trip to go alone

10 top spots for solo travelers in winter (or any other time of year)

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

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

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

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

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

South America: best for solo adventures

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

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

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

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

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

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

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

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

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

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

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

East Africa: best for a group tour

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

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

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

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

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

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

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

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

Rome, Italy: best for culture

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

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

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

Portland, Oregon: best city break

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

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

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

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

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

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

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

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

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

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

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

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

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

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

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

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

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

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

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The 15 best places to travel alone

There’s nothing like gallivanting around the globe on your own. These are the best solo travel destinations in the world

Nothing sounds quite as liberating as upping sticks and going to see the world, at whatever pace, and for however long you want. The freedom of only being tied to your own schedule is the beauty of travelling solo, and it seems like lots of us are catching on. 

Travelling the world alone has only grown in popularity since we came out of pandemic restrictions, with many of us adopting the ‘life’s too short’ mindset, and working up the courage to just book that damn flight. And why shouldn’t we? There’s such an abundance of places to travel solo, some so glorious that you won’t even notice you don’t have company. 

Of course, there are some things to consider if you’re jetting off solo. Safety, especially for women travellers , is an important element to factor into your planning, among plenty of other aspects that need weighing up. We’ve done our research: here is our list of the best solo travel destinations in the world. 

RECOMMENDED:  🧗‍♀️ The best destinations for solo female travel ☀️ The prettiest islands in the world 🌆 The  best cities in the world  🖼️ The most beautiful places in the world

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The best places to travel alone

1.  Iceland

The aptly-named ‘land of fire and ice’ is a magnet for nature fanatics, and perfect for those travelling solo. An abundance of caves, caverns, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and geysers should be plenty to keep you occupied, as the landscape and scope of this Nordic island is second to none. The country’s charming capital, Reykjavik , is jam-packed with activity – why not add the Blue Lagoon or the Laugarvatn Fontana to your to-do list for some solo relaxation? And the best thing about Iceland for solo travellers is the safety. The country is named time and time again named  one of the safest places for travellers , thanks to low crime rates and a generally accepting society. It’s definitely one for the bucket list.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Iceland

2.  East Coast Australia

It goes without saying that Australia is absolutely massive. Mahoosive. Ginormous. And while that fact might make it seem daunting, particularly for those of us travelling solo, most of the action is concentrated on the East Coast. There are plenty of classic routes that run from Adelaide to Brisbane and beyond, allowing intrepid explorers to visit a variety of exciting towns that each seem to have their own magnificent ocean view. Australians are famously sociable, too, so meeting new people will never be an issue in this isolated corner of our beautiful planet.

📍 Discover the best places to visit in Australia

3.  Botswana

For those keen to explore the wonders of Africa, Botswana is likely your best bet. The country has a wealth of wildlife to appreciate and observe, with nearly 40 percent of its land area being devoted to national parks. The Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert and Chobe National Park are world-renowned safari spots, home to everything from giraffes to rhinos. Botswana is also a politically and economically steady nation, and ranks highly on safety indexes for African countries. This, plus the fact that many Botswanans speak excellent English, makes it a great destination to navigate on your solo travels.

4.  Canada

Canada ’s name is one thrown around most often when it comes to solo travel. The population has a worldwide reputation for their friendliness, and the country has everything you could want from a travel destination. Incredible off-the-grid adventure opportunities like visiting the Rockies, Niagara Falls and Banff National Park offer up plenty to see for intrepid globetrotters. However, Toronto is considered one of the world’s most multicultural cities, and Vancouver is famed for its unique urban design, stunning surroundings and the fact it's on the doorstep to some incredible nature. The weather? Not so great, but the people? Incredible.

5.  Vietnam

Vietnam ’s unique beauty and complicated history make it a compelling travel destination, particularly for those doing so alone. The country has grown into a popular travelling hotspot, and that’s led to a thriving social scene – the well-established tourist route means it should be really easy to meet like-minded travellers to journey alongside. Ha Long Bay, Hanoi and the Ha Giang Loop are three of the nation’s tourist highlights. There are also great transport networks, it’s budget-friendly and full of hostels. What more could you ask for when you’re travelling alone?

📍 Discover the  best things to do in Vietnam

6.  Portugal

Portugal’s most popular spots frequently pick up travel awards and plaudits alike, and the hype is not without good reason. Lisbon is a backpacker’s dream, while the dreamlike beauty of Porto attracts wide-eyed adventurers from all over the world.  The Algarve is much more than its budget holiday destination suggests, and the rest of the country is packed with stunning sights and spots. This European treasure boasts 800km of coastline, and it’s a particularly surfer-friendly paradise, thanks to the fact it’s perched on the edge of the Atlantic.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Portugal

7.  Chile

In South America, Chile leads the way in terms of quality of life, and unsurprisingly, lowest crime rate. It’s the perfect destination for people travelling alone thanks to its tight-knit community of backpackers, and, of course, abundance of sights to see. Atacama, the driest desert in the world, is located in the north, while there’s plenty to see in Santiago, the nation’s capital. You won’t go thirsty either, thanks to the fantastic Chilean repertoire of beer and wine. It’s also considered one of the best places in the world for stargazing, thanks to its high altitude.

8.  Slovenia

Small but perfectly formed, Slovenia is a tremendous destination for solo travellers. The old ‘four seasons in a day’ adage is very much alive and well in a place where you can spend the morning skiing in the Alps before heading for a romantic solo sunset on the Adriatic at Piran. The capital, Ljubljana, is the perfect base for exploration, a city of friendly people and social spots an easy bus or train from Slovenia’s famous lakes and less-famous postcard villages. Pro tip: pick up a €15 IZLETka train ticket and get unlimited travel on the weekends.

📍 Discover four Slovenian getaways that are good for the planet

9.  New Zealand

New Zealand is a country that just gets things right. For one, it takes its reputation as one of the safest countries in the world very seriously, meaning travellers can explore in total security. But it isn’t usually safety that brings individual adventurers to New Zealand ; instead, it’s the dazzling landscapes, buzzing towns and cities and convivial people that make NZ the place it is. All of the bigger towns are backpacker paradises filled with history, culture and booze (the great trifecta of backpacking), and the scenery in between is staggering.

📍 Discover the best things to do in New Zealand

10.  Ireland

Irish storytelling is world-famous, immortalised in the novels of Joyce, Stoker, Wilde and the rest. Spend an evening in any Dublin pub and you will almost certainly hear a tale for the ages, as locals spin yarns and transport listeners to a world within a world, one pint at a time. The friendly hospitality of the Irish guarantees good conversation, while the stunning breadth of nature here allows for tranquil walks and plenty of room to think, ideal for solo travel. Getting around also couldn’t be easier, as it looks like Irish railway services are about to be amped up .

📍 Discover the best things to do in Ireland

11.  Japan

It can often feel as though Japan has been organised with solo travellers in mind. The efficiency of its transport links is as legendary as such things can be, allowing vagabonds all the time in the world to hit up the gripping cities and out-of-this-world scenery. (Check out our Japan rail itinerary if you’re planning to see the place by train.) The Japanese are among the friendliest in the world, the food is incredible and the whole experience is exactly that: an experience. It’s also another country that is consistently ranked the safest destination in the world for solo travellers .

📍 Discover the best things to do in Japan

12.  Greek Islands

No matter your preferred form of travel, a spot of island-hopping in Greece is almost a rite of passage for any traveller. That’s why you’ll meet everyone from excitable backpackers to considered veterans of the road here, each with a different story to tell. The Greek Islands are gorgeous and lush, not to mention packed with excellent food. Each one seems ready to capture your heart and convince you to stay forever and ever. Kefalonia and Corfu are the most popular and thus offer endless social opportunities, while the serenity of Naxos and Icaria will appeal to more introverted explorers.

📍 Discover the best Greek islands

13.  Bhutan

What could be safer than a culture so infused with Buddhism? Bhutan is definitely a place to include on your list should safety be one of your top priorities. The Trans Bhutan Trail reopened in 2022 , meaning travellers can follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and monks who trod the 400km route. The architecture is awe-inspiring, and the tiny country is of course perched on the very edge of the Himalayas, meaning the views are truly unmatched. There’s also tranquil lakes, luscious green valleys and dazzling glaciers to admire. Take heed: you will need some extra cash to splash in Bhutan, as the country has a pretty steep tourist tax .

14.  Croatia

Another super-safe solo-friendly destination is this jewel of the Adriatic. Boundless glorious beaches, fascinating mediaeval towns and relatively low prices are what Croatia has become so popular for. The nightlife is another perk of this place – the festival calendar is absolutely jam-packed, and Croatian cities are known for their cheap drinks and plethora of party spots. Eight national parks are also dotted around the country. Like waterfalls? There’s a whopping 90 of them at Plitvice Lakes,  though if you want a dip, head to the smaller falls at Krka National Park instead. Croatia is also an underrated wine producer and, of course, a hotspot for  Game of Thrones  fans.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Croatia

15.  Singapore

The phrase ‘melting pot’ is ridiculously overused, but one place that’s truly worthy of the label is Singapore . The island nation is a glorious meeting of different cuisines and cultures, with a landscape characterised by ancient temples and towering glass skyscrapers. Singapore is also incredibly safe, according to 96 percent of locals who we surveyed last year for our annual list of the world’s best cities . There are plenty of hostels if you’re wanting to meet other travellers. Spend your time soaking up the year-round tropical climate, and make sure to go on a food tour through Singapore’s  markets . 

📍 Discover the best things to do in Singapore

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Single Travel: Essential Tips for Planning a Solo Trip

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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People who have never traveled alone often describe their first solo trip as an almost religious experience. To take in new surroundings unfiltered by the prejudices, tastes, or preferences of a traveling companion can be heady stuff. Solo travel gives you the chance to indulge yourself fully.

Of course, traveling alone has its perils too—such as safety concerns, loneliness, and the dreaded single supplement. But a little preparation and common sense can save you money and get you through the rough spots.

Why Travel Alone?

How to travel alone safely, how to travel alone as a woman, avoiding the single supplement, tips for solo dining.

• When You’ve Had Enough of Solo Travel

The Best Solo Travel Websites

Solo travel can be the ultimate in self-indulgence; you can rest when you want and pour it on when you’re feeling ambitious. Another benefit is that your mistakes are your own, and your triumphs all the more exciting. There’s no worrying that your insistence on trekking all the way across town to a museum that was closed ruined your partner’s day; it’s your own day to salvage or chalk up to a learning experience.

Also, you can do exactly what you want to do—all the time. Always wanted to try surfing? Sign up for a class and go for it; there’s no one sitting on the beach feeling bored while you have the time of your life. Have no desire to see Niagara Falls? Just drive right by. For more benefits of solo travel, see 11 Reasons Why You Should Travel Alone at Least Once .

The 13 Best Places to Travel Alone

It’s perhaps the foremost question of the solo or single traveler: “Is solo travel safe?” Without a companion to watch your back, you are more vulnerable to criminals and scam artists, as well as simple health worries. But the saying “safety in numbers” isn’t always true—a solo traveler can blend in more easily than a group, and not drawing attention to yourself as a tourist is one way to stay secure.

Here are a few safety tips for traveling alone:

Do your homework before you arrive. Know how long it takes and how much it costs to get from the airport to your hotel or to the city center. Solo travelers are more likely to be “taken for a ride,” so ask the taxi driver for an estimated fare before you leave. If it’s considerably different from what you know to be true, take a different cab (or opt for a rideshare instead).

Choose the right accommodations. Book a hotel with a 24-hour front desk if you’ll be arriving late, so you don’t end up sleeping in your car or worse.

Trust yourself. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

Carry good identification —in more than one place. If you choose to wear a money belt , use it for storage and not as a purse. Constantly reaching under your shirt for money draws attention to it and defeats the purpose. Instead, keep your passport, extra stores of money, and other important documents tucked away, and use a theft-resistant bag or purse for carrying daily spending money.

Stick to open and public places , especially at night.

Exude confidence. Whether you’re on a street at home or 7,000 miles away, walking confidently and with direction is an effective technique for deterring unwanted attention, since appearing lost or confused can make you vulnerable. If you are lost, walk into a shop or restaurant and ask for directions there.

Avoid appearing like a tourist. Ditch the Disney T-shirt and don’t walk around with your face in a guidebook. (See 10 Things Not to Wear Abroad for more thoughts on this one.)

Leave valuables at home. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothes or jewelry.

Lie a little. When asking for directions, don’t let on that you are alone: “Can you direct me to the museum? I have to meet a friend.”

Check your maps and transportation schedules before leaving your hotel/train/rental car/tourist office. A solo traveler who’s too absorbed in their phone can be a mark for unsavory types.

Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home, and stay in touch regularly via phone, text, video chat, or email.

Register with the State Department. For U.S. citizens traveling internationally, consider signing up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , which could help the State Department assist you in case of emergency. If you’re from outside the States, see if your home country has a similar program.

Arrive during the day. Areas around bus and train stations can be scary and/or deserted, and small towns tend to shut down early. Veteran solo traveler Mara Rothman of San Francisco notes that plenty of beautiful towns can appear eerie at night, and locals who are genuinely trying to help you can appear unnecessarily threatening. Arriving during the day means you’ll be able to find a place to stay and get your bearings before dark.

Trust everyone and no one. One of the best reasons to travel alone is to meet new people, but this also makes you more vulnerable. It’s okay to hang out, travel, and share with new friends, but you might not want to ask them to hold your money. Scam artists can often be the most charming companions you’ll find; you want to be open-minded, but keep your guard up enough to ensure your safety.

10 Travel Safety Mishaps (and How to Avoid Them)

Though some tips apply to just about every solo traveler, women traveling alone have their own set of safety concerns that most men don’t have to face. Here are a few tips to help you protect yourself.

Exercise hotel safety. At check-in, consider asking for a room near the elevator so you won’t need to walk down long, potentially ill-lit hallways to reach your room. When filling out guest registration forms, consider using your first initial instead of your name, and skip the “Mrs./Miss/Mr.” check box. Additionally, make sure the clerk writes down your room number instead of saying it out loud. This will prevent anyone in the vicinity from knowing where to find you later. Consider packing a door stop to wedge under the door in case the lock is unreliable.

Dress to blend in. To avoid attracting unwanted attention, dress as conservatively as the women you see around you. This doesn’t necessarily mean donning the traditional dress, but a good rule of thumb is to dress modestly. Think knee-length or longer skirts. Bare arms, shoulders, and legs are considered risqué in some countries, so do the research before you go and once you’re there. Note which body parts the local women cover and do the same.

Know when to buddy up. Seeking out company can help you have a safer and more enjoyable experience. Smaller hotels and hostels are great places to find like-minded travelers to explore new places with. And even when you can’t find someone to buddy up with, there are often ways to associate yourself with others so you’ll be less likely to be bothered. In some countries, there are women-only sections in trains and women’s waiting rooms at train stations. Sticking close to families on public transportation and in unfamiliar public markets is another technique some women use.

Combat harassment. Having a repertoire of harassment deterrents can be as important to women travelers as a sturdy pair of shoes and a passport. Not engaging with people who are bothering you can make you a less interesting target. If you want to avoid being approached during lulls in activity, such as while waiting for a train, carry a novel or keep your eyes on your phone to make yourself look busy and involved.

If a situation of harassment escalates, making a scene can sometimes be effective. Many societies place a high premium on respecting social norms, so drawing attention to harassment in a loud and clear manner may solve the problem. The sentence for “leave me alone” is a handy one to learn in the language of your destination.

What is the Safest Hotel Floor to Stay On?

Frequent solo travelers are all too familiar with the single supplement, which tour operators and cruise lines often tack onto your bill to make up for the fact that they’re not making money off a second occupant. The supplement can range anywhere from 25 to 100 percent of the trip cost, meaning that you could end up paying twice as much as someone traveling with a partner.

There are several ways to get around the single supplement. You can avoid it altogether by booking with a tour operator that doesn’t charge single supplements on most trips, such as Overseas Adventure Travel .

Many other tour operators, including G Adventures , Intrepid Travel , Exodus Travels , REI Adventures , Adventure Women , and Road Scholar , offer roommate matching. By finding you a roommate, the company maximizes its own profit off each room and saves you the single supplement. The catch is, of course, that you’ll have to share a room with a stranger. If you’re concerned, contact the tour operator and see what kind of procedures it uses to match roommates. Some pair people off at random, while others will try to put travelers of similar ages together.

Several cruise lines offer single staterooms on select ships, including Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line , Cunard , and P&O Cruises .

You can sometimes save money by booking at the last minute. Tour operators eager to sell out their last few places may be willing to reduce their usual single supplement. Insight Vacations and Road Scholar are two companies that regularly discount or waive single supplements.

It’s not for everyone, but you may also want to consider staying in a hostel, which charges per bed rather than per room. Hostelling International properties tend to be reliably clean and secure, and they’re open to travelers of all ages. You can find more hostels and read reviews at HostelWorld.com .

3 Ways for Solo Travelers to Avoid Single Supplements

Eating alone isn’t so bad. Many solo travelers (and frequent business travelers) hate dining by themselves, worried that they appear like some worn-out Willy Loman of the road. There’s even a name for it: solomangarephobia. (Occasionally the fear is justified—see Terror at the Table for One .) The following tips can help you overcome what for many travelers is the most unpleasant aspect of going it alone.

Chat with the service people. Waiters and waitresses are some of the best local color you’ll find.

Choose the right eatery. Cafe or outdoor dining is often attractive to single travelers; sitting alone with a book in a cafe isn’t as unusual as a table for one at a fancy restaurant. You can also opt for a counter seat or a seat at the bar. A restaurant booth can also provide some privacy.

Bring reading material. If you start to feel uneasy sitting alone and staring down at your food, you can crack open a book, whip out your phone, or read a magazine.

Eat in. If you don’t want to endure yet another public meal alone, use room service or order carry-out from a restaurant nearby.

Eat well. Just because you’re alone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take time for sit-down meals, a leisurely cup of coffee, or a decadent dessert.

When You’ve Had Enough of Single Travel

The constant sensory input and vigilance of traveling alone can wear you down. If you feel your attention or your body flagging, don’t be afraid to back off your ambitious itinerary, slow the pace, and kick back for a bit.

When traveling abroad, seek out an expat bar—locals will often know where these are—where you can hang out and speak your native tongue with some fellow expatriates and travelers. When traveling in more familiar locales, a hot shower and a night in front of the tube in a nice hotel room can often give you enough of a reprieve to send you out eagerly the next morning.

How to Meet Other People When You’re Traveling Solo

Best Single Travel offers vacations, cruises, and weekend getaways for solo travelers of all ages.

Flash Pack leads small-group trips of single travelers in their 30s and 40s.

GAFFL , which stands for “Get a Friend for Life,” lets you find travel buddies to meet up with in your destination.

Intrepid Travel has dedicated solo trips as well as a roommate-matching program on the rest of its offerings, so you never have to pay a solo supplement if you don’t want to.

One Traveller is a U.K.-based company leading trips for the “mature single traveller” (aged 50+) to destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Singles Travel International offers trips for solo travelers with an average age 50+. If the company can’t find you a roommate by the time you make your final payment, you can have a room to yourself for free.

Solos is a U.K.-based company offering a wide variety of solo-only trips around the globe.

Solo Traveler offers tips, resources, and destination guides for solo travelers.

Women on the Road offers tips and advice for women traveling alone.

Women Traveling Together is for women travelers, most of them age 50+ and unaccompanied, who prefer to be with a group of like-minded women. The company offers tours, retreats, and other getaways, complete with roommate matching.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Sarah Schlichter and Christine Sarkis 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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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Solo travel for women: the 18 best destinations (plus tips).

Plan an independent getaway to suit your own personal travel style.

Solo Travel for Women

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For your next solo adventure, consider exploring waterfalls in Iceland, rice fields in Indonesia, beaches in Thailand and more.

Perhaps you have a bucket list of places you've always wanted to travel at the ready but you just keep waiting for the right person to go with you. But if your friends are busy, you just broke up with your partner and you're not feeling a family vacation, you don't have to wait to embark on a new adventure – just go solo .

Traveling by yourself, even as a woman, is not as challenging or scary as you might think. There are plenty of benefits: You don't have to adhere to anyone else's schedule, budget or food preferences, so you can truly prioritize yourself. Solo travel means doing whatever you want whenever you want, while seeing the places that you most want to visit. Adventuring alone as a woman can empower you to see the world on your terms.

Whether you're concerned about safety or seeking companionship, there are plenty of places around the globe to consider for your next solo trip. U.S. News has compiled this list of top solo travel destinations (and helpful tips) with expertise from women who have traversed the globe by themselves and loved it.

Barcelona, Spain

With a visit to Barcelona , immerse yourself in the local culture at your leisure, whether you want to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or go cheer at a football (soccer) game. Writer Mona Gable says, "Barcelona is a place of wonder − medieval neighborhoods, sunny beaches, and world-class museums, not to mention Antoni Gaudí's celebrated architecture." She enjoyed exploring the Mediterranean port city, especially because of its walkability and easy-to-navigate transportation system with metro lines and buses. She also noted feeling safe on her own: "As a female traveler, I felt perfectly at ease wandering many neighborhoods alone, even at late hours, when Catalans famously dine out."

Travel tip: Gable says it's best to avoid touristy Las Ramblas – Barcelona's main thoroughfare – except to see La Boqueria, the city's legendary food market.

[See more of Barcelona:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Botswana is well known for African wildlife safaris , where travelers might encounter elephants, zebras, rhinos, lions and cheetahs while glamping in luxury tents and dining on gourmet food. "Wildlife travel offers an outstanding combination of camaraderie, safety and autonomy," says Darcie Smith, owner of Great Expeditions Travel . She recommends Botswana's green season (November to March) for solo female travelers; at this time of year the single supplement surcharge is waived at many safari camps, which offers an excellent value and means you're more likely to meet other solo travelers. It is also peak season for birding, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the lush landscape.

Many camps will send someone to meet guests upon arrival to help you navigate airports or transfers. In Smith's experience, camp guests are also escorted to their rooms at night, for an added wildlife safety element. "Solo female travelers can enjoy daily shared safari activities in intimate camps that encourage social gatherings with full independence to design the itinerary around what's best for you," she says.

Travel tip: Smith recommends making your social media accounts private when you travel so strangers can't track your location as well as learning about the customs of your destination. "This will help avoid accidentally coming across as forward or flirtatious based on local standards," she explains. "For example, while long eye contact may be considered a sign of self-confidence or being polite at home, it may come across as flirtatious in your new destination."

Picture yourself indulging in pizza and gelato, visiting world-famous museums, touring picturesque wineries, and shopping at designer boutiques – all of that is at your fingertips in Italy , writer Martha McCully's go-to travel destination. "Italians want to share their culture and it's part of their personality to welcome you," she says. "Plus, the food and wine are outrageously divine."

The idea that traveling solo means you will be alone is a misconception, according to McCully. "It's simply not true," she says. "Book a group tour at your destination, or DM a friend from your past on Instagram, which is what I did in Bologna." There are plenty of unique ways to meet fellow travelers in Italy; she recommends signing up for a cooking class in Bologna through Taste of Italy, a food tour by Curious Appetite or a painting class with Plein Air Tuscany. "The idea is you will be with like-minded travelers and someone else is doing all the organizing," McCully explains.

Travel tip: McCully suggests sticking to your wellness routine while on the road to keep healthy habits. "I like to take my rituals with me," she says. "When I ground myself with what I know makes me feel good physically and mentally, it's like I'm living in another country, not just visiting."

[Read: The Top Italy Tours .]

With glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and hot springs galore, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland make it a must-visit destination. The "Land of Fire and Ice" is also known for puffins, its Viking history and women's empowerment, with the country's reputation as a champion of gender equality.

"Iceland is a favorite destination for female solo travelers because it is easily one of the safest countries in the world," says Jenny Ly, professional travel blogger at Go Wanderly . Iceland has one of the world's lowest crime rates and no animal predators dangerous to humans – just prepare for challenging weather and exercise caution if you plan to do any driving. Ly's itinerary recommendations include whale watching, with nearly a dozen types of whales navigating Icelandic waters; visiting Vatnajökull Glacier's ice caves; and chasing the northern lights in the darker months (October to April).

Travel tip: Ly encourages solo female travelers to not let the lack of a travel companion prevent them from exploring the world. "It can be both empowering and rewarding for women to travel solo, at least once in their life," she says. "While traveling alone can be riskier than traveling with others, it can also be more fun and gratifying." Her tip is to always be aware of your surroundings.

[Read: The Top Iceland Tours .]

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

While some women may shy away from traveling to Mexico due to safety concerns, travel blogger Jeanine Romo of lewildexplorer.com , who has ventured solo to many countries, recommends visiting the charming town of San Miguel de Allende . "I decided to go on my own and had such a wonderful time," she says. "The people are friendly, the hospitality is amazing, and there are so many things to do if you love art, incredible food, and incredible architecture." San Miguel de Allende is a great option for women travelers because the city center is easily walkable and Uber is available, which Romo says made her feel safe because she could always call a ride.

Travel tip: For women traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (such as local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. "I like to know how walkable the city I'm visiting is," says Romo. "This helps me feel so much more confident when navigating a new city."

[See more of San Miguel de Allende: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

New Zealand

From pristine beaches on the North Island to snowy mountains on the South Island – and all kinds of geological wonders in between – the diversity of New Zealand is a major draw for tourists. Travelers can learn about the indigenous Māori culture, visit a sheep farm or go sailing in Auckland , among an abundance of other incredible things to do in this island nation.

Travel blogger Nina Ragusa of whereintheworldisnina.com enjoys visiting because of the welcoming culture, outdoor adventure and feeling of safety. "Traveling New Zealand as a solo woman is quite easy, and if it's your first trip solo, this would be a good country to start in," she says. Ragusa spent a month camping in a van by herself and said she never had to worry about her safety, even in more remote areas. "I went on hikes solo, some of them deep into the mountains for miles and miles, and was either alone or passing other tourists or friendly kiwis to wave hello to," she says. Ragusa adds that New Zealand is not the cheapest travel destination, but her personal recommendation for saving money on longer trips here is to rent – or buy and later sell – a van to live in.

Travel tip: Ragusa recommends steering clear of the outskirts of the bigger cities (particularly if you do travel by van). She warns that, as in most urban destinations around the world, those parts of New Zealand are where you're more likely to run into trouble.

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

For an outdoor adventure in South America, Argentine Patagonia offers pristine ice hiking, backpacking, kayaking, trekking and wildlife viewing. Nicol Gillum-Thomas, an African-American solo female traveler whose mission is to encourage women to live life as an adventure, enjoyed her time in the town of El Calafate. "El Calafate, Argentina, was the destination that seemed the most off-putting in my imagination, but became the trip with the most adventure, awe-inspiring beauty and ease," she says.

Travel tip: Gillum-Thomas recommends a stay at the América del Sur Hostel Calafate, saying she appreciated the clean accommodations and interesting guests.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you dream of a getaway that includes picturesque beaches and crystal-clear water, Croatia is the perfect spot to explore. In Dubrovnik , the ancient city walls and medieval architecture of Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set a particularly gorgeous scene when the sun goes down. Tamara Williams, owner of solo female travel-focused blog My Elated Odyssey , says the unmatched beauty of the surrounding sea and mountains is only one reason to plan a trip here.

"The locals are some of the nicest people I have ever met," Williams says. "They truly made it feel like a second home. They spoke English well, so no need to worry about a language barrier." She adds that this Balkan country is also considerably more affordable than destinations in Western Europe.

Travel tip: For solo female travelers, Williams suggests staying in the Lapad neighborhood or near Old Town. "Both are full of cafes, bars and shopping to keep you busy," she says.

[See more of Dubrovnik: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Svalbard, Norway

You can't go wrong in Norway , with breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife, scenic railways, outdoor adventure and the chance to glimpse the northern lights . Jurga Rubinovaite, founder of the travel blog Full Suitcase , says you won't want to miss Svalbard: a Norwegian archipelago located approximately 800 miles from the North Pole. "It is one of the most unique nature destinations in the world," she says. "Despite being so far north in the Arctic, it's extremely easy to visit and is also a great and safe destination for solo female travelers."

The main town, Longyearbyen, is the focal point of activities in Svalbard, which range from hiking and boat tours in the summer to winter pursuits such as ice cave visits and snowmobiling. "Because of the presence of polar bears, everything you do in Svalbard requires booking a guided tour, so you are always in safe hands," Rubinovaite explains. "Longyearbyen town itself is very lively and safe, with lots of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and a few museums, all within easy walking distance from each other."

Travel tip: For women traveling alone, Rubinovaite advises thorough research in advance of your trip to this Arctic locale; staying in hotels, rather than private accommodations; and booking guided tours or looking for a travel buddy when venturing out to very remote places.

Head to Ireland for a memorable solo getaway complete with rolling emerald-green hills, fairytale castles and Irish coffee. Experienced traveler Kelie Fiala of the Vacations Planned blog ranks this European country at the top of her list for solo travel spots. "Many attractions in Ireland are wonderful for solo travelers because they offer peaceful spots to stop and enjoy the gorgeous views, but also provide plenty of opportunities to meet friendly people at cafes and other points of interest," she says.

Fiala appreciates the nightlife and music scene of Ireland as much as the history and scenery. She suggests experiencing some of the country's pubs, even if you're a woman traveling alone, since you'll almost always find live music and friendly people. "Even if you start out by yourself, you'll easily find that you're having great conversations in no time," she says.

Travel tip: Fiala warns that for solo travelers, especially women, it's best to be careful how much you drink and leave the situation if you ever feel uncomfortable. But she also encourages women to not be afraid to have a chat. "You could hear some great stories, and make a new friend," she says.

Beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly people, exotic animals and floating markets are just some of the incredible things that you can experience in Thailand . Loredana Gogoescu, head of content for Destguides.com , says she felt safe in Thailand as soon as she arrived. "Thai people are hospitable and kind," she says. "Moreover, as a solo traveler, I was surprisingly never alone. I had to book a private room for myself at one point just to get a breather, as I was constantly meeting new people!"

Travel tip: If you're apprehensive about exploring a new place on your own, especially if you've never traveled abroad before, Gogoescu recommends sorting out all the logistics like accommodations and transportation in advance so it's easier to acclimate once you get there. She adds, "If you're afraid of being alone, join different apps like Bumble and Facebook groups for the destination you're traveling to, to see if you can match up with other solo female travelers who will be in the area at the same time as you."

Netherlands

Nailah Hayward of TheresSoMuchToSee.com says the Netherlands is a superb option for first-time solo female travelers, based on ease of transportation, overall safety, the variety of things to do and other factors. "The Netherlands comes out high on all of these areas," she says. "And after multiple visits to the country, traveling through big cities and small towns, I always felt extremely safe." With the country's extensive train system, in addition to local trams and bike lanes, navigating the Netherlands by yourself doesn't pose too great a burden. Hayward also appreciates the ease of communicating with locals as an English speaker, since most people speak English in addition to Dutch.

"Whether you are into the arts scene, outdoor activities, luxury experiences, cultural exploration or culinary delights, the Netherlands has a huge variety of activities to dive into," Hayward says. "All of these elements make the Netherlands a place that I enthusiastically recommend for solo women travelers."

Travel tip: Don't carry cash. Hayward says most transactions can be done electronically, so there's no need for frequent trips to the ATM.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially because of its high safety rating from the U.S. Department of State. There's also no shortage of activities in this Caribbean destination, with Bromberg calling Stingray City a must. "The stingrays are peaceful and gentle," she says. "They glide along the ocean floor and you're free to observe and even play with them in their natural habitat." She also recommends soaking up some sun at the renowned Seven Mile Beach .

Grand Cayman is also a foodie paradise, according to Bromberg. "The vibrant dishes are as tasty as they are exciting, representing the fascinating mix of cultures and traditions that make the island so unique," she says. Her suggestions for food to try include the classic Cayman-style lobster, coconut shrimp and Johnny cakes.

Travel tip: Bromberg recommends checking the U.S. Department of State safety rating and other solo travelers' experiences prior to booking a trip.

[See more of the Cayman Islands:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

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Chart your course for Istanbul , the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. This anomaly is one of many features making the Turkish city stand out as a unique destination; you'll get to experience its Byzantine architecture, Ottoman cuisine and landmarks like the Grand Bazaar on a trip here. Farihah Fuaad, a Muslim solo travel expert and founder of MuslimSoloTravel.com , says, "It offers the best of both worlds – East and West, Europe and Asia, modern and ancient – and lots of surprises." This lively, fast-paced metropolis is also rich in history and culture, with remnants of bygone eras visible in the skyline of Istanbul, according to Fuuad.

For solo travelers, there are endless opportunities for memorable experiences. "Wherever you go in Istanbul, multiple surprises await you at the corner of every street, its cobblestone alleys, or within the maze-like structure in Grand Bazaar," Fuaad says. The network of easy and convenient public transportation options also makes Istanbul a great choice for women traveling solo.

Travel tip: For first-time solo female travelers, Fuaad suggests taking time to adjust to being on your own: "Start small, by venturing to your next neighboring town or city first, or any city in your country first before you make the leap into solo traveling abroad." She adds, "Don't do things you're not comfortable with. Listen to your gut feelings – they're always right!"

[See more of Istanbul:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Bali, Indonesia

For a tropical island escape, Bali is undeniably magical. Its natural beauty spans volcanoes, waterfalls and stunning beaches, as well as sprawling rice fields, diverse nightlife and breathtaking temples. Katie Caf, travel blogger at KatieCafTravel.com , who has been traveling solo full time for the past year and a half, says Bali is by far her favorite place to visit. "The Balinese people are very respectful towards female travelers, there's no street harassment based on gender like you might find in other locations, and while no place is perfect, Bali just feels very safe as a woman," Caf says. She adds that, although Indonesia is a conservative country, she found that women traveling there aren't expected to cover up except in temples or other sacred religious sites.

Travel tip: Caf recommends that travelers always use ride-sharing apps like Uber, Gojek and Grab rather than hailing cabs off the street, since the apps' tracking features make them much safer to use for solo female travelers in foreign countries. Some of these sites also allow you to share your route with chosen contacts for added safety.

[See more of Bali:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Paris is one of the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage , considers the "City of Love" a superb option for women traveling solo due to its cuisine, cultural attractions and hands-on activities of all sorts. "I consider Paris the city of self-love because it has everything solo women travelers need to care for themselves and their interests," Harris says.

With the flexibility of traveling on your own, you can plan the Paris trip of your dreams. Depending on what you're interested in, you may choose to learn about French cooking, immerse yourself in the Louvre , attend an opera at the historic Palais Garnier or browse local shops, as Harris has done. "Uninhibited by the demands or requests of others, I was able to really take the time to focus on who I am, what I wanted and what sparks joy and life in my spirit," she says. "Traveling to Paris taught me how to truly enjoy spending time solo."

Travel tip: One of Harris' top tips is to not bring more than you can carry, as you won't always find someone to help you with your luggage if an escalator breaks and you have to take the stairs. "By keeping only the essentials, you're able to move quickly to and from your destination without worrying too much about being a target for crime," Harris says. She also recommends downloading an offline map you can reference even without internet connection and sharing your itinerary with family members or friends who could help in a sticky situation.

[See more of Paris:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

New York City

It's hard to beat the allure of the twinkling lights of Times Square , award-winning Broadway shows and Lady Liberty . Melanie Musson, a travel expert with AutoInsurance.org , loves taking a solo trip to New York City , saying she doesn't even have the chance to feel lonely because the hustle and bustle of the big city keeps her sufficiently distracted.

Musson says that, while there are risks for visitors in any city, the odds of anything scary happening to you in New York are low as long as you take appropriate precautions. "New York City prioritizes tourist safety because they know they’d lose this valuable industry if visitors had frequent bad experiences," she explains, adding that you may be surprised how friendly the local residents are. "They're usually happy to help you identify the right subway line to take or bus to catch. They'll probably even give you tips on the best places to eat or things to see."

Travel tip: Musson's pre-trip tip is to check crime reports in the destination you're heading to and stay within the safe areas. "Trust your gut and get out of the area if you don't feel safe," she cautions.

[See more of New York City:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

The city of Singapore is known for being clean, green and safe for travelers – as well as expensive. Singapore boasts impressive architecture, the iconic Singapore sling cocktail, street food markets and luxury shopping malls. Daina Cohen, editor at WorldlyKnown.com , says, "Singapore is a fantastic destination for solo women travelers because of its vibrant, yet safe culture and exciting sights." On a solo trip to this Southeast Asian city, you can experience the unique blend of diverse cultures and cuisines, Cohen says, in addition to other benefits. "It's easy to navigate with plenty of public transportation options, plus an excellent healthcare system, which makes it a great choice for those who want to travel solo," Cohen notes. Tourists should research Singapore's laws – such as a ban on chewing gum – before traveling there to avoid fines.

Travel tip: Cohen advises staying in a hostel (which often have options for women-only dorms) or renting an Airbnb for more privacy. You'll also want to familiarize yourself with the city's public transportation system prior to arrival.

[See more of Singapore: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to solo travel for women. Her first trip by herself was to New Zealand when she was 19. Since then, she has traveled solo all over the U.S. and to countries such as Fiji, Argentina, Chile and Italy. Her favorite destination to travel alone is still her native California, which offers a diverse landscape from the city to the sea and the mountains and the desert.

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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.

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.

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.

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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.

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25 Best Places To Travel Alone In the US – An Epic Bucket List

The US is one of the best destinations in the world for travelling solo . Some of the reasons being – easy to meet travellers, safety is not an issue, and the connectivity is excellent. In this post, globetrotters and travel bloggers have shared  the best places to travel alone in the US  – a mix of cities, each uniquely offering plenty of experiences for solo travelers.

In the United States, you will find megacities encompassing skylines adorned with multi-storeyed buildings coexisting with beautiful national parks, home to abundant wildlife, gorgeous waterfalls, alluring valleys and dense forests, making it one of the most diverse, culturally and historically rich countries in the world. 

From hiking in the spectacular mountains to camping under the stars to road-tripping across the country – there is nothing that you can’t enjoy in this part of America!

So go ahead and get to know more about this beautiful country to add cities to your solo travel bucket list!

LOOKING FOR MORE SOLO TRAVEL INSPIRATION? CHECK THESE SOLO TRAVEL GUIDES ?

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Best Places to Travel Alone in the US

Denver, colorado.

When it comes to solo travel, picking a destination where you feel safe and welcome is paramount. Luckily, many United States destinations fit the bill.

But if you are looking for one of the best places to travel alone in the US that also comes along with a healthy dash of Midwestern friendliness, then a  trip to Denver, Colorado , is an option you must explore.

When it comes to things to do in the “Mile High City” (as Denver is known), there are tons of fantastic options.

Popular attractions in the downtown area include the new and improved  Union Station , Denver’s famous  16th Street Mall , and standing precisely one mile high at the  Colorado Capitol Building . 

Recommended tour: Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Tour from Denver

Colorado is also well known for being an outdoor recreation lover’s dream .

So, if that describes you, then you will love all the incredible hiking trails, mountain biking, skiing/snowboarding, or even getting a workout in at one of Denver’s many city parks .

They are all fantastic activities to do solo, while still allowing you to mingle with like-minded people.

Where to stay in Denver?

As you are planning your trip, a solid hotel recommendation is  The Westin Downtown Denver .

It is located smack dab in the middle of the 16th street mall, is reasonably priced, has an incredible rooftop pool, and is under the reliable Marriott brand.

Or, if you are looking for a more local option,  Courtyard Downtown Denver  is Denver’s original boutique hotel.

– Kara Patterson, Destination Live Life

Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City is one of the best places to travel alone in the US for many reasons. At the top of the list, Utah’s capital is one of the safest cities for solo travelers to wander around alone.

It’s also a picturesque place that sits in a valley surrounded by mountains. The biggest city in Utah has a friendly small-town vibe, and it’s a comfortable place to meet locals. 

Among the  things to do in Salt Lake City  are visiting museums, admiring the unique architecture, and learning about its history which dates back to the first settlers who came in 1847. 

If you love history, the landmarks in Salt Lake City are well preserved. Start at Temple Square , the headquarters for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), which has grand buildings and lovely grounds.

Other unusual things to do in Salt Lake City are skiing or hiking at Park City (20 minutes away), and visiting the quirky Gilgal Garden to see giant body part sculptures and biblical scriptures.

Recommended tours: Salt Lake City Big City Loop Bike Tour

Take an Instagram shot of the “Up” house , which is a replica of the Disney and Pixar movie. For the best view, hike up to Ensign Peak behind the State Capitol building. 

Where to stay in Salt Lake City?

The best place to stay is in the city centre, within walking distance of many of Salt Lake City’s sites. Two hotels are the Hilton Salt Lake City Center and Salt Lake City Marriott City Center .

-Christina Pfeiffer, Travel2Next

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Mobile, Alabama

The Southern states of the US are famous for their hospitality, and nowhere is that more true than in the charming coastal City of Mobile, Alabama .

It is one of the best places to travel alone in the US as you won’t have any trouble making friends with the locals here because it’s quite common for Mobilians to say hello and even strike up a conversation with strangers they pass on the street.

Mobile is a calmer, quieter alternative to New Orleans and offers many of the same attractions, without so much raucous partying and with significantly less violent crime.

Even though it’s now part of Alabama, Mobile was founded by the French and was the original capital of the French Louisiana Territory.

It means you’ll see similar architecture with beautiful wrought-iron balconies and antebellum mansions built by plantation owners. 

Recommended tour: Evening Food Tour of Old Mobile’s Culinary History

They celebrate Mardi Gras here too! Parades run day and night for about two weeks in the leadup to Fat Tuesday, usually in late February or early March. Then a bit later in March is another local celebration, the Azalea Trail Festival.

Local high school girls dress up as Southern belles and welcome visitors to the City to see the pink and white azalea blooms.

At other times of the year, you can visit the USS Alabama battleship or the historic Fort Condé. And be sure to try the local specialities in  Mobile’s restaurants . 

Where to stay in Mobile?

As for where to stay in Mobile, The Malaga Inn is a beautiful antebellum townhouse in a great location downtown.

-Wendy Werneth, The Nomadic Vegan

Miami, Florida

Arty and cultural Miami in Florida is one of the best cities in the United States for solo travel.

Whether you like street art, food, or relaxing on the beach, there’s plenty to keep you busy in this refreshing and colourful City.

The surrounding neighbourhood of South Beach is perfect for a beach day. Even if you’re alone, it’s safe to leave your belongings on the sand while going for a dip.

Recommended tour: Miami Sightseeing City Tour

For a tasty but cheap eating in the area, head to Sriracha House for delicious Asian food. Afterwards, eat an indulgent rainbow doughnut at Happy Place Donuts.

Other exciting areas in Miami include Little Havana, the most prominent Cuban neighborhood outside of Cuba.

For the  best food in Little Havana , start with a Cuban sandwich at Old Havana Restaurant, then finish with gelato at Azucar Ice Cream.

The other excellent place to check out in Miami is Wynwood Walls .

This area was once run-down but is now one of the city’s most colourful and vibrant parts, with static art galleries to check out and colourful murals all around the neighbourhood.

Recommended: Miami: Little Havana Walking Food Tour with Lunch

Where to stay in Miami?

The best place to stay in Miami for solo travellers is South Beach , in particular, Beds’ n’ Drinks Hostel which, despite the name, is a relaxed place to stay with a beautiful outdoor seating area.

With a hearty breakfast buffet that will keep you full all day, it’s also a good place for meeting other travellers.

– Rose Munday, Where Goes Rose

Honolulu, Hawai

One of the best places to travel alone in the US is Hawaii . With a melting pot of different cultures and nationalities living on the islands and visitors traveling from all around the world, Hawaii is welcoming and really offers Aloha to everyone that visits, including solo travelers. 

The main hub for visitors to the islands is usually Oahu and Honolulu airport – a busy metropolitan area that contains world-famous Waikiki and the lovely beach areas. 

Honolulu is a vast area of the urban oasis and green tropical zones that combine city and cultural treasures, lovely nature, beautiful landscapes and stunning vista points, making it one of the best travelling cities.

There are plenty of  things to do in Honolulu . The City is easily accessible and walkable too.

You can take public transportation everywhere or catch Uber rides to more outlying areas worth visiting, including  Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor . 

Visit the historic district in the downtown area encompassing  Chinatown , museums, the  Lolani Palace , the Capitol building , and other historic sites. 

If you are an outdoors and adventure lover, you can have your choice of Kayaking, Snorkelling , sailing, scuba diving to on-land pursuits like hiking, biking, mountain climbing to more extreme adventure sports.

Recommended tour: Oahu Submarine Scooter Adventure

Foodie lovers can visit farmers markets , food truck venues, food courts, and even fun oceanside bars and beautiful dining venues to choose an international variety of dishes along with favourite local dishes to choose from.

If you want to see the rest of the island with visits to scenic coastlines and views, gorgeous beaches, and western towns with a tropical vibe, rent a car or take a guided circle island tour to get a flavour of the real part of Oahu and the beautiful landscape around the island .

Where to stay in Honolulu?

One of the best areas to stay in Honolulu is Waikiki, which has plenty of hotels and guesthouses in all budget ranges. I’d recommend Marine Surf Waikiki 17th Floor , close to the beach with excellent views.

-Noel Morata, This Hawaii Life

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is a great place to dip your toes in on solo travel in the United States. The city has a vibrant downtown but it’s also a big road trip destination since it’s one of the  major cities on Route 66.  

For solo travelers who love driving alone, OKC is the perfect destination since it’s one of the largest cities in the US by land. 

Make sure to visit the  Lake Hefner Lighthouse ,  Bricktown , and the  Wheeler Ferris Wheel .

A really popular thing to do in OKC during the season is to go to an  Oklahoma City Thunder basketball game  and then go out in Bricktown afterward. 

Other fun but more off-beat things to do in Oklahoma City include heading down to the  Paseo Arts District  or  Automobile Alley  as well as eating at one of the city’s great restaurants in the Asian District.

There are also tons of great OKC Instagram spots you can visit to get gorgeous travel photography, including lots of great views and cute cafes to explore. 

If you love museums, check out the  Oklahoma City Museum of Art  and the  National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum . 

Where to stay in Oklahoma?

Check out The Skirvin Hilton Hotel Oklahoma City , one of the best historic hotels in the city of Oklahoma.

-Stephanie Craig, Oklahoma Wonders

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Phoenix, Arizona

Located in the middle of the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix , AZ is one of the coolest places to travel solo in the United States.

The City has a little bit of everything from delicious eats to picturesque hikes, beautiful architecture and cool art. 

Hiking  is a pastime in the Phoenix area, just remember to start early during the warmer months, and you’ll love it. 

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Papago Park  is known for its Hole in the Rock hike where you can climb the rock; it’s also a great place to view the sunset.

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Plus there’s even a fishing pond! If you’re into more strenuous hikes,  Camelback Mountain  also offers a fantastic view of the Phoenix valley. 

Phoenix also has a great art and architecture scene. You’ll find beautifully painted murals throughout the City as well as museums and renowned architecture.

Recommended tour: Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Phoenix

Visit  Taliesin West , once Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and architecture school, today it is still a school, but it’s also a museum for architecture lovers.

You’ll love  spending a few days in Phoenix , and you’ll want to return over and over again. 

As a Southwestern state, Arizona and Phoenix specifically, are well known for their Southwestern cuisine. You’ll find Mexican food everywhere, including tacos, Menudo, Sonoran hot dogs, and so much more. 

Where to stay in Phoenix?

The AC Hotel Phoenix is a fantastic place to stay. The rooms are luxurious for the price. It is so close to Papago Park that you can see it from the pool area!

Constance, The Adventures of Panda Bear

San Diego, California

San Diego is one of the perfect Cities for Solo Travel in the US. Why? It is incredibly safe, and there is a ton of things to do in San Diego.

The crime rate in San Diego is extremely low, despite being such a large city. In most tourist areas, it is no problem to walk around at night and feel safe.

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I have lived here for many years and here are some of the highlights that you can’t miss: 

Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter:  Just in Downtown San Diego, there is so much to do and explore. If you want to party, go to the  Gaslamp Quarters for fun bars and clubs and some of the best restaurants in San Diego .

If you are interested in museums, head to the countless museums in  Balboa Park  or visit the  USS Midway aircraft carrier . For animal lovers, you can go whale watching. 

Recommended tour: San Diego Harbor Cruise

Beach towns:  The beach towns in San Diego have a very laid back and casual vibe.  Pacific Beach  is the party beach town,  Ocean beach  is famous for its laid back Hippie vibe, and Mission Beach is beautiful for vacation rentals and families. 

Recommended – 15 Beautiful Waterfalls in San Diego You Should Add To Your Itinerary

Where to stay in San Diego?

I would recommend staying Downtown , especially if you don’t have a car. You can explore a lot on foot or use public transport. The ITH Hostel in San Diego Downtown is a great budget-friendly option in a perfect location. 

If you want a hotel, but are still budget-friendly, take a look at the Urban Boutique Hotel , which is just slightly more expensive and also in a great location. 

– Maria Haase,   San Diego Explorer

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Seattle, Washington

Seattle is one of the best cities to travel alone in the US. The Pacific Northwest is an extraordinary region, and Seattle represents that well.

It’s surrounded by mountains and water on all sides with a delicious food scene and outdoor activities in every direction. 

Seattle offers so much to a solo traveller. From food and drinks to outdoor activities and museums. If you’re wondering  what to do in Seattle  besides eat and drink, there’s a lot for you to discover.

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One must-visit attraction is Seattle’s primary market –  Pike Place Market . It’s catered to tourists but is still a great stop with a diversity of food stalls and vendors throughout the market.

Recommended tour: Premier 3-Hour Seattle City Tour

Another excellent solo trip is heading to the  Museum of Pop Culture . It’s a quirky museum designed to be a tribute to all things pop culture from the past. The museum will bring back some good and cringe-worthy memories. 

If you’re more into true art, then the  Chihuly Garden  and  Glass exhibition  may be more your speed. It’s a display of glass sculptures from artist Dale Chihuly.

The sculptures are all sizes and shapes and will take your breath away. 

Another great idea is to book a ride through Puget Sound  using the Washington State ferry or a private company.

It’s easy to take the ferry to  Bainbridge Island , where the natural wonder of the region is amazing to explore first-hand.

Where to stay in Seattle?

One of the most interesting neighborhoods in Seattle is Capital Hill .

It’s the perfect area to stay if you want to meet other travellers because it’s the center of the City’s nightlife scene and full of coffee shops, boutiques, and eateries. 

The Downtown is full of great hotels, but if you want to be in the middle of it all, State Hotel is close to all the action.

-Derek Hartman, Robe Trotting

San Francisco, California

If you’re longing to visit America but are worried about traveling alone, San Francisco is a great place to start as the lively, vibrant city is a wonderful place that welcomes solo travelers.

The arty, laid-back vibe of San Francisco makes it a safe place to travel, and unlike visiting LA or New York, you’re much more likely to be able to strike up a conversation with someone in a coffee shop or museum!

San Francisco has a whole host of epic tourist attractions which are must-sees –  The Golden Gate Bridge , Fisherman’s Wharf , Alcatraz Island , riding the cable car , Lombard Street , and Chinatown . 

Recommended tour: San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise

There are also some more offbeat attractions such as unique museums and galleries,  the wave organ at the Marina ,  poetry evenings in the City Lights Bookstore , the sculptures along the  Embarcadero boulevard,  and enough quirky coffee shops and restaurants to keep you entertained for years!

Where to stay in San Francisco?

If you’re traveling to San Francisco solo (and want to meet new people), I suggest staying in one of the city’s cool hostels such as Hi San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel in Marina District or the more upmarket FOUND Hotel/Hostel . 

They always have such a range of people (all ages and nationalities) so you’re bound to find someone you connect with, and if you still want your own space then FOUND offers private Superior Queen Rooms too.

Chrysoula Manika, Travel Passionate

Boston, Massachusetts

The Oldest City in America, Boston , has many feathers on its cap.   It is one of the biggest cities in the country, but it is among the most walkable cities – thanks to its large town-like ambience.

Rich in history and many things to offer, Boston is also one of the best places to travel alone in the US. 

Recommended – 40 FUN THINGS TO DO IN BOSTON AT NIGHT

You have plenty of things to do in the City – Be it just gorging on food from local markets, going on a heritage trail, sailing at the waterfront, or just lazing at the park, Boston gives you multiple options to choose. 

If you are a history lover, then  Boston’s freedom trail   is for you.

The trail takes you through prominent landmarks and talks of the American Revolution that took place to throw British colonies out of their land.

Remember the Boston tea party which we studied in our history classes? So you get to see all that. It is a pleasant 3km walk, and the trail is marked by red tiles running around the City. 

A little away from the trail’s end lies the  Prudential Tower , the top of which gives you a 360-degree view of the City. On a clear day, you get to see flights taking off the Boston airport, and other far off islands. 

Recommended tour: Boston Duck Boat Sightseeing City Tour with Cruise Along Charles River

Walk into the  Boston Public Market  to see local producers selling fresh veggies and all kinds of groceries.

And for some good food, walk along the pier and fine dine. Or there is always  Faneuil Hall Marketplace  for a variety of American and Mexican food. 

When in Boston, never forgot to have chunky juicy Lobster, for which Boston is known, and even just a sandwich with it is heavenly. Boston is well connected by the subway and has buses.

Where to stay in Boston?

Some of the best neighbourhoods in Boston are near Back Bay Station, The North End, The South End, Harvard Square, and Brookline, each offering a different experience. In Back Bay, the recommended hostel is Hi Boston Hostel .

If you prefer a single bedroom apartment, Cozy & Stylish Newbury Street Studio, #9 and Stylish Newbury Street Studio, #11 are excellent.

Chittra,  Masala Box

Washington DC

How could you travel to the United States without discovering its famous capital? Washington, DC is so much more than just the White House.

One of the best places to travel alone in the US, the City is full of exciting culture, fascinating history, and breathtaking architecture.

In general, Washington, DC, is a safe and easy-to-discover city and, therefore, perfect for solo travelers.

When I arrived in Washington, DC, I was surprised at how easy it is to walk to many of the City’s attractions. 

When visiting Washington DC , don’t miss the National Mall, which is located in the centre of the City.

You can also discover the  Lincoln Memorial   here. Not only known from Martin Luther King’s famous speech but also in the movie Forest Gump.

Recommended tour: Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour

Also, there are a lot of impressive museums to discover, which cover almost every subject. Many of them are even free of admission.

But a visit to the  Georgetown district  is also worthwhile. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the fantastic view.

You could easily forget that you are actually in the capital of one of the world’s largest countries. In the popular  Park Dumbarton Oaks , you will find plenty of rest.

Where to stay in Washington, DC?

If you are traveling alone as a woman, you can book accommodation near the centre so that you don’t have to rely on public transport.

One of the most popular areas for travellers is the neighbourhood around the National Mall. Some of the recommended places to stay in Washington in this area are Hotel Harrington and Luxury Rentals National Mall DC .

-Vicki Viaja,  Sweet Vida Home

Best Places to travel alone in the US – Offbeat Cities

Milwaukee, wisconsin.

Milwaukee typically is not the first place people think to travel to as it’s often overlooked because of its proximity to the more famous Chicago.

However, it’s actually one of the excellent cities for solo travelers in the US because there are so many things to do, prices are dirt cheap for a major city, and Milwaukeeans are very friendly and welcoming.

Milwaukee is a great solo travel destination, especially if you’re into summer festivals, beer, and friendly locals. 

Recommended: Discover Iconic Milwaukee Tour

While traveling solo in Milwaukee, one thing you’ll want to do is go  brewery hopping .

Milwaukee is known for being built on beer, so check out a bunch of the local breweries. Some recommendations are  Lakefront Brewery for the tour  and Dead Bird for delicious vegan food and beer. 

You should also check out all the festivals if you’re visiting Milwaukee in summer, and go for a walk downtown around the Riverwalk. 

Great day trips from Milwaukee are  Lapham Peak, Madison, and Green Bay  if you’re looking to get out of Milwaukee for a day.

Where to stay in Milwaukee?

If you are traveling solo to Milwaukee and want to stay at a hostel, check out the newly built Cream City Hostel in the eclectic Riverwest neighborhood. It will help you visit the real Milwaukee at a confluence of different neighborhoods. 

If hostels aren’t your thing, go for The Iron Horse Hotel in Walker’s Point, just south of downtown . Both are located in wonderful spots to see the city with plenty to do and see within walking distance. 

Mike and Becca ,  MY Travel BF  

Flagstaff, Arizona

The walkable historic Downtown makes Flagstaff in Arizona one of the best US cities for solo travel. Flagstaff’s proximity to the Great Outdoors pulls those looking for solo outdoor adventure from around the world.

The surrounding  Ponderosa Pine forest —the largest on Earth—can be reached via hiking and mountain biking trails that begin right inside the city limits. 

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Besides the  Grand Canyon ,  Wupatki National Monument  (NM),  Sunset Crater  NM, and  Walnut Canyon  NM are within a 30-minute drive from the bustling Downtown. 

Take the  Amtrak train  or  historic Route 66  into the town that earned its stripes in railroading and lumber. Now a lively university town with a tempting foodie scene, the City has an easy-to-navigate airport (FLG).

Recommended tour: Grand Canyon Sunset Tour from Flagstaff

Meetup with other solo travelers at chill places like Nomads Global Lounge or Macy’s European Coffeehouse & Bakery. 

The  Flagstaff Brewery Trail  and mellow live music venues render this mountain town a safe place to meet other international travelers who come to experience Grand Canyon National Park . 

Antelope Canyon, the Navajo Nation ,  and the Instagrammable Horseshoe Bend   are a day trip away.

Where to stay in Flagstaff?

Stay at the new Residence Inn by Marriott right in historic Downtown, so convenient to craft breweries and the Orpheum Theatre’s live concerts.

-Stacey Wittig , Unstoppable Stacey

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh might not have a big reputation as a tourist spot, but recent changes are making ‘The Steel City’ one of the best places to travel alone in the US. The city has gained a reputation for being one of the most livable cities in America. 

Pittsburgh can offer a lot when it comes to travel and photography. What was once purely an industrial town has now blossomed into a fun place to go and visit.

One of the more quirky activities for the solo traveller is the self-guided scavenger hunt .

Work your way through a 15 clue scavenger hunt by yourself or with a team of newly found friends while also exploring the history and sights of Pittsburgh.  

Pittsburgh is set between the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers and where the two rivers intersect the beautiful  Point State Park . The park has walking routes alongside both rivers. 

Recommended tour: Essential Pittsburgh Experience – The One Tour to Take

Across the Allegheny River sits  Heinz Field , home to NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers.

Almost right next to it is PNC Park home of baseball’s Pittsburgh Pirates. Both are among the prettiest sports stadiums in the country

No visit to Pittsburgh would be complete without a trip to one of the cities stunning viewpoints.

The easiest one to reach is  Grandview Overlook  across the Monongahela River. It affords a complete panorama of the whole of the downtown skyline. 

Where to stay in Pittsburgh?

While there a plenty of hotel options within Pittsburgh more affordable options can be found in the township of Moon just outside of the city.  

-Rob, Roam Yonder

Scottsdale, Arizona

One of the best places to travel alone in the United States would have to be Scottsdale, Arizona.

Located just outside Phoenix , there’s almost an endless list of  things to do in Scottsdale , a small but growing city.

With so many museums and guided adventure activities, Scottsdale is a great, safe place to visit as a solo traveler.

Scottsdale is a vast art-centric city with loads of public art, art museums of all types, art “experiences” like Wonderspaces and the Cosanti studio, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site architectural landmark of  Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West . 

Recommended tour: After Dark Desert Tour and Navigating the Night Sky

Additionally, Scottsdale has an extensive network of outdoor preserves with a long list of outdoor activities that would be perfect for solo adventurers:  Kayaking, light hiking trails , guided mountain biking, horseback riding excursions  and so much more.

Where to stay in Scottsdale?

One great place for a solo traveller to stay in Scottsdale would be the Civana Wellness Resort & Spa .

Whether or not you’re into spa life, Civana is excellent for solo travellers because they have an extensive menu of free activities that include guided hikes in nearby deserts, cooking demonstrations, sports and fitness classes, swimming, art classes, and so much more.  

-Ashley Smith,  My Wanderlusty Life

Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman is one of the best places to travel alone in the US. Bozeman is an excellent stop on a Montana road trip or as its destination thanks to the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport.

It is one of the  best places to visit in Montana  due to its city attractions, nearby nature sights, world-class skiing a short drive away, and a friendly vibe that is extended to visitors .

Within the city limits, you’ll find a wide range of things to do, from tastings at craft breweries and distilleries to tasting some of Bozeman’s fine farm to table cuisine to checking out one of the best dinosaur museums in the country:  the Museum of the Rockies.

At night, head to Main Street in downtown Bozeman for some drinks and dancing and the chance to meet some new people or just head to your accommodation for a good night’s rest before waking up early to hit the trails or slopes. 

Recommended tour: Best of Yellowstone Full-Day Private Guided Tour from Bozeman

Solo travelers will find amiable locals to strike up conversations with or the chance to seclude themselves on a remote hiking trail (just bring your bear spray) or while skiing down the slopes at nearby  Big Sky Resort .  

Where to stay in Bozeman?

An excellent option for a place to stay for solo travelers in Bozeman is the Treasure State Hostel , which has both private and shared dorm rooms. 

-Gina Tarnacki, Travel Montana Now

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit is one of the best places to travel alone in the US. The City is an unexpected addition but is a worthy destination for travelers.

Once America’s 5th largest City and widely derided following decades of economic decline is starting to emerge from its dark shadows.

While there remains a long road of progress ahead, a period of mutual investment has seen several of the City’s landmark buildings renovated. A renaissance of this great Michigan city is upon us.

Just a short walk north lies District Detroit, the City’s midtown sports and cultural hub home to all four of Detroit’s major league sports teams and the ornate  Detroit Opera House . Its contemporary and unpretentious bars and restaurants perfect for a refreshment or two.

While Detroit is witness to increased investment and regeneration; it is often the ad hoc  areas of street art and murals  that best reflect a city’s cultural heritage and experiences. Detroit is certainly no exception with colourful paintings spread across the City.

Check out the Eastern Market district or ‘The Belt’  in a former downtown garment district as compelling examples. These are just a fraction of Detroit’s attractions.

Recommended tour: Explore undiscovered beauty of Detroit

For instance, the Motown Museum, the oldest Thanksgiving Parade in the US, its own Pizza and Hot Dog variations, and the addictive feather bowling and you have a city unlike any other.

Just ensure you book your visit before it becomes common knowledge!

Where to stay in Detroit?

Nowhere is this more exemplified than Woodward Avenue in the centre of Detroit where home town watch manufacturer and lifestyle company Shinola has recently opened its first hotel. 

Demonstrating style and quality craftsmanship synonymous with their brand, this has quickly become Detroit’s go-to hotel.

– Paul, The Two That Do

Portland, Oregon

If you want a weird, nature-loving, and trendy experience, Portland, Oregon is one of the best places to travel alone in the US.

Portland is one of the best cities to head to as a solopreneur, considering it’s well below the national average for crime rates compared to other US cities.

While I would personally say that Portland is less of a site-seeing city and more of a town to experience – that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do there! This City’s vibe is off the charts. 

When you first arrive, head over to  Forest Park   – the City’s most prominent. Walk around the miles of trails in beautiful evergreen woods before finishing at the Pittock Mansion for one of the best views of Portland and Mt. Hood. 

When you’ve walked yourself hungry, you can head to any of the great food truck pods (or take a food tour!) around Portland’s trendy neighbourhoods.

The  Pearl District, Mississippi, Hawthorne,  and  Alberta  are all great areas to just walk through and appreciate the weird but awesome (and very different) vibes. 

After this, you can head to the local brewpub for one of the best craft beer scenes you can come across. Also, if you come during the summer, definitely check out the  local farmer’s markets .

Where to stay in Portland?

There are plenty of great accommodation options, but I’d recommend staying in the Pearl District at the McMenamins Crystal Hotel . When you get up the next morning, be sure to walk the three blocks to get your classic Blue Star Doughnuts.

Ashley, Impact Winder

Bayfield, Wisconsin

A town in Northern Wisconsin that is often overseen is Bayfield, which is one of the best places to travel alone in the US.

Bayfield is the gateway to one of the most scenic National Parks in Wisconsin:  the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore .

Also, home to  Madeline Island  and the  Apostle Islands , Bayfield is known as the crown jewel of the Bayfield Peninsula. Bayfield is thus mostly a city for solo travel if you are an outdoor lover.

From here you can set out and explore the beaches of the area, discover the sea caves, rent a kayak or do one of the endless hikes. The City is entirely safe, and thus it’s perfect for solo travelers.

Other things to do here are camping, fishing, visiting pristine orchards and fine dining. No wonder that visiting Bayfield is often considered as one of the  best things to do in Northern Wisconsin .

Don’t forget to do a city walk through Bayfield and fall in love with the historic character of the town. A number are listed on the National Register of historical sites.

Where to stay in Bayfield?

There are plenty of excellent places to choose from in Bayfield. Some of the recommended options are Old Rittenhouse Inn and Pinehurst Inn Bed & Breakfast .

-Paulina, Paulina on the Road

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS IN BOULDER, COLORADO

If you love adventure, one of the best places to travel alone in the US is Boulder, located in the beautiful state of Colorado.

We discovered Boulder on our  Colorado road trip , and it quickly made an impression on us as a hip mountain town with lots of things to do.

Do you know? Boulder is also the home of over 45,000 acres of  designated trails, perfect for hiking or cycling . Just a short while away is the iconic  Rocky Mountain National Park, perfect for Ziplining   and many ski hills.

You could spend a lifetime exploring the mountainous regions around Boulder – it’s truly a one-of-a-kind area.

It is one of the best places for solo travelers in the USA as they can enjoy the plethora of tours Boulder has to offer , the abundance of entertainment options, great hiking, and shopping.

Pearl Street Mall  is where the centre of the action happens in Boulder. It is a hub of restaurants, shops, and street performers.

If you are visiting Boulder for the first time, I highly recommend joining this private guided tour of the highlights of Boulder , where a local expert will show you the best of the city, including Pearl Street Mall, Hotel Boulderado, and Boulder Theater.

Tours of the craft beer scene often descend on the Pearl Street Mall and are a great way for solo travelers to meet other visitors.

Where to stay in Boulder?

We stayed in an RV while exploring Boulder but can suggest Briar Rose Bed & Breakfast for their sustainable practices and great value if you are looking for a low-key place to stay.

Oksana & Max, Drink Tea & Travel

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville in North Carolina is one of the best places to travel alone in the US. Downtown Asheville is busy, arty and bourgeois bohemian.

Pedestrians bump against each other along narrow sidewalks past fair-trade and organic clothing boutiques, crowded cafes, a Three Dog Bakery, and street performers including the ‘World’s Most Okayist’ poet.

The printed page beckons at the  Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar  – three levels of towering stacks, a coffee counter, cheeseboards at tables among the books, and brunch on the patio. 

Dog friendly too. Want to see it all without walking? Greyline Trolley Tours offers a hop-on-hop-off 75-minute round-trip tour of Asheville . 

Recommended tour: Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour

Downtown is cool, but the crowning jewel at Asheville’s edge is the  Biltmore Estates , a six-story castle, built in 1895 by George Vanderbilt. It took six years to construct.

With indoor plumbing, electricity, heating and 43 bathrooms (all unheard of at the time), it was the most technologically advanced house in the country.

Biltmore Estates isn’t only a historic house – it’s a destination. Property around the house is massive: acres of gardens, riding trails (yes, horses on-site), a tourist village with shops and taverns.

Two hotels and a winery complete this entrepreneurial endeavour. In the 1930s, the Vanderbilt family opened the property to visitors (to finance the upkeep), and it’s still owned by family members living somewhere onsite.

Where to stay in Asheville?

One of the best places to stay in Asheville would be Red Roof Inn Asheville West located conveniently.

Sherri Telenko, Dogtrotting

Moab is a city in southern Utah full of adventure and perfect for the nature lover or adrenaline junkie.

It is also one of the best places to travel alone in the US as the City is small, and even a great base to explore the nearby national parks.

One of the best things to do around Moab is to go hiking.

There are hikes in Moab that are outside the national parks (and free) or you can go hiking in  Arches National Park  which is about 10 minutes away or hike in  Canyonlands National Park  which is about 30 minutes away.

This part of Utah has some fantastic scenery, and the best way to see it is to get outside and go for a hike.

Also, visit Corona Arch, which is right outside of Arches.

This hike is a three-mile round trip hike on a trail that also visits Pinto Arch and Bowtie Arch. Corona Arch is impressive standing 105 feet tall and 140 feet wide.

Where to stay in Moab?

You’ll need at least a few nights in Moab to explore which is great because there is a  Moab accommodation  for all budget points.

Some of the recommended options to stay are Castle Valley Inn and Comfort Suites Moab near Arches National Park .

-Nicole, American SW Obessed

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is one of the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

With excellent weather year-round, unique local attractions and fantastic restaurants; you’ll have plenty of options to keep you entertained during your visit. 

Palm Springs is known for its midcentury modern architecture which you will see on prominent display throughout the City.

From the shops and motels along  Palm Canyon Drive  to the apartments and houses in local neighbourhoods, you’ll find the City’s iconic modern architecture around every corner.

If you’d like to experience something unique, Palm Springs, sign up for one of the City’s many architecture tours. You’ll learn all about how Palm Springs became the mecca of modern. 

Palm Springs is also widely known as a destination for shopping.

There are both modern and vintage style boutiques all over the City. If you’re looking to support local artists and designers, head to The Shops at Thirteen Forty-Five found on Palm Canyon Drive, where you’ll find independent and locally owned art galleries, clothing shops, and interior design studios. 

Where to stay in Palm Springs?

If you’re a solo traveler in Palm Springs and looking to socialize or make friends, head down to the pool at your hotel, pool parties are a big thing in Palm Springs, especially if you stay at one of the trendier hotels.

For an especially good time, consider staying at The Saguaro Palm Springs .

The hotel is beautifully decorated, but even more important; it also has a fantastic restaurant and a poolside bar. 

So that’s about the best places to travel alone in the US! Have you visited any of these? Do you have any more recommendations for best US cities for solo travel, or National Parks? Do let us know in the comments below!

-Eden,  Rock a Little Travel

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Solo Traveler’s Guidebook: 16 Tips for an Unforgettable Trip

Last Updated: May 24, 2024 May 24, 2024

Solo travel is a thrilling way to see the world on your own terms. Without other people to plan trips with, you’re free to see every museum and eat in every restaurant you want without anyone slowing you down. 

Before you embark on this mission, it helps to be prepared with a list of tips on how to travel alone safely and enjoyably. In this solo travel guide, we review 16 top tips for anyone traveling by themselves.

Why Travel Solo?

Traveling solo is an empowering experience of self-discovery and adventure . Without the constraints of a companion’s schedule or preferences, you have the freedom to see the world entirely according to your interests and pace. 

Solo travel encourages independence, boosts confidence, and allows for deeper immersion in the local culture, as you are more approachable and likelier to engage with locals. Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or a chance to meet new people, solo travel can provide an unforgettable and enriching experience.

16 Tips for Traveling Alone 

If traveling on your own sounds like the trip of a lifetime and you’re ready to start planning, consider these tips:  

1. Practice With Smaller Activities

Before you embark on a globetrotting adventure, try destinations a little closer to home. Consider a day trip somewhere in your state or a location you’re already familiar with. Activities like dining out and attending events alone can help you get comfortable with solitude, teach you to think on your feet, and boost your situational awareness—all of which are useful when making bigger trips to new, unfamiliar places. 

2. Research Your Destination 

Gathering important information about your destination includes things like checking travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State and researching local customs. Travel advisories, which warn of political upheaval, public health outbreaks, and other risks, enable you to plan your trip as safely as possible. 

Knowledge of local norms, such as dress codes, behavior in cultural sites, and dining etiquette, can prevent unintentional offenses and enhance your travel experience. 

3. Plan an Itinerary

Having a structured plan eliminates guesswork while you travel so you can make the best use of your time. Planning your days in advance ensures you take in all the sights and experiences that time will allow. A detailed itinerary should include travel routes, accommodations, and activities, along with an estimate of when you will arrive at and depart each destination.  

4. Carry Copies of Important Documents

In the unfortunate event that something happens to your passport, visas, identification, or other documents, having photocopies or digital backups can expedite replacing them. Taking this precautionary step can avoid potential legal and logistical issues if you have to travel without the originals. 

5. Insure Your Trip

Insuring your trip provides financial protection and peace of mind if unforeseen events disrupt your getaway. Solo travel insurance reimburses your travel costs for things like medical emergencies , trip cancellations , lost or stolen belongings , and travel delays . In case of illness or injury, having insurance ensures you can access medical care without worrying about high out-of-pocket costs. 

6. Notify Your Bank

If your financial institution sees an unusual charge overseas, they may block your credit card until they can confirm you authorized the purchase. Eliminate the chance of having your card declined by informing your bank in advance where and when you’re traveling. 

7. Stay Connected With Loved Ones

Regular communication with friends, family, or other trustworthy people ensures that someone is aware of your whereabouts in case of emergencies or unexpected situations. Sharing your experiences can also make you feel less isolated, which can be comforting when navigating new environments alone. 

8. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Even if you’ve traveled to a place many times before, it’s wise to keep your guard up. Vigilance helps you recognize and avoid potential dangers, such as unsafe areas, suspicious individuals, or hazardous situations. By staying alert, you can better navigate unfamiliar environments, spot opportunities, and make informed decisions quickly.

9. Respect the Local Culture 

Learning about local cultures in advance and adhering to their norms when traveling shows cultural sensitivity and appreciation, which can help you have more meaningful connections with people and a more fulfilling trip. Learn basic practices such as dining etiquette and clothing styles to ensure you’re being considerate. 

10. Learn Important Phrases

Knowing several common phrases, such as greetings, asking for directions, or requesting help can make your journey significantly easier. Locals will likely appreciate the effort you showed in learning their language, plus it simplifies navigating unfamiliar settings. Using key phrases can also make you feel more confident and self-reliant, which are important when traveling solo.  

11. Pack Light

Packing light enhances your mobility and reduces the physical and mental burden of managing heavy luggage. With fewer items to carry, you can move more freely, whether navigating crowded airports , boarding public transportation, or walking through bustling streets. A lighter load minimizes fatigue and stress, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your journey and exploring new places. 

12. Use Technology Wisely

Efficiently using technology means knowing when to use your devices and conserving power when they’re not necessary. Social media is great for staying connected and travel apps provide easy access to maps, translation tools, and local recommendations, but these all drain your battery. Consider saving your social media posts and other non-essential uses until you’re somewhere you can charge your phone.     

13. Be Open to New Friends

Although you’re traveling solo, it’s exciting to have some companionship along the way. Meeting new people can lead to spontaneous adventures and can provide safety in numbers. The bonds forged while traveling are often ones that endure long after the trip. 

14. Take Care of Your Body

Good health ensures you have the stamina to fully enjoy your travel experience. Injuries and fatigue can slow you down, and it can be challenging to find reliable medical care in many parts of the world. Staying hydrated; eating nutritious, balanced meals; and getting adequate rest are all crucial to maintaining your health while journeying by yourself. 

15. Bring a First Aid Kit

Even the best preventive measures aren’t 100% effective, so you may get sick or injured on a trip. Having a first-aid kit with basic medical supplies on hand allows you to quickly deal with cuts, scrapes, headaches, or digestive issues and minimize disruptions to your travel. You’ll want to pack your kit in a compact, waterproof container to keep it protected and accessible. 

16. Have a Backup Plan 

Contingency plans in case of transportation delays, lost belongings, or issues with your accommodations can save a lot of hassle while you’re traveling. Avoid disruptions and maintain peace of mind by having a backup in case your initial plans fall through. Your Plan B can also be a source of excitement you didn’t expect.  When you’re ready to travel solo, keep yourself and your trip safe with travel insurance from Squaremouth . Our policies ensure you make your way with confidence, knowing you’re covered in case of flight delays, illness, and many other issues.

Written by Casey Clague

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

05/07/2024 by Kristin Addis 28 Comments

The United States is gorgeous, from sea to shining sea. I love being from such a huge and varied country with all kinds of different landscapes, cultures, and sights.

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

So for those who want to test out solo traveling at home before they go abroad, or if you’re from elsewhere and want to see what the US has to offer, these are some of my favorites in the USA:

Table of Contents

1. Maui, Hawaii

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

I thought I would be surrounded by honeymooners, but I actually found that people were very outgoing and friendly, coupled off or not. I highly recommend Hawaii solo (read which island would suit you best for a first visit ), much to my surprise!

Check out our favorite boutique hotels in Maui here.

2. The Big Island of Hawaii

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

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

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

-READ MORE-

The perfect Hawai’i Big Island itinerary

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

3. Alabama Hills, California

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

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

From here, you can easily explore Death Valley (best in winter ) or head north to Lake Tahoe .

The ultimate Alabama Hills, California guide

4. San Francisco, California

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

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

Book your stay in San Francisco here.

5. Big Sur, California

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

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

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

Book your stay in Big Sur here.

6. Lake Tahoe, California

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

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

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

7. Mendocino, California

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

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

8. Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington

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

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

9. Seattle, Washington

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

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

Book your stay in Seattle here.

10. Portland, Oregon

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

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

11. Las Vegas, Nevada

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

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

It’s also a great spot to start if you’re doing a bigger American Southwest road trip , which was one of my first big solo road trips , including Utah and Arizona .

12. Reno, Nevada

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

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

13. Page, Arizona

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

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

14. Moab, Utah

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

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

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

15. Sun Valley, Idaho

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

Sun Valley is a quaint town with fantastic skiing and snowshoeing, natural hot springs , and locals who are more than happy to have a conversation with visitors and newcomers. In the summertime, it’s great for hiking and mountain biking.

If you want to venture outside of Sun Valley , there are tons of amazing hot springs to check out, like my favorite, Kirkham .

16. Glacier National Park, Montana

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

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

17. Santa Fe, New Mexico

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

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

18. Bayfield, Wisconsin

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

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

19. Chicago, Illinois

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

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

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

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

20. Detroit, Michigan

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

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

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

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

21. New Orleans, Louisiana

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

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

22. Austin, Texas

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

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

23. Big Bend, Texas

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

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

24. Nashville, Tennessee

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

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

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

25. Islamorada, Florida

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

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

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

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

26. Miami, Florida

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

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

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

27. Savannah, Georgia

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

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

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

28. Washington, DC

Our nation’s capital city is undoubtedly the mega-hub for incredible historical sites and museums, such as those at the National Mall . I grew up coming here and interned for a summer in DC, and honestly, DC is super cool if you love history (which I do!).

Personally, I prefer going to museums solo, so I can move through each exhibit at my own pace. I’m that girl that needs to read every placard and see every little thing, so going by myself gives me the freedom to do that without holding anybody else up.

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

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

29. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

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

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

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

30. Hudson Valley, New York

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

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

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

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

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support us at no extra cost to you when you purchase through them. We only recommend products we love and use ourselves. Your trust always comes first!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Ijana Loss says

01/21/2018 at 7:31 am

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

Kristin says

01/22/2018 at 2:22 am

Which is a rarity back home, but I agree!

01/21/2018 at 3:32 pm

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

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

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

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

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

I’d love to visit the Keys

02/27/2018 at 6:25 am

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

04/25/2019 at 3:58 am

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

Brittany Quaglieri says

01/22/2018 at 11:37 am

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

03/15/2018 at 11:08 am

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

JD White says

03/23/2018 at 10:46 pm

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

03/25/2018 at 8:20 pm

Feel free to add them here!

Alissa M says

05/28/2018 at 4:17 pm

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

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

05/29/2018 at 12:51 am

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

03/28/2019 at 11:46 pm

Hi Kristin,

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

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

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

Thank a lot advance. Leu

04/01/2019 at 5:14 pm

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

George Fox-Edwards says

04/30/2019 at 5:49 am

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

05/01/2019 at 6:23 pm

Moab is soooo awesome!

Solo Female Traveler says

09/13/2019 at 8:29 pm

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

09/16/2019 at 1:37 am

John Harper says

01/11/2020 at 4:42 am

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

01/12/2020 at 9:32 pm

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

02/07/2021 at 6:36 pm

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

02/09/2021 at 9:43 am

Denise says

09/12/2021 at 10:57 am

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

Mikaela says

03/02/2022 at 8:54 pm

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

03/07/2022 at 10:09 am

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

Chrish Smith says

03/02/2022 at 9:55 pm

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

03/07/2022 at 10:07 am

12/01/2023 at 6:13 am

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

How To Travel Alone: 10 Legitimately Helpful Tips for First-Timers

• Traveling solo can be just as fulfilling as traveling with family or friends with proper planning and budgeting. Step out of your comfort zone for a real adventure.
• Choose a destination that is friendly to solo travelers, with tourism industries and English-speaking locals. Connect with locals and other travelers to enrich your experience.
• Plan ahead, pre-book activities, and consider whether to have an independent trip or a small group tour. Find the best and cheapest way of accessing money, and remember to buy travel insurance. Stay connected and do something unforgettable.

Many people love to travel in groups, especially with families. It makes the trip lively, more fun, and memorable. There are also so many amazing places a family can visit on a budget . But traveling solo can also be as fulfilling as traveling with family or friends. Although it may be intimidating at first, with proper planning and budget, it can be the best trip ever. Feeling anxious to travel alone is normal, just like any other new experience. However, the real adventure starts once someone steps out of their comfort zone.

One gets many questions when a family member announces their intention to travel alone. Some of the concerns they and their loved ones may have are how much they will spend, where they’ll go, how they’ll get there, and where they will stay. These questions make budgeting for the trip feasible. This article shares some tips that answer these questions and help individuals successfully plan their first solo trip.

Choose A Friendly Destination For Solo Travelers

One of the top tips for traveling alone is to choose a place friendly to solo travelers that they can easily explore on their own. Interestingly, there are so many places travelers can visit alone . Some countries are easy to tour as solo travelers, and others are great for group travel. When picking a place, choose one that has many tourism industries. This means that the destination is ready to host travelers. That way, one can easily navigate around with their public transportation. Also, most of these places speak English, meaning one can easily communicate with others even if English isn’t their native language.

• Suggestions : Paris, Iceland, San Diego, Thailand, Malaysia and California

RELATED: 20 Questionable Places On Earth Where We Shouldn't Ever Travel Alone

Connect With Locals And Other Travelers

One of the easy ways for first-time solo travelers to enrich their experience is to make new connections during their visit. Connecting with locals can lead to meaningful friendships and a better understanding of where one is touring. Check out festivals, concerts, exhibitions, and other events that offer opportunities to interact with the community. Staying in hostels, guest houses, or co-living places is a chance to meet other travelers and learn while sharing experiences. Learn how to start conversations with strangers, as it is key to connect with people.

Think About the Local Language

One should first consider their language and the countries that speak that language. For instance, if a traveler only speaks English, traveling to somewhere like Russia may not be ideal as many people don’t speak the language. Instead, opt for countries where English is a national language . Considering the local language people in the chosen destination speak is always wise. If someone picks rural China for the first trip and doesn’t speak Chinese, it will be difficult.

When visiting a country that only speaks a foreign language , Use translation apps and memorize some phrases beforehand.

RELATED: Language Guide: Can You Travel Abroad Knowing Only English?

Pre-book Activities

There are many reasons to choose a particular destination. For instance, many people touring New York City want to visit the Statue of Liberty . But imagine traveling all the way here and being told it's fully booked. How disappointing can that be? It's wise to book the attractions ahead of time to avoid such. The same applies to restaurants and tours.

Be sure of a place before buying the ticket.

Decide Whether To Have An Independent Trip Or A Small Group Tour

After settling on a destination, the next thing to decide is whether to travel independently or on an organized tour. Both have advantages, and depending on one's needs, one may be suitable over the other. There are many travel companies offering group travel. However, individuals must do thorough research before settling on the group tour. A midlife solo traveler will not want to share a bus with Gen Z party lovers. Think about convenience and logistics. A group tour may take most of the burden from a traveler since the trip is organized by someone else. But, one may lose independence and may not feel they belong.

Do both. Book a group tour for anchoring the trip, then travel independently once at the destination.

After deciding on the destination, start planning early. Look for flight prices and compare them to get a good deal. Prepare the most important travel documents to carry when traveling and plan how to navigate around after landing. Also, have a backup plan. Please note that things may sometimes go differently than planned. Flights can be delayed/canceled, and public transportation can go off schedule. Have all the information about flights and accommodation contacts. Then, think of a backup plan. If a taxi isn’t available, can one use a taxi? If the flight is delayed, carry an extra pair of essentials.

Work with a reasonable budget when planning.

RELATED: 10 Safety Tips To Be Aware Of When Traveling Alone

Find The Best And Cheapest Way Of Accessing Money Before Traveling

Technology has made it easier to access money and make payments from anywhere. Many destinations offer ATMs, and businesses these days accept cards. In some places, one will need to write cheques or wire transfers. Also, remember that cards are not equal, and some charge exorbitant fees, which can break the bank. For this reason, it’s best to get one of the best cards for travelers and also research cheap ways to access money when traveling.

Compare different forms of payment accepted in a destination and pick an affordable option.

Buy Travel Insurance

For first-time solo travelers, please note that the insurance of one’s home country isn’t accepted abroad. So, if a person gets hurt or falls sick and they have to be treated, or their items get lost or stolen, they will cater to the expenses themselves. But since that can be expensive, travel insurance can reduce the financial burden. In most cases, travelers don’t get injured or robbed when traveling, but it is always important to have travel insurance in case the worst happens.

Some credit cards provide enough coverage, so read the small print carefully.

RELATED: How To Choose The Right Travel Insurance Company When Planning Your Trip

Stay Connected

Traveling solo encourages independence, but please remember to stay connected with friends and family. Regardless of where one travels, they should always disclose their whereabouts to someone. Get a local SIM card upon arrival. It will make communication more straightforward, and navigating around will be more comfortable. One can use the SIM card to book an Uber and use Google Maps to their location.

Remember to share the new number with the most important people.

Do Something Unforgettable

Solo traveling allows one to be adventurous and try out something new. This is the perfect time to do things not part of the daily routine. Instead of everyday activities like swimming or relaxing on the beach, try watching whales or any water sport. There are many destinations with great whale-watching opportunities for solo travelers. Take pictures of the details in a place, even if they are minimal. Have something to look back on and recall that destination.

Bring a selfie stick to help get different angles.

Solo Trip To Hawaii: The Ultimate Guide (From A Local!)

By Bridget Gutierrez. This guide to traveling solo in Hawaii contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Are you considering a solo trip to Hawaii ?

If so, then you’re in the right place!

As a Hawaii local who knows the ins and outs of the islands, I’ve created the ultimate guide to help you make the most of your trip.

From choosing which island to visit to finding local activities and booking the best solo travel tours in Hawaii, keep reading to learn everything you need to know to have an authentic experience.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or both, this guide will provide you with the best advice and recommendations from a local.

⏳Short on time? Here are some quick tips for visiting Hawaii solo: 🚘 Car Rental: Discover Cars  (save up to 70%!) 💸 Save Money: If visiting Oahu, get the Go City: Oahu All-Inclusive Pass to get access to 40+ local attractions and tours for one low price. 🏨 Accommodation: This accommodation map shows a mix of hotels and vacation rentals with prices. It’s currently set to the North Shore of Oahu, but you can easily change it to your preferred island and heighborhood. 🎉 Experiences: You can see a list of guided Hawaii tours here . A few top picks include: – Turtle Canyon Catamaran Snorkel Cruise (Honolulu, Oahu) – Eye-Level Whale Watching Eco-Raft Tour (Lahaina, Maui) – Volcanoes National Park Safari (Hilo, Big Island) ☔ Safety: While Hawaii is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves 🏥  Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing (budget-friendly) & World Nomads (robust) 📞  Staying Connected:  Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Travel Solo To Hawaii With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we get into how to plan a solo trip to Hawaii, I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn how to travel solo in Hawaii.

Is Hawaii Safe To Travel Alone?

Yes, traveling to Hawaii alone is safe, especially as the destination has a lower crime rate than many other US states.

In fact, according to SafeWise , Hawaii’s violent crime is lower than the national average, and it’s one of only 15 states to continuously see a decrease in violent crime rates.

In short, as a tourist, you’ll likely feel very safe exploring Hawaii alone — though, of course, crime does still occur.

This is why it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuables, and do your research so you know of any local scams or concerns to be aware of.

Where Is Hawaii?

Hawaii is a beautiful and unique state in the middle of the Pacific Ocean .

Made up of a chain of islands that include Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island , Hawaii boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.

The islands are known for their stunning natural beauty — with gorgeous beaches, lush rainforests, and towering volcanoes.

If you’re wondering where it is on the map, Hawaii is about 2,500 miles southwest of Los Angeles, California.

Getting To Hawaii

Getting to Hawaii may seem daunting, but it can be a breeze with some planning and preparation.

The best way to reach Hawaii is by plane, with several airlines offering direct flights from major cities in the United States and worldwide. Some popular airlines that fly to Hawaii include Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines.

If you’re flying from the mainland United States , you can fly directly to Honolulu International Airport on Oahu.

Hawaii has two international airports:

• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Oahu (HNL)
• Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole in Hawaii (KOA)

From there, you can catch a connecting flight to one of the other islands.

Getting Around Hawaii As A Solo Traveler 

When you arrive in Hawaii, transportation options include rental cars, taxis, shuttles, and public transportation.

Renting a car in Hawaii

One of the best ways to see the sights during solo travel in Hawaii is renting a car, which will give you the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace.

It’s recommended to check out Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental car options.

Public transportation in Hawaii

However, if you feel uncomfortable driving or would prefer not to rent a car, other options exist — such as public transportation, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, and even biking or walking, depending on where you’re staying.

If you’re staying in Honolulu, the bus is an excellent option as it covers most areas of the city and is the most affordable option.

Taxis are also available — but can be expensive, especially for longer distances.

Biking around Hawaii

Biking is a fun way to explore some of the more scenic areas of Hawaii, such as the North Shore of Oahu or the famous Ke Ala Hele Makālae bike path along the east coast of Kauai.

If you have a motorcycle license, a more adventurous option is renting a moped to explore independently. This allows you to see Hawaii on your own time while really immersing yourself in the scenery.

Hawaii Solo Travel Map

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a map. It has most of the main points and solo activities mentioned in this guide to Hawaii solo female travel pre-plotted:

You can also click here for the interactive version .

Popular Solo Travel Destinations In Hawaii

On that note, let’s go over some of the best places to go when you travel Hawaii solo.

The following destinations are safe, fun, and have a lot to offer those doing a solo trip to Hawaii.

Honolulu, Oahu

The first Hawaii solo female travel destination on the list is Honolulu, a city on the island of Oahu, which is full of fun things to do.

Honolulu is the best place to travel in Hawaii alone for first-time solo female travelers looking for a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. 

The city is known for its historic landmarks, vibrant food and shopping scenes, and beautiful beaches for a memorable solo beach trip .

One must-visit place in Honolulu is Waikiki Beach , where you can relax on the sand, catch some waves, or enjoy the  city’s nightly scene .

If you want to explore Honolulu’s natural beauty, hike up Diamond Head — a 300,000-year-old dormant volcano — to get panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.

If hiking is not your thing, drive up to Puu Ualakaa State Park , an underrated lookout point offering amazing views of the city and one-of-a-kind views of Diamond Head.

For a taste of Hawaiian culture and history during your solo travel in Hawaii experience, head to the Iolani Palace or the Bishop Museum.

You can take a guided tour of the Iolani Palace — a royal residence — to learn about the history of the Hawaiian monarchy. The monarchs played an important role in Hawaiian history, and their legacy is still celebrated and remembered today.

Alternatively, the Bishop Museum showcases an extensive collection of Hawaiian history, local culture, and natural history. Popular exhibits include Hawaiian voyaging, the Hawaiian language, and the cultural traditions of the Hawaiian people.

Honolulu truly offers the best of city and beach lifestyle.

Honolulu Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Honolulu . Honolulu Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Honolulu .

North Shore, Oahu

If you are a solo female traveler looking for a laid-back and authentic Hawaiian experience, the North Shore of Oahu is the best place. This is where you’ll find many local things to do in Oahu , which is one of the more popular Hawaiian islands.

North Shore is great for relaxing and unwinding on its stunning beaches and lush landscapes.

The area is known for its world-class surfing during the winter season, though there is plenty to do beyond the waves.

Love hiking? Some beautiful moderate trails are Waimea Valley Trail — which takes you to the magnificent 30-foot Waimea Falls — and Ehukai Pillbox Hike , which offers beautiful views over the North Shore after taking you past several WWII “pillbox” bunkers.

If you love to explore underwater, you must go snorkeling in Pupukea Beach Park at Shark’s Cove — known for its shallow, calm, and clear water as well as its abundant marine life and sea creatures. While there aren’t actually sharks here, lucky visitors may get to see angelfish, butterflyfish, moray eels, and octopuses. It’s the perfect spot for beginner snorkelers.

After a day at the beach, head across the street to the local food trucks for lunch plates and poke bowls.

You can also find an abundance of food trucks in Haleiwa Town — which is also known for its surfing — and in Kauhuku .

A must-try is garlic shrimp from Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Haleiwa. Just make sure to bring cash and be prepared for a long line — though it’s totally worth the wait!

The relaxed pace of life in North Shore makes it easy for travelers to connect with locals and other visitors, whether at a farmers’ market or the beach watching the sunset.

Oahu North Shore Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Oahu North Shore . Oahu North Shore Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Oahu North Shore .

If you want adventure and relaxation, Maui is perfect for a solo vacation to Hawaii and is one of the best islands for solo travel .

Compared to Oahu, Maui is more rural and offers a more tranquil atmosphere with its scenic drives along the coast.

Maui offers the best hotels in Hawaii for solo travelers, from hostels to vacation rentals to budget-friendly hotels.

Solo travelers will find that Maui’s friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere make it easy to form connections and find adventure. Plus, the island is known for its natural attractions — including a volcano, secluded beaches, waterfalls, and even whale watching .

The best things to do in Maui are the scenic Road to Hana and visiting the Haleakala National Park.

Road to Hana is a 64-mile coastal road known as the Hana Highway that officially starts in Kahului and ends in Hana. Along the way, you can stop at waterfalls, black-sand beaches, local fruit stands, and farm-to-table restaurants.

While there are countless stops and sights to explore along the way, there are three must-see spots that should not be missed:

• Twin Falls is a beautiful waterfall with swimming pools. You can reach the falls via a relatively easy 1.8-mile hike just off the main road.
• Hana Farms Roadside Stand is a great mid-point stop to eat at before continuing the 34 miles left on the Road to Hana. This outdoor farm-to-table cafe serves healthy dishes made with local ingredients and fresh produce. I recommend trying out their beef brisket or kale pork farm plates. You can also buy freshly baked goods like banana bread and brownies, ice cream, produce, nut butter, and more.
• Waianapanapa State Park is a black sand beach where you can do much more than just swim. Visitors can explore a small cave on the right of the beach. On the other side of the beach, to your left, you’ll find a hiking trail that winds through the lava rock. The park does require a reservation to enter the park.

Within Haleakala National Park , you can book a bike tour to watch an awe inspiring sunrise at the Haleakala summit — 10,000 feet above sea level! Watching the sunrise while you are above the clouds is a one-of-a-kind experience, and afterwards you can do some downhill biking to experience the area’s natural beauty in a fun and active way.

The park is also full of hiking trails. One recommended trail is Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail , a moderate 3.8-mile hike that takes you to a gorgeous 400-foot tall waterfall.

You can view a full list of top Haleakala National Park hiking trails here.

If you’re wanting a peaceful solo travel in Hawaii experience removed from the big city vibes, then you can’t go wrong with Maui.

Maui Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Maui . Maui Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Maui .

Known as the “Garden Island” because of its lush tropical landscapes, Kauai is the perfect tourist destination for solo travelers who love the great outdoors and don’t mind getting rained on.

The rural island is known for its beautiful hiking trails, with only 10% of the land accessible by car.

Hikers should head to  Waimea Canyon State Park — known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” This is because it resembles the famous Grand Canyon with its reddish hues — Waimea (“reddish water”) refers to the canyon’s red soil erosion — and massive size at 10 miles long and up to 3,000 feet deep.

The extreme rainfall on Mount Waialeale formed the canyon , which is one of the wettest places on Earth.

Prefer biking? Don’t miss the Ke Ala Hele Makālae bike path , an easy trail along the island’s Royal Coconut Coast, a nickname given to Kauai’s East Side due to its abundance of coconut groves.

And if you want to zipline, head to Koloa on the South Shore to go ziplining on Kauai’s longest zipline course. You can fly like a superhero along a 1000-foot zipline through lush forest and over the Waita Reservoir.

Beyond the above-mentioned adventures, a trip to Kauai is not complete until you see the Na Pali Coastline . These beautiful emerald-hued cliffs stretch for 17 miles, and can only be seen via hiking, helicopter, or boat.

The best time to do a Na Pali Coast boat tour is during a summer morning, as this is when the water conditions are the calmest.

Boat tours leave from Hanalei (only in summer months) on the North Shore as well as Port Allen on the South Shore. If possible, opt for Hanalei as you’ll reach the Na Pali Coast from here. Expect the boat tour to be about 4-5.5 hours long. You can choose to go on a catamaran or a motorized raft.

Another option is a Kauai helicopter tour , which offers stunning views over Waimea Canyon, Mount Waialeale, Na Pali Coast, and a few other spots. You can choose from “doors on” or the more popular “door-off” option — which provides unobstructed views and is great for taking stunning photos of Kauai.

Experienced hikers will love the challenge of trekking the 11-mile (one way) Na Pali Coast (Kalalau) Trail , which begins at Ha’ena State Park at Ka’a Beach and takes about 3 days to complete. Note that it requires a permit to hike and camp that must be booked in advance as the limited reservations sell out fast.

Even if you only hike a few miles of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views.

Now, I’m sure you’re curious: which of these options for seeing the Na Pali Coast is best? In my opinion, the boat, as it is a longer tour and is way more affordable than a helicopter tour and way easier than a hike.

Kauai Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Kauai . Kauai Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Kauai .

Hawai’i, aka Big Island

If you are a backcountry lover and want to explore not one, but two volcanos — one of which is active — Hawaii is the island for you.

Big Island is the largest island out of all eight major Hawaiian islands, with the two main areas to visit being Kona and Hilo .

Hawaii is home to Manua Kea , the largest volcano on Earth, and Kilauea , the most active volcano, located in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

If you’re wondering whether visiting the Big Island with an active volcano is safe, the short answer is yes! While this may sound dangerous, the reality is that the area around the volcano is well-monitored, and visitors are typically kept at a safe distance.

The best things to do in Hawaii alone are to:

• go on a whale watching tour
• hike the scenic and historic King’s Trail (and other Big Island hikes )
• go snorkeling with manta rays
• take a helicopter tour of the Kilauea Volcano
• Just make sure to check if lava is flowing during your visit

Another interesting way to see lava flowing is aboard an evening lava boat tour , which gets you up close to the action.

Alternatively, you can go on a scenic drive along Chain of Craters Road , which provides the best view of the huge hardened lava flows year-round. On this road, you can stop at different points like Thurston Lava Tube , Halemaumau Crater , Devil’s Throat Crater , and Holei Sea Arch .

Big Island is also known for its coffee, particularly in Kailua-Kona . You can visit farms along the Kona Coffee Belt — like Greenwell Farms and Mountain Thunder Coffee — to tour the plantations, learn more about the production process, and taste local coffees.

There is also this in-depth Kona tour , which takes you to a coffee plantation, a bee farm, Kealakekua Bay, and Kaloko-Honokohau Park.

And if you’re just looking to kick back and relax, Big Island has plenty of luxurious resorts and spas where you can unwind — like Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection , a beachfront resort on the Kohala Coast that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

With three swimming pools and a beautiful beach, there are plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the sun. And for a truly indulgent experience, treat yourself to a massage or facial at the resort’s sumptuous spa.

The hotel also has several dining options to suit any taste, from casual family-style dining to farm-to-table Japanese-inspired dishes.

At Mauna Lani, you will surely receive exceptional service that will make your stay comfortable and memorable.

Big Island Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Big Island . Big Island Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Big Island .

Advice For Solo Dining In Hawaii

Does the thought of eating alone during your solo trip to Hawaii make you feel self-conscious? Here are a few tips:

Bring an activity. Bringing a book or other enjoyable activity can give you something to focus on while dining.

Sit at the bar. It often feels less awkward to sit at a bar alone than a table. Bonus: you’ll have the bartender to chat with if you’d like someone to talk to.

Dine outside of main meal times. This will allow you to dine solo with less people around.

Opt for a food tour. There are many food tours in Hawaii , which have the added benefit of allowing you to meet other travelers and get insider knowledge from your tour guide.

Focus on your food and enjoy. At the end of the day, realize that nobody besides you is focused on the fact that you’re eating alone in Hawaii. So instead of caring what others may or may not think about you sitting on your own, focus on the delicious food in front of you.

Tips For Planning A Solo Trip To Hawaii

Now let’s chat about some important things to keep in mind during solo female travel in Hawaii.

1) Choose the right island. Each Hawaiian island offers a unique experience, so choosing the island that best fits your interests and travel style is essential.

For instance, Oahu and Maui are popular choices for solo travelers, with plenty of activities and reliable transportation options.

If you are visiting Hawaii alone and want a more rural environment to go hiking and camping, Kauai and Hawaii (also called the Big Island) are great options.

Once you pick an island, research its popular areas so that you can choose a centrally-located accommodation near to the things you want to do on your solo trip to Hawaii.

2) Be respectful. Hawaii has unique cultures and customs, so being respectful and aware of local traditions is essential. Also, respecting locals, nature, and sacred sights is crucial.

Here are few additional local tips for showing respect:

• When a car gives you the right way to pass, it’s a nice gesture to shaka 🤙🏽
• Saying aloha (hello) and mahalo (thank you) goes a long way
• Never touch or get too close to wildlife — it’s illegal!

3) Research local transportation. To make traveling to Hawaii solo easier, figure out your transportation method. Not all Hawaii islands have public transportation, and renting a car is always the best option if you’re comfortable driving.

Again, you can use Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

Another excellent choice for solo travelers wanting to see the sights without renting a car is to book a tour.

Here is a full list of top-rated tours in Hawaii .

4) Know how to stay safe on a solo trip to Hawaii. Hawaii is generally a safe destination for solo travelers; however, it’s essential to take precautions like:

• Pack important travel safety essentials
• Stick to well-lit areas at night, avoid isolated beaches or trails, and stay aware of your surroundings
• If you plan on hiking or participating in outdoor activities alone, let someone know where you’ll be and when you expect to return
• Pay attention to any warning signs at the beach or at the beginning of the hiking trails
• Consider joining tours to meet other travelers and enhance your Hawaii experience

By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy all that Hawaii offers while staying safe during your solo travels.

What Does Hawaii Solo Travel Cost?

The cost of solo female travel to Hawaii can vary widely depending on your travel budget , trip style, and the length of your stay. That being said, the average weekly cost is about $2500 to $5000.

Here is a cost breakdown for a solo trip to Hawaii :

Accommodation:

• Hostel dorm bed: $45 per night
• 3-star hotel room: $150 per night

Transportation:

• Car rentals: $50 to $150 per day
• Moped rentals: $50 per day for a 7-day rental
• Bus ride: $2.50
• Hawaiian shave ice: $5-$10
• Fast food plate: $10-15
• Restaurant entree: $22-50 

Excursions:  Hawaii offers a wide range of activities for free. If you want to do a tour, prices can vary widely; but, expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $200+ per activity.

A solo trip to Hawaii is expensive, but it’s worth visiting. To reduce costs, consider visiting outside of peak season — which is typically late December through March — and booking your flights and hotels a few months in advance.

Do You Need Travel Insurance For Hawaii?

When visiting Hawaii—or anywhere else in the world—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel To Hawaii

Now let’s go over a few common questions about planning a solo trip to Hawaii.

Q) Is Hawaii safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Absolutely! Hawaii is generally safe for solo female travelers, and you can enjoy exploring this beautiful destination alone.

You’ll likely have a worry-free trip if you take standard precautions — such as staying aware of your surroundings, keeping your belongings close, and avoiding isolated areas after dark.

Plus, the locals in Hawaii are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, so you’ll feel right at home in no time.

Q) W hat is the best Hawaiian island for solo travel?

Oahu is often considered the best place in Hawaii for solo travel. It offers endless outdoor activities, museums, and iconic landmarks like Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor — which provide an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii.

For those seeking relaxation, Oahu has some of the  best beaches in Hawaii, including Waikiki Beach and Lanikai Beach. Also, getting around the island is much easier than the other islands.

Q) What is the best time to visit Hawaii?

The best time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder seasons of May to early June or September to mid-December. During these times, you can get score great deals while avoiding the crowds.

Hawaii’s climate is relatively consistent year-round, so you can expect warm temperatures and occasional rainfall no matter when you visit.

Q) What is the most affordable Hawaiian island to visit?

Oahu is often considered the most affordable island to visit. One of the reasons for this is that the island has a diverse range of accommodations — including hostels, hotels, and vacation rentals, making it easier to find affordable lodging options.

Additionally, Oahu has an excellent public transportation system that can take you anywhere on the island without spending too much.

Q) Can you drink tap water in Hawaii?

Yes, tap water in Hawaii is generally safe to drink. The water in Hawaii comes from the onshore aquifers or accumulated underground rainwater.

Due to its natural porous volcanic rock filtration, no fluoride is added to water; however, the taste of tap water can vary depending on the location and the source of the water.

Final Thoughts On Going To Hawaii Alone 

Hawaii is a fantastic destination for solo travelers. As we’ve explored, Hawaii is generally safe for solo female travelers, with plenty of activities to suit various interests and budgets.

Whether you’re looking to relax on a beach, hike to a scenic waterfall, or explore the local food scene, Hawaii has something to offer.

From the stunning natural beauty of Maui to the bustling city life of Oahu, each Hawaiian island has its own unique charm.

While getting to Hawaii may require some planning, many airlines offer direct flights from major cities worldwide. Plus, once you arrive, getting around as a solo traveler is relatively easy — with plenty of transportation options available.

And with Hawaii’s consistently warm weather, there’s always a right time to visit, whether seeking a peaceful escape or an exciting adventure.

In short, consider the Hawaiian islands for your next solo trip!

What are your top tips for planning a solo trip to Hawaii?

Enjoyed this guide to solo female travel in Hawaii ? Pin it for later!

About The Author

Bridget is a mindful travel blogger based in Oahu, Hawaii. On her blog, bridgetgutierrez.com , you’ll find in-depth travel guides and helpful tips to help you travel to Oahu. Follow her travels on  Instagram . 

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Wow, what an amazing experience! I’m so jealous! I’ve always wanted to take a solo trip to Hawaii and it sounds like you had a great time. I’m sure you made some amazing memories that will last a lifetime. Thanks for sharing your story!

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Moscow Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Moscow , Russia? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• The capital and largest city of Russia, with a population of over 12.6 million .
• Russia’s financial and political center, Moscow is the seat of the nation’s power. Some animosity exists between residents of Moscow (and the rest of the country), as the city receives the lion’s share of attention and infrastructure investment.
• Nicknames: Third Rome, Whitestone, The First Throne, The Forty Forties.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB).
• Spoken languages: primarily  Russian ( English is popular among the younger generations).
• Best time to visit: from  May to October for clear blue skies, long days and crisp weather. A warm jacket is advised for wear in the evening to ward off the chill. Winters can be brutal for the unprepared.
• Arriving via airport: Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) handles most of the international flights and is connected to the city centre with Aeroexpress rail from Belorussky Railway Terminal for standard tickets of 320 RUB, or taxi rides costing 1100 RUB.
• Update : now that foreign-issued Visa/Mastercard no longer work in Russia, make sure you bring enough cash with you for the trip.

WHERE TO STAY

• The most important thoroughfare is Tverskaya, an artery that throbs with cafés, bars and restaurants as well as cultural sights.
• Accommodation along the Boulevard Ring guarantees easy access to major landmarks and transportation links.
• Some of the best budget accommodation can be found in the quaint neighborhood of Kitai-Gorod (“China Town”) near the Red Square .

GETTING AROUND

• The city is best understood as radiating outwards from the Kremlin, the heart of the city, in a sequence of concentric “rings.”
• Moscow’s extensive public transportation system covers major areas of the city and is an inexpensive way to cross big distances through underground metro, trolleybus, tram and bus.
• The metro (subway) network is extensive, and can get you to just about any point of interest in the city. Public transport tickets are 55 RUB (for metro, trolleybus, tram, bus). Metro tickets with unlimited transfers for 90 minutes are 65 RUB. 24-hour tickets cost 230 RUB.
• There are two types of taxis in Moscow: official and Chastniki  (unlicensed). Furthermore, Muscovites are known to offer rides to strangers for a fee so visitors needn’t worry about finding rides. Always negotiate the fare before setting off. Call 499 922-06-74 or 739-52-25 for English speaking operators.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• The Cathedral of the Protection of Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat, better known as St. Basil’s Cathedral ,   is Moscow’s most famous landmark. Built by Ivan the Terrible, its construction finished in 1560 and serves to commemorate the capture of Kazan.
• The Kremlin is the heart of Russia, a link to the country’s most important historical events beginning the 13 th century. Overlooking the Moskva River and imposing on the city’s other cultural landmarks such as the Red Square, the fortified complex is now the residence of the President of the Russian Federation.
• The Institute of Russian Realist Art (IRRA) hosts acclaimed collections of Soviet art, including works by its most outstanding masters such as Plastov, Gerasimov and Nissky.
• Ostankino Tower offers unobstructed views of the city from 340 meters above ground.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Take in the energy of the city from the Red Square , Moscow’s city centre. With the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Resurrection Gate and many more attractions, the square is the city’s most important address.
• Discover the dozens of churches along Varvarka Ulitsa , the city’s oldest street.
• Explore Gorky Park and its amusement rides and formal gardens. In the winter, the park becomes a skating rink popular for its music and lights, while in the summer open-air events take place near the banks of the river.
• Stroll through Izmaylovo Market and admire the iconic matryoshka dolls and ushanka fur hats.

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Solo Traveler

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

How to Plan a Solo Trip 2024: Trends, Checklist & Budget Spreadsheet

January 23, 2024 by Janice Waugh

You may be the ultimate travel planner. Perhaps you prefer an organized tour. Maybe you just like to go , wander, and see what happens. Regardless of your travel style, some solo travel planning is a good idea.

Planning a solo trip may require more attention than any other kind. After all, it's all up to you. So, for your own safety  and peace of mind, it's good to have some planning done in advance.

This is why we update this post every year with current information on travel trends, a solo trip planning checklist, and some of our favorite tips that we've learned along the way.

Table of Contents

2024 Travel Tends and Pro Tips for Solo Travel

Negative travel trends to watch out for:.

• Increase in shoulder season travel . This was once a go-to solution for budget solo travelers looking for deals. Traveling on the shoulder season, spring and fall, could save money on hotels, flights, and more. Now, with more people turning to the shoulder season to keep costs down, the difference in price is not as substantial as it once was. Demand drives prices up.
• Extra fees on flights . Tracey found this with a recent flight purchase. For the first time, she had to pay a hefty fee for selecting her Premium Economy seat in advance. Yes, “ Travelers feel the pinch as airlines cash in on added fees. “
• Delayed flights. Flight delays are expected to continue into 2024 due to staff shortages for the airlines and airport security. It's best to have a tracker on your luggage. Read our luggage trackers review.

Positive travel trends to get on board with:

• Airfares are dropping. After 2023 being the year of revenge travel and high fare rates, there's good news from NerdWallet which reports that airfares have been dropping over the last 3 months and are even down a small percentage below 2019 fares. However, who knows what will happen to the cost of oil? That could change this trend. See above for how airlines are making up for lower fares with pricing for add-ons.
• Home swaps on the rise. This is becoming more popular as people choose to settle into a place for longer. I did it in the spring of 2023 and stayed a month in Bordeaux, France without any cost for accommodation. You can read about my experience here: Home Exchange for Free Accommodation Around the World .
• Tour companies seeing rise in solo travelers. As this trend continues, more companies should enter the solo travel market and put downward pressure on pricing models and the single supplement. Let's hope this materializes.

Pro Tips for Travel Planning Tools and Resources

• Chat GPT . How to plan a solo trip using the latest technology? See below for how to use ChatGPT for trip planning.
• Sketch your trip with Rome2Rio . Use Rome2Rio to see if the trip you're considering is logistically possible. This helps me with the transitions from one place to another, which are always the most difficult parts of travel. It also makes it easy to see whether I'm building too much into a trip.
• Ubigi . Inexpensive data access for your phone using an app within your phone and not requiring an extra device. Here's how it works .
• Hopper for knowing what dates to fly . When you're looking to book a flight, use Hopper to see when you are most likely to get a better deal on flying. Their calendar shows dates in red (most expensive) yellow, (medium expensive) and green (your best bets for good fares). Start checking 3 to 4 months in advance of your travels. I also suggest booking with the airline directly if the pricing makes sense.
• Be flexible with your dates . Traveling Tuesday to Tuesday may not be the norm but it is still traveling for a week. You may find that you save money by being flexible with your dates.
• Hold on to dream destinations . If you have many destinations that are of interest, develop a simple spreadsheet with the following information for each: destination name, time needed to explore it, best time of year to visit, and, if possible, the expected budget required.
• Use International Greeters . Local greeters are amazing resources and, essentially, free. I have used  International Greeters in New York City, Chicago, Tokyo, Paris, and more.

Solo Trip Planning Checklist PLUS Bonus Spreadsheet

As you go through the solo travel planning process, I suggest that you  use this Excel spreadsheet as you plan your trip to see if you're over or under budget.

• Set your budget . Travel can require a lot of money or a little. It's important to know what is realistic for you to manage financially so that you don't continue paying for your trip long after you've enjoyed it.
• Create a destination shortlist . You likely have more than one destination that you'd love to visit. Given the current cost of travel, one may be better than another. Do a quick check on each to see which is more within your budget. You can do this by selecting one hotel chain and checking the rates in each destination. This will give you an idea of which destinations are most and least expensive.
• Choose your destination   and research . With your shortlist, you may want to have a look at your home country's travel advisories for any safety issues at your destination options. Decide on your destination and research it in more detail with the following questions in mind: What do you want from your trip? What do you want to do there? What do you want to see, eat, experience? Jump to our section on organizing your travel research.
• Check for your country's travel advisories . Do this before you book anything as it may affect your decision to go to a country or where you go within a country. It may also affect the validity of your travel insurance so both need to be considered together.
• Research travel options . Given your goals for the trip, decide whether it is best to go with an  organized tour  or travel independently. Jump to our section on the various travel styles, both independent and guided.
• Book your flights or tour . If your budget is not affected badly, book with as few companies as possible. For example, if you're going with a tour company, I suggest that you get your flights through them as well. If you're booking flights, get them all with one airline. The goal is to have as few companies to deal with as possible should a problem arise. And, of course, read the terms for cancellation and changes very carefully. Jump to our section on booking a tour . Jump to our section on booking flights, trains, and cars .
• Book your accommodation . Where you stay definitely affects your safety. Before booking a hotel, read the reviews on a site like  Booking.com . Also, look at the map for the hotel's location. Take the address and look at the location in  streetview . Finally, plan to arrive during daylight as everything looks better then. Jump to our section on accommodation for more details .
• Book excursions and restaurants . This is the point at which you plan activities to ensure that you're not lonely. Cooking or art classes, group day trips, dinner clubs, and the like all inject connections with other people into your travels. Jump to more information on planning your itinerary.

• Plan to keep money and personal information safe . First, get a  VPN for travel so that you can access your bank accounts online safely. Ensure that you have two credit cards, with one being a Visa. Always travel with some American currency tucked away just in case.
• Start working your personal departure checklist . Get your vaccinations (this is about more than just the COVID vaccine) and documentation required for your destination organized as soon as possible to reduce the stress at the time of departure. Plan how you will get to the airport or train station. Get your car prepared for your trip. Get everything organized.
• Pack . But don't over-pack. Read  Bare Minimum Packing: Here’s Your Packing List .
• Smile and travel . At this point, you've done all you can. If you're flying, get to the airport early. Have all required documentation at hand. Go and enjoy.

And I really like this one from Susan Heller: “When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money, then take half the clothes and twice the money.”

Solo Travel Planning: Pick Your Travel Style

There are two main ways to travel solo: independently and on an organized tour. Ah, but within those categories there are many options as well.

Independent travel can be placed in many categories. Here are a few for you to consider.

• On the Move, Short-term . My rule of thumb is a minimum of three nights per location. Any less and it’s just too rushed. Longer is better. For example, on a 10-day trip you can cover three destinations. With more time you can cover more.
• On the Move, Long-term . Long-term travel can be anywhere between 3 months to forever. The pace of long-term travel needs to be somewhat slower than short-term travel. Otherwise, it can be exhausting rather than exhilarating.
• Hub & Spoke Travel . In this style of travel, you settle into one place for your accommodation and use it as a base from which to explore. Your accommodation is your hub, all the places you want to visit from your hub are your spokes.
• Slow Travel . With slow travel, you really sink into a location. You get to know the rhythm of a place and visit the same stores and coffee shops on a regular basis. People start to recognize you and take time for a chat. It’s deep dive travel.

Organized Travel  comes in many forms. The caveat with all organized travel is the single supplement. To avoid the single supplement, when you're engaging in solo travel planning, use our  Deals  page and read  No Single Supplement: How to Find Trips without a Solo Penalty .

• Escorted tours . On an escorted tour, you and 10-30 other travelers follow a guide and a pre-planned itinerary. It’s an efficient way to travel and see a lot and ensures that you have companions along the way. Read  how to choose a solo tour.
• Resorts . Relaxation is what resorts are known for, however, they can also be used as a base for exploring an area in a similar manner as Hub and Spoke travel. Read  Going to a Resort Alone: How to Enjoy an All-Inclusive Solo .
• Self-guided . On a self-guided tour, everything will have been organized for you but you still travel independently. These are great for walking or cycling tours as not only will everything be booked for you but your luggage will be moved for you as well. Read  Travel Solo on a Self-Guided Walking Tour: Seeing France Slowly .
• River cruises . River ships tend to be smaller than ocean cruise ships and, as a result, somewhat more friendly to solo travelers. It’s easy to get to know people and have alone time. Read 12 River Cruise Tips for Solo Travelers: How to Make the Most of Your Journey .
• Ocean cruises . The ocean cruise companies have turned their attention to the solo market in recent years. While the norm is to charge 100% single supplement, if you play with your dates you can usually get a very good deal.
• Untours . This is a more recent entry into the organized travel market. The untour is planned for you–hotels are booked, pick up and drop off at airports are organized, an introductory tour is given, and optional tours are available– but you travel on your own.

Solo Trip Itinerary Planning: Old School

Now, here's how you focus in on your actual travel itinerary.

• Review the itineraries of a number of tour companies . Doing so may entice you to go with a tour company. If so, read No Single Supplement: How to Find Trips without a Solo Penalty  and check out our Deals  page. If you want to travel solo independently, use tour sites as part of your research. You will learn what route most companies take, how much ground they cover in a day or a week, and what your destination costs are at the high and low end. But remember, as an independent traveler you won't be able to cover as much ground as you do with a tour company.
• Decide what you must see . The itineraries of tour companies will usually hit the highlights but reading websites and blogs will help you find the less common must-see sites, restaurants, and activities at your destination. Have a look at the  destinations section of Solo Traveler . Most of these posts were written by readers excited to share their experience with you.
• Use Rome2Rio.com . This is a fabulous site for determining how to get from one place to another. Whether you're hopping to a different country or just want to get to the center of a city from the airport, it has the information for you in terms of time, money, and all possible modes of transportation. I use this resource all the time.
• Study maps . Whether you’re planning to walk in one direction for five days or take on a city like New York, study a good map to develop a workable plan for the time you have available and what you want to do.
• Set your own pace. Whether I’m traveling by train or car, I like to plan at least three nights in every location. This gives me at least two full days to explore. Even if travel time is only a half-day, less than three nights just makes trips too rushed for my liking. Consider what pace feels right for you. Then you’ll be able to begin to sketch an itinerary.
• Consider a hub and spoke itinerary . This is where you stay in one location for your entire trip and take day trips from there. This is what I did in Bologna, Italy. It's a great city and was the perfect place from which to visit small villages, as well as Florence and Venice.
• Integrate your priorities . Once you have a general itinerary, integrate the must-see sites you’ve already identified. Then see whether it still makes sense.
• Take advantage of freebies such as greeter programs, free walking tours, and backpacker tours.
• Get to and from the airport . If you’re flying in you’ll have to get yourself to and then from the airport. I usually take local transit and do very well – everywhere, that is, except my hometown. Toronto’s transit to the airport is terrible, unless you're right downtown. But, in London, England and in Santiago, Chile, in Nashville, Tennessee and New York City, I’ve found local transit great for getting me into and out of the city.
• Travel within a city . How does the local transit system work? What does it cost? Should you use it at night or should you budget for taxis or Uber? How expensive are the taxis? I usually save a lot of money by using local transit.
• Travel between towns/cities . Intercity transport is often buses or trains.
• Plan to pack light . I’ve met many a traveler with luggage regrets because they packed too much. If you have a lot of bus-to-train-to-plane logistics, a backpack is likely a better choice than a roller bag, which suits me on most trips. A backpack lets you have your hands free. Whichever you choose, packing light is important. Here's a link to  Bare Minimum Packing  that includes a packing list and  Bare Minimum Packing: Urban and Luxury Travel . Also, about a week before leaving, I add my destination to my weather app on my phone and track the forecast so I can pack the appropriate clothing.

Solo trip planning can be almost as much fun as taking the trip. Put your heart into it for extraordinary results.

How to Use ChatGPT to Plan a Solo Trip

ChatGPT hit the scene late last year and it's been interesting to see what it can be used for. One thing we really liked was their response to the question, “What's the best solo travel website?” They placed us #1.

It is also being used for trip planning. I went through the process below for a friend planning a 90-day trip through Europe. The results were impressive. Here's how to plan a solo trip with a little help from AI.

• Create a ChatGPT account . It's free.
• Add the parameters of your trip . Enter the number of days and places you want to visit.
• Review and renew if desired . Read through the itinerary that was created in seconds. If you like it, click the clipboard image to copy it and place it in a document. If you don't like it at all, click the thumbs down image and the system will try again. If you would simply like to see what else it might suggest, click the regenerate icon.
• Dig deeper . Copy your general itinerary into a word document. In the upper left, click new chat, and start the process of asking for specific things to do in each location.

You can get hotel listings from ChatGPT but it is a very short list and, if it is providing the same suggestions to everyone, those hotels could get expensive due to demand. I'd do a separate search on Booking.com so that you can see the ratings, rates, and reviews all at the same time.

Organize Your Solo Travel Planning Research

The research stage of trip planning can be a lot of fun but you can also become swamped with information.

Whether you like to work on a computer, on paper, or use an app, find one place where you’ll keep all the information you gather on the trip you’re planning. See an interesting article on the web? Add it to your file so that you’re able to find it when you’re ready. There’s nothing more frustrating than knowing you’ve seen exactly the information you want and not being able to find it again. So, Step 1, set up a place to store your research in whatever format works for you.

• When you rip articles out of a magazine, you may put them in a file or pin them on a bulletin board. Pinterest is like a pin board for saving articles you find online.
• Create a free Pinterest account.
• Create a board for your destination.
• Search Pinterest using the name of your destination and perhaps the time of year, the type of things you want to do, or places you may want to stay. If you come across an interesting article, pin it to your board.
• Create a second board for your destination and call it “Destination other possibilities,” or something to that effect.
• Go through your first board and move anything that is not really valuable or high on your list to that second board.

Your desktop

• Open a bookmarks folder in your web browser and a file folder on your desktop for storing all online information you find on your destination.
• Make subfolders if necessary for things like accommodation, things to do, restaurants, clubs, etc.
• Get a portfolio or actual paper file folder where you can keep hard copies of the most important information you find online as well as articles and brochures you’ve collected.

Solo Travel Planning: How to Get There

How to select a flight.

Everyone has their favorite OTA site (Online Travel Agent) for booking flights. I use Skyscanner and Flightnetwork. Here's my optimal booking process.

• I check Skyscanner and Flightnetwork for the best deals I can find.
• I choose the option that best suits my schedule and involves only one airline, unless, of course, the price difference is more than I'm willing to endure.
• I then check with that airline for the same price or sometimes better and book directly with them

There are two reasons for giving preference to booking with the airline directly .

• If there's any issue after booking, it's much easier to deal directly with the airline than with an OTA website that is an intermediary. The OTA may have additional fees as well.
• If getting to your destination involves more than one flight, the airline takes more responsibility for delays and missed connections than if you're connecting with another airline.

If there's a significantly better deal that involves a number of airlines, I will book with Flightnetwork.

How To Book a Train

Trains and how they are booked varies greatly from country to country. The number one tip is to book in advance. Booking early can usually save you quite a bit when taking the train. Depending on the country you're in, there may be standard savings for booking 7 or 30 days in advance. They will sometimes have sales as well. However, if you're not under time constraints, local trains may be a cost-saving option.

Automobiles

Oh, how I love a road trip! But taking a road trip alone does require some planning.  Road Trip Alone with Confidence: 10 Tips for a Great Trip is consistently one of our most popular posts on Solo Traveler. Check it out for details.

Accommodation Advice for Solo Travelers

When you're not sharing a hotel room, the price can seem very high. Accommodation can be a big-ticket item for solo travelers. Here's some advice.

• It beats the competition in terms of the number of city-center lodgings, especially for under $200.
• Reviews are only by people who have booked and completed a stay.
• Taxes and fees are included in prices shown with the exception of North America. This minimizes surprise expenses.
• A note about Booking.com: most hotels on booking.com give you the option to cancel a number of days before your arrival. I always check the cancellation policy as a few hotels don't offer this service. I've never been caught but I don't want you to be either. Also, if you book through our  Booking.com  link, you'll be supporting Solo Traveler. You'll pay the same but we'll receive a small commission.
• Hostels are definitely worth considering . Hostels offer a social environment, affordable rates, and great information. Read The Hostel Experience for Solo Travelers: What to Expect. How to Stay Safe.
• Home Exchange is my new favorite . Not everyone can nor wants to do this, but it suits me. As you complete each aspect of becoming a member of HomeExchange.com you earn points. I earned enough points for 4 nights in mid-town Manhattan for the $175 cost of joining. That's great value!
• Consider a resort, apartment, or home rental through VRBO or Airbnb . I have found some great options on  VRBO.com  and Airbnb. You can read about it in the post about Kauai .

We have put together posts on the best places for solo travelers to stay in some of the most expensive cities in the world.

• Best Places to Stay in London: Accommodation for Solo Travelers
• Best Places to Stay in New York City for Solo Travelers
• Best Hotels in Paris for Solo Travelers: Reader Recommendations

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Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

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 .

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

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.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

Alya and Campbell

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Travel Alone To USA, Austin from UK At 17 Years Old - Air Travel Forum

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Travel Alone To USA from UK At 17 Years Old

What would i need?

Staying at a friends in the USA, but i’m not sure on everything i need before hand.

10 replies to this topic

What passport do you hold? Do you need/have you got a visa or ESTA? Do you have travel insurance?

You are legally a minor. If G-d forbid you needed a doctor, you wouldn’t be treated without parental permission. Is this friend a single or someone living with their parents?

Assuming you have a UK passport you will need an ESTA but this is just permission to travel the USA Immigration will decide on whether to allow entry when you arrive and will need to be satisfied you can support yourself whilst in the US and have strong ties to the UK making it more likely you will leave

As you are under 18, even with agreement between your parents and the parents of the friend you will visit, I would say you should have as well as the travel requirements like an ESTA, good travel insurance to cover you if you get sick or for anything else normal travel insurance includes.

You need a letter from your parents authorising the parents of the friend, or other responsible adult able to act as legal guardians should you get sick and hospitalised and need surgery or whatever. They also need to take financial responsibility for other things that might happen to you that might incur costs.

You really do need to be staying with a friend and be their guest with them paying for anything. If you have some other form of financial arrangement in place then you may be breaking ESTA conditions.

Having proof you have parents or a home to return to, plus plans to continue education or a job to return to may be useful evidence to show when you land, at immigration.

It's great to have a friend in the USA to stay with, but the USA is not the easiest country to visit solo as a minor.

you need to take your birth certificate and letters from both parents allowing you to travel and detailing your plans - a letter from the family hosting you - all with contact details including phone numbers

you will need you passport and ESTA

you should get travel insurance

you need a return ticket and expect some serious questioning if its longer than a normal holiday of 2 weeks

Some people here seem to be almost trying to frighten you, and making it all sound a lot more difficult than it is. It's not exactly uncommon for teenagers to travel to the the USA (or anywhere else) to visit relatives. - especially (in the case of the USA) teenagers from non-English-speaking countries who are sent to spend the summer with American relatives to improve their English. And it's not uncommon for such teenager to spend the entire school summer holidays with their American auntie and uncle, so I wouldn't worry about "usual holiday time of two weeks".

I tried to find information about the subject onlin, but most articles were about American teenagers travelling abroad without their parents rather than the other way round.

This article, written by an immigration lawyer, is quite useful:

https://www.jatoidekirby.com/library/minor-traveling-alone-to-us-documents-needed.cfm

#6 the op said they were visiting friends which is a different situation from relatives, this could be long term friend or a recent online acquaintance

1. Have your parents sign a medical treatment permission letter.

2. Purchase a travel insurance policy that will cover any medical expenses in the US

3. Have a letter signed by both parents permitting you to travel to the US

4. Have a return ticket

5. Get an ESTA or visa, whatever is applicable.

#7, I used the word "relatives", but I know plenty of cases where youngsters were sent to spend the summer with family friends. And I used to spend a lot of school holidays staying with penfriends. I don't see much difference between relatives and friends. People are guessing that this could be a romantic friend, but did the OP actually say so?

#8, a good list, but I would add one more thing which is a letter from the hosts confirming the OP is visiting as their guest.

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I went on one date with a man, and then we decided to travel together indefinitely. It's not as romantic as it seems.

• While traveling full time, I joined a dating app and went on a date; we fell for each other.
• Since we have similar values, we decided to travel together indefinitely. 
• It's been difficult at times, and our future is uncertain, but it's the perfect life for us.

Last year, I finally fulfilled my dream of traveling full time when I got a job aboard a cruise ship. I was loving every moment of my nomadic life. I was too busy enjoying myself to worry about a relationship.

But in my second year of the job and third year of being single, I joined the Nomad Soulmates dating app . I wasn't necessarily looking for my soulmate because travel was my priority for most of my life. But at 32, I knew I had to make a proactive choice to prioritize relationships and dating.

In April 2023, I disembarked the ship in Lisbon and tried out the app. I was skeptical it would lead anywhere because I only had two months off the ship before I had to head to Norway to join my next contract. Plus, I had already scheduled my travel plans for the next two months.

But then I matched with someone that made me rethink everything.

We had an instant connection

I matched with a man who was in Lisbon for the month. He asked me out for Greek food, and I figured it was worth a try. Once again, I didn't imagine it would go anywhere because I planned to stay for only a week before heading to Porto for the weekend and then off to Spain for the next leg of my trip .

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But our date ended up being so much fun that I was interested in seeing where it could go. He was silly, and that was refreshing. We shared many of the same values and loved traveling, so the conversation never lagged.

I surprised myself when I invited him to stay with me for a few nights in Porto. During our visit to Porto, I canceled my trip to Spain and accepted his invitation to return to Lisbon with him, beginning our partnership.

We decided to keep traveling together

I had to choose between my travel plans and my partner . Having been a solo traveler, giving up my travel plans for something that might not work out wasn't a decision I took lightly.

But I wanted to take a chance as we found ourselves on the same page about everything — especially what we were looking for in a long-term relationship and what we wanted in the future. I never saw myself returning to the US; I wanted to return to Italy or continue traveling full time with my future partner and kids. He also had no plans on returning to his home country of Germany and, having been traveling full time since 2018, was uninterested in stopping. He also wants children and plans to travel with them full time.

I saw that we were on the same page regarding how we wanted to incorporate parenting, traveling, and our careers, so we decided to continue traveling together — which was a decision we made exceptionally quickly.

I was fearful at the beginning of our relationship because I heard horror stories from friends about traveling with partners they just met. Luckily, being seasoned travelers , we face inconveniences quite similarly and calmly. Within the last year, we've dealt with being separated for months at a time and spending every second together for months at a time. We've also experienced missed flights, scooter accidents, cockroach infestations, and a lack of necessities such as hot water. It's not all romance and dreamy vacations.

Like so many other relationships I've had, I thought each new inconvenience would fracture our relationship, causing us to decide that maybe this wasn't the right partnership for us. But it all had the opposite effect, building the foundation of our relationship as we moved into the second year of traveling full time together.

Bound by wanderlust , we aren't sure what our futures hold, but we'll sculpt it with our shared dreams.

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

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Remember last year's Memorial Day travel jams? Chances are they will be much worse this year

You didn't think summer travel would be easy, did you?

Highways and airports are likely to be jammed the next few days as Americans head out for Memorial Day weekend getaways and then return home.

AAA predicts this will be the busiest start-of-summer weekend in nearly 20 years, with 43.8 million people expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Thursday and Monday. The Transportation Security Administration says up to 3 million might pass through airport checkpoints on Friday alone.

And that is just a sample of what is to come. U.S. airlines expect to carry a record number of passengers this summer. Their trade group estimates that 271 million travelers will fly between June 1 and August 31, breaking the record of 255 million set - you guessed it - last summer.

The annual expression of wanderlust is happening at a time when Americans tell pollsters they are worried about the economy and the direction of the country.

A slowdown, and in some cases a retreat, from the big price increases of the last two years may be helping.

Airfares are down 6% and hotel rates have dipped 0.4%, compared with a year ago, according to government figures released last week. Prices for renting a car or truck are down 10%. The nationwide price of gas is around $3.60 a gallon, about 6 cents higher than a year ago, according to AAA.

Johannes Thomas, CEO of the hotel and travel search company Trivago, said he thinks more customers are feeling the pinch of prices that have plateaued but at much higher levels than before the pandemic. He said they are booking farther in advance, staying closer to home, taking shorter trips, and compromising on accommodations - staying in three-star hotels instead of five-star ones.

Many travelers have their own cost-saving strategies, including combining work and pleasure on the same trip.

"I have largely been able to adapt by traveling at strange hours. I'll fly out late at night, come in early in the morning, stay longer than I intended, and work remotely," said Lauren Hartle of Boston, an investor for a clean-energy venture firm.

Hartle, who flew from Boston to Dallas on Wednesday for a work conference, plans to attend a summer family gathering in North Carolina but is otherwise considering trips closer to home - and maybe by train instead of plane.

Catey Schast, a nanny and piano teacher in Maine, said her Boston-Dallas flight cost $386 round trip. "It wasn't terrible," but it was higher than the $200 to $300 she paid in the past to visit family in Texas, she said.

Schast plans a beach vacation in Florida in July. High prices could discourage her from taking other trips, but "if I really want to go somewhere, I'm more of a how-can-I-make-this-happen type of person, as long as I have the time off work."

As in past years, most holiday travelers are expected to travel by car - more than 38 million of them, according to AAA. The organization advises motorists hoping to avoid the worst traffic to leave metropolitan areas early Thursday and Friday and to stay off the roads between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday and Monday.

"We haven't seen any pullback in travel since the pandemic. Year after year, we have seen these numbers continue to grow," AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz said. "We don't know when it's going to stop. There's no sign of it yet."

There's certainly no slowdown at airports. The number of people going through security checkpoints is up 3.2% this year. The TSA said it screened 2.85 million people last Friday and nearly as many on Sunday - the two busiest days of the year so far.

TSA predicts it will screen more than 18 million travelers and airline crew members during the seven-day stretch that begins Thursday, up 6.4% from last year. Friday is expected to be the busiest day for air travel, with nearly 3 million people passing through checkpoints. The TSA record is 2.91 million, set on the Sunday after Thanksgiving last year.

"We're going to break those records this summer," TSA Administrator David Pekoske said.

The agency, which was created after the 9/11 terror attacks, has struggled at times with peak loads. Pekoske told The Associated Press that pay raises for front-line screeners have helped improve staffing by reducing attrition from more than 20% to less than 10%.

Airlines say they also have staffed up since being caught short when travel began to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring and summer of 2022.

With any luck from the weather, travelers could see fewer canceled flights than in recent summers. So far this year, U.S. airlines have canceled 1.2% of their flights, according to FlightAware data, compared with 1.4% at this point last year and 2.8% in 2022 - a performance so poor it triggered complaints and increased scrutiny from Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Even before the holiday weekend started, however, storms caused widespread cancellations at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, the biggest hub for American Airlines. The carrier dropped more than 200 flights, or 5% of its schedule, by late afternoon.

Stranded travelers were not happy.

"Our flight got canceled right before the check-in. And now there's no flights here until Friday because (open seats on other flights) went really quickly. We might wind up driving. Isn't that terrible?" said Rosie Gutierrez of Allen, Texas, who was trying to get to Florida along with her son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter.

American's chief operating officer, David Seymour, said the airline has beefed up its staffing and technology in preparation for the seasonal rush.

"It's a long summer, but we're ready for it. We have the right resources," he said.

American is offering its most ambitious summer schedule ever - 690,000 flights between May 17 and Sept. 3.

United Airlines forecasts its biggest Memorial Day weekend, with nearly 10% more passengers than last year. Delta Air Lines expects to carry 5% more passengers this weekend, kicking off its heaviest summer schedule ever of international flights.

According to AAA, the top domestic and international destinations are familiar ones. They include Orlando, Las Vegas, London, Paris and Rome.

So what about nervousness over the economy?

It's important to note that people often say their own finances are better than average. In an AP survey from February, 54% said their personal situation was good - but only 30% felt the same about the nation's economy.

That could explain why they can afford to splurge on travel.

Rebecca Santana and Rick Gentilo in Washington contributed to this report.

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The 12 Best Tropical Destinations for Solo Travelers

For solo travel, I tend to gravitate toward structured trips , like exploring a few cities in Scandinavia, road tripping through Northern California, or seeing the Taj Mahal. It might be my Type A tendencies, but my solo travel usually includes a packed itinerary with goals like fitting in bucket list attractions or making it to a new continent . What I don't associate with solo travel is a tropical vacation . Palm-lined beach towns and scuba dive lessons aren't necessarily top of mind for the traveler going it alone. Driving the coast of Maui, sailing in French Polynesia, or bronzing on the Riviera Maya are activities usually tailored to couples and families.

After talking to 12 solo travelers who specifically sought out tropical destinations, one thing is apparent to me: The island life is definitely not reserved for bachelorette parties, couples, college groups, and families anymore. Tropical destinations offer perfect itineraries (and prices ) for when you need to escape from the hustle of real life—you just have to know where to go. And choosing a tropical destination doesn't mean you won't find must-see landmarks; get you a destination that can do both.

As with all solo travel, you might need to give yourself a push to actually make your trip happen. Whether you're going through a big life change and need time to process, you're traveling for work and looking to extend your trip, or you're just in desperate need of a change of pace, sometimes lounging on a beach by yourself is exactly what the doctor ordered. Here are 12 of the best tropical destinations to explore on your own:

"Australia, specifically the Great Barrier Reef , was a bucket list destination for me. I spent a week exploring the reef and it was mind boggling. You could definitely see the damage the reef has suffered, but the wildlife was indescribably beautiful. I also spent time in Cairns, an area that's perfect for a solo traveler. You have easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and the Tablelands. I felt safe throughout my travels in Australia. The people were simply amazing—I even lost my cell phone in a cab and was able to get it back, thanks to the cabbie. I would recommend Australia for any traveler, but especially solos." — Charmayne Evans

"I went to Bermuda last September for my first solo vacay. I really enjoyed it because it's super close to the east coast, they speak English and take American currency, and the island is so small, it's super easy to navigate on your own via motorbike or public transit. I mostly took the bus everywhere. I ended up Airbnb-ing it and rented a room in a woman's home. The island is totally manageable on your own. I found all the locals to be super helpful with directions and recommendations. I also loved Bermuda because if you wanted, you could do all the action packed stuff (swim with dolphins, etc.) or just sit on the beach all day, which was more my speed. Also, if you're willing to venture around the island a bit, and you take the time to learn from the locals, there's a ton of more secluded and quiet beaches that are not mobbed with tourists." — Colleen Hughes

The Galapagos, Ecuador

"The Galapagos are ideal for solo travelers, whether you crave isolation or company. A cruise is the best way to see the islands , and smaller ships, like Haugan Cruises, have communal dining so you'll always have someone to chat with at dinner. With a land-based stay on Isabela or Santa Cruz, you can book a day cruise or walk to see flamingos, giant tortoises, and sea lions. If you want a swimming partner, sea lions and penguins are happy to oblige." — Johanna Reed

"In February I went to the southern islands of Ko Tao, Ko Phangan, and Ko Samui before starting a new job. The weather was absolutely perfect , and if you're looking to learn to scuba, this is the place to do it. As a solo traveler, it's so easy to meet people on snorkeling day trips or while island hopping or hiking the waterfalls. Nightlife on the Thai islands is also easy to find and a good place to meet people. If you're in the area for a half moon or full moon party in Ko Phangan, definitely check it out!" — Maxine Renn

"Living in Asia provides me with some great solo-travel destinations—one of my favorites being Laos. The backpacker culture makes it easy to keep to your own itinerary and still meet others to visit attractions or split a tuk-tuk with. Laos had everything you could want from a visit to SE Asia: jungle treks, swimming in blue lagoons, and endless natural beauty. It doesn't have the same manufactured tourism feel as some other countries nearby, but still offers structure and support, which can be nice when you are going it on your own. The best part is the street food—don't miss the markets and fresh sausage in Luang Prabang." — Rita Callahan

Turks and Caicos

"It was my first international solo trip ever, and it was amazing. I was going through a breakup and wanted to get my confidence back. I had never traveled internationally by myself before and thought if I could travel in a different country by myself, then I can do anything by myself. I put a lot of research into safe destinations before settling on Turks and Caicos . I wanted a relaxed location where English was spoken. I was already nervous and thought that if I didn't have to worry about communication, it would ease my nerves a bit. I liked that the island was small enough to bike from my hotel on the water to the small town nearby, and everyone was so kind. The best part was getting to just do what I wanted, when I wanted, and not have to worry about anyone else's opinion. It was definitely a good spot for a solo traveler—especially a female solo traveler. I felt safe the whole time, even when I was biking around exploring the town. I'm kind of spoiled, because now I'd rather travel by myself than with other people." — Tracy Huynh

"I spent this April in a small surf town on the west coast of Sri Lanka. It was an unplugged vacation—I didn't even bring my laptop. My goal was to surf twice a day, everyday. With safe (and cheap) transportation options like the train or a taxi, Sri Lanka is well-suited for one. I'd recommend booking a private room in a hostel or a surf camp package, so you can meet other vacationers. There are tons of backpackers making their way around the island, so it's easy to link up with other people. Sri Lanka attracts health-minded tourists, and there are tons of outdoor activities available everywhere. During the busy season, most hostels will have a yogi-in-residence leading classes. I'd recommend taking a break from the Lanka beach life and checking out the tea plantations around Ella. The mountainous train ride offers the views you've probably seen on your Instagram feed. As a solo female traveler, safety is always a concern, but the ease of getting around the island coupled with the hospitality of locals made me feel secure." — Alexandra Talty

"I actually was invited to dog-sit for my aunt, so that was the catalyst for this trip—hello not paying for accommodations! It was my first solo trip, and I was in Miami long enough to get to know the area, as well as embrace the independence and solitude of traveling solo. Miami is a fantastic locale for solo travel: the people I met were all super welcoming, the food is phenomenal, and you have the options to explore the city, do outdoorsy activities, or live that beach bum life." —Natalie Large

"After I turned 25, I decided to take a break from the nine-to-five and adventure throughout Europe and Asia. Every country I've visited so far has been amazing, but Indonesia definitely owns the top spot on my favorites list. While the country's natural beauty is out of this world, the people are what made my experience there as a solo traveler so amazing. My favorite memory has to be losing my iPhone on the top of a volcano in East Java and having the phone back in my hands a few months later after a local found it and wanted to return it to its rightful owner. Even more than Bali, I'd recommend Lombok, which is the island right next to Bali." —Arren Quezada

"I can't think of a better place to travel solo than Costa Rica . From the gorgeous coast line, to the rich rainforest, to the majestic cloud forest, there is so much to see, do, and explore. Costa Ricans are famous for their laid back pura vida (pure life) attitude, and their spirit is as relaxed and welcoming as you could imagine." — Kayla McCormack

"I had a fantastic time in Crete and can't recommend it enough! Filled with small mountain towns and gorgeous beaches on every side, there was so much to explore. The island was beautiful, the food delicious and uniquely Greek, and the people were so friendly. Everyone I met spoke an impressive amount of English. I felt incredibly safe the entire time I was there, even when walking around the old quarter of Chania — the city I stayed in — at 1 o'clock in the morning." — Hillary Handy

"I was working with an NGO in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, for the summer and went for a five-day vacation to Siem Reap to see the temples of Angkor Wat. It was definitely a more adventurous place to go alone, especially as a young woman, but it was actually pretty easy because Siem Reap accommodates so many tourists. My hotel, which was so cheap, had a tuk tuk driver pick me up when my bus got in. They were tremendously helpful and available, and arranged for my tuk tuk drivers to and from the temples — even when I went at sunrise — and from the kayaking trip I went on. The combination of having very knowledgeable guides and drivers, plus the ability to wander the temples and town by myself and still feel comfortable was the best part. It was equally independent and supportive." — Eleanor Brakewood

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