the Grove Arcade. Hiker? The Blue Ridge Mountains are yours to explore. Art Lover? Stroll through the River Arts District. Oh, and did we mention the local breweries and exceptional Southern comfort food?

Boulder, Colorado

Before you hit the ski slopes or hiking trails (depending on the season), check out the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, filled with quirky shops and tasty eats. You might not expect it, but Boulder is also home to a landmark tea spot called the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse (a solo afternoon tea sounds divine to us), a contemporary art museum and the Shelby American Collection of classic cars.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago may be a big city, but it's easy to navigate on foot — or on the "L" train system. There's no shortage of activities, whether you're interested in taking an architectural history boat tour, visiting the Art Institute of Chicago or Field Museum or taking a selfie with the famous "Bean." This should go without saying, but make sure to take yourself on a deep-dish pizza tour, because you deserve it (and you'll have the whole pie to yourself).

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

If you're interested in hiking part of the Appalachian Trail, hit the region around Harpers Ferry. The visitor center is considered the "psychological midpoint" of the trail, and there are a number of scenic day hikes in the area. The town itself — which boasts small-town charm — is part of the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and has an antique shop (called The Gilded Flea) and a historic candy shop.

South Bend, Indiana

College towns make for perfect weekend getaways for solo travelers, with lively downtowns and impressive museums — and South Bend is no exception. There's a three-story automotive museum, two art museums, a gorgeous neo-Gothic church, the Morris Performing Arts Center and a scenic riverfront park to fill your itinerary. It also has several chocolate shops, the Indiana Whiskey Company for tastings and restaurants serving cuisine from all around the world.

Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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

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

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

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

South America: best for solo adventures

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

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

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

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

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

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

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

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

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

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

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

East Africa: best for a group tour

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

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

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

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

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

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

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

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

Rome, Italy: best for culture

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

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

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

Portland, Oregon: best city break

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

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

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

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

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

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

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

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

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

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

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

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

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

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

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

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

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

This article was first published Nov 30, 2017 and updated Dec 10, 2021.

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

The French Alps

Best for: nature-first escapes

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

Seoul, South Korea

Best for: fashion-forward travellers

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

Best for: safety-first solo travellers

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

The Galapagos, Ecuador

Best for: upmarket adventure

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

Bavaria, Germany

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

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

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Best for: once-in-a-lifetime wildlife

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

Western Australia

Best for: slow travel on your terms

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

The Dolomites, Italy

Best for: high-energy hikers

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

Best for: beaches

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

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

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

Stockholm, Sweden

Best for: Scandi cool

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

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

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

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

Best for: adventure

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

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

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

New York, USA

Best for: a city break

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

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

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

Best for: responsible travel

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

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

Best for: learning new skills

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

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

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

Austin, Texas

Best for: eating and drinking

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

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

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

An expert's guide to Austin

Belfast, Ireland

Best for: making friends

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

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

Best for: surfing

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

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

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

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

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

Best for: culture

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

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

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11 Amazing Solo Vacations to Take in 2024

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

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Don’t have anyone to travel with this year? That’s no reason to stay home. Solo travel is on the rise, and tour operators are expanding their offerings to meet the increasing demand. Below are the 11 best solo vacations for 2024, covering every corner of the globe. Some of these trips made the list because they’re specifically designed for solo travelers; others offer discounted single supplements or roommate matching so you don’t have to pay extra fees for traveling alone.

Note that all trips and single supplement discounts were available at the time of publication, but they could sell out at any time. If you’re interested in these solo vacations, it’s best to book early.

Explore Madeira, Portugal, on Foot

Sweeping coastal views, sleepy fishing villages, and sheltered forests await on one of Exodus Travels’ Madeira walking tour itinerary . The eight-night trip includes leisurely walks of up to nine miles a day along some of Madeira’s most breathtaking hiking trails. The trip ends with free time to explore Funchal, the island’s historic capital. Exodus will match you with a roommate, or you can pay a modest single supplement for your own room. Departures are available every month throughout 2024.

See Morocco from the Mountains to the Desert

Overseas Adventure Travel is one of the best tour operators for solo vacations, thanks to free single supplements on most trips. That includes one of its most popular tours, the 15-night Morocco Sahara Odyssey , which takes you through the narrow streets of ancient medinas, over the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert, and through the dramatic peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. Unique experiences include lunch in a Berber home and a couple of nights under the desert sky in a private tented camp. This trip has available departures in May and between August and December 2024.

Camp in Utah’s National Parks

Join REI on a stunning eight-day journey through the national parks of Utah . Hike and camp in Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks as you learn about the nature, geology, and cultural history of the region from REI’s experienced guides. The package includes access to group cooking gear and first aid kits, a tent, and a sleeping pad. Check out their gear list for more information on what to pack.

What to Pack for Hiking: 38 Essentials

Explore Northern India’s Icons

See the Taj Mahal and much more on this dedicated solo trip to India from Intrepid Travel . The seven-night itinerary starts and ends in bustling Delhi, where you’ll discover the city’s oldest mosque and have free time to explore on your own. Then you’ll head to Jaipur to visit royal palaces and soar above the city in a hot air balloon before visiting the 14th-century village of Karauli and touring the magnificent Taj Mahal. Intrepid will match you with a same-gender roommate so you can avoid paying a single supplement. This trip departs on select dates between May and December 2024.

Summit Mount Kilimanjaro

A bucket list trip for many avid hikers, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro can seem like a hefty task to undertake by oneself. However travelers partaking in World Expedition’s Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route will feel anything but alone. With dozens of experienced guides, porters, and chefs to support you on the trek and a group of like-minded adventurers by your side, travelers are sure to come out of the 10-day experience with new friends and once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Slowing Down on Kilimanjaro

Discover Ireland Your Way

Not big on group tours? Consider Great Value Vacations’ Irish B&B Getaway package , which includes airfare, a rental car, and accommodations at bed and breakfasts around Ireland, allowing you to wend your way through the countryside at your own pace. Highlights include dramatic coastal roads, lively villages, and historic castles. The itinerary can be customized for six to twelve nights, and you may depart any month of the year.

See Japan by Train

Hop on a bullet train to speed between destinations around the country on G Adventures’ Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo tour. Travelers can visit shrines in Kyoto, explore the Harajuku district of Tokyo, and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Ashino-ko where, weather-dependent, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the famous Mount Fuji. Some G Adventures tours offers a single supplement option, however on most tours travelers will be paired with a roommate of the same gender.

9 Tips to Finally Stop Overpacking

Spot Rare Wildlife in Madagascar

Keep an eye out for lemurs, chameleons, boa constrictors, and numerous rare birds as you travel with Explore! through Madagascar: The Lost Continent .  In addition to wildlife-watching treks through the island’s national parks, this itinerary also features a walk along a spectacular canyon, a visit to Madagascar’s oldest palace, and a stay in a local community guesthouse. Explore! will match you with a same-gender roommate if you don’t wish to pay a single supplement. This trip has departures between May and November 2024.

Enjoy Nature in Costa Rica

Discover the beauty and biodiversity of Costa Rica with Road Scholar’s nine-night Taste of Costa Rica package. Highlights include river rafting in the Sarapiquí River, Latin dance lessons, a walk through a cloud forest, and a visit to the Monteverde Butterfly Garden. Road Scholar is currently offering single rooms at no added cost on this itinerary. This trip has several departures between May and December 2024.

Program These Numbers Into Your Phone Before Traveling Internationally

Discover the Best of Tuscany and Umbria, Italy

There’s a reason Tuscany and neighboring Umbria are two of Italy’s most beloved regions. Discover them for yourself on Insight Vacations’ Country Roads of Umbria & Tuscany tour , an eight-night voyage to destinations such as Florence, Assisi, Siena, and San Gimignano. You’ll enjoy a pasta-making demonstration in Baschi, then learn about traditional textile weaving in Perugia and visit a family-run olive mill in Assisi. If you do not opt for a single supplement, you will be matched with a roommate of the same gender. Departure dates are available in April, May, June, August, and September 2024.

Have an Adventure with Fellow Women

If you, like many female travelers, feel safer and more comfortable in the company of other women, consider booking a trip with Adventure Women , which offers active, women-only tours to destinations around the world. Most of the company’s clients come alone, so you’re sure to find common ground with your fellow travelers. Solo vacations for 2024 with availability at press time include a biking and boating tour through Vietnam , an active adventure in Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon , a Serengeti wildlife safari , and more. You can choose to be matched with a roommate or pay a little extra for your own room.

Sarah Schlichter wants to take every one of these solo vacations. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration . Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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

Travel Travel Inspiration Solo Travel Solo Vacation 2024

If you're itching to explore new places, experience different cultures, and have meaningful adventures but no one else is available to join you, now is your perfect chance to embark on a solo trip! Traveling alone can be incredibly rewarding, and we've compiled a list of the best destinations for solo travelers in 2024.

Traveling by yourself allows you to explore at your own pace without the stress of coordinating with others. With this list, you'll discover some of the top solo travel destinations and get useful tips for planning your solo adventure.

20 best places to travel alone in 2024

Note: All currency exchange data is as of July 2, 2024.

Average daily budget

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

Traveling solo in Vietnam is a fantastic idea for several reasons. Firstly, the country is known for its friendly locals who are always willing to help, making it a safe and welcoming destination for solo travelers. The culture and landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Vietnam's diverse cities, from Hanoi to the serene beauty of Hoi An, provide unique experiences that cater to every traveler's interests. You can explore the rich history and culture, visit ancient temples, and enjoy delicious street food. The country's efficient and affordable transportation system makes it easy to navigate between destinations, whether you prefer the scenic train routes or the convenience of domestic flights. Solo travel in Vietnam also allows you to set your own pace and itinerary. Whether you're seeking relaxation on the beautiful beaches of Da Nang or an adrenaline rush from trekking in Sapa, you can tailor your journey to your preferences.

Malaysia's diverse culture offers a unique mix of experiences, from the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the serene tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands. Exploring Malaysia on your own allows you to fully get into its rich heritage. You can visit iconic landmarks like the Petronas Towers, wander through busy markets, and savor delicious street food. The country's efficient public transportation, including buses and trains, makes it easy to navigate between destinations without hassle. Malaysia's natural beauty is another highlight for solo travelers. You can relax on the pristine beaches of Langkawi, trek through the lush rainforests of Borneo, or dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Perhentian Islands. Each region offers its own unique attractions and adventures.

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

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

2 Netherlands

For first-time solo travelers, the Netherlands is an excellent choice. In Amsterdam, you'll find a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Follow the locals and explore the city by bike. Start at Vondelpark, a popular urban park, then cycle to world-renowned museums like the Van Gogh Museum, enjoying the city's scenic canals and bridges along the way. Visit the Netherlands between mid-April and the first week of May to experience the stunning tulip season. Just outside Amsterdam, the Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe, showcases over seven million bulbs and hundreds of tulip varieties. Alternatively, head to Noordoostpolder for the annual Tulip Festival to see even more vibrant blooms.

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

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

Traveling solo to Mexico is a great choice, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions. The country offers a mix of cultural sites, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food. You'll find friendly locals and a thriving backpacker culture, making it easy to meet fellow travelers. In Mexico, you can explore ancient Mayan ruins near Cancun, go whale watching in Los Cabos, and capture stunning photos in Tulum. Oaxaca offers tasty tamales and mezcal, while Mexico City boasts a vibrant art scene. Each destination has something unique to offer, ensuring a rich and varied experience. With its accommodating resorts and hostels, Mexico is suitable for any type of solo trip. Whether you prefer relaxing on a beach, exploring historic sites, or indulging in local cuisine, Mexico has it all. The country’s efficient transportation system makes it easy to travel between destinations, so you can see and do as much as you like.

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

3 Costa Rica

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

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

Traveling solo to Egypt is a fantastic adventure. A cruise down the Nile is one of the safest and most convenient ways to explore the country. In Cairo, you can enjoy delicious falafel and visit the bustling markets. The Great Pyramids in Giza offer a glimpse into ancient history, while the surrounding area is filled with fascinating archaeological sites. As you sail down the Nile, you'll discover ancient temples and tombs, each telling a unique story of Egypt's rich past. The cruise provides comfortable accommodations, ensuring you can relax and recharge between excursions. Whether you're fascinated by ancient civilizations or just looking to experience a new culture, Egypt offers a unique and memorable solo travel experience. Enjoy the adventure, and immerse yourself in the wonders of this incredible country.

2 Mauritius

Mauritius, an island off the coast of East Africa, is perfect for solo travelers. Known for its pristine beaches, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, it's a great place to explore on your own. You can easily rent a car and tour the island in a week, enjoying its tropical climate year-round. Whether you enjoy hiking, swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the beach, Mauritius has something for everyone. The island's beautiful beaches, such as Pereybere in the north, Mont Choisy, and Trou aux Biches, are must-visit spots. Don't miss the stunning Botanical Garden and the lesser-known Blue Waterfalls, a hidden gem that sees fewer tourists. For adventure seekers, hiking Le Morne Mountain offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore the island's natural beauty. Le Morne Beach is another great spot to unwind. Additionally, the unique 7 Colored Earth, a natural phenomenon, is a fascinating sight to see.

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

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

1 Australia

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

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

3 French Polynesia

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

4 New Zealand

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

How to choose the right solo travel destination?

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

Tips for solo tarveling

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

Where should I go for my first solo trip?

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

Where can a single woman travel alone?

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

What should I carry along on my solo trip?

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

Where is the safest place to travel solo in 2022?

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

Are solo vacations fun?

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

Where can I go alone to relax?

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

Where can I go alone for a cultural experience?

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

Where can I go alone to try out adventure activities?

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

What are the best places to travel alone in Europe?

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

What are the best places to travel alone in Asia?

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

What are the best places to travel alone in Africa?

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

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

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

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

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

What are the best places to travel alone in Oceania?

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

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

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The Best Solo Vacations to Take in 2024

There used to be a certain stigma around solo vacations , with cruises charging extra for single occupancy and waiters frowning at the words “table for one.” But we're happy to report that the times are a’changing. The world has never been more accommodating to solo travelers—we’re constantly hearing about new meet-up apps to combat loneliness and safety measures to address discomfort (so long, catcalling ).

If you have the will and the way, you can travel just about anywhere by yourself. In fact, these 18 getaways are even better when you go it alone, whether it's a soul-searching hike through Scotland or a pod hotel where, frankly, two’s a crowd. And if you’re still a little anxious about writing up an itinerary by yourself, we’ve gone ahead and suggested travel specialists who can help you out with the more planning-heavy trips.

Check out some of our favorite solo vacations for 2024, and get ready to start loving your own company.

This article has been updated since its original publish date. All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Embark a self-guided tour of Ireland

For U.S.-based travelers, Ireland is kind of a no-brainer when it comes to solo travel, thanks to easy access and friendly locals. Travel to the Emerald Isle becomes even easier with Brendan Vacations, a Dublin-based agency dating back to 1969. While they offer traditional group tours, solo travelers should try one of the “locally hosted rail” options: These excursions—including the editor-approved  Ireland’s Sparkling Gems tour—will set you up with hotels, transports (including train rides and chauffeured drives), and one activity per day, but leave you with enough free time to explore on your own. Even better? You’ll be given a 24/7 emergency number and a local guide who will meet you in each city, ready to provide restaurant recommendations, insider tips, and more.

Price: From $2,403 When to go: Open all year How to book:   brendanvacations.com Tap the experts:   Kathleen Sheridan (McCabe World Travel)

Take a silent retreat in Bali

The Buddhist practice of quietly meditating dates back millennia, but the need for silent reflection in the face of never-ending online chatter is so needed today. There are many hideaways around the world aimed at helping travelers disconnect, but one of our favorites is Bali Silent Retreat . As the name suggests, the retreat involves no talking, no listening to music, just silence and the noises of nature (so really, there wouldn’t be any point in bringing along a travel companion). Nestled in the foothills of the sacred Mount Batukaru volcano and surrounded by rice fields and jungle, this is an especially great choice if you want to completely get away from it all—no phones or internet allowed. Another perk for solo travelers: Accommodations range from women-only dormitories to single rooms and private bungalows.

Price: Housing from $40 to $90 per night; Day Passes (which cover the cost of meals and programs) are $47 When to go: Open all year How to book: balisilentretreat.com Tap the experts: Diane Embree (Bali Barong Tours)

Sleep in Japan’s pod hotels

When there are two pairs of elbows in a tiny hotel room, someone’s bound to get hurt. But a single traveler has more options, like New York’s two Pod Hotels in Midtown. Single rooms have a twin bed, flat-screen TV, free Wi-fi, and…not much else, ideal for propelling you out on the town. In Japan (including various train stations and Tokyo’s Narita Airport), the experience is more extreme: For a low price, you can get a pod bed at Nine Hours for, yes, nine hours—just long enough to rest and shower.

Price: From $30 per nine hours When to go: Early spring or late fall, when the weather is ideal How to book: ninehours.co.jp Tap the experts: Amy Tadehara (InsideJapan Tours)

Rescue turtles in the Mexican Caribbean

People travel alone for many reasons, but not everyone wants to focus on the self. Do your part as an eco-friendly traveler in Quintana Roo, Mexico, where you can join the many local efforts to rescue sea turtles. Most notable is the Akumal Turtle Camp, a program that’s been hosted by the Akumal Ecological Center (CEA) since 1993. The camp invites volunteers to learn about the species with in-class education, turtle monitoring protocols, and species identification before continuing with fieldwork: tagging and protecting nesting females, marking nests with GPS coordinates, and minimizing predators from the nesting sites. Note that the program requires volunteers to commit at least two weeks of their time, so start stocking up on vacation days now.

Price: $180 for two weeks; $350 for four weeks (does not include accommodations) When to go: May to October How to book: ceakumal.org Tap the experts: Zachary Rabinor (Journey Mexico)

Chase the Northern Lights in Finland

Solo travel company Flash Pack launched a collection of new travel experiences in late 2021. One of the most exciting offerings is the “ Finland’s Secret Island ” tour, a four-day journey through Finnish Lapland complete with husky rides, cold-water plunges, and Northern Lights safaris on the back of snowmobiles. At night, you can cozy up at Hotel Vartiosaari , a boutique property located on its own private island in the Kemijoki River. Only up to 18 travelers are allowed to join the group at one time, so you’re guaranteed to make quick friends as you huddle for warmth above the Arctic Circle.

Price: From $3,345 When to go: January to March; November to December How to book: flashpack.com Tap the experts: Jan Sortland (Norwegian Adventures AS)

Set sail on a European river cruise

It’s hard for solo travelers to consider a cruise without first worrying about “single supplements”—the dreaded fees slapped on passengers for booking a room designed to hold two or more people (depending on the trip, those fees can end up tacking on thousands of extra dollars). Luckily, the industry is becoming increasingly accommodating , with cruise lines of all sizes reducing or getting rid of the infamous fees. Riviera River Cruises is one company that specifically caters to solo travelers, with a variety of routes and exclusive departures for solo travelers. Even better? The cruise line has waived the dreaded single supplement on eight of its 2024 itineraries , including routes that visit Burgundy, Paris, and Normandy, as well as Portugal’s Douro Valley.

Price: $2,049 to $4,889 (varies based on trip) When to go: Departure dates available in March, April, July, August, October, and November How to book: rivierarivercruises.com Tap the experts: Angela Turen (Churchill and Turen Ltd.)

Drive Iceland’s Golden Circle

Safety is obviously a concern during solo vacations, so you might as well plan a trip to one of the safest countries in the world: Iceland. Fly into Reykjavik , then rent a car and hit the road. Iceland is great for long, soul-seeking drives—and if you go by yourself, you won’t have to annoy fellow passengers when you pull over every five minutes to take photos of waterfalls and glaciers. You can see most of the country along the Ring Road (Route 1), but if you're crunched for time, catch some of southern Iceland’s greatest hits like Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, along the Golden Circle route .

Price: Gas is currently $8.82 per gallon in Iceland When to go: Early May, before the summer crowds descend Tap the experts: Chris Gordon (Icepedition)

Track gorillas in Rwanda

Yes, a solo safari is possible—and extremely rewarding. There are few better places to recharge and recenter than in the middle of Africa, with only the hotel staff and wild animals to keep you company; plus, some travel companies even have discounted single supplements. In 2019, Singita opened two new properties in Rwanda— Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House —complete with gorilla trekking expeditions ideal for adventurers traveling alone. You don’t have to worry about having enough travel companions in a group, because regardless of whether you’re alone or traveling with friends, “guests are divided into groups of eight (dependent on their fitness level) where guides take them into the Volcanoes National Park to track gorillas,” Traveler contributor Mary Holland discovered during her solo trip to Rwanda.

Price: Trekking permits are $1,500 per person, per trek; suites start at $2,470 per night When to go: June to September or December 2024, to avoid the rainy seasons How to book: singita.com Tap the experts: Linda Friedman (Custom Safaris)

Get away with Getaway

While cabins in the woods tend to conjure up horror-movie memories, Getaway’s cabins are nothing but charming and idyllic—and perfect for solo travelers. The company specializes in boutique rentals in rural areas outside of major hubs like New York, Austin, and Los Angeles, the idea being that people can escape the stress of the city for a long weekend. Expect all the normal creature comforts (a full bathroom, kitchenette, comfortable bed, etc.) as well as cute touches like vintage radios and s’mores kits. The star of every cabin, however, is the giant floor-to-ceiling window adjacent to the bed—perfect for an unplugged vacation that trades Netflix binges for birdwatching and leaf peeping.

Price: From $99 per night When to go: All year How to book: getaway.house

Cycle through the Italian Dolomites

Cycling trips are perfect for lone travelers, giving you plenty of time with your thoughts while still being part of a small group. There are tons of tour operators specializing in bike trips, but try to book with a group that specializes in solo travel—like Trek Travel , a company with experienced guides, plus options to room either by yourself or with an arranged roommate. One of their newest adventures is a five-day ride through the Italian Dolomites, with 220 miles of challenging trails offset by the beauty of the surrounding mountains and glistening lakes. The price of the trip includes hotel accommodations, meals, equipment (including Domane SL 7 bikes), and daily snacks and drinks.

Price: From $1,999 When to go: June to August How to book: trektravel.com Tap the experts: Georgia Yuill (Butterfield and Robinson)

Escape the noise in Antarctica

Ever since we saw Cate Blanchett sneak off to Antarctica in Where'd You Go, Bernadette? , we've been wondering how possible a solo trip to the frozen continent really is. Turns out, a solo trip is very possible. Contributor Judy Koutsky wrote about her Antarctic cruise , which she claims was best experienced by herself. Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten ensures travelers have enough space without getting lonely, with group excursions and restaurants that allow you to join others' tables. And then there are the quiet moments. Koutsky writes: “Walking among the chinstrap penguins, or taking a scenic zodiac ride where the Gentoo penguins were diving in the water, cruising around massive icebergs, snowshoeing up a hill to get amazing views of humpback whales—it felt so peaceful, so fitting that I was alone.”

Price: From $10,576 When to go: January, March, October How to book: hurtigruten.com Tap the experts: Tim Soper (EYOS Expeditions)

Walk across the Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos archipelago, off the coast of Ecuador, is one of the world’s most famous destinations for adventure travel . Join a small group of fellow outdoor enthusiasts on this “ Galapagos: In Darwin’s Footsteps ” trip from Exodus Travels , a two-week walking tour that lets you explore 45 miles of the islands on foot. Highlights include hiking up the Sierra Negra Volcano, snorkeling with sea turtles and manta rays, boating past sea lion colonies, and touring the city of Quito on the mainland. With a group size of 6 to 16 people and no mandatory single supplement fees (though if you don’t want to share a room, you can book single rooms for a very minimal fee), this trip is custom-made for solo travelers.

Price: From $8,118 When to go: April to May; October to November How to book: exodustravels.com Tap the experts: Jennifer Gillmore (Travel Beyond)

Visit elephants in Thailand (the responsible way)

While few subjects elicit more impassioned debate than elephant tourism , there are ethical ways to see the gentle giants up close. Travel company Contiki offers a 14-day “ Total Thailand ” trip, covering Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai . (Accommodations range from twin-share hotel rooms to jungle cottages.) The Chiang Mai leg includes a visit to the Elephant Nature Park, a rescue and rehabilitation center that allows visitors to feed the animals without exploiting (or riding) them.

Price: From $2,376 When to go: January to December How to book: contiki.com Tap the experts: Daniel Fraser (Smiling Albino)

Venture deep into the South Caucasus

Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.) is a tour company specializing in small group trips for women, with trips exploring 75 countries across all seven continents—plus no single supplements! For a true bucket list experience, book a spot in the “ Georgia & Armenia: Ancient Lands of the Southern Caucasus ” tour, a 16-day journey that stretches from Tbilisi down to Yerevan, Armenia. The guided journey includes stops in Borjomi, the cave city of Vardzia, and plenty of monasteries, temples, and wineries in between. You’ll also get to participate in lectures and discussions about sensitive, yet important cultural topics, like the role of women in post-Soviet Georgia and the Armenian genocide.

Price: From $5,495 When to go: April to October How to book: oattravel.com Tap the experts: Natalie Fordham (Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel)

Hop aboard the Oriental Express

Long solo train rides and bus trips lend themselves perfectly to reading. Since you aren’t going to be chitchatting with a friend or challenging each other to a game of cards, now’s the opportunity to finally read that book everybody’s been talking about. (Need some recommendations? Check out this list .) And while you can accomplish that on any given Amtrak ride, we suggest taking the ultra-luxurious route—Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express throughout Malaysia, to be exact. The brand’s “Wild Malaysia” trip includes guided tours of Penang and Taman Negara National Park, and the iconic train comes with private suites, multi-course meals, and 24-hour concierge service.

Price: From $3,410 When to go: March to October How to book: belmond.com Tap the experts: Tisha Neufville (Neufville Travel)

Backpack through the Scottish Highlands

In the crowded Old World, the idea of backpacking is less wild and more cultural. Trek through Scotland on a multi-day trip, and you’ll hardly be alone—you’ll meet farmers as you cross their fields and sleep in small-town inns every night. The 96-mile West Highland Way is probably the most famous hike in the country, taking travelers past the moors and mountains of the Scottish Highlands. You can certainly plan the trek yourself, or let a travel company do it for you— Macs Travels has an 8-day tour that includes daily breakfasts, door-to-door baggage transfers, and accommodation in select B&Bs and guest houses.

Price: From $1,265 When to go: March to October How to book: macsadventure.com Tap the experts: Camilla Davidson (NoteWorthy) or Jonathan Epstein (Celebrated Experiences)

Channel your inner Indiana Jones in Jordan

Jordan has all the colorful history, layered archeology, and warm hospitality of its neighboring Middle Eastern countries, with none of the turmoil—meaning the country is a viable option for solo travelers. Instead of planning every detail of a trip to a country that's new to you, book a spot on the “Untold Jordan” trip offered through Flash Pack—a company that specializes in high-end adventures for solo travelers in their 30s and 40s. Highlights of the eight-day tour include riding camels through the Wadi Rum Desert, floating in the Dead Sea, and hiking to the ancient city of Petra.

Price: From $3,095 When to go: February to June; August to December How to book: flashpack.com Tap the experts: Jennifer Barnaby (Kaanect)

Learn Spanish in Costa Rica

Travel with a buddy abroad, and you’ll revert to English most of the time; go alone, and you’ll be forced to talk the talk. Language immersion vacations can include homestays and hangouts outside of class—and, best of all, they can take place on the beach in Costa Rica . Language school Intercultura offers a variety of Spanish programs for all ages and skill levels (both group and private lessons), which take place in either Heredia City or the school's waterfront campus in Samara Beach.

Price: From $235 per week for classes, $195 per week for homestay immersion When to go: All year except for Costa Rican national holidays How to book: interculturacostarica.com Tap the experts: Pierre Gedeon (Costa Adventures)

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12 best solo trips in the US for 2024

Editor's Note

Traveling solo is one of life's greatest adventures. Freedom, flexibility, empowerment and reflection are just some of the reasons to plan a solo trip.

Over the last decade, solo travel stereotypes have evolved from gap year students backpacking the Gringo Trail in South America to trips encompassing a wide variety of travel themes, experiences and budgets.

With the rise of the digital nomad, greater connectivity via social media and a growing "what am I waiting for?" mindset that tends to occur during tumultuous times, solo travel looks poised to be one of this year's biggest trends. More than 50% of travelers are looking to plan a solo adventure in 2024, and married women are one of the largest drivers of the market, according to a recent Skift report .

Whether you choose to travel as part of a group tour or independently, it's never been easier (or more affordable) to chart your own course. Many hefty single supplements are now being waived or reduced for both overland journeys and cruises .

For first-time solo travelers , there are plenty of U.S. destinations that combine easy access, relative affordability, welcoming vibes and diverse experiences to help streamline a solo vacation. This enables you to step out of your comfort zone and experience travel in a new way.

With that in mind, here are 12 of our favorite destinations for solo travel in the U.S. for 2024.

San Luis Obispo, California

Best for: Surfing by day, wine tasting by night

Equidistant from San Francisco and Los Angeles , San Luis Obispo County combines lush scenery, coastal adventures, historic charm and superb wine-tasting within a relatively small and easy-to-navigate area. Often referred to as "Little Santa Barbara," the city is a charming, laid-back stopover for solo travelers embarking on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

The unpretentious downtown area is studded with historic landmarks, including the 18th-century San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Mission, now a museum housing artifacts from Native American and Mission-era history. Foodies should time their stay with the bustling farmers market (Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m.), where more than 100 vendors purvey a bounty of farm-fresh produce, flowers and even farm-to-table dinners.

Related: From California to British Columbia: 10 best places for an idyllic West Coast getaway

Downtown SLO's welcoming wine bars and tasting rooms are a cozy backdrop for solo travelers looking to make new friends. They provide a fun initiation into coastal California's prized pinot noir and chardonnay varieties.

Just a 10-minute drive from town, family-owned vineyards and tasting rooms dot the lush rolling hills of the Edna Valley. Some 30 miles north, the Paso Robles wine region is often touted as an affordable and more laid-back dupe for Napa.

At Pismo Beach, adventure lovers can surf, boogie board or ride an ATV across the largest swath of coastal dunes in California. This classic California beach town is surrounded by the Pismo Preserve, which provides sanctuary to owls, hawks, peregrine falcons and other wildlife.

Where to stay

If you are looking for a coastal base for exploration, the Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, an Autograph Collection property, has reasonable room rates for its prime beachfront position. Rooms start at $344 or 65,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Best for: History buffs

From its crucial role in the Revolutionary War to longstanding icons like Fenway Park, Quincy Market and its many museums, Boston hosts a wealth of attractions for solo travelers who fancy themselves history buffs.

For a firsthand look at Boston's early days, step onto The Freedom Trail , a walking tour of 16 sites that played integral roles in the birth of our nation. You can continue your exploration in some of Boston's historic neighborhoods, including Beacon Hill and the North End (Boston's Little Italy).

If you plan to spend an evening cheering on the Boston Red Sox, staying at The Verb Hotel (starting at $431 per night) will put you within walking distance of Fenway.

Or, for a points-friendly option, book a room at The Liberty, A Luxury Collection Hotel , where rates start at $275 or 53,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. The building once served as the home of Boston's Charles Street Jail, and you can dine among the preserved jail cell facades at the hotel's restaurant, Clink.

Related: Best hotels in Boston, including the Four Seasons and the Fairmont

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best for: Artistic enlightenment

Santa Fe has long been a haven for solo travelers in search of spiritual fulfillment and ethereal natural wonders. Nestled beneath the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the sacred ruins, shrines, New Age institutes and yoga centers offer healing and enlightenment for those at a crossroads in life.

As one of the world's greatest art centers, the New Mexico capital is celebrated for its rich tricultural heritage (Puebloan, Spanish and Anglo-American), vibrant arts scene and striking adobe architecture.

Art lovers can spend a day perusing the galleries and artisan studios lining Canyon Road. Then, they can head to an open-air concert at the world-famous Santa Fe Opera, which draws opera devotees from all across the globe.

Related: From Santa Fe to Taipei: 12 underrated LGBTQIA+ friendly destinations to visit in 2023

Santa Fe's mystical desert landscapes are immortalized by the late painter Georgia O'Keeffe, the "Mother of American Modernism." The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, housed in a former Baptist church, holds the world's largest repository of the late artist's works.

The city has also become a mainspring for innovative Southwestern flavors and cuisine, and you can find some of the West's most acclaimed restaurants here.

Marriott loyalists can earn and burn points at the pueblo-inspired La Posada de Santa Fe , a Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa. From 54,000 points or $332 per night, you can stroll freely over its 6 acres while still being close to downtown's cultural attractions.

For those looking to indulge, the Auberge-affiliated Bishop's Lodge features luxurious rooms with traditional kiva fireplaces. It offers a number of experiences perfect for solo travelers, such as the Healing Art Journey designed to eliminate inner stress. Plus, a resident "chile host" helps gourmands find the perfect pepper and chili oil combination to accompany their meal.

Rates start from $749, but the hotel is currently offering a third-night-free promotion (until April 30), which brings the rate down to $500 plus taxes and fees.

Asheville, North Carolina

Best for: Hiking, biking and beer

Asheville truly has it all for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike and mountain bike trails through the hazy vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains (the city provides a " hike finder " to help you find the perfect trail) and paddle down the French Broad River. Or, simply check out Asheville's outdoor shopping districts, like the River Arts District or Biltmore Park, by foot. (Shopping counts as cardio in my book.)

When it's time for some apres-hike brews and bites, head to one of Asheville's breweries. There are plenty to choose from, but Wicked Weed and Hi-Wire top the list for spots to satisfy your thirst and hunger in a fun setting.

For an upscale boutique stay in downtown Asheville, check into The Foundry Hotel , a Curio Collection by Hilton property that starts at $362 or 76,000 Hilton Honors points per night. Another solid option, the budget-friendly Hotel Indigo Asheville Downtown starts at $135 or 27,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

New Orleans

Best for: Live music and livelier crowds

Even if you visit the Big Easy by yourself, you are never truly alone. Whether you're vibing with the throngs of tourists on Bourbon Street, standing in line for beignets at Cafe du Monde or learning about the city's rich history on a group walking tour, you're likely to be surrounded by friendly faces with similar interests (and a taste for powdered-sugar-covered fried dough).

If you've never been to New Orleans , make time to hit up hot spots like Pat O'Briens for a rum-soaked hurricane; Central Grocery, where the famous muffuletta sandwich was invented; and Preservation Jazz Hall for live jazz. If you still have time during your trip, venture farther from the French Quarter to City Park and Mardi Gras World. Or, take a guided tour of New Orleans' hauntingly beautiful mausoleums.

For a hotel that's close but not too close to the French Quarter, stay at The Eliza Jane (starting at $150 or 28,000 IHG One Rewards points per night) or the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot (starting at $150 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night) — two of New Orleans' many points-friendly hotels .

Best for: Music lovers and foodies

The Texas state capital is known for many things — delicious barbecue, a stellar music scene, gorgeous green spaces, lakes where you can stay active and the world's largest urban colony of bats, to name a few. Visiting Austin as a solo traveler is convenient because there are various neighborhoods you can visit to enjoy dining, drinks and entertainment all in one place.

Sixth Street closes down to traffic on weekends and is a great spot for creative cocktails and neon-lit music venues. For something a little more laid back, head to Rainey Street. Also, South Congress, with its unique boutiques and variety of dining options, is a must-visit for both locals and tourists.

Zilker Park puts more than 350 acres of outdoor fun at your fingertips. You can swim in the spring-fed Barton Springs Pool, explore on a rented bike or canoe, or time your visit to annual events like the Austin City Limits Music Festival or the Austin Kite Festival.

Some of the best points hotels in Austin are close to downtown. This includes The Driskill, a World of Hyatt property starting at $369 or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night, and the Austin Proper Hotel , which starts at $400 or 42,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Zion National Park, Utah

Best for: Breathtaking scenery and an accessible gateway town

One of the nation's most popular national parks, Zion makes for an awe-inspiring solo adventure with breathtaking landscapes, epic hiking and bike trails and fascinating wildlife.

In terms of transportation logistics, accessibility and accommodation offerings, planning a trip to Zion National Park is relatively straightforward. The gateway for exploration is charming Springdale, a small town just steps from the park's main entrance that has maintained its quirky vibe despite its soaring popularity.

Amid the winding canyon of sandstone buttresses, sheer red-rock cliffs and slot canyons, you'll find lush evergreen forests, kaleidoscopic wildflowers and mystical hanging gardens. If you are short on time, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (accessible only by shuttle bus from March through October) provides a glorious glimpse of the park's red rocks and easy access to several visitor-approved trailheads.

Angels Landing is an iconic hike you won't want to miss. Not for the faint of heart, some 21 hair-raising switchbacks, built into the rift, weave their way to Scout Lookout, which affords jaw-dropping panoramas of Zion Canyon.

Due to increased popularity, hikers need to enter a lottery in order to secure a permit. Depending on your fitness level (and traffic on the trail), it takes between three and five hours to ascend the canyon's east wall.

Just 1 mile from the park's entrance, the SpringHill Suites Springdale Zion National Park is one of the brand's finest iterations. The property offers modern, well-equipped suites that are both large and comfortable; it also offers complimentary breakfast every day and an outdoor pool with phenomenal views of Zion National Park. As a Bonvoy property, you can expect to redeem 40,000 to 60,000 points here; or you can use a 50,000-point Marriott certificate for a lower-rate stay. Cash rates generally start at $275 a night.

Another option is the luxe tents provided at Under Canvas' glamping site in nearby Virgin. The 60 luxe tents and suites come in different sizes and layouts, but all are kitted out with plush king-size beds, en suite bathrooms with hot showers and organic products, and in-tent wood-burning stoves. Rates start from $399 per night.

Portland, Oregon

Best for: Exploring the unique landscape of the Pacific Northwest

Portland is surrounded by natural beauty on all sides. Though the city lies in a valley, you can often see Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens and the towering green firs and pines surrounding it. To best enjoy these natural wonders, visit Powell Butte for panoramic mountain views or the outlook behind Pittock Mansion for city views with Mount Hood in the background.

You'd be remiss to skip all things weird and wonderful within Portland's city limits. Voracious readers could spend hours in Powell's City of Books, the country's largest independent bookstore. There's also the outdoor Portland Saturday Market , which is considered the largest continually operating arts and crafts market in the country. The city has so many food carts it created a handy guide to help you find exactly what you're hungry for.

Many of Portland's hotels reflect the city's unique style. Choose the Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland (starting at $170 or 32,000 IHG One Rewards points per night) or The Nines Hotel Portland (starting at $230 or 43,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night), both downtown.

Best for: A mix of beach days and California history

San Diego is home to many beautiful beaches, but there's more to do than just spend lazy days in the sand (though I wouldn't blame you if you didn't leave the beach during your visit).

This year, the city is especially primed for discovery, as it has been designated the World Design Capital for 2024, along with Tijuana, Mexico. It's the first time that two neighboring cities in two different countries have shared the distinction. Both cities will celebrate the designation through unique experiences, events and festivals.

Many of San Diego's best-known attractions are in Balboa Park, including the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Natural History Museum, the San Diego Air & Space Museum, and many splendid gardens and recreational areas.

About 2 miles west of Balboa Park on San Diego Bay is the USS Midway Museum , where you can learn about historic naval aircraft and helicopters on board the USS Midway aircraft carrier. Old Town San Diego — the first European settlement in California — and the Gaslamp Quarter are also worth peeling yourself away from the beach for.

Related: The best hotels in San Diego

If you prefer to stay close to downtown and the bay, reserve a room at the Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown , where rates start at $269 or 67,000 Hilton Honors points per night. If you want to be closer to the beach, head to the famed Hotel del Coronado . Expect nightly prices to start at $400 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points.

Best for: Legendary country music

From the 4,000-seat Grand Ole Opry to the rows of bars with live music along Lower Broadway, you are never too far from legendary country stars and up-and-coming crooners when you visit Nashville.

However, Nashville isn't only a hotbed of honky tonk. It's also where music fans go to immerse themselves in the history of country music. You can pay homage to the greats like Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash at the Country Music Hall of Fame. Or, you can visit RCA Studio B, where stars like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton recorded country classics.

Nashville is also well known for its shopping scene. Visit The District in downtown Nashville for everything from record albums to cowboy boots. Then, head to the shops in Hillsboro Village or Gulch for local and nationally known fashion and accessory brands.

Related: The best hotels to book in Nashville for the full Music City experience

The Embassy Suites Downtown Nashville (starting at $160 or 47,000 Hilton Honors points per night) offers spacious rooms and a rooftop indoor pool, but for a true Nashville experience you'll never forget, go for the Dolly Parton suite at the Graduate Nashville (starting at $300 per night).

Orcas Island, Washington

Best for : Idyllic scenery and amazing wildlife watching

A 90-minute drive north of Seattle, the port of Anacortes is the departure point for the Salish Sea's San Juan Islands archipelago (10 miles offshore from the Washington mainland). It's a mesmerizing tapestry of emerald-green islands, glacier-carved mountains and a sparkling sea.

The largest of the chain, Orcas Island appeals to independent travelers with its idyllic scenery, peaceful ambience and warm, communal spirit. The main village, Eastsound, is sprinkled with galleries, intimate restaurants and watering holes. You can savor freshly caught seafood and craft cocktails while trading stories with locals and fellow travelers.

Nature lovers can embark on hikes through the 5,252-acre Moran State Park, laced with over 38 miles of trails and a route for every skill set. The summit of the 2,400-foot-tall Mount Constitution rewards hikers with 360-degree views of Vancouver Island as well as both Mount Rainier and Mount Baker on the mainland.

Related: Pacific Northwest road trip: The San Juan Islands and Olympic National Park

If you prefer to take in the scenery and dazzling wildlife with new friends, join a tour with Outer Island Excursions, which offers memorable whale-watching cruises.

Snug Harbor Resort features 20 modern, well-appointed cottages with kitchens, vaulted ceilings, decks and gas grills overlooking secluded Mitchell Bay. Guests have complimentary use of kayaks, paddleboards, canoes and bikes; boaters can also access the property via a private marina. Rates start from $299 per night.

Sedona, Arizona

Best for: Reconnecting with nature

There are few places in the U.S. with more spectacular scenery than Sedona. Surrounded by striking red-rock buttes and majestic canyons, this desert destination is an ideal spot for communing with nature.

For some, that could mean a solitary day of hiking at the picturesque Bell Rock. Others may prefer a more spiritual experience like a yoga hiking tour of Sedona .

Sedona's art scene is as vibrant as its landscape. Peruse shops and galleries in the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village or the Sedona Artist Market. On the first Friday of every month , many galleries stay open into the evening, hosting special artist receptions and other events.

The Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock (starting at $285 or 53,000 Hilton Honors points per night) is about as close as you can get to Sedona's best hiking trails. For a serene retreat experience, stay at L'Auberge de Sedona (starting at $399 per night) or The Wilde Resort & Spa (starting at $450 per night).

Bottom line

When you take a solo trip, you have the freedom and independence to go where you want and do what you want whenever you want.

Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, foodie heaven or big-city excitement, these destinations are among the best cities in the U.S. for solo travelers.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

Solo Traveler

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

Best Budget Solo Travel Destinations: Fun, Safe & Affordable for 2024

January 10, 2024 by Janice Waugh

For the 6th year in a row, we're pleased to present our list of the best budget destinations for solo travelers.

For most of us, the desire to do a lot of travel means being smart with our travel dollars. This requires choosing the destination carefully. 

To create our budget destinations list, we:

• review our favorite trips to budget destinations.
• consult fellow travelers, including members of the Solo Travel Society , our Facebook community to get recommendations from passionate travelers.
• consider suggestions from other publications, eliminating those that do not meet our safety standards. We're a lot more careful when it comes to safety than many other travel publications.
• deselect any on Fodor's No Travel list , 

We then put every destination on the list through a solo travel filter to come up with our top 5 budget destinations of the year. 

More importantly, we provide a lot of detail with each of our cheap solo vacation destinations. You get:

• why it's a great destination at any price
• the value of US and Canadian currency at the destination
• how expensive the destination is compared to Toronto and New York City
• what it costs to get there from the two cities above
• links to two affordable hotels/hostels
• the safety rating by the US and Canadian governments
• a short list of things to do

It should be noted that we haven’t visited all these destinations so they are not necessarily personal endorsements. Before you get too far in your planning process read Solo Travel Planning Guide with Trends, a Checklist, and Insider Tips . It will help in a variety of ways to make your planning easier and your trip more enjoyable.

Table of Contents

Our Criteria for Cheap Solo Vacation Destinations

To choose our recommended destinations for a cheap solo vacation, we consider the following criteria.

• Affordability at the destination . Naturally, the affordability of a destination depends upon your home currency. Most of the information below is given in US dollars, unless it says otherwise, as most of us know our exchange rates in relation to the US dollar.
• Cost to get there . If the trip is short, the cost to get there is very important. If you’re planning a month or two in a destination, that cost is less significant as it will be prorated over a longer period of time.
• Safety . I’ve listed the US and Canadian government advice as of January 2024 for each destination. Safety is especially important when traveling solo.
• Will it be interesting and fun?  A great destination offers access to a new culture, fun things to do, or both. I’ve given you a very brief overview of both for each recommendation.

The 2024 Shortlist of Budget Destinations for Solo Travelers

Note: For consistency, all flight prices listed were found on Google Flights and depart from Toronto or New York during the last week of February, 2024 with a return date two weeks later. Use your own home airport to see what you’d have to pay for flights. The room rates listed are for the same time period and were found on booking.com. All were checked during the week of this post’s publication. The hotels and hostels are not personal recommendations. They were chosen based on their price, review scores, and central location and are intended to give you an idea of what you can get for your money.

Europe's Cheap and Oh So Cheerful Destination is Porto, Portugal

It may be the second largest city in Portugal and also second to Lisbon in terms of fame but Porto surely deserves equal billing for its beauty and culture and as an entrance way to the wonderful Douro Valley.

The city's historic center was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996. Porto is reputed to be the city from which Portugal got its name and is definitely the city from which Port wine got its name. The beautiful waterfront along the Douro river, the winding streets, and the tiles on the houses and public buildings make the city so amazing.

Affordability : The local currency is the Euro. As of writing, one Euro costs USD$1.10. According to Expatistan, Lisbon (they don't cover Porto, which I suspect to be less expensive than Lisbon) is 33% less expensive than Toronto and 50% less than New York City. 

Accommodation : There are many options in affordable hotels in Porto. Here's a  centrally located hotel on Booking.com with an overall rating of 8.5 for USD$55 . Hostels are even cheaper. The Passenger Hostel has a rating of 9 and starts at USD$26 per night.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return  flights  start at CAD$914 with one stop. From New York City, return flights start at USD$727 with one stop and USD$434 with two stops.

• United States Government: Level 1 Exercise Normal Precautions
• Canadian Government: Level 1 Take normal security precautions

Interesting and Fun

Porto is a small, colorful, seaside city that is also the gateway to the Duoro valley where cruises and wine tours abound. There's the medieval city and the baroque city. Don't miss the Casa da Musica which was conceived to mark 2001, the year in which Porto was Cultural Capital of Europe.

Cheap Caribbean Vacation Solo: Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is an affordable Caribbean destination with beaches and an interesting history. It's a destination to enjoy and one that would benefit from your travel dollars.

Affordability : The local currency is the US dollar so we don't have a conversion to consider with this destination. San Juan, Puerto Rico is 17% less expensive than Toronto and 38% less than New York City. 

Accommodation: There are many options in affordable hotels in San Juan. Here's a  guest house with a 9.2 rating about 10 km from the center of San Juan but only 200 meters from the beach for USD$122. Hostels are not that much cheaper in Puerto Rico but you could check them out for their social value.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$575 with one stop. From New York City, return flights start at USD$324 non-stop.

• United States Government: Exercise normal precautions in Puerto Rico.
• Canadian Government: Exercise normal precautions in Puerto Rico.

Interesting and fun:  The island has enjoyed Spanish, African, Indian, and USA influence, which, according to Puerto Rico's visitor bureau, is mirrored in the food, music, and architecture of the island. San Juan, Puerto Rico's capital, has a free trolley that will take you around San Juan and its National Historic Sites but you could spend a full day exploring the walled city of Old San Juan alone. Beaches are the ultimate budget travel activity and Puerto Rico has many wonderful beaches to relax on or explore. Puerto Rico is on the migration path of humpback whales. January to the end of March is the best time for whale watching.

Georgia is the Affordable Solo Destination at the Crossroads of Europe and Asia

Georgia is likely the most popular country in the South Caucasus. Travelers enjoy Georgia for its culture, history, and stunningly diverse landscape. It's for hikers, adventure seekers, and urban travelers as well. Tbilisi is the capital and known for its hipster culture, techno scene, and general air of cool.

Affordability : The local currency is the Lari. 1 Lari costs 50 cents Canadian or 37 cents USD. Tbilisi is 51% less expensive than Toronto and 73% less than New York City. 

Accommodation: USD$50 per night for hotels is common in Tbilisi. At the top end, you can find some hotels at $200/night. International chains typically run just over $100 per night. With a 9.5 average rating, this hotel is just $36 per night . The Sheraton Grand Tbilisi has an 8.5 rating and is $135 per night. Of course, it has many more amenities than the first hotel.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$1,653 with one stop. From New York City, return flights start at USD$885 with one stop.

• United States Government: Exercise normal precautions in Georgia.
• Canadian Government: Exercise normal precautions in Georgia.

Sea, mountains, and cities in one relatively small country. The big outdoors is truly on a grand scale offering skiing, hiking, rafting, and more. The cuisine combines eastern and western influences as well as unique cultural dishes like ajarian khachapuri. Their wine-making history dates back 8,000 years so a tasting is necessary.

Argentina Number 1 for Cheap Solo Travel Destination in South America

Argentina has spectacular natural wonders including Glaciers National Park, El Chalten, and Iguazu Falls (pictured above), all bucket list destinations for the adventure travelers. But, of course, there's Buenos Aires and the tango! And then there are gauchos, Argentinian cowboys. Yes, there's much to make Argentina an exciting destination for any traveler, budget or otherwise. While other countries in South America may be cheaper, Argentina is one that has the safety rating I was looking for.

Affordability : CAD$1 buys 609 Argentinian pesos. USD$1 buys 815 Argentinian pesos. Buenos Aires is 67% less expensive than Toronto and 75% less than New York City. 

Accommodation

There are many options in affordable hotels in Buenos Aires. Here's a  centrally located hotel on Booking.com with an overall rating of 8.1 for USD$90  including breakfast. Here's a  hostel with a rating of 8.9 for US$31 , which also includes breakfast. If you'd like an  apartment, I found this fabulous, 5-star unit on VRBO  for USD$88/night.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return  flights  start at CAD$1655 with one stop. From New York City, return flights start at USD$1144 non-stop.

• United States Government: Exercise normal precautions in Argentina.
• Canadian Government: Exercise normal precautions in Argentina.

Interesting and fun:  There are lots of free and cheap things to do in Buenos Aires. There are, of course, free tours to enjoy but plenty more as well. Go to the Mataderos Fair, a gaucho market on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, and see the gauchos show off their skills; take a walk through the 80 hectare woods at the Bosques de Palermo; or explore the graffiti in the northern suburbs. If you're in the neighborhood of Belgrano on a Sunday, go to the bandstand at Barrancas de Belgrano park for the free tango lessons from 7 pm. You can then watch the experts perform for a fee.

Budget Destination for South Korea

With the cost of flights having increased threefold for Seoul, this is an affordable destination as long as you stay in the region for a while. It's a totally worthwhile destination but it's best that you stay more than a week to get good value from your expensive flight.

Affordability : 1 US dollar is about 1,300 South Korean Won (SKW). 1 Canadian dollar is about 1,000 Won. According to Expatistan , Seoul is 31% less expensive than Toronto and 49% less than New York City. 

Accommodation : There are many options in affordable hotels in Seoul. Here’s a sample of a 8.4-rated hotel you’d get for about USD$88 that's in the center of the city . Here’s the central hostel with an 8.3 rating for USD$30.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$1,972. From New York City, return flights start at USD$1,279.

• United States Government: Exercise normal precautions in South Korea.
• Canadian Government: Exercise normal precautions in South Korea.

Interesting and fun:  While I based the above information on Seoul, there is so much more to South Korea than its capital city. There are mountains and beaches, great diving, and hiking for outdoor enthusiasts. And, of course, there's a fascinating history over many centuries to be found in modern cities and more traditional villages. A little bit of research and you'll know why it's a great destination.

Top Tools for Planning an Affordable Solo Trip

This list includes resources that help plan budget travel regardless of your budget. You might want to read How to Plan Your Travel Budget: Luxury or Frugal .

1. Skyscanner's Everywhere Button

If you have a lot of time for your trip, the cost of the flight is not that signifiant a factor. However, if you only have a week or so, that flight could be the most significant cost. Using Skyscanner's Everywhere Button , you can narrow down destinations that have reasonable airfare by country. Put in your home airport, choose Explore Everywhere in the destination field, add your dates and you'll be served up options by country with the cheapest airfare showing first.

2. Rome2Rio

This site/app lets you learn how to get to anywhere from anywhere. Rome2Rio gives you all the options from car rental, flights, bus and train and let's you know the approximate cost you can expect and how long each mode of transport will take. When it comes to planning a trip on the move, this is an indispensable resource.

3. HomeExchange.com

There are two ways to book accommodation on HomeExchange . You can trade your place for someone else's or you can use points. You start earning points as soon as you sign up. I have booked 4 nights in New York City with points earned during the sign-up process which cost US$175. So, even if you don't intend to have someone stay in your home, by signing up, you can earn enough points for some great accommodation.

4. House Sitters

There are a number of sites that will help you find house sitting gigs. There's also a lot to learn to be truly successful at house sitting. Read this post on Successful Solo House Sitting Tips for Travelers or go directly to International House Sitting Academy to learn about their program.

Understanding Government Travel Advice and Advisories

Governments create travel advice and advisory alerts for the sake of their citizens who are planning to travel to other countries. Both Canada and the United States have a 4-tier rating system. While a country may receive one overall rating, specific areas within it may receive a different rating to indicate regionally specific concerns. These may be related to natural disasters, safety and security, health hazards, etc. This allows you to avoid areas that may pose a higher risk.

While the language varies slightly between the two countries, basically, the four levels are:

• Exercise normal security precautions . There is some inherent risk in any international travel, but there are no significant safety and security concerns here.
• Exercise a high degree of caution . There are identifiable safety and security concerns, or the safety and security situation could change with little notice. (To put this in perspective, Canada currently rates 92 countries as Level 2, and both countries rate the United Kingdom as Level 2.)
• Avoid non-essential travel . There are specific safety and security concerns that could put you at risk.
• Avoid all travel . There is an extreme risk to your personal safety and security.

Levels 1 and 2 are considered travel advice while levels 3 and 4 are considered travel advisories.

This distinction is important as there is a possibility that the validity of your travel insurance could be impacted if your country issues a travel advisory for the country to which you are traveling. Always read the fine print of your insurance policy and check your government’s advice before leaving home. You can easily find this by searching “government of (your home country) travel advice” then searching within that site for your destination country. Also read A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers .

The Shortlist of Destinations for Solo Travelers on a Budget 2023

Best Budget Solo Travel Destination for a European Experience: Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is a small city, rich with a wide range of architecture that reflects both its current state and its diverse past. It’s a city that is not yet inundated with tourists.

In Ljubljana I felt like I was in Italy 50 years ago. It has all the charm but few of the tourists. The historic center of Ljubljana includes a castle that dates back to the 11th century though the buildings you'll see are more from the 16th century. In the city center is an extensive pedestrian zone that winds through buildings that are hundreds of years old. A walking tour of the city is a must.

There is also the Alternative District that has graffiti everywhere and people just hanging out or playing music. If you want a feel for how some of the youth of Ljubljana live, and where young travelers gravitate, Hostel Celica Art  is worth a look, or a stay.

Affordability : A beer in a neighborhood pub will cost about USD$3.15. A 5-mile taxi ride will be roughly $10.00. A basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district will run about $13.00.

Accommodation : Here is a hotel for USD$58.00, very close to the center with a 9.4 rating. Here is a hostel, the Hostel Celica Art which I have stayed at. The rate for our dates is $29.00.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$901.00. From New York City, return flights start at USD$590.00.

Top Budget Solo Travel Destination North America: Savannah, Georgia

I always like to include one North American destination and this year it is Savannah, Georgia.

Savannah’s Historic District is famous, but there is also the architecture in the Victorian District and the hip Starland District, all within the downtown area. Venture a little further to Savannah’s quiet Lowcountry in the Moon River District.

In an exchange with members of the Solo Travel Society about travel inspiration, Christy said: “I read  Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil , set in Savannah, Georgia. I’ve always had an interest in the South. This book was full of eccentric characters. I was so intrigued, by both the people and the town of Savannah, that I went!”

Affordability : It's the low cost of getting to Savannah and the low cost of hotels compared to other US cities that makes Savannah affordable as a destination for solo travelers on a budget. A beer in a neighborhood pub will cost about USD$6.00. A 5-mile taxi ride will be roughly $22.00. A basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district will run about $18.00.

Accommodation : While the hotels/hostels are more expensive in Savannah than other destinations listed, the cost to get there is much lower for most readers. If you drive, you won't need accommodation as central as I have chosen and can definitely save a lot per night. Here is a hotel in the historic district for USD$140.00. I did not find a hostel in Savannah.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$515.00. From New York City, return flights start at USD$118.00.

• According to Travellers Worldwide , there are parts of the city to avoid.

Solo Travel Budget Destination for Adventure: Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is a perfect launching point for travel in Morocco.

The city itself is both modern and very traditional. The walled medieval city dates to the Berber Empire. There are mosques, palaces, gardens, and, of course, the Medina which is where I bought both a painting and a wall hanging. Don't miss the Majorelle Garden and Yves Saint Laurent Museum.

Once there, it is certainly worth exploring beyond Marrakech. There is an affordable train service to take you far beyond the city limits to the town and beaches of Essaouira as well as all the major cities along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts.

Affordability : A beer in a neighborhood pub will cost about USD$3.79. A 5-mile taxi ride will be roughly $3.92. A basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district will run about $5.29.

Accommodation : In Marrakech you have a lot of options from affordable stays for golf to more cultural experiences in the city center. Here is a fairly central, modern hotel for USD$68.00 that has an 8.6 rating. Here is a hostel with an 8.8 rating, rooftop dining, and more.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$1,022.00. From New York City, return flights start at USD$668.00.

• United States Government: Level 2 Exercise Increased Caution
• Canadian Government: Level 2 Exercise a high degree of caution
• Both countries advise to avoid travel in border regions of Western Sahara.

Best Southeast Asia Budget Destination for History and Nature: Taipei, Taiwan

Taiwan is one of the few countries in southeast Asia that is safe according to our governments as well as inexpensive. Singapore is actually less expensive than Taiwan and equally safe but does not offer travelers the same diversity of experiences. This is why I went with Taiwan.

A movie, I can't remember which one, turned me on to Taiwan's natural beauty. An article on BBC Travel increased my interest in this island nation. In fact, they wrote “Taiwan's East Coast Highway is easily one of East Asia's most beautiful spots for cycling.” That says a lot! The country also offers Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian temples, hot springs, and a cuisine influenced by the culinary traditions of Taiwan's aboriginal people, Chinese settlers, and the Japanese who ruled the island for 50 years. The city of Taipei is your point of entry, offering dramatic buildings, amazing shopping, and night markets.

Affordability : A beer in a neighborhood pub will cost about USD$6.00. A 5-mile taxi ride will be roughly $8.00. A basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district will run about $7.00.

Accommodation : Here is a hotel in Taipei city centre with an 8.6 rating for USD$54.00. Here is a hostel in the city center with a 7.3 rating for $29.00.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$1,418.00. From New York City, return flights start at USD$1,023.00.

• United States Government: Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The Shortlist of Destinations for Solo Travelers on a Budget 202 1/2022

Top Budget Destination for Solo Travelers Africa: Windhoek, Namibia

I have friends who have fallen so in love with Namibia that they return again and again and now lead tours there for friends and acquaintances.

When asked if Namibia would qualify as a safe, interesting, inexpensive (once you get there) destination for a solo traveler, Jan said, “Absolutely! It has been a democratic country for almost three decades. With high unemployment, there is petty crime in Windhoek and one should exercise caution after dark, take taxis, etc., as in any large city. The country is safe for driving holidays; has a good infrastructure, water as well as roads; and one can drink water from the faucet.”

Affordability : One US dollar will buy you about 11.70 Namibian Dollars. A basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district will cost approximately $13.00. A beer in a neighborhood pub will set you back roughly $2.25. A 5-mile taxi ride runs about $8.50.

Here is a hotel for USD$99.00, including breakfast, with a terrace and swimming pool, located in the former Austrian embassy. Here is a hostel for $24.00 in a 4-bed dorm or $47.00 for a private room.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$1,247.00. From New York City, return flights start at USD$1,074.00.

• United States Government: Exercise normal precautions in Namibia.
• Canadian Government: Exercise a high degree of caution in Namibia due to the high level of crime.

Top Budget Destination Asia: Yerevan, Armenia

I have wanted to travel to Armenia for a very long time, ever since falling in love with the films of Atom Egoyan.  Armenia has a lengthy, interesting history, incredible landscapes, and delicious cuisine – not to mention being home to the world’s oldest known winery.

Take a walking tour of the city to see and hear about the history, architecture, art and culture of Yerevan, including Republic Square, the Blue Mosque, the Opera House, the National Gallery and the History Museum of Armenia. Climb the stairs of the Cascade for sweeping views of the city. Picnic in Lover’s Park; tour the Ararat distillery and taste the famous brandy; visit the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute; take a day tour to Geghard to see the medieval monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site; and in warm weather, take a seat on an outdoor patio to enjoy the atmosphere and a delicious dinner.

Affordability : One US dollar will buy you about 470 Armenian Drams. A beer in a neighborhood pub will cost about $1.83. A 5-mile taxi ride will be roughly $3.00. A basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district will run about $3.87.

Here is a hotel for USD$55.00, very close to the center, but set back from the main road, and including breakfast. Here is a hostel with a 9.8/10 rating for $8.00 in an 8-bed dorm or $16.00 for a private room.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$1713.00. From New York City, return flights start at USD$874.00.

• United States Government: Exercise normal precautions in Armenia.
• Canadian Government: Exercise a high degree of caution in Armenia due to occasional demonstrations and protests.
• Both countries advise against travel to the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Top Budget Destination for Solo Travelers Europe: Tirana, Albania

Declared “ The City Poised to Become Europe’s Next Affordable Creative Haven” by The New York Times , Tirana is the capital city of Albania .  Art galleries and museums, including the intriguing House of Leaves; Ottoman, Fascist and Soviet-era architecture along with modern glass structures; the 289 hectare Grand Park; and bars and restaurants featuring a mixture of Greek, Turkish and Italian along with traditional Albanian cuisine are just some of the reasons to visit this fascinating city surrounded by castles, ruins, and Mount Dajti National Park.

Affordability : One US dollar will buy you about 101 Albanian Leke. A basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district will cost about $8.92. A cappuccino in an expat area, roughly $1.56. A monthly ticket for public transportation runs around $16.70.

Here is a boutique hotel for USD$43.00, including breakfast, within walking distance of downtown. Here is a hostel for $12.00 in a 4-bed dorm or $43 for a private room, with breakfast available for $3.00.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$1,135.00. From New York City, return flights start at USD$904.00

• US Government: Exercise normal precautions in Albania.
• Canadian Government: Exercise normal precautions in Albania.
• Both countries advise avoiding travel to the southern city of Lazarat due to crime.

Top Budget Destination North America: St. John’s, Canada

Newfoundland and Labrador , Canada’s most easterly province is home to friendly people, rugged coastline, and gorgeous scenery. The capital of St. John’s, one of the oldest cities in North America, is colorful, with its jellybean houses, vibrant arts community, tasty culinary scene, and personality to spare.

Affordability : One US dollar will buy you about $1.27 Canadian Dollars. A beer in a neighborhood pub will cost about $5.50. A 5-mile taxi ride will be roughly $10.20. A basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district will run about $15.00.

Here is a hotel for USD$70.00, including breakfast, within walking distance of downtown. Here is a guest house for $48.00, including breakfast in a centrally located restored mansion.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$782.00. From New York City, return flights start at USD$623.00. Note: these prices are almost double last year.

• United States Government: Exercise normal precautions in Canada.
• Canadian Government: Sit yourself down while I make you a cup of tea.

Top Budget Destination South America: La Paz, Bolivia

This description from The Guardian sealed the deal for me in terms of placing La Paz on this year’s shortlist of destinations for solo travelers on a budget.

An amalgam of architectural styles, cultures and beliefs, it has everything from offerings to the goddess Pachamama to incense-filled colonial churches, food stalls to trendy cafes, bowler-hatted cholitas to hipsters among its theatrical street life. It’s frenetic, chaotic, often frustrating but never dull. More than ever, it’s championing its culture, from local artists to age-old crafts. There’s a gastronomic revolution under way, with restaurants that use only Bolivian produce and bars that mix homegrown spirits. And Mi Teleférico, the world’s longest and highest urban cable car network, is making it easier to get around the city.

Affordability : One US dollar will buy you about 5.41 Bolivian Bolivianos. A basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district will cost about $12.75. A beer in a neighborhood pub will be roughly $3.88, and a 5-mile taxi ride, $17.37.

Here is a centrally located boutique hotel for USD$37.00, with breakfast included. Here is a hostel for $9.00 in a 4-bed mixed dorm or female-only dorm, with breakfast included.

Cost to get there : From Toronto, return flights start at CAD$1100.00. From New York City, return flights start at USD$845.00.

• United States Government: Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest.
• Canadian Government: Exercise a high degree of caution in Bolivia due to the continuing political and social tensions and frequent illegal roadblocks throughout the country.

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Home » Budget Travel » 10 BEST Places to Travel Alone (Why You NEED to go NOW!) 2024

10 BEST Places to Travel Alone (Why You NEED to go NOW!) 2024

When life has been grating on your very last nerve, and you need a little freedom, it’s time for some solo travel.

Free from the clutter of responsibilities, schedules, and spreadsheets, it’ll just be you and an epic swathe of wilderness.

Or perhaps it will be you and a steaming pile of delectable dumplings. Or you in the midst of an epic, thumping underground party.

Wherever you choose to travel alone, there’ll be unbridled freedom and personal growth.

How do I know? Because that’s what I gained from travelling alone. The freedom to make my choices and the responsibility of the consequences of those choices.

Throw out the misconception that you need a travel buddy, and unlock the joy of designing your own itinerary!

I’ve put together some destination inspiration for you in this article – just try and stop yourself from booking a one-way ticket at the end.

Without further ado, here are the top 10 best places in the world to travel alone.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

10 Best Places in the World to Travel Alone

Staying safe while travelling alone, final thoughts on solo travel.

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Travelling alone may be as simple as a quick vacation. You may just need a little time to travel without your phone and connect with nature again.

To this end, a long stretch of beach and a crisp gin and tonic might be just what you’re after. It’s important to honour the need to take a time out. Hustle hard, sure, but take care of yourself too!

Often an extended solo trip comes with the burning need to push your limits – to write your own manifesto . Perhaps you’ve had no choice but to rethink everything you ever thought to be true. Perhaps the only way you can untangle the dumpster fire of emotions is by hitting the road and letting life happen.

More than likely, it’s somewhere in between. Good travel rejuvenates us and challenges us. A bit of yin and a bit of yang. Travelling alone is a surefire way to get a bit of both! There are no compromising schedules with your travel buddy who sleeps in – so yay, freedom.

But there is also no shoulder to cry on when the travel is confronting.

Through it all, we learn a lot. So buckle up folks.

We’re taking a look at the best places in the world to travel alone !

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#1 Mexico City The Best Place to Travel Alone in the World

Mexico City might just be my favourite place in the world, period. It is one of the best places in the world to travel to AND also the best place in the world to travel to alone . It is the perfect combination of exhilarating and reflective – and has bomb-ass tacos to boot.

If you go seeking some company, Mexico City answers with an epic Couchsurfing scene and amazing hostels . And you’re never really alone in this great city. There are too many markets, curious locals, and sneaky mescal bars for that!

Backpacking Mexico is a whirlwind. One minute it’s lazing about on a sunny Yucatan beach and the next it’s driving past unmarked graves.

Mexico City is a microcosm of the country. The streets are awash with colour and passion in true Latino style. But if you go looking, there will be some heartbreaking history amongst its alleyways.

Mexico City stands in the shadow of the great Aztec Empire’s capital. There are hundreds of years of history and the ghosts of Empires past to keep you company in your solo wanderings too.

While you’re here, be sure to check out the National Museum. The stories of the last ten thousand years are displayed here – and that is certainly something to reflect on.

#2 New York City The Best Place to Travel Alone in the USA

Ah, the city that never sleeps: New York City stands out as a great destination to travel alone to in the USA .

If you want to become an anonymous observer, New Yorkers certainly won’t stop you. You can reflect in a ritzy coffee shop, or people watch on the subway. There is something to be said for speaking less and observing more .

On the other end of the spectrum – if you want to be noticed by New Yorkers – all you have to do is talk a little shit! And nowhere is it easier than in one of the many comedy clubs. Sure, there are extortionate drink prices, but there are also potential new travel buddies packed into the cellar!

And once you get partying with a New Yorker, you won’t be exactly sure how, but suddenly it will be sunrise. You’re mostly sure that you remember your name… Soon, you won’t have a choice but to be quietly hungover on the subway, once again observing the city.

One way or another, you’ll make it back to one of New York’s epic hostels , surely…

I think something that the best cities to solo travel to have in common is a buzzing and dynamic energy . You can choose to throw yourself into Times Square, the Brooklyn Flea Market, or secret New York bars. You get to indulge in the freedom that comes with travelling alone.

New York is perfect to travel alone in because it is at once easy to be part of the scenery, and easy enough to join the same scene.

#3 South Island, New Zealand The Best Place to Travel Alone as a Woman

I think everyone should travel alone. I love to travel alone. And, I have to admit that I love it even more because people love to tell women that they can’t travel alone. Bah! Hogwash.

Luckily, New Zealand is an easy country for badass solo female travellers .

Kiwis love hard workers and a good joke. They will go out of their way to make you feel at home in their little slice of paradise.

Once you start making friends in New Zealand, you will have friends of friends inviting you to stay up and down the country. Kiwis are just good like that. Besides, backpacking here has become a right of passage by so many that, no matter where you stay in New Zealand , no one is going to question your pursuit of a solo adventure.

It’s also wild . For that true Into the Wilderness type of solo travel, the South Island of New Zealand is the place.

Hobbits literally made their home out of the New Zealand landscape, and so will the aspiring solo traveller. There are rolling hills that give way into epic snow-capped peaks. There are rocks to climb, waves to surf, and whales to spot.

When you left home to travel alone, you needed the space to think. Well, there’s nothing like the sparsely populated South Island shores to get the mind turning over.

Also, nothing gains an outdoors-loving Kiwi’s respect like good handling of a manual 4WD. So while you are gallivanting about the mountainous South Island on an incredible NZ road trip , be sure to show off your new car handling skills. 😉

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#4 Portugal The Best Place to Travel Alone in Europe

What are some top reasons for travelling alone?

• Swim naked in the ocean (feel wild)
• Drink red wine and make eyes with the bartender (feel desired)
• Change your mind at the last minute (feel free)

Portugal is the traveller’s answer to the travelling alone in Europe request.

There is close to 2000 kilometres of stunning coastline that hugs the untamed Atlantic Ocean. There are so many incredible places to stay in Portugal ! You can nudie swim at designated beaches – but this is Europe where the nudity is natural and not only to be seen in TV commercials.

Portugal’s wine needs little introduction. And neither do its steamy locals. 😉 It may become a question of who makes eyes first – you or the bartender?

When you do go out that evening, will it be for petiscos and fado ? Or will it be a visit to a secluded and ruined castle atop a picturesque cliff?

Either way, you could be adding a sex on the road story to your arsenal…

Many people living the boat life make Portugal their last stop before an Atlantic crossing. You may have had grand plans to continue backpacking Europe, but you aren’t sticking to your friend’s itinerary. You’re free.

Perhaps you will become a crew member on a sailboat and wash up in the Caribbean instead…

#5 Bolivia The Best Place to Travel Alone On a Gap Year

South America is a lively and dramatic place to take a gap year. There are many highlights associated with travelling alone to tick off your list here: you can learn a new travel language , see some scenery that makes you believe in the Divine again, and eat your weight in local delicacies.

Bolivia is a good place to learn Spanish as its accent is easier to understand than other Latin American countries. Bolivia also has the highest percentage of Indigenous peoples as part of its population. You can learn, not only Spanish but Quechua or Guarani too.

Hey, Bolivia is a little rough around the edges, but she always has you coming back for more. If you’re in need of something to grab you by the scruff of the neck and say, “HEY, life is exciting, make the most of it!” Then, Bolivia is where you need to be.

One of the highlights of your trip here definitely could be the Salt Lakes . They are so spectacular, it made me believe in a higher power again. You’ll be putting your camera on a timer to get that perfect shot where the sky and the earth become one.

Trekking in Bolivia is another highlight for the solo traveller. With some trusty hiking boots , you can have the best views of the country.

When you do come down from the mountains, an epic destination awaits you! There is a good balance between true solitude and meeting people here.

And of course, I’d be remiss to mention Bolivia without raving about the Chicharron. Mmmmmm, get in ma belly!

#6 Ireland Best Place to Travel Alone to For The First Time

If you want to ease into travelling alone, Ireland is the place for you.

Sure, it’s got the windswept coastlines and abandoned castled to trigger some introspection. But it’s also got Guinness, friendly locals, and Guinness. Did I mention Guinness?

Ooh, and whiskey! How could I forget?

Well, I guess it’s easy to lose track in between all the fun you can have here. I did make it back to a great Irish hostel , but I’m not exactly sure how. Delivered by the leprechaun, perhaps?

The Irish are famously funny, and all it will take to make a new best friend is to sit down and have a good ol’ fashioned pub session. Be sure to say “your man” a lot, and don’t mention the English. Unless it’s to say, f**k the English .

Irish is one of the roots of Australian English and it can be just as difficult to understand to the uninitiated. Once you understand the craic , you’ll be good to go.

Ireland is no longer going through “The Troubles”. It is a fairly safe country – one of the reasons it makes for a good first place to travel alone. So long as no one mentions the English, and you pay heed to the usual solo travel precautions , you’re in for a right laugh in Ireland!

#7 Vietnam Best Place to Travel Alone for Good Food

For the solo traveller looking for a culinary experience like no other – they need to look no further than Vietnam.

The bitter, sour, spicy (or the fire, metal, water flavours, as they are known in Vietnam) are considered in every bowl of noodles. They got some fine quality French-style bread. And when you get French bread filled with Vietnamese sauces and meats, you get the famous Banh Mi.

There are the equally famous pho noodles to try. But there are stranger and far more delicious delicacies to be found in every alleyway. There are fetal duck eggs, turtle soup, grilled pork, and noodles in every kind of way.

Vietnam is a good budget destination that will alight all your senses from the moment you arrive. You’ll sweat – from the chilli or humidity, it’s anyone’s guess – and smell the traffic and the roast beef everywhere you go. Wherever you decide to stay in Vietnam , you will find a satisfying dish.

My advice to eating in Vietnam? If it looks good, buy two .

My second piece of advice? If the plastic chairs look like they were designed for children, the food is going to be amazing here.

I am not a large person, and yet I still struggled to fit my big, Westerner butt into the small restaurant chairs. And once I was in, I became so sweaty that it was a struggle not to bring the chair with me to the next restaurant.

But, the more comfortable the seating, the less tasty the food. This is the price we pay for truly delicious broth.

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#8 Hokkaido, Japan Most Unique Place to Travel Alone

The most northern island of Japan – Hokkaido – is probably not the first place you think of when you think of where to stay in Japan .

However, this is the most unique place to travel alone .

It is known as the Kingdom of Food due to its high-quality seafood and incredible markets. If you dreamed of a place that delivers incredible oysters, squid, and crab year round – you would find yourself where the cold northern Pacific meets the Sea of Japan.

When you’re done stuffing your face with good food, it is time for a hike in an otherworldly landscape. In the winter, there are some amazing mountain trails to tackle.

In the autumn, the rivers are incredible bird-watching spots. You can kayak all the way down the river system to the Pacific Ocean!

The Ainu people have finally been recognised by the Japanese government as the Indigenous people of Japan . Their culture is felt most strongly on Hokkaido – the last holdout of their language.

It is bittersweet to meet people who have endured colonial oppression. On the one hand, joy is an act of resistance . It’s special to be able to learn from those who are left. On the other, there will always be sadness for what is lost.

Hokkaido remains a complicated and beautiful place to travel to alone.

#9 Amsterdam Best Place to Travel Alone to PARTY

Yes, there is so much more to backpacking the Netherlands than making acquaintance with some suspicious substance and wondering what exactly you were meant to be saying. There are world-class art galleries, fine dining, and even some very easy hitchhiking to do.

Drugs are still illegal and – by design – modify your brain chemistry. Know your limits, drink some water, and look after each other!

But, Amsterdam lives up to its epic party reputation! You don’t need to come here with a group to enjoy a good night out. If you are looking for live music, recycled furniture, and hipster beers that sound like the name of a strange family pet – then head to De Pijp .

This district is also famous for the coffeeshops in which lighting a fat doobie is standard practice. Noice. 😉

Most clubs are open until 3 am on weekdays and 4 am on the weekends. That means, no matter what day of the week you clamber into the Amsterdam rabbit hole, you’re in for a good time.

Choosing the best place to stay in Amsterdam will also add to your party experience. You can meet your new drinking buddies in the common room and party hard knowing you’ve got a bed to come back to!

#10 Shiva’s Holy Trinity (Sri Lanka, Nepal & India) Best Place to Travel Alone to Challenge Yourself

Travelling alone can bring up a lot. You’re alone with your thoughts after all.

You also trade security for freedom when you travel solo. So no one would blame you for sticking to a country where you blend in with the crowd.

BUT if you want to push yourself to the edge of your comfort zone then look no further than backpacking Shiva’s Holy Trinity .

You can ease into the water of South Asian goodness in Sri Lanka. There are enough green smoothies and easy-going surfers to allow a level of comfort. The best hostels in Sri Lanka are overflowing with cool people.

However, there are still lessons in haggling, negotiating traffic madness, and cultural differences.

When you’re ready to turn up the volume on the South Asian experience – head to Nepal . Rumour has it there are still communists hanging out in the jungles here…

The buses run a little later here and tend to cram eighteen more people than is comfortable in them. Who knows how much something should really cost and there is no such thing as an unpotholed road.

Just when you think you’ve got the hang of the head wobbling locals, the scruffy tab tripping ex-pats, and street begging response edict down, go to India.

Anyone who has been backpacking in India will have a complicated relationship with the country. It can be exhausting. Maddening. Devastating. If you’re not careful, India is the place that leads to travel burnout .

And yet it remains – for so many of us – the place that transformed us.

Wherever you end up, there is chai.

When you travel alone, it’s just you. That safety net of having someone else to rely on to get help if you need it urgently isn’t there.

This doesn’t mean you don’t take on the greatest adventures in the world – but it does help to be a little prepared, especially if you’re planning to go solo travelling in Mexico and the like. One way you can stay prepared is by taking out some insurance before you leave.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

There is no need to idly scroll through Instagram and dream about your next trip away. It is time to book that ticket and hit the road! You are guaranteed a life-changing experience when you travel alone.

It will likely be the most terrifying thing you ever do, and yet the most rewarding. You won’t know what ghosts are lurking within yourself – or how to get rid of them – until you spend some time travelling solo.

And when you’re done with the introspective mountain tops, when you are done putting yourself through the chaos of Mumbai, a change of pace awaits. Without consulting anyone else, you are free to change the direction of your travels.

How does a glass of wine atop a cliff at sunset sound?

Delightful, I tell you.

The only thing standing between you and your dreamy solo trip is yourself. So do it! Go explore the best places to travel alone!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

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25 Best Solo Trips for Women in the US and Around the World

While women’s travel has historically been centered around honeymoons, girls trips , bachelorettes , and family reunions—we’ve witnessed a boom in solo trips for women recently. Here’s why: Solo travel pushes you out of your comfort zone, enables you to do what you want to do, and helps you gain a renewed sense of self and the world around you. To help you find your next destination, we did the research for you and found 25 places in the US and around the world to book. So, whether you’re seeking an American weekend getaway that’s cheap and cheerful, a city in Europe with luxurious hotels and dependable public transportation, or a Caribbean all-inclusive catering to every whim, these are the spots to keep on your radar.

Costa Rica is small in size, but big on appeal for solo female travelers. It’s incredibly safe; the locals are beyond warm—the mantra “pura vida” embodies their laid-back outlook on life—and thanks to its incredible biodiversity, the landscape is spectacular. Locals here enjoy long, productive lives—so much so that the Pacific-facing Nicoya Peninsula is a designated blue zone. To unlock the secrets to Costa Rican health and happiness, book yourself at Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica. The beloved resort unveiled a chic lifestyle makeover last year, including the new Virador Beach Club and wellness shala, and offers a once-in-a-lifetime excursion called A Journey to the Costa Rican Blue Zone . The daylong road trip guides you through villages to meet farmers and artisans like mask makers. You’ll even be welcomed into a family’s home for a traditional, made-from-scratch lunch.

Charlotte, North Carolina

As North Carolina’s biggest city, Charlotte has recently morphed from a stodgy financial hub into a buzzy destination for beauty and wellness. Whether you’re going for a totally new look or a subtle update, trust your tresses to hairstylist Dhiran Mistry , whose chill demeanor and intuitive approach to cutting makes visiting his impossibly chic salon The Carriage House a dream. Reveal your best skin ever with a super-lifting facial from Toska Husted , an in-demand celebrity aesthetician trusted by Jennifer Lopez and the Kardashians. For a workout that’s equal parts fun and challenging, book a lesson at Rally Pickleball founded by partners in work and life Barrett Worthington and Meg Charity, then decompress with a deep tissue massage at Poseidon Spa and a restorative night’s sleep in your glamorous room at the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte, Autograph Collection .

Seoul, South Korea

Whether you’re into cutting-edge beauty treatments or craving food and drink you can’t find anywhere else, the captivating city of Seoul has everything you need for an unforgettable solo vacation. To nourish your hair and boost growth, try Lee Won Moon Korean Medicine Clinic ’s viral (and sleep-inducing) 15-step scalp treatment. Shop for a new perfume (and gifts for your gal pals) at Seoul’s coolest new fragrance boutique Written on Water . Sample Korean knife noodles and mung bean pancakes at one of South Korea’s oldest markets Gwangjang . Rent a hanbok and stroll around Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbok Palace . Following a jam-packed day, check into the flawless Four Seasons Hotel Seoul in historic Gwanghwamun, where sophisticated accommodations with pillow menus, The Market Kitchen’s bountiful breakfast buffet, a modern Korean sauna, and Korean-influenced cocktails (try the Kimchi Highball) by Head Bartender Ike Ryu at OUL await.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City has staged a remarkable comeback in recent years, making it a desirable travel destination for everyone. Located within Caesars Atlantic City , the years-in-the-making Nobu Hotel opened its doors earlier this year. In addition to 85 stylish rooms and suites with Japanese design flourishes, the boutique property is home to a buzzy outpost of the famed Nobu restaurants. Qua Baths & Spa also recently introduced a 110-minute Nobu Nagomi Ritual combining a foot bath, body exfoliation, and massage with essential oils. For a rollicking good time, snag tickets to The Hook , a 75-minute adults-only live show by Spiegelworld. Another terrific stay in town is the Ocean Casino Resort , where airy Contemporary Blu rooms and breathtaking coastal views are just the beginning of a fun-filled escape.

With a bewilderingly beautiful landscape and gender-equal mindset, Iceland is a quintessential first-time solo female travel destination. One of the best ways to get up close to the country’s culture, wildlife, and natural scenery—while unpacking your suitcase just once—is aboard Viking’s eight-day Iceland’s Natural Beauty cruise . The award-winning cruise line founded by Torstein Hagen is renowned for its elevated adults-only experience blending curated culinary offerings, exceptional excursions, and highly personalized service. Once you’ve sailed to your final port of call Reykjavik, check into Iceland Parliament Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton . Located in the heart of Iceland’s capital city near the waterfront, the 163-key hotel sports a crisp design, serene spa, and hip restaurant Hjá Jóni. Consider it the perfect jumping-off point to see Hallgrimskirkja Church and go on a whale- and puffin-watching boat tour .

Indianapolis, Indiana

Are you a woman who travels with eating well in mind? Search for Indianapolis on Google Flights stat. Though Indiana’s capital city has long been associated with the Indianapolis 500 and other major sporting events, recently it’s blossomed into a bona-fide culinary destination with hip options for every craving. In the mood for raw oysters, rum drinks, and fresh ramen? Snag a bar seat at Strangebird . Fancy a posh lunch in a sprawling mansion kitted out with luxury furnishings you can purchase? Request a table for one at RH Indianapolis . Three generations of Thai women run the front and back of the house at Bodhi —where spicy drunk noodles arrive piping hot and garnished with fresh flowers—while Cafe Babette turns out whimsical baked treats, like its best-selling pistachio-raspberry-white chocolate croissant. When you can’t manage another bite, collapse into your sleek bed at Bottleworks Hotel .

Riviera Maya, Mexico

While hostels and all-inclusives abound in Riviera Maya, a destination adored for its powdery sands, stunning cenotes, and vibrant cuisine, why not treat yourself with a luxurious stay at Rosewood Mayakoba ? The iconic resort stretched across 620 scenic acres of winding lagoons and twisting mangroves features just suites—which are chicly done up in natural materials and locally sourced furnishings—to ensure total privacy, and on-site activities galore, from El Camaleón, an 18-hole championship course designed by Greg Norman, to the spa’s purifying Temazcal ritual. Though the resort’s entire lineup of food and beverage outlets celebrate the region’s colorful culinary and Mayan heritage, it’s impossible not to fall hard for Zapote Bar. Led by Joshua Monaghan, this award-winning cocktail destination is famed for its imaginative recipes, entertaining presentations, and come-as-you-are vibes. (No wonder every night turns into an impromptu dance party.)

Washington, D.C.

First, drop off your bags at the venerable Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC , where gorgeous new suites and spa await. Then, tour the Folger Shakespeare Library . Fresh off a comprehensive renovation, the world's largest Shakespeare collection now also includes fascinating exhibitions and interactive experiences to inspire people from all walks of life. Home to moving works by female creatives such as Judy Chicago and Cindy Sherman, the National Museum of Women in the Arts is worth scoping out as well. For dinner, standouts include Laotian Thip Khao , Afghan bistro Lapis , Italian Cucina Morini , and hot spot Pascual , where culinary star Isabel Coss sends out creative Mexican small plates and wood-fired entrees.

Osaka, Japan

Typically overshadowed by touristy Tokyo and Kyoto, Osaka is ready to step into the limelight as a worthy destination in its own right. And the just-opened Four Seasons Hotel Osaka  is helping that shift happen. Conveniently located in the Dojima neighborhood, the 175-key property boasts six food and beverage concepts, a bevy of wellness rituals including private ofuro (Japanese soaking tubs), and Gensui, an entire floor dedicated to a modern ryokan experience. From the hotel, it’s a breeze to get to the best of Japan’s third-biggest city. Take in bird’s-eye views from Umeda Sky Building ’s observation deck. Visit The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan , one of the world’s biggest aquariums, to see whale sharks, sea lions, and many more marine life species. Savor street food staples such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki, which originated here.

Miami, Florida

Few US vacation destinations can rival Miami. It’s sunny nearly every day of the year, and there’s something in this energetic metropolis for every kind of traveler: food, culture, and of course, sizzling entertainment. Plus, most major cities have direct flights to Florida’s second-largest city. But what if you’re a solo female traveler who wants easy access to the best of Miami, and prefers a more tranquil setting as your home base? Enter The Setai Miami Beach . The iconic property gracing South Beach has long served as a discreet hideaway for the world’s most high-profile figures (Madonna, Drake, Kim Kardashian), and takes on a refreshingly hushed feel with Asian-inspired design, enticing restaurants like the upcoming Japanese eatery Japón , Valmont for The Spa , and attentive service.

Florence, Italy

As the capital city of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence resembles a dreamy, open-air museum. It’s impossible to stroll its cobbled walkways without spotting striking architecture that beckons you to pause. Iconic art, too, is a big draw, with Palazzo Vecchio and Accademia Gallery topping our list. Despite the crowds, taking in a sunset at Ponte Vecchio Bridge is essential, as is sampling classic Tuscan cuisine (pappa al pomodoro, bistecca alla fiorentina) at the swanky Cantinetta Antinori . After a day of exploration, unwind at NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa . Situated in the heart of Florence and believed to be Italy’s oldest hotel, the boutique property has 70 spacious rooms—request room 121, which is embellished with original 18th-century frescos—marrying historic touches with modern-day comforts including Porta Rossa Bistrot, the signature Tuscan restaurant helmed by female chef Viviana Costa.

Columbus, Ohio

Here’s a fun fact: Columbus, Ohio’s capital city, is now the fastest-growing metropolis in the US. Everything that makes it such a wonderful place to live also makes it an equally wonderful destination for your first solo trip. The historic neighborhood of German Village is where you’ll stumble upon some of the city’s coolest restaurants like Cobra and Agni and one of the country’s oldest bookstores The Book Loft of German Village , while Franklinton Arts District serves as a lively hub for independent creatives. Need a reboot of body and mind? Retreat to Paloma , a positively pretty wellness oasis for CBD massages and purifying Hydrafacials. While in town, consider The Junto your home away from home. Want something more quirky and retro? Check into South Wind Motel .

New Zealand

Approximately 2,500 miles east of Australia is the island country of New Zealand, one of the world’s most popular bucket-list travel destinations Let’s cut to the chase: you make the long-haul journey to New Zealand to immerse yourself in the staggeringly gorgeous and diverse landscape of snow-tipped mountains, stirring fjords, powdery beaches, and tumbling waterfalls as much as possible. Though there’s ample ground, including 13 National Parks, to explore between the two islands, we recommend making pitstops in Queenstown , Wanaka, Nelson Tasman, and Central North Island. Other things to bear in mind for your solo trips for women checklist: the crime rates are incredibly low; the locals are super friendly; and the climate is generally temperate year-round. Since you won’t find a lot of big-brand corporate or chain hotels here, book yourself at one of New Zealand’s many reputable and affordable hostels .

If you’re planning a West Coast vacation, but want to avoid touristy spots like California’s wine country, Los Angeles, and San Diego, consider Portland. Not only is Oregon’s biggest city easy to get around—it’s especially ideal for biking—but there’s so much to do. Get in a fix of zen at the Portland Japanese Garden . Hike around the stunning Multnomah Falls . Dig into affordable food cart eats from Kim Jong Grillin and Desi PDX . Sip craft beers at Breakside Brewery . Perk up with a cup of joe from Stumptown Coffee Roasters . Browse the country’s largest independent bookstore, Powell’s City of Books , for your next must-read. When you’re ready to turn in for the night, the 67-room boutique hotel Jupiter Next has you covered—and don’t forget to swing by the hotel’s award-winning bar Hey Love for a nightcap.

Puebla, Mexico

When it comes to food-focused travel in Mexico, most minds default to Oaxaca and Mexico City. However, we highly recommend visiting Puebla , the impossibly charming city just over 60 miles southeast of Mexico City that’s home to eye-catching Baroque architecture and a rich culinary landscape. In fact, Puebla is the birthplace of mole poblano: the earthy and ingredient-heavy sauce whose recipes vary from household to household. Taste one of the best versions at Augurio  by beloved local chef Ángel Vázquez, and don’t forget to buy a few packets for souvenirs. Want to learn the secrets to making it from scratch? Then sign up for a Mole Sauce Class —it’s a great opportunity to meet other hungry travelers—at Puebla’s most elegant accommodations, Banyan Tree Puebla , which is where you’ll want to sleep as well.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga brims with appeal for outdoorsy types, from biking down Chattanooga’s Riverwalk to hiking Edwards Point Trail on Signal Mountain. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, explore the city’s flourishing food and drink scene. For easy-drinking cocktails and easygoing conversation, nab a stool at The Rosecomb , a charming watering hole taking up residence in a 1920’s cottage. Attack of the Tatsu doles out slurp-able bowls of ramen, while Little Coyote by beloved area chef Erik Niel pairs smoked tri-tip and handmade tortillas with a special mezcal service to showcase the agave spirit’s rich legacy. Before retiring for the night in your restored Pullman train carriage at The Hotel Chalet at The Choo Choo , throw back a proper nightcap at the hotel’s lively restaurant and bar Elsie’s Daughter .

Helsinki, Finland

Despite winter being their longest season, Finns embrace nature, instead of bemoaning it. On top of that, the Nordic nation champions gender equality, progressive values, and environmental causes. No wonder Finland has been named the happiest in the country in the world for the seventh year in a row. We recommend starting your adventure in the capital city of Helsinki , an urban hub melding striking architecture, communal sauna culture, and diverse restaurants (dinner at Savoy is a must). In terms of where to stay, it’s tough to top the new Hotel NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa with a plum downtown address that’s walkable to the city’s top attractions, posh accommodations, Usva by Terhen Spa—try the signature two-hour, self-guided ritual—and Kupoli, a chic rooftop bar where mixologist Mika Koivula whips up magic in a glass.

Naples, Florida

Naples is the solution if you’re craving the Sunshine State’s good weather, but want to steer clear of Orlando and Miami. With nearly nine miles of pristine sugar-white beaches and tropical year-round temps, the coastal city gracing the Gulf of Mexico is well-suited for single women seeking a more relaxed, yet elevated vibe. Speaking of which, you’ll want to reserve a room at the newly renovated Ritz-Carlton, Naples . Though it’s been open for almost four decades, the property feels more alluring than ever. The new Vanderbilt tower boasts Marriott’s biggest club lounge in North America—proper Champagne flows freely at the glitzy U-shaped bar—while the accommodations now feature sleek furnishings and soft tones of sand and gray-blue. Tennis fans will flip for the brand new Mouratoglou Tennis Center at its sister property The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón .

Bangkok, Thailand

It should come as no surprise that Thailand is ranked one of Asia’s top travel destinations year after year: it’s fun, scenic, inclusive, and affordable. Kick off your trip in the capital of Bangkok, where you have easy access to everything you’d want in a solo adventure, from spirited nightlife to historic group tours to tantalizing street food . It’s also more than easy to meet fellow travelers here via mobile apps, in case you want company for a stretch. Since you’ll probably be saving some of your hard-earned dollars while visiting, why not splurge on a luxurious hotel? With 10 distinct food and beverage outlets including the sky-high rooftop lounge Vertigo, the 61-floor Banyan Tree Bangkok is our pick.

Oahu, Hawaii

Of Hawaii’s eight major islands, Oahu stands out as it’s the only one that couples exciting urban energy—which you’ll find in the capital city of Honolulu—with exhilarating natural beauty. In short? It’s the ideal travel destination for the solo female traveler who wants to experience it all. Since Oahu has over 100 beaches, you’ll have no problem pinpointing one to suit your mood. However, we’re partial to Makapu’u Beach, where you can snorkel and bodysurf all day long in relative solitude. Foodwise, you have culture-blending options galore like Koko Head Cafe and MW Restaurant (save room for one of Michelle Karr-Ueoka’s whimsical desserts). When it’s time to chill out, you’ll relish the residential-like and whisper-quiet accommodations at the new Ka La’i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts .

Montreal, Canada

Where old-world European charm meets cosmopolitan energy, Quebec’s largest city is a sensible choice for vacation. Stunning hotels abound, but we’re especially partial to Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton with its sophisticated design, convenient address, and Pan-Asian eatery Yama by chef Antonio Park. No visit to Montreal, however, would be complete without digging into iconic bites such as Chez Claudette ’s poutine, St-Viateu r’s chewy-sweet sesame bagels, and Schwartz’s Deli ’s smoked meat sandwiches. Need a culture fix in between all that eating? Check out the exhibits at Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and McCord Stewart Museum . Don’t forget to set aside time to shop the glamorous new megamall at Royalmount , a mixed-used development that’s among North America’s largest and is completely carbon neutral.

Phoenix, Arizona

Cradled by mountains and blessed with sunny days three seasons out of the year, Phoenix is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, especially hikers . Reward yourself after a long day on your feet at the serene Sanctuary Camelback Mountain , where one of the region’s most beloved spas—the CBD Rejuvenating Massage relieves fatigued muscles—and plush, light-filled rooms await. Seeking more urban vibes? The Global Ambassador is a smart choice; plus, famed local restaurateur Sam Fox developed all the dining concepts, including Arizona’s biggest rooftop restaurant. Other dependable dinner options include Uchi , a contemporary Japanese eatery by James Beard Award–winning Chef Tyson Cole and Fat Ox ’s mouthwatering house-made pastas.

It might be tough to push past the public image of France’s capital as a romantic destination for couples, but trust us: it’s an unforgettable place for solo women as well. Public transportation (Métro) is economical and easy to use, and there is seriously something for every interest. Surround yourself with a mind-boggling collection of art at the tiny but mighty (and free) Petit Palais. Scoop up designer duds (hello, tax-free shopping) from Hermès and Dior in the Golden Triangle. Nab a coveted bar seat at the always-busy but well-loved La Coupole for a proper French supper of Champagne and fresh seafood. When it’s time to rest, slip into your awe-inspiring room overlooking the Seine at LVMH’s 72-key Cheval Blanc Paris .

US Virgin Islands

Comprised of the Caribbean islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, the US Virgin Islands transports you to a tropical paradise of turquoise waters, sugary sands, and warm sunshine without a passport. If you just want to focus on relaxing—and not deal with the hassle of planning meals and excursions—then check into an all-inclusive resort. St. Croix’s Divi Carina Bay Resort & Casino was recently renovated, and is an adults-only affair with unlimited food and beverages in a refreshingly tranquil setting. In St. Thomas, Bolongo Bay Beach Resort specializes in a more intimate, family-run operation specializing in enticing, à la carte menus at every meal with no buffets.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

One of the most beautiful cities in Croatia, Dubrovnik’s claim to fame is its captivating history and architecture. Walking the thick walls dating back to medieval times that enclose the city is the first thing you’ll want to do after unpacking and settling into Hotel Excelsior , complete with stunning views of the Adriatic sea and a tranquil spa. Other activities you shouldn’t miss include taking the cable car to Mount Srđ for sweeping views, exploring Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sea kayaking . When your appetite kicks in, Beach Bar Dodo , D'Vino Wine Bar , and Barba are solid picks.

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These 5 Hotels Aim to Make Solo Travel Easier

Traveling alone more hotels are helping solo travelers make connections, stay safe, and have big adventures..

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A Chamber King guest room at the Virgin Hotels New York

Courtesy of Virgin Hotels New York

Traveling solo can be one of the most rewarding kinds of trips you’ll ever take, where adventures unfold entirely on one’s own schedule. As more people than ever aspire to hit the road by themselves, a growing number of hotels are catering to the needs of solo travelers, whether that means purpose-built social and co-working spaces, rooms that consider an extra layer of security, and the option of per person (versus double occupancy) tariffs. Read on for a handful of the best hotels for solo travelers—and then don’t wait for anyone before you book your stay.

Moxy Athens City

The lobby of Moxy Athens City

Courtesy of Moxy Athens City

• Location: Athens, Greece
• Loyalty program: Marriott Bonvoy

With more than 125 properties around the globe, Moxy hotels, branded by parent company Marriott as “stylish and playful,” place as much attention on the public spaces as on the private ones. At the Moxy Athens City , check-in is at the bar, which means the front desk experience comes with a complimentary beverage made to order. It also allows and encourages immediate socializing as many guests opt to gather at the bar stools. Should the main bar prove to be too crowded, the more traditional lobby includes several couches and an abundance of poufs, furniture meant to be easily moved throughout the space. The next room over functions as a co-working space filled with café tables; it’s common to see laptops aplenty.

Located in the city’s historical center, Moxy Athens City makes navigating the capital relatively easy, either by metro or by foot. The hidden gem of this hotel, however, is the Moxyfied suite. By any other name it would be considered the presidential suite: It’s the entire top floor, complete with a near 360-degree wraparound private garden with views of the Acropolis. Two substantial outdoor patios create the perfect space for lounging (or bringing the party back to the room). It’s both spacious and cozy.

Virgin Hotels New York

A Chamber King guest room at Virgin Hotels New York

• Location: New York City

Like everything Sir Richard Branson does, there’s a cheekiness to the 39-floor Virgin Hotels New York . From the bathroom signs that say “unisexy” with line-drawn people crossing their legs to the Sugar Daddy–branded sweeteners in each of the 460 guest rooms, including 39 suites and two penthouses, innuendos thrive.

The layout of the standard rooms, which are branded “chambers,” are very thoughtful. A kind of hallway meets dressing room is the entry point, with a vanity and two flex closet spaces for luggage. A sliding barn door separates that space from the bedroom, which features a custom king-size bed with an upholstered headboard that extends into a booth with a marble end table for working or dining. There are two peepholes: The first is at the door to the room, and the second is at the internal barn door, ideal for solo travelers wanting extra privacy or security when letting staff or other visitors into their room.

Virgin Hotels New York’s Pool Club, one of the few Manhattan hotels with an outdoor pool, is a scene on the fourth floor with the Empire State Building in the background and an edgy cocktail bar in the foreground. In between, a large deck with sunbeds and cabanas are set up for socializing.

We Care Spa

The We Care Spa’s grounds feature winding pathways with plenty of greenery.

Courtesy of We Care Spa

• Location: Desert Hot Springs, California
• From: From $1,773 for two nights

Since 1986, We Care Spa has tailored its liquid nutrition, guided fasting, detox programs, and more than 40 treatments to individuals looking to retreat to the desert and work on themselves. What started as the private home of founder Susana Belen has expanded to 29 rooms complete with seven-layer air purification, oversize soaking tubs, rebounder trampolines, and circadian light systems.

Available in two- to eight-day programs, the experience can be private (traveling from room to treatment to labyrinth to infrared sauna uninterrupted) or communal (there’s always another person at the lobby tea bar, the poolside juice station, or the gym). While some guests opt to come in pairs, most are unaccompanied.

The experience begins as you step over a subterranean cluster of healing crystals; from there it’s a bit of a choose your own adventure. Besides a timed list of beverages to consume and scheduled treatments, the days and nights are flexible. Morning yoga, nutrition, or breath work classes appeal to some, while others simply relax by the pool, visit the medicine wheel, or retreat to their room.

The Twin Fin

The Twin Fin’s Coconut Club lounge faces the Pacific Ocean.

Courtesy of the Twin Fin

• Location: Honolulu, Hawai‘i

Overlooking Waikīkī Beach, the Twin Fin has embarked on a mission to differentiate itself from the other more family- or honeymoon-focused hotels lining Waikīkī’s main street, Kalākaua Avenue. From the quarterly artist in residency program to a quartet of ongoing local partnerships, including a live talks series with Parley for the Oceans, the hotel attracts tourists and locals alike using interactive events where socializing around a passion makes conversation easy. A robust activities calendar includes hula, ukulele, and flower le‘i lessons, with at least one class daily.

Although the ocean is right across the street, Twin Fin works with Wai Kai, a destination in West O’ahu that offers a deep-water standing wave pool that simulates river surfing. Whether you’re learning to surf or refining a skill, Wai Kai offers something the ocean can’t: consistency sans current or sand. A shuttle picks up guests directly across the street from the hotel for sessions, which can come with or without coaching.

Singita Pamushana Lodge

The swimming pool at Zimbabwe’s Singita Pamushana Lodge

Courtesy of Singita

• Location: Malilangwe, Zimbabwe
• From: $2,180

Safari with a side of plunge pool is certainly one way to immerse yourself in nature. At Singita Pamushana Lodge , all eight suites have their own plunges, plus a cliff-top firepit. Everything at camp overlooks the Malilangwe Dam, and where there’s water, there’s plentiful wildlife, especially within the 115,000-acre Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in Zimbabwe’s remote southeast.

Singita, an ecotourism and conservation brand, believes in wholeness, rather than wellness, a holistic approach that allows for a safari to be inspiring but also soothing. Think twice-daily game drives as well as guided yoga and meditation sessions. There also are winetastings and fireside nightcaps. While many safaris encourage double occupancy, each of Singita’s 16 lodges operates per person per night.

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Here's everything to know before planning a solo trip to Vietnam

By Jemima Skelley | 4 hours ago

More than half of Aussies are planning to take a solo trip this year, from short weekends away to extended holidays around the world.

Vietnam is a popular choice for people taking a holiday on their own – it's relatively cheap, easy to get around, and there are heaps of things to do and see that'll keep you entertained. Plus the food is amazing.

But where to go? We reached out to the experts at InsideAsia for their top tips.

What you add to your itinerary is totally dependent on your interests, timeframe, and budget. The experts at InsideAsia can help you create a fully bespoke trip that ticks all your boxes.

READ MORE: These are the best beaches in Australia, as voted by our readers

Here's everything to know before embarking on a solo trip to Vietnam.

Tip 1: Food is the gateway into any culture

One of the absolute musts in Vietnam is the street food. Perch on a plastic stool slurping a bún chả and grab an incredibly cheap beer or the famous egg coffee and people-watch.

Yep, that's right, egg coffee.

It sounds strange but it tastes amazing - be sure to try one when you're there. 

READ MORE: Liquid hand luggage rules return in the EU this weekend - here's what that means

Get up close and personal with the food culture by taking part in a cooking class. Walk through the markets with a local chef, select your produce and then learn how to cook a traditional meal in their home kitchen as they explain their unique methods.

Food is central to culture and provides meaningful insight into the psychosocial dynamics at play.

Tip 2: Be curious, be open

Solo travel is the ultimate freedom to explore without compromise. You will find that Vietnamese people are very warm and welcoming – the more you embrace the culture, the more it will embrace you.

It's all about getting up early for a syrupy egg coffee (yes, we said egg) while old ladies practise t'ai chi around Hoan Kiem Lake. It's about staying up late to drink beers and eat bun cha barbecued pork with the locals.

It's about meeting people and getting to know the culture, whether that means exploring the morning food markets with a local chef or cutting-edge contemporary art with a young curator.

READ MORE: Grocery store tourism: Why travellers are flocking to supermarkets on holiday

Tip 3: Go with the flow

Not everything will always go to plan when travelling around Vietnam, but don't let that throw you off course. Having the flexibility to adapt is all part of the travel experience, and often leads to the most unexpectedly incredible experiences.

There are countless versions of Vietnam to be explored – from revisiting the Communist era, touring the war museums, visiting temples or meandering the chaotic market streets dating back to the imperial dynasties.

Tip 4: Act confident

Confidence is key. Even if you're unsure, just fake it 'till you make it – you'll be surprised at how far this approach takes you. When crossing the road, put your hand out with authority, signalling others to stop and make way.

Generally speaking, the tourism infrastructure in Hanoi is very good – things are accessible, Google Maps works well and everything is in close proximity. It's best to be on foot and take it all in from the ground. Don't be intimidated by the unfamiliar, lean into it.

Just be sure to observe your surroundings and stay mindful of what is happening around you.

Tip 5: Vary the pace

Vietnam is an amazingly varied country. From city to country to seaside, there's so much diversity of landscapes to be enjoyed. The northern and southern ends of the country are vastly different.

The south is steamy and flat, the food is spicier, and the people are less reserved than their northern counterparts. Embracing the differences and learning to understand the relative cultural nuances is what makes a trip to Vietnam so special – set apart from anywhere else in the world.

Tip 6: Respect the place and the people you meet

When travelling, especially solo, it's essential to approach new cultures and communities with respect and humility. This means being mindful of local customs, traditions, and sensitivities. One of the most enriching aspects of travel is the opportunity to connect with people from different backgrounds.

But the trick is to let these interactions unfold naturally. Instead of pressing for information or prying, allow those you meet to share their stories in their own time and way. Remember, travel is as much about what you learn from others as it is about the places you visit.

This is why it can be so great to travel with a guide, who can help you navigate interactions with new people as you travel. 

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Italoblog » Travel ideas » Solo Female Travel in Italy: Tips for a Safe and Memorable Journey

Solo Female Travel in Italy: Tips for a Safe and Memorable Journey

Italy offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, making it a fantastic destination for solo female travelers. Discover essential safety tips and top destinations for a memorable journey.

Italy is a fantastic destination for solo female travelers, offering a blend of rich history, vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, savoring world-class cuisine, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Italy has something for everyone. However, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. In this article, we’ll provide essential tips and highlight the best destinations for solo female travel in Italy.

• Is Italy Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Rome: History and Modernity Combined

Florence: the cradle of the renaissance, venice: romance and solo exploration, bologna: student-friendly and vibrant, verona: charm and security, coastal escapes: cinque terre and amalfi coast, countryside retreats: tuscany and umbria, is milan safe for solo female travellers, is italy safe for solo female travelers, general safety tips for women traveling alone in italy.

When it comes to safety, Italy is generally safe for solo female travelers, but it’s always wise to stay vigilant. Keep your belongings secure, avoid poorly lit areas at night and trust your instincts. It’s also helpful to have a basic understanding of Italian phrases and customs to navigate daily interactions smoothly.

Understanding Local Culture and Norms

Understanding the local culture can greatly enhance your travel experience. Italians are known for their warmth and hospitality, but it’s important to respect their customs. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, greet locals with a friendly “Buongiorno!” and be mindful of local dining etiquette.

Eating in Italy Like Locals

Whether it’s in a bustling city trattoria or a quaint countryside osteria, the flavors of Italy promise to delight and inspire. With this guide, you’re ready to navigate the Italian culinary scene, armed with the knowledge to order with confidence and relish every bite as the locals do.

Popular Solo Travel Destinations in Italy

Rome is a must-visit for any traveler . From the Colosseum to the Vatican , the city’s historical sites are unparalleled . Solo travelers can enjoy guided tours that provide deep insights into the city’s rich past. Explore the bustling markets , where you can find unique souvenirs and relax in charming cafes while soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere . Don’t miss the chance to wander through ancient ruins and modern boutiques, seamlessly blending history and contemporary culture.

Choose Italo for your train travel to Rome

Florence offers an incredible art and culture experience . Visit iconic landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo , where you can admire masterpieces from the Renaissance era. Stroll through picturesque streets lined with historic buildings and artisan shops. Savor delicious Tuscan cuisine in local trattorias. The city’s compact size makes it easy to navigate on foot, allowing solo travelers to explore at their own pace and discover hidden gems around every corner.

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Venice is perfect for solo exploration . Wander through its narrow canals , where every turn reveals a new scenic view. Take a gondola ride to experience the city from the water, a quintessential Venetian activity. Visit St. Mark’s Square , the heart of Venice, with its stunning basilica and lively atmosphere. Explore the hidden alleys and discover charming shops and cafes.

The unique charm of Venice makes it a favorite among solo female travelers, offering a blend of romance and adventure in every corner. Enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant culture that make Venice truly special.

Travel with Italo’s trains from and to Venice

Safest Cities in Italy for Solo Female Travelers

Bologna is known for its friendly atmosphere and vibrant student population . The city’s historic center is full of lively piazzas, cafes and cultural sites , making it an ideal destination for solo travelers looking for a mix of history and modernity . Explore the University of Bologna , one of the oldest in the world and enjoy the youthful energy it brings to the city.

Wander through the Porticoes , UNESCO World Heritage Site s, and discover hidden gems in the medieval streets . The city’s rich culinary scene offers a chance to savor local delicacies, making Bologna a delightful and dynamic place to visit.

Choose Italo for your train travel to Bologna

Verona offers a safe and charming experience for solo female travelers . Explore Juliet’s House , a romantic site that attracts visitors from around the world. Visit the ancient Arena , where operas and concerts are still held. Stroll along the scenic Adige River , offering beautiful views and a tranquil atmosphere.

The city’s manageable size makes it easy to navigate and the welcoming locals add to its appeal. Enjoy the blend of history and modernity in Verona, with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The city’s safety and charm make it a perfect destination for solo female travelers.

Book train tickets from and to Verona with Italo

Best Places in Italy for Solo Female Travellers

Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast are stunning coastal destinations perfect for solo travelers. Hike the scenic trails that connect the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Relax on the beautiful beaches and soak up the sun. Enjoy the local seafood cuisine in charming seaside restaurants.

The Amalfi Coast , with its dramatic cliffs and colorful villages , provides a stunning backdrop for exploration. These areas are known for their safety and breathtaking views , making them ideal for solo female travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Travel through Liguria by high-speed train with Italo

Tuscany and Umbria offer idyllic countryside retreats . Wander through vineyards and taste world-renowned wines in Tuscany. Visit charming villages like San Gimignano and Assisi, where history and culture abound. Enjoy the tranquil landscapes that include rolling hills, olive groves and sunflower fields. These regions provide a peaceful and safe environment for solo female travelers. Experience the rich local cuisine , art and traditions that make Tuscany and Umbria unique. Relax and rejuvenate in the serene countryside, perfect for a solo journey of discovery and relaxation.

Visit the beauties of Tuscany with Italo’s trains

Navigating Milan’s Neighborhoods

Milan is generally safe for solo female travelers , especially in popular areas like the Duomo , Brera and Navigli. The Duomo area offers iconic landmarks and bustling shopping streets. Brera is known for its artistic vibe and charming cafes , perfect for leisurely exploration. Navigli, with its picturesque canals and vibrant nightlife , provides a lively atmosphere.

Stay in well-reviewed accommodations and use public transportation or reputable taxi services to get around the city safely. Navigating these neighborhoods, solo travelers can enjoy Milan’s blend of history , culture and modernity with confidence.

Travel with Italo’s trains from and to Milan

Nightlife and Safety in Milan

Milan offers a vibrant nightlife scene . Enjoy aperitivo hours, trendy bars and lively clubs, but always stay aware of your surroundings. Travel with a group or ensure your phone is charged to arrange for safe transportation back to your accommodation.

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15 Best Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Here are the top travel destinations around the world for women traveling solo.

Solo travel can be intimidating. Whether you're heading to a city in your own country or across the globe, traveling alone can bring up a long list of concerns — from the awkwardness of dining on your own to more serious issues of safety, especially for women. But despite any nervousness or uncertainty, traveling on your own can be one of the most freeing and rewarding experiences.

Choosing the right destination is key, so we've collected some of the best destinations around the world for women to travel on their own.

• Best for those with safety top of mind: Iceland
• Best for booking single rooms: Copenhagen, Denmark
• Best for free attractions: Washington, D.C.
• Best walkable destination: Barcelona
• Best for natural beauty: Norway's fjords

Read on to see our full list of the top spots for women traveling solo.

Between exploring the charming streets of Reykjavik, chasing the northern lights , and driving the famous Ring Road, solo female travelers can have an unforgettable trip in Iceland and feel safe doing so. The country has consistently ranked first on both the Institute for Economics and Peace's Global Peace Index and the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report , so visitors can rest assured that safety and gender equality are prized in this naturally stunning destination. Solo tourists can head out into the wilderness via well-traveled (often busy, even) hiking trails and make friends with locals and fellow foreigners alike.

Copenhagen, Denmark

In the quirky Danish capital, you'll find plenty of centrally located hotels offering single rooms, each providing the perfect jumping-off point for Copenhagen adventures. Must-visit spots include Nyhavn , the iconic canal lined with multicolored houses (opt for a tour for a closer look at the city's waterways), and Tivoli Gardens , a historic amusement park. Then stop for a quick bite at the TorvehallerneKBH food hall. With Danish culture valuing the importance of community dining, solo travelers should never feel alone.

Washington, D.C., United States

The manageable size and easy layout of the U.S. capital make it an ideal stomping ground for solo travelers. In addition to exploring the memorials along the National Mall, you can take in the exhibits at the many Smithsonian museums (plus the zoo), all walkable and offering free admission. If you want to explore Washington D.C. further, get on two wheels at one of the hundreds of Capital Bikeshare stations, which extend to Arlington, Alexandria, and Montgomery County. Alternatively, take advantage of the efficient D.C. Metro for day trips to nearby areas.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is an extremely walkable city, and you're unlikely to get lost as long as you have a map of some kind. You can window shop along Las Ramblas, stroll down the beach boardwalk, and wander through the Gaudi-designed Park Güell while taking in the gardens and panoramic views of the city.

The dining options are conducive to solo travel, too. Instead of sitting by your lonesome in a dining room, you can take your paella al fresco at one of the many waterfront restaurants (people-watching is built-in entertainment) or opt for a counter seat at a tapas bar.

Norway's Fjords

Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

There's no better environment for self-reflection than the soothing blue-and-green canvas of the Norwegian fjords. In Bergen , you can ride up the Fløibanen funicular or embark on a daylong journey on the Bergen Railway. Head to Gudvangen and take a cruise through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Equally impressive as the waterfalls-at-every-glance boat ride is the Flåm Railway trip, with views outside the window changing from seascapes to snow-capped mountains. This trip is for the solo traveler seeking peace in nature rather than busy biergartens and the like.

Seattle, Washington, United States

Thanks to the omnipresence of Seattle's coffee culture, a solo diner (or drinker) is not an uncommon sight. Plus, the city's proliferation of cafes means there's a rest stop around every corner to break up visits to Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, or the campy Museum of Pop Culture , aka “MoPOP.” The compact downtown area makes it easy for visitors to zip between attractions, restaurants, and shops on foot — and anything that is slightly farther is accessible by the easy-to-use Link light rail .

Munich, Germany

The jolly German mentality shines through in this Bavarian city, where tourists and locals bond over brötchen in mom-and-pop bakeries and pints in the biergartens. Although Oktoberfest happens only in the fall (and does not lend itself to a solo experience, per se), the beer halls in Munich maintain that same kind of festive ambience throughout the year. Hofbräuhaus is, hands down, the most famous and guaranteed to contain an abundance of other tourists. Fellow travelers can also be found climbing the Olympiapark tower ( Olympiaturm ), the top of which provides views extending as far as the Alps.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The rise in Croatian tourism has improved the ease of travel, and the country's low crime rate heightens the appeal. Protected by 6,365 feet of pristine walls, the oceanfront medieval city of Dubrovnik gives you history, culture, and beautiful beaches all in one destination. Its cobblestone streets guide visitors to artisanal shops and local eateries, while a walk along the walls offers spectacular bird's-eye views of the Adriatic coastline. Just a few minutes from Old Town, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling via tours and rentals offered right on the beach.

Austin, Texas, United States

Austin's festival culture makes it easy to get pulled in multiple directions, but it's also a great way to meet new people. There's plenty to see and do, whether you're checking out live music or eating your way through Tex-Mex and BBQ restaurants and food trucks. When you need a little quiet time, head downtown for a walking tour, or find a spot to watch the Congress Avenue Bridge bats soar.

For a city of its size, Austin is typically considered quite safe. Note, though, that the ubiquity of booze here can be a blessing or a curse. While it keeps the streets populated (and therefore generally safe) at night, alcohol can lead to crime even within tourist circles, so exercise caution while participating in Austin's lively bar scene.

Salzburg, Austria

Overlooked by the Hohensalzburg Fortress and bisected by the Salzach River, Mozart's hometown has storybook allure. After reliving scenes from “The Sound of Music” at Mirabell Gardens and Nonnberg Abbey, relax with a coffee on the terrace of Cafe Tomaselli or a pint in the 1,400-seat outdoor area of Austria's biggest biergarten, Augustiner Bräu .

While the entire city is walkable, Salzburg is also one of the country's most bike-friendly cities. More than 100 miles of cycle paths mean you can pack way more into a day and get around more efficiently (and economically) as a solo traveler.

Taipei, Taiwan

xPACIFICA/Getty Images

The capital of Taiwan offers an ideal mix of history and modernity. You'll find temples and skyscrapers, contemporary malls and traditional night markets — perfect for making a meal out of snacks while shopping for accessories and souvenirs. Taipei has the bustle of a major Asian metropolis but with important urban comforts as well. Street signage and public transportation all have names in English — and even though crime is overall low in the country, the metro system has “ Safe Waiting Zones ” marked on the platforms, which are monitored closely by video feed to protect passengers at night.

Melbourne, Australia

This Australian metropolis is one of the most livable cities in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit . Throw in a free tourist tram that reaches the major sights — including Queen Victoria Market, Carlton Gardens, and Federation Square — and Melbourne's got simplicity and safety all rolled up in one. Because Australia offers a Working Holiday visa allowing visitors between 18 and 35 to work in the country for a year, the city is especially popular with young expats.

Stockholm, Sweden

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Sweden's safe, accessible cities are ideal for solo-traveling women. The cobblestone streets of Stockholm's Old Town, or Gamla Stan, are home to coffee shops, restaurants, stores, and even a castle, prompting hours of exploring on foot. The modern areas surrounding it are also easy to navigate through a string of metro stations, which double as art exhibits with their over-the-top murals, mosaics, and sculptures.

Okinawa, Japan

For a taste of Japan without the overwhelming hustle, head to Naha, the capital of the Okinawa islands. The monorail is super accessible, linking the airport to the city center. Within walking distance of the city center are the Naminoue city beach, Tsuboya pottery district, and Makishi Public Market, where the pull-up-a-chair stands are primed for solo dining.

London, England

For European charm without the culture shock or language barrier, there's London . Visitors could spend days just roaming along the River Thames, snacking in Borough Market, and admiring the eclectic houseboats, or strolling through the Royal Parks and eyeing luxury items at Harrods . After dark, grab a seat alongside locals at a pub or catch a show in the West End, then enjoy a late-night bite in nearby Chinatown. The endless sights and entertainment are easily connected via the London Underground, better known as the Tube.

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