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Solo Female Travel , Europe , Travel Tips

Solo travel helsinki: an independent visitor’s guide to finland’s capital.

FMTC Affiliate Disclosure: Blond Wayfarer contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This disclosure pertains to all affiliate links.

Updated:  24 September 2023

As a city, Helsinki is wildly underrated, in my opinion. On my own solo travels in Europe , not too many backpackers I spoke to had Helsinki on their itineraries. 

However, I think Helsinki is worth visiting even as a solo traveler. Sure, you don’t get as many hostels as the neighboring Baltic countries, but Finland’s capital city is perfect for people who just want a mellow break in a beautiful city.

Furthermore, a chilled out vacation in Helsinki is especially great for new solo travelers.

As someone who’s been to Europe a lot, I’m frequently asked about cities and countries that are good for beginners who are ready to explore the continent but at the same time, don’t want anything too challenging just yet. 

In addition to Scotland and Ireland (which are great for native English speakers), I always recommend Scandinavia as an ideal region for dipping one’s toes into the pools of international travel. 

First, let’s talk about my own experiences as a woman traveling alone in Helsinki, and then we will get into more specific and practical tips for planning your vacation.  

Table of Contents

Solo Travel Helsinki: My Own Experience

Solo travel in Helsinki was a low-key and relaxing experience for me.  I had just finished a three week adventure through Denmark, Sweden, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, and was thrilled to arrive at Helsinki to simply chill. 

I visited Helsinki at the height of the summer in August. Skies were cerulean blue and temperatures mild, and the sun lingered for much longer than I had originally thought. 

The city was bustling, but not packed with gigantic tourist hoards. 

For me, a solo trip to Helsinki was remarkable easy and stress free, which is why I think it’s a perfect destination for solo travelers who feel nervous or uncomfortable with flying overseas. 

Unlike other cities, Helsinki was blissfully free of common scams and pickpocketing. I didn’t find myself checking on my purse nearly as much I had in other destinations. 

The locals in Helsinki, while helpful, were also quite introverted and kept to themselves, creating a situation where I didn’t have to worry about standing out in a crowd. 

All in all, solo travel in Helsinki was kind to me.

Need More Help for Your Solo Trip?

Check out  my custom itinerary planning services  for readers. I’ll do all the research and together, we’ll create an itinerary that works for you and your adventures in Europe.

Practical Tips for Solo Travel in Helsinki

Getting around helsinki.

Domestic and international flights land at Helsinki-Vantaa airport which is located about 19 kilometers outside the city center. Sure, you’re not inside the city, but getting downtown is a breeze. 

A train station located between Terminals 1 and 2 will take travelers to Helsinki’s city center. Trains operate on a regular schedule.

Like most European cities, Helsinki has excellent public transportation, which saves solo travelers the stress of having to rent a car in a new country.

If arriving by train, you will come in at  Helsinki Central Station . The station’s remarkable Stone Men statues and art nouveau design make the building itself a tourist attraction! So pause and take some photographs! 

Solo Travel Essentials for Helsinki

You want to pack in accordance to the time of year for your solo trip to Helsinki. However, you will want to bring these items no matter what’s on your agenda. 

• A Small Day Backpack:  You will outside a lot in the city center and islands. I recommend having a small daypack for touring Helsinki and the surrounding area. 
• Compact High Quality Camera:  You will want to expand beyond your phone camera especially on Suomenlinna. I personally recommend a Sony Alpha 6400 mirrorless camera for a compact piece of equipment that takes good quality shots. 
• Cozy Travel Scarf:  Helsinki is a beautiful city in Northern Europe and is located on the stunning Baltic Sea. Evenings, even in summer, may feel chilly. I highly recommend bringing a travel shawl or scarf for additional warmth and comfort. 
• EU Power Adapter:  As always, you don’t want your electrics to die in Europe. Make sure you have the proper power adapter so your camera and phone can charge overnight.
• Lonely Planet Helsinki Pocket Guide:  Lonely Planet makes my favorite guidebooks, and solo travelers to Helsinki are in luck! Bring a pocket guide to Helsinki on your trip for the best information on attractions and other important details. If you’re exploring outside the capital, the complete Lonely Planet Helsinki book may be more useful!
• Travel Insurance:  Finland, like much of northern Europe, is remarkably safe, but you’ll want to purchase travel insurance for extra protection. You never know when illness will strike, and Finland’s hospitals are expensive to pay out of pocket as a citizen. I always use World Nomads for my trips and have never been disappointed! 

Helsinki Accommodation

I think a lot of solo travelers may feel turned off from Helsinki due to the price of visiting this city.

And sure, accommodation in Helsinki is more expensive than nearby Tallinn. However, the city still has a few budget options for solo travelers with financial flexibility. 

Buuuut also feel free to splurge too! No judgement here! 

• Eurohostel: Do you want a free morning sauna with your hostel? Then look no further than Eurohostel. The traditional Finnish sauna is a great experience that you don’t want to miss! See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .
• Hotel Katajanokka:   If you’re planning on spending a little more money, then I recommend going to Hotel Katajanokke, which is actually where I stayed in Helsinki. This hotel actually used to be an old prison, and reading about the building’s history is quite fascinating! See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .
• The Yard Hostel : A lovely locally run hostel that is both green and social. Not to mention, the location is absolutely ideal for sightseeing fun. See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .

Why Take a Solo Trip to Helsinki

My friends, there are many reasons to travel solo to Helsinki. Like I said, this is a city where you can turn inward and deeply enjoy your own company, especially at the end of an intense trip.

Of course, there are probably an infinite number of reasons to take a solo trip to Finland’s capital, but these seven immediately sprang to my mind as I fondly look back on my own experiences. 

Compact and Walkable City

Helsinki is remarkably walkable for a capital.  As a solo traveler, it’s super nice to not have to navigate the metro 24/7 or track down a taxi or a ride share. Your own two feet will do the job well as you explore Helsinki. 

For example, major attractions such as Helsinki Cathedral, Museum of Contemporary Art, Temppeliaukio Church, the Market Square, the National Museum of Finland, and more, are all within a reasonable distance.

Ultimately, planning a self-guided walking tour is truly not a huge undertaking on your part. 

Of course, I don’t mind using public transportation and Helsinki has a fabulous infrastructure (more on that later!), but as a solo traveler, it’s nice to have the peace of mind that you can just walk to most of the spots on your itinerary.

The less stress, the better, right?

Easy Day Trips to Stunning Natural Islands

Helsinki has wonderful natural beauty within reach of the city center.  In particular, solo travelers will love escaping to an island wonderland without too much planning or effort.

For example, one of my favorite places to visit near Helsinki is Suomenlinna , which is an incredible sea fortress that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Not only is Suomenlinna historically significant, the island provides a safe haven for an independent traveler to “get into nature” without worrying about getting lost in the wilderness. Best of both worlds, huh?

Regular ferries leave Helsinki’s main harbor which makes reaching Suomenlinna a true breeze! 

Easy Day Trips to Tallinn in Estonia 

Sometimes as a solo traveler planning day trips is a stressful process. Depending on the location, other destinations may be difficult to reach using public transportation and the logistics make you want to throw your hands in the air. 

Luckily, this is not the case with Helsinki and Tallinn.

This might sound odd, but I find traveling between countries with ease very empowering when I’m alone, and thus need to rely on myself to get everything done! 

A brief visit to Tallinn is made easy thanks to the many ferries that service both Finland and Estonia. Do your research ahead of time as ferry vary by time and cost, and you want to find a boat that you are comfortable on.

Excellent Safety Record Day or Night

Safety is super important for solo travelers.  And I’m not only talking about violent crime either. Petty crimes, such as silly scams and pickpocketing, can wreck an otherwise amazing trip. 

I mean, one of my biggest fears is that my passport will be stolen, and I will waste hours (and money) in the US Embassy, but that’s another post for another day. 

In Helsinki, I felt incredibly safe, even near the big tourist sites. No one hassled me for money, tried to slap a friendship bracelet on my wrist, shoved petitions in my face, or did anything else that made me feel unsafe. It was wonderful.

Of course, you want to use usual street smarts, too. For instance, I arranged a cab with the hotel when I had to leave at 4:00 in the morning for the airport.

As an independent female traveler, Helsinki is not only statistically safe, but feels  safe in real time. 

Eating Alone is a Breeze in Helsinki 

Eating alone is sometimes awkward, but I had zero issues enjoying a meal in Helsinki.

Mostly because of  Helsinki’s Market Square.

This market is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Helsinki. In addition, this port area is where you will find the ferries departing for Suomenlinna.

Seafood is your best option here. Order delicious salmon or shrimp, and sit near the water without worrying about asking for a table for one!

Feel free to explore the cute souvenir stands too! 

In addition to Market Square, Helsinki is home to several wonderful cafes where you can sit at a small table outside and participate in some quality people watching. I enjoyed a coffee right on the square in front of Helsinki Cathedral and had a blast watching the street performers. 

Plenty of Churches for Solo Reflection

Helsinki has a wide variety of beautiful places of worship that are open to visitors, including solo travelers. 

Regardless of your religious background, these churches and cathedrals are a delight to experience alone without another person distracting you from the ornate artwork and magnificent architecture. 

Honestly, I love European cathedrals and churches when I’ve been walking all day and need a break to unwind with my own thoughts. And Helsinki’s churches was splendid in their diversity. 

I’ve listed a few examples for you.

Amazing Churches in Helsinki

• Helsinki Cathedral: The most famous icon of Helsinki is the towering white Helsinki Cathedral located on Senate Square. No trip to Helsinki is complete without taking photos here!
• Temppeliaukio Church:  This Lutheran church is very unique because it was built into solid rock. Unsurprisingly, it’s also known as The Church of the Rock. 
• Uspenski Cathedral:  Eastern Orthodox churches are known for their lavish golden interiors, and Uspenski Cathedral certainly doesn’t disappoint one bit! Take your time to marvel at this cathedral’s stunning masterpieces and alter. 

Strong Tourism Infrastructure and English Speakers

Concerned about potential language barriers? No worries.

You will absolutely encounter English speakers in Helsinki.  It’s great to learn a few words of Finnish , but residents speak excellent English and will help you if you feel lost. 

Furthermore, Helsinki has a very strong infrastructure in place for tourists that should help reduce some of the anxiety that comes with jetsetting around the world alone. Signs and streets are clearly marked, and hotel staff are more than willing to help solo visitors navigate their city! 

If you plan ahead, you should have no problems wandering Helsinki on your own. 

I hope you enjoyed reading about my guide for solo travel in Helsinki. Have you ever visited Helsinki? What sort of advice would you offer travelers coming to this city?

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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• A Solo Travellers Guide To...

A Solo Traveller's Guide to Finnish Lapland

Lapland is Finland’s northernmost region, home to some of Europe’s dreamiest scenery. It’s blanketed in snow for half the year, providing ideal conditions for husky sledding, ski trekking and snowmobiling. Despite its remote location, excellent transport links make it a highly accessible destination for an exhilarating solo trip. Without further ado, here’s our solo traveller’s guide to Lapland. Enjoy.

What’s the vibe.

Think vast swathes of coniferous forests, lakes and tundra-like plains in rural Lapland – while a vibrant bar and restaurant scene thrives in the capital of Rovaniemi. Lapland is illuminated by 24-hour sunlight during summer, while the Northern Lights are visible between late August and early April.

Safety in Lapland

Travelling solo in Finland is generally very safe. It has ranked among the top 15 countries measured by the Global Peace Index every year since 2018 – an indicator that factors in domestic crime rates, political stability, social security and militarisation. The UN’s World Happiness Report has also named Finland the world’s happiest country for the last four years.

The most important things to consider in Lapland are packing suitable clothing to stay warm in bitterly cold temperatures and taking extra care when driving on icy roads if you hire your own vehicle – especially during the dark winter months. Although you’re highly unlikely to encounter any problems, it’s worth sticking to well-lit areas when walking outside in Rovaniemi late at night.

Where to stay in Lapland

Fell centre kiilopää, hotel niilanpää, saariselkä.

Budget Hotel

If you’re looking to visit Finnish Lapland on a budget, this cosy wilderness retreat is a fabulous option – 15 minutes’ drive from Saariselkä, Europe’s northernmost ski resort. Dormitory beds, hotel rooms, fully furnished apartments and private log cabins are all available here. There are also two restaurants, steam and electric saunas and a library lounge area with an open fire.

Hotel Vartiosaari, Rovaniemi

Serviced Apartment, Cottages

Enjoy hearty Finnish cuisine by an open fire in a traditional Lapp hut at this tranquil private island retreat, accessible via a wooden suspension bridge over the Kemijoki River. All rooms feature Scandi-chic decor, underfloor heating, complimentary toiletries and idyllic river and forest views. At the sauna, treat yourself to a soothing wild herb therapy session.

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Apukka Resort, Rovaniemi

Fancy watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of a luxury glass igloo? Do so at Apukka, a 15 minutes’ drive from Rovaniemi. Self-catered Lappish suites and cabins made entirely from ice are also available. The restaurant specialises in modern Nordic cuisine using seasonal ingredients from the region – while husky sledding, snowmobiling and ice fishing can be arranged on-site.

Where to eat and drink in Lapland

Ravintola roka, rovaniemi.

Bistro, Finnish

This laid-back, industrial-style bistro serves up an eclectic combination of reasonably priced street food plates and traditional Finnish dishes with an international twist. Highlights include the grilled halloumi sandwich, vegetable rosti and salmon soup with rye bread – if you can’t decide between them, opt for the “Flavours from the North” tasting platter, which features reindeer sausages with dijon-lingonberry mayo.

Nili Restaurant, Rovaniemi

Restaurant, Finnish

Cafe & Bar 21, Rovaniemi

Bar, Cafe, Finnish

In the daytime, Cafe & Bar 21 is the go-to place for sweet and savoury waffles, artisan ice cream and milkshakes, freshly baked cakes and pastries and generously-sized salad bowls. Come nightfall, it morphs into a trendy cocktail and wine bar serving all the classics – plus a range of experimental specials including dangerously moreish cloudberry syrup mojitos.

What to do in Lapland

Go snowmobiling or husky sledging through the wilderness.

Snowmobiling across frozen lakes, icy fells and through taiga forests is the most thrilling way to experience Finnish Lapland’s pristine wilderness. It allows you to discover remote areas that would be impossible to access by other modes of transport. For a slower-paced, more traditional alternative, let a pack of Siberian huskies lead the way on a sled ride.

Try your hand at ice fishing

Ice fishing has long been an essential part of Finnish culture – particularly in Lapland where lakes are typically frozen from late November until May. Drilling a hole and patiently waiting for a catch is not only a popular competitive sport and social pastime – but it’s also a form of meditation. Join a local and allow them to show you the ropes.

Hunt for the Northern Lights

If seeing the Northern Lights are on your bucket list, Finnish Lapland is one of your best bets. In these northerly latitudes, the phenomenon is visible on roughly 200 nights per year, painting the sky with luminous green swirls. A specialist aurora tour to an area with minimal light pollution will maximise your chances of success.

Getting around Lapland

For maximum freedom and flexibility in Finnish Lapland, you’re best off hiring a car while you’re here. The road networks are extensive and well-tarmacked – although you’ll need to be wary of icy conditions between late autumn and spring. Public buses are cheap and reliable in Rovaniemi, while OnniBus and Matkhahuolto operate regular bus services between the main towns and villages. Rovaniemi, Kemijärvi, Kemi and Kolari are accessible by train, too.

Enrich your solo travel experience by sharing it with a small group of culturally curious travellers on Culture Trip’s five-day Finnish Lapland adventure . Accompanied by our Local Insider, you’ll gain an authentic insight into the region’s culture, cuisine and nature.

Places to Stay

The best hotels in lapland, finland, for every traveller.

Architecture

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Discover two national parks by canoeing and hiking, 80-100 km

Magic of finland & arctic adventure with northern lights & glass igloo, aurora borealis & glass igloo, finland wilderness discovery - 5 days, finland in 5 days - covering helsinki and rovaniemi, rovaniemi (apukka area): the northern lights - 7 days, tailor-made finland adventure to lapland, helsinki - turku - tampere by rail, tailor-made private finland tour to fairy tale lapland, finnish lapland in winter.

• Kayak & Canoe
• Explore Patvinsuo's trails and campgrounds
• Experience sunrise and wildlife from a tower
• Camp and hike in Petkeljärvi before paddling

“Finland is a beautiful country and definitely not overrated. The accommodations were quite nice.” fredi George, traveled in December 2023

• Northern Lights
• Christmas & New Year
• Hunt for Northern Lights in Finnish forests
• Dig for amethysts in the Luosto mine
• Meet Santa Claus at his official village

“Excellent trip, had a wonderful time. Could not fault one thing.” Anne Chesswas, traveled in February 2023

• Ski, Snowboard & Snow
• Explore Ranua Wildlife Park's Arctic animals
• Cross the Arctic Circle at Santa Claus Village
• Mush through snow on a husky-led sled ride

• Explore the snow-covered wilderness by reindeer ride, husky sledging and snowmobile
• Cross the Arctic circle and discover wildlife and stunning landscapes of Lapland
• Visit a snow village decorated with incredible snow and ice sculptures.

• Take a ferry trip to medieval Tallinn
• Chase the Northern Lights in Lapland
• Explore Helsinki on your first day

• Sleep in an Ice Room or a cozy Glass Igloo
• Race through snow on huskies or snowmobiles
• Break the ice on the Sampo Icebreaker cruise

• Experience reindeer sledding in Rovaniemi
• Go on a thrilling snowmobile safari
• Explore Helsinki's iconic landmarks by bus

• Explore Helsinki's Senate Square and cathedrals
• View Tampere from the Näsinneula Tower
• Discover the historic Turku Castle

• Visit Santa Claus Village and ice sculptures
• Relax in an authentic Finnish sauna

“Excellent trip in the wonderful outdoors!” Monika Zilyte, traveled in February 2024

• Search for the Northern Lights from a forest guesthouse
• Sled through snowy landscapes with huskies
• Learn reindeer herding at a traditional Finnish farm

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Helsinki Solo Travel Guide

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

QUICK FACTS

• The capital and largest city of Finland, with a population of ~ 635,000 .
• The economic, political, cultural, and technological hub of Finland.
• Known for being a major international city that retains a small town feel.
• Nickname: Daughter of the Baltic (note: nickname aside, Finland is still considered to be one of the Nordic countries)

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Spoken languages: primarily  Finnish (English and Swedish are also widely spoken).
• Best time to visit: from May to September (warmest time of year).
• Arriving via airport: taxi fare to the city centre is 45 Euro (ride takes 20 minutes), while the bus is  4.10 Euro (via mobile or bought from the machine) or 6 Euro (paid directly to driver).

WHERE TO STAY

• Best Helsinki hostel for solo travelers: Hostel Diana Park . Clean facilities, comfy beds and blankets, and a great location (10 min walk to the train station, 30 mins to ferry). Not a party hostel – a great place to chill out and meet others in a calm, casual setting. Book ahead to reserve your spot as accommodation in Helsinki can get $$$.
• Hotel accommodations in Helsinki are on the expensive side.
• Higher end hotels are generally located in the city centre .
• Some budget conscious travelers find it cheaper to buy a last minute return cabin boat trip to Tallinn , as they can sleep on the boat and return the following morning for about 20 Euro .

GETTING AROUND

• Public transit in Helsinki is combined into a single ticket program that covers buses, trains, trams, metro, and the Suomenlinna ferry. Ticket prices depend on how far or how long you are traveling. The network is easy to navigate and the operators are friendly and helpful when you need directions.
• Check out the Public Transport Journey Planner (available in English) for the most updated prices and timetables.
• Taxis are available inside the city. While taxis are expensive, the fares are government regulated so you don’t risk being overcharged. Taxis are only available for hire if the their light is on.
• Bicycles can be rented all over the city, and are for a good way to explore Helsinki. Free bike route maps are available at all public libraries.

HELSINKI NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 18 (though you need to be 20 to purchase high proof alcohol).
• The hip nightlife areas of Helsinki are all close together so you can easily move among them. These are Iso-Roobertinkatu, Central Railway Station, and Kamppi .
• The gay nightlife area of Helsinki is very active, and is centered in the Iso-Roobertinkatu and Eerikinkatu areas.
• For a budget nightlife experience, head outside of the city center to the Kallio area.
• Great bars for solo travelers: Sake Bar & Izakaya, Bar Mate (great cocktails), St. Urho’s Pub.
• Live music : Ääniwalli and Kuudes linja.
• Great night club with electronic music: Post Bar.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Located in the central Senate Square, the Lutheran Cathedral (Tuomiokirkko) of Helsinki is a well known symbol of the city. Entrance is free.
• A unique church experience in Helsinki is The Church in the Rock  (literally dug into solid rock). Concerts are often held there.
• Located in central Helsinki, the Sibelius Monument  is a unique monument that resembles organ pipes. Built in 1967 from over 600 pipes.
• The Olympic Tower is a relic of the Finland’s Olympic host city history – the observation tower at the top provides an amazing view of the city. A ride to the top costs  5 Euros .
• Visiting  Suomenlinna Island  is a must for any visitor. The island fortress has held a pivotal role in the regional history, and offers some great cafes to sit and relax in after exploring.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Explore the Senate Square , home to many of the city’s museums and architectural marvels.
• Take a walk through the Toolonlahti Park . Located northwest of the central railway station, the park offers beautiful views of the bay along with a number of attractions (including the National Opera).
• Esplanadi Park in the heart of the city is a favorite spot of both locals and tourists. During the summer, the park hosts many free concerts.

LOCAL WISDOM

• The public saunas in Helsinki have a rich history, and are a big part of Finnish culture. Check out Kotiharjun Sauna , the last of the wood burning public saunas. Note that men and women have separate areas.
• Helsinki is known for two types of food:  fresh seafood and Russian . The best Russian food in the world is said to be here – a great chance to try it without making a separate trip to Russia.
• Great restaurants for solo travelers: Ravintola Kuurna ($$$), Ravintola Grön ($$$), Ravintola Wellamo ($$), BasBas Kulma ($$), Brasa (steakhouse), Viisi Penniä (gastropub), Fat Ramen ($$), Restaurant Georgian Vibe ($$), Georgian Kitchen ($$), Young Hearts.
• Traditional Finnish Food is very heavy on the meat and potatoes – if you are vegetarian, look for restaurants serving international cuisines.
• Dangerous areas : none in particular, as Helsinki is generally very safe. In any case, solo travelers would do well to avoid  Kaisaniemi Park (near the Central Railway Station) at night.

Recommended trip duration:  3-4 days

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Solo Travel Story

3 Week Itinerary For An Epic Baltics Tour & Finland Trip

I spent 2 ½ weeks travelling around the Baltics & Finland this summer. My Baltics tour and Finland trip covered over 1700 km and included four capital cities. Gotta be honest, the countries aren’t necessarily a top choice when it comes to your stereotypical summer destination. What made me go? The mystery aspect and being less overcrowded by tourists is always a big pull for me. Here are my tales, random observations, impressions and experiences from my Baltics tour & Finland trip. I hope you will find the information provided encouraging for your planning and inspiration. 

Disclaimer : my blog post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. The link is clearly marked with an *. Thanks!

Table of Contents

My Summer Baltics Tour Preparations

On this summer Baltics tour and Finland trip, I set aside three days for each Baltic capital city and booked an additional week for Helsinki in Finland. During my research, I focused on things to do that would keep me engaged and interested, such as special experiences, unusual art installations, viewing points and, of course, anything related to coffee culture, Camino and Leipzig connection. 

Next, I looked at travel between the capital cities and how well they were connected. It became clear that although there is a train network, the fastest transport link is by bus. Flixbus and Eurolines operate in the Baltics, but the best and most luxurious option is LuxBus. Travel time between the cities is approximately 4 1/2 hours, and the crossing over to Finland is about 90 minutes, so you will lose a day to travel on this Baltics tour and Finland trip.

Once I had convenient flight dates, I booked the hotels, bus & ferry tickets and activities. Overall, I planned and booked my summer Baltics tour and Finland trip six weeks in advance for travel in August 2023.

Most of my travel budget went on accommodation, followed by food and activities. Travel (flights, bus & ferry ride) covered some of the least amount of my budget, which reflects how easy and accessible it is to move around in this part of the EU.

Please Note : All three capital cities of the Baltics had their own distinctive character and unique spark that engaged me. Therefore it is hard for me to choose a favourite one from my Baltic tour or suggest to you which one, out of the three, was the best. 

Random Observations I noticed on my Baltics Tour & Finland Trip

• All countries had a low-key obsession with Brussels. The office buildings of the EU Commission are in central locations. There are many Belgian pubs and Brussels restaurants.
• All countries take a distance from the Soviet occupation. They acknowledge the past; and how it shaped their cultural identity and impacted their core values (e.g. freedom, independence), but there’s no glorification or desire to be associated with Russia.
• Locals are vocal about the war in Ukraine and their opinions towards Russia.
• Everyone happily speaks English. Locals are very friendly and open-minded. I had not a single bad encounter on my summer Baltics tour and Finland trip.
• The summer weather was unpredictable. The forecasts were often unreliable. Do pack rain clothes, a brolly and a jumper or two. 
• Baltic countries are dog-friendly. Everyone has a dog and they have a presence in society, e.g. cafés in particular stood out.  
• Bidet showers are common in public spaces and hotels.
• Baltic locals love foraging. The food market stalls are full of fresh blueberries, chanterelle mushrooms, strawberries, cherries and wildflower bouquets. The size of the food is gigantic!
• Consumer goods such as books or food were very expensive in the Baltics & Finland. Public transport, on the other hand, was one of the cheapest options I’ve encountered in Europe.
• Ladies, forget about Sephora and become obsessed with Lyko (Finland) and Tradehouse (Baltics). These beauty supermarkets have an insane offering of high-end quality and house-own brands. 
• The Baltics & Finland use a fee system for PET and glass bottles. Usually 20-40p on top of the stated price. You’ll find the recycling machines outside the supermarket, often on the side of the building. 

Baltics Tour Stop One: Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is cosy and super laid-back. The historic Old Town will feel homely and familiar in no time. The city retains this small-town character with a big international touch and cocoons you quickly. Add to that the friendliness of the introverted locals, an easy and accessible transport system and zero mass tourism.

The pace of life in Vilnius is slow. Take your time and enjoy all the cafés and restaurants in the world or sightsee the many UNESCO-certified churches. There is a bit of an edge to it, as there are many residential areas with panel blocks around, visible from viewpoints across town. But that is Vilnius, too. Often, most people don’t know much about Vilnius or haven’t even heard of it in the first place, which makes this city even more exciting to discover and get to know.

What’s THE top thing to do in Vilnius?

2023 is THE year to visit Vilnius. The city celebrates its 700th birthday by hosting many events, exhibitions and cultural offerings.

Vilnius received its UNESCO status in 1994 for its historic centre, marked by an array of churches. With 50 churches and 10 different religions, Vilnius is often described as the “Rome of the North”. This makes the city an important pilgrimage centre. More than 30,000 pilgrims visit Vilnius each year and have done so for over 400 years. 

Another top thing to do in Vilnius during a Baltics tour is to experience a hot air balloon ride . Vilnius is one of the rare cities in Europe that allows hot air balloons to take off in the city. These flights can be expensive, but in Vilnius, they are on an affordable scale. There are a couple of tour operators providing trips. My tip would be to speak to the Tourist Information and find a good deal. I booked my experience through Get Your Guide (don’t get me started on them!). Even though I was with a local provider, the experience was in Lithuanian and I felt singled out. In that case, I would have loved a more international experience. A balloon trip costs around 140€. 

Top Tip : Visit the Tourist Information , which has an array of materials, brochures, mini-guides and niche topics, e.g. hiking in Vilnius, neighbourhoods or pilgrimages. The staff are very knowledgeable, and their interest goes beyond the usual tour and experience sales. Take some of their recommendations with a pinch of salt, though. Their current café recommendations included Backstage Café, Strange Love and Coffee Spells – all places I visited but didn’t rate highly. 

Where to stay in Vilnius

During my Baltics tour, I stayed at the 4*Neringa Hotel on the ever-so-trendy Gedimino Avenue, Vilnius’ eclectic flanering mile. Neringa is a historic landmark with a long history dating back to 1917 and operating as a hotel since the 1940s. It is known for its design and popular restaurant serving Lithuanian cuisine since 1960. The restaurant draws inspiration from a local fairy-tale by Mykolas Sluckis. It tells the story of Neringa, Lithuania’s Curonian spit (a long beach & dune stretch). 

Neringa was fully refurbished in 2021 and has over 120 modern and tastefully decorated rooms. Mine was clean, and spacious, and I could fully relax here. The staff were amazing, too. Neringa’s rooftop bar is the place to be in town during a warm summer eve.

Vilnius charges a 1€ per night city tax.

BOOK*: Neringa Hotel in Vilnius

Did you know ? The Lithuanian word for “Thank You” is Ačiū, which is pronounced exactly like the sneezing sound. So if you hear the Lithuanians sneezing all the time, they are just very polite people.

Coffee, Camino & Leipzig Connection

Coffee Culture in Vilnius : cafés and brunch spots are aplenty in Vilnius. There are countless cute independent roasters serving cakes & pastries alongside modern chains (e.g. Chaif, Caffeine, Huracán Coffee). The quality of my coffee was mixed. I found Chaif served the best products in terms of quality/price. Plus their cafés are well designed and not just for coffee drinkers but attractive as a working environment, too. All cafés and brunch spots visited in Vilnius were dog-friendly. 

Count around 3€ for a cappuccino and 8€ for brunch.  

Best Cafés in Vilnius: Chaif, Cuproom and The Urban Garden Ok: Strange Love Avoid: Backstage Roasters and Coffee Spells Consider: Lola, Taste Map and Elska Café

Camino : Even though Vilnius is a centre for pilgrims, it wasn’t connected to the Camino at all. It was only in 2016 when a small group of local enthusiasts founded the Camino Lituano . The Lithuanian Way leads via Kaunas and connects with the Polish Camino. Theoretically, it passes by Vilnius but not through. However, Vilnius still feels connected to the Catholic Pilgrimage Way and has commemorated some of the “hot spots” in town with the typical Camino mark – a scallop on a yellow & blue backdrop. The Gates of Dawn, the Pilgrim’s office at the Church of St. Theresa and Vilnius Cathedral are Camino sites.

Leipzig Connection : I could not find a direct link to Leipzig. However, Vilnius is just as big. Vilniaus Gatvė food street is similar to Barefoot Alley. However, there is a connection to Vienna. I discovered a café by Julius Meinl – a brand that has a very strong presence in Viennese coffee culture.

What else is there to know about Vilnius before I move on with my Baltics Tour?

• The airport is small. Taking the bus into town is the best and fastest option. The train station nearby doesn’t have a ticket machine. You would have to pick up a ticket beforehand from the airport terminal. 
• The climb up the Gediminas Hill to the tower is a challenge, but the views are stunning (especially worth it for the sunset).
• Not all churches are churches. One is a pancake restaurant.
• The nearby Vingis Park is a recreational and festival area. The parkland is natural and has free sports offerings e.g. a disc golfing course.
• The bus station is unpleasant and not a great area to be around. Make sure you don’t have to stay there for longer as needed. 

Baltics Tour Stop Two: Riga, Latvia

Riga is on another level. This prosperous Hanseatic city by the river Daugava reminded me massively of Antwerp. Picturesque houses, quaint squares, engaging history and a lively atmosphere make Riga a memorable top spot on this Baltics tour. The Old Town of this merchant city is, of course, the touristic centre, but Riga invites you to explore beyond. The high concentration of Art Nouveau buildings with dramatic ornaments in the nearby neighbourhoods keeps the cityscape young and exciting. I’ve only spent a weekend here, but I was engaged non-stop and would love to visit again in winter. 

What’s THE top thing to do in Riga?

Riga also carries the UNESCO title for its historic Old Town. The centre seamed with cobbled streets and cafés is the tourist hotspot. Highlights include the House of Blackheads , Liven Square , the Three Brothers and the Swedish Barracks near the Powder Tower.   

The real attraction, however, is the exquisite art nouveau architecture . Indulge in the UNESCO-recognised Baltic art nouveau style, which dominates the cityscape. Over 800 buildings (⅓ of the city) designed by 25 renowned architects adorn Riga’s streets and keep it fresh, young and thriving. Make sure to visit the Art Nouveau triangle Alberta – Strelnieku – Elizabetes Iela. There are several shops, a museum and countless symbolic decorations to admire. For chunky perpendicular and romantic art nouveau style stroll along the Brivibas Iela.

Finally, take in the iconic panorama views from St. Peter’s Church . The generous viewing platform is accessed via a lift. There’s lots of space for moving around and postcard-perfect views of Riga. Standard tickets start from 8€.

Top Tip : A place I surprisingly enjoyed was the shopping centre Galerija Centres . The food court was amazing and came with an intimate rooftop terrace. A free exhibition encourages visitors to use the stairs rather than the escalators. The focus is on the first excavations onsite in 1937. Various artefacts and historical pictures display the developments, plus the centre won a prestigious award by the International Council of Shopping Centers, in 2008. 

Where to stay in Riga

At first, I wasn’t too happy about the location of my hotel, as it was quite a walk away from the bus terminal and Old Town. Then I realised I stayed in the middle of the Art Nouveau triangle with the top-voted cafés nearby. My hotel, the AC by Marriott , was located centrally in the “silent centre”. 

The Art Nouveau triangle was 5 minutes away; the town centre was roughly 15 minutes. The area had several highly rated restaurants and cafés around. My hotel room was smaller than my previous one in Vilnius, but I slept well and had everything I needed. Fluffy towels, daily housekeeping and a secure environment. After a day, I was familiar with the area and found shortcuts to the Old Town. 

Riga charges a 1€ per night city tax.

Coffee Culture in Riga : Riga has countless cafés and brunch restaurants. The quality varied in the food, but my coffees were consistently better than in Vilnius. I would happily revisit most of these places, even if not all components have always been fully satisfactory.

Most cafés and brunch spots visited were dog-friendly. Count around 3.20€ for a cappuccino and 8€ for brunch. 

Best Cafés in Riga: Rocket Bean, Conta Speciality Coffee, Cruffin Ok: Bakery Mikla Avoid: The Place that doesn’t need a Name Consider: Have you met Miss Jones? Mr Fox, MiiT Coffee, Terra, Mr Bunny Kitchen

Camino : Before my summer Baltics tour, I researched the Camino in Latvia and wasn’t too successful. I asked the Tourist Information which confirmed, that there is an active pilgrim community in Latvia. Riga is connected to the network. The best starting point in Riga is the St. Jacob’s Church near The Three Brothers. You’ll find the familiar scallop. A way marker is nearby, too.

Leipzig Connection : I haven’t stayed long enough in Riga to find a connection to Leipzig, but since Riga is part of the Hanse, there have been ties to Germany. I may have spotted the German language in buildings and on murals. The city of Bremen gifted Riga a replica of their famous Town Musicians in 1990, which you can find near St. Peter’s Church. 

What else is there to know about Riga before I move on with my Baltics Tour?

• I picked up a fascinating book that caught my eye. It is a mixture of short tales & myths from the Old Town, intertwined with historical context and illustrated with local artwork. The Dali-inspired surreal art style, as well as the storytelling, are exquisite. Check out “Stories of the Old Town or the completely true History of Old Riga”, available at Jānis Roze bookstore.
• Riga’s Old Town is full of surprises and narrow alleyways. Make sure you explore everywhere, even behind broken city walls. You never know what you may find there…
• You’ll find the authentic art nouveau café Vilhelms Kuze on Jekaba Iela.
• Have a wander around the food market halls and the newly gentrified area Spīķeri.

Baltics Tour Stop Three: Tallinn, Estonia

Oh, Tallinn, where to start? Tallinn is a gem of a city. It is supremely manicured, polished, effortlessly modern and gentrified. Tallinn is not as big as Riga, nor are the energies as buzzing. However, the international flair is there, and it is crystal clear that the medieval character is Tallinn’s bread and butter. At times, this was an overkill for me and felt too perfect and pristine. I can appreciate Tallinn for its history and the care that goes daily into the Old Town’s preservation. The neighbouring quarters are equally well maintained and reflect a high standard of living and lifestyle. An area I enjoyed was the Rotmann Quarter, converted warehouses with shopping opportunities, cafés, art and an energetic buzz.

What’s THE top thing to do in Tallinn?

The top thing to do in Tallinn is to sightsee and admire the highly preserved medieval city wall with its essential Turret Towers . Approximately 25 towers remain, and you can visit all of them (have your bingo card at the ready!). They provide lovely views and perspectives over the Old Town. The best parts still intact are the Kiek in the Kök museum (with underground passages), Helleman Tower next to the Viro entrance gate, Nunne & Sauna Tower , and the stretch Plate Tower along Laboratooriumi.

Another popular spot is the Telliskivi area , a gentrified creative quarter with many urban and cool cafés, restaurants and local crafts & artists. To the north of the Old Town is the neighbourhood Kalamaja , known for its Estonian wooden house constructions. 

Apart from the city wall, Tallinn is a popular day trip destination from Finland. 

Where to stay in Tallinn

I was not so lucky with my choice, the CityBox Tallinn . I had lots of stress and drama upon my arrival. They had cancelled my booking without telling me. The rest? Well, this accommodation was more a glorified hostel but defo not a 4* hotel. There was zero service and the cleanliness was desirable. I was disappointed as I usually love quirky and minimalistic concepts. This time, my chosen stay felt like “a place to sleep” rather than a relaxing holiday hotel. Bugger! At least the views were good and the bed was comfy.

Alternative accommodation in Tallinn : if I visited Tallinn again, I would look at Nunne Boutique Hotel, Metropol Spa Hotel (the Spa is important as there is a second hotel), Nordic Hotel Forum or Tallinn City Hotel

There is no city tax in Tallinn as of August 2023.

Coffee Culture in Tallinn : I didn’t get far at first with my research, but then the Tourist Info pointed out two exhibitions: one about Budapest cafés, and the second about Tallinn. Both exhibitions were shown at the Kiek in de Kök Museum. I learnt that Tallinn has a thriving coffee culture and is home to Estonia’s oldest coffee house, the Café Maiasmokk . This coffee house not only has a historic coffee room but in true Hanse style, there is a marzipan confectionery, too. Overall, the coffees I had in Tallinn were too bitter for my liking. The pastries made up for it. 

Most cafés and brunch spots visited were dog-friendly. Count around 3.50€ for a cappuccino and 11€ for brunch.   

Best Cafés in Tallinn: Maiasmokk, Gallery Café Ok: OA Coffee, Reval, Levier Consider: RØST, Trip, Surfcafé, Värav, Orangerie

Camino : You can start your pilgrimage in Estonia. The Tourist Info wasn’t helpful at all and provided no information for my research. After a long search, I finally found the familiar sign near St. Mary’s Church. Unfortunately, there was no further way marker. Best to study the full Camino Estonia route in advance to avoid getting lost. 

Leipzig Connection : OK, I wouldn’t necessarily take that as a direct link, but the first car number plate I saw in Tallinn listed Leipzig as a car dealer. I unexpectedly found my Leipzig at the Architecture Museum . On the bookshelf between the Helsinki and Berlin sections, there were two books about my Leipzig.

What else is there to know about Tallinn before I move on with my Baltics Tour?

• Tallinn has many high-end quarters worth checking out if you want to escape the medieval overkill for a while. Currently, the harbourside gets an upgrade. The Rotermann Quarter is another shopping and creative area with converted warehouses.
• The Baltics are rich in architecture. More on the topic can be researched at the Architecture Museum and its free library.
• Tallinn has a handful of art nouveau buildings scattered around the walkable town centre. Well-known buildings include the Dragon House (Pikk 18) and the Reval German Theatre.
• More points of interest outside of the Old Town: Kadriorg Park & Palace, Pirita convent ruins, Vabaohumuuseum, Port cruise terminal with a viewing platform.
• The harbourside is currently under construction but still worth checking out. Terminal D has a lovely square, perfect for a quiet spot for reading, and there are free exhibition displays in various places. One exhibition is on the reconstruction of the harbour, whilst another is on alcohol culture in Estonia. 
• Terminal D is the brand-new terminal for ferries to Finland. The slightly more expensive Tallink sails from Terminal D. Terminal A & B are outdated and not as grand, but they are currently under renovation.  

Baltics Tour Final Stop: Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki is not your typical sightseeing city. It is not London or Rome, but more like Madrid. You come here to experience its Nordic lifestyle and get to know Finnish culture. That means, for example, going for a sauna session at Allas Sea Pool, riding the Ferris wheel, island hopping with the excellent ferry links, strolling along Senate Square or eating a reindeer hot dog at the market. Of course, Helsinki has an insane amount of unique architecture to admire. You can also party at a music gig at Tavestia Night Club, get sick on the rides at amusement park Linnanmäki (Lintsi), try delicious Fazer chocolate, read at the trendy Oodi library or buy Moomin mugs to take home. Helsinki is all about creating life moments. 

What’s THE top thing to do in Helsinki?

Helsinki has one of seven UNESCO sites in Finland. Suomenlinna , a Swedish sea fortress, is Helsinki’s most visited attraction. The fortress was built over 8 inlets. Two of them are residential areas and home to approximately 800 inhabitants. The overall vibe is rural. You can explore the underground bunkers, visit the museums, or admire the King’s Gate. I have to be honest, Suomenlinna didn’t impress me much. It was too quiet for me and the history engaged me only a little, plus the cobbled streets were exhausting and tiring to walk around all day. It was okay for a stroll around on a Sunday afternoon and luckily the experience was free, as my weekly transport ticket included the ferry to Suomenlinna. 

Helsinki is a treasure trove for architecture and design . Both have a respective museum in the Design Quarter. The Helsinki Art Nouveau guide is one of the best-selling books in town for self-guided tours around the neighbourhoods. You can easily fill an afternoon or two admiring the buildings. Popular areas are Katajanokka and Huvilakatu in Eira – apparently Helsinki’s prettiest street. The Helsinki City Museum offers guided tours in English, but they aren’t as regular. They need to be booked in advance. Make sure to check the Helsinki City Museum events calendar for the next available tour in English. 

Other tourist favourites are the Helsinki Cathedral and the City Museum . The latter is free to visit and voted Finland’s most popular museum. The small exhibition about Helsinki is well-curated, even though the section on Finnish sauna culture is a bit questionable.

Another museum worthy of your time is the National Museum of Finland . Here you learn all about the history of the Finnish people and how they developed their cultural identity through the centuries. Finns originate from Asia and have been influenced heavily by the Russian and Swedish occupation before becoming independent in 1917. The museum not only covers history but also cultural aspects such as Finnish mythology (the Kalevala), coffee, metal music and the uniqueness of the Ugric language.  

Where to stay in Helsinki

On my summer Baltics tour & Finland trip, I spent a week at the ever-so-cool art-inspired Hotel AX in Jätkäsaari. This stylish new hotel combines art with relaxation. Every room is themed with a local artist. Mine was a phoenix fighting an octopus inspired by a Finnish poem. The bedding was so luxurious and super soft, I slept well here and I usually have a light sleep in hotels. AX was lovely, modern, top service and exactly what I look for in a hotel.

BOOK*: Hotel AX He lsinki

Jätkäsaari was a wonderful area: modern, developed and well-connected to the centre. It took 10 minutes by tram 9 to get to the central train station. Nearby were supermarkets, a lovely harbourside and a quirky art installation that could rival Manneken Pis in Brussels (have a look at art installation Bad Bad Boy by Tommi Toija). The views from the SkyBar at Clarion Hotel were exquisite. 

There is no city tax in Helsinki as of August 2023.

Coffee Culture in Helsinki : A Finnish café visit is certainly not cheap with an average of 10€ for coffee and a treat. I’m happy to report though that all coffees and kakkukhavi (coffee and cake) sessions were of great quality. I tested chains (e.g. Paul’s, Fazer, Espresso House) and small independent ones. The Finnish chain Fazer was my favourite as the coffee was delicious and their confectionery was divine. I found Finnish establishments had a friendlier demeanour than some of the independent cafés run by internationals. 

Best Cafés in Helsinki: Kaffeezentralen, Fazer Café, Good Coffee Company Ok: Andante Café, Paul’s Café, Johan & Nyström, Lauran Kaffila (Vantaa) Consider: Cafétoria, Bakery Levain, Kaffa Roastery, Ekberg 1852, Café Savoy, Café Esplanad

Find Out More : Brand New Coffee Guide to Helsinki Cafes & Finnish Coffee Culture

Camino & Leipzig Connection : Unfortunately no Camino connection. Finland’s historical development provides better context and understanding here: the country is primarily pagan and its rich mythology (Kalevala) has great significance for them. Finns weren’t too keen on getting christianised when the Catholic Church gained influence in Sweden in the 11th century. It never really took off. There is, however, one Roman Catholic pilgrimage site, the Kirkkokari . Connected to it is the legend of bishop Henry who was killed by Lalli on the ice of Lake Köyliönjärvi. There is, however, no fundamental proof that these characters have actually existed. Every summer, you can join an organised pilgrimage tour to the site. Pilgrimages as such are seen as a way of slow travel and Finns do appreciate quietness and spending time finding their inner balance. Find out more about Pilgrimages in Finland at the pilgrimage centre at Turku Cathedral.

No Leipzig connection so far, but I got to see, do and experience other things instead. Overall I loved my time in Helsinki and really look forward to visiting again.

What else is there to know about Helsinki before I travel home?

• Swedish is an official language and is very present in everyday life. It sometimes felt more dominant than Finnish. 
• Finns are very happy when you make some effort and speak their language. They are the nicest people I’ve ever encountered on my travels. Introverted yes, but kind, direct & honest. I vibed well with their general demeanour and humour. 
• Books, food & drinks are expensive in Finland. Public transport on the other hand was affordable.
• Maybe not: the churches (Cathedral, Rock church, Kampin chapel, Uspenski) required a 5€ entrance fee.
• Finnish restaurants are often fine dining establishments. A meal starts from 80€ onwards. 
• Moomin mugs cost around 25-40€. I found mine for 18€ at the supermarket S-Market Kasarmitori. 
• If you have fallen in love with Fazer chocolate, too, there is an experience centre in Vantaa.
• Helsinki’s name goes back to the Swedish “Helsinge fors” (Helsinge rapids), which is a real place, the Vanhankaupunginkoski waterfall. You can find it in the north-east of town. 
• The Finnish summer may be warmer and nicer in June/July. The weather in August was temperamental and cold. There was also no Midnight sun.

FAQs on My Summer Baltics Tour and Finland Trip

I understand this is quite a lengthy post, and you may have some quick questions about my Baltics tour and Finland trip. You can, of course, always come back to any section of my post and read in more detail what you’d need for your trip. If you have questions or need help, please get in touch and I’m happy to assist.

How did you travel around the Baltics?

The Baltics and Finland belong to the EU and Schengen Zone. Therefore there are no border checks, and travelling around the area is easy. There are train connections, but most of the logistics are done via a comprehensive bus network. Flixbus as well as Eurolines operate in the Baltics. I found the best price/quality (and most luxurious) option is LuxBus , an Estonian company that connects Vilnius with Riga, Tallinn and beyond. The LuxBus buses are clean and modern with comfortable seats. There is onboard entertainment, including films, TV shows and free Wi-Fi. The routes from Vilnius to Riga and Riga to Tallinn took 4 1/2 hours. 

When should I book my Baltics Tour & Finland Trip?

I booked my Baltics tour and Finland trip 6 weeks in advance for August, the pinnacle of European summer. However, the weather was very mixed and often, the forecast was unreliable. The average temperature was 20 degrees, overcast and moderate rain showers. Not necessarily “summer” like. Next time, I will try and book a Baltics tour & Finland trip for June or July.

Do they speak English in the Baltics & Finland?

All locals speak English and happily switch when you explain to them politely that you can’t speak their language. They are very understanding and accommodating. The level of English proficiency is good. They can use a wrong noun or preposition, but you’ll get the meaning nonetheless. Baltics and Finns make efforts to communicate and strongly identify with the EU. Of course, they will be impressed if you make some effort, too and speak their language.

Is this Baltics Tour and Finland Trip solo travel-friendly?

Yes, the Baltics and Finland are safe countries to travel to. I got asked twice if I travelled solo and received positive encouragement from the locals who asked. The people of the Baltics and Finland are also introverted and will not actively seek out contact with you, so you can relax and most likely won’t get harassed. 

Thanks so much for reading. If you’ve enjoyed my Baltics Tour and Finland Trip post and would like to support my blog & research, you can do so via  B uy Me a Coffee .

Till next time,

You may also enjoy reading:

• Complete 3 Day Copenhagen Itinerary For Your 2022 Travel Plans
• My Ultimate Eastern Europe Itinerary around the Danube Region

About SoloTravelStory

Blogs about her travel adventures in the world from her London home.

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11 comments.

Riana Ang-Canning

What a great tour through the Baltics and Helsinki! Based on your post, I’m most excited to visit Riga, as the architecture and Old Town look beautiful. But you’ve sold me on all of these cities (especially a church that serves pancakes? My kind of church!). Thank you for another amazing, well-researched post with lots of great info and beautiful photos. Can’t wait to visit the area one day soon!

Looks like we stood in the same place in so many of your photos when I did the exact same tour of the three Baltic countries. I loved them all but probably Vilnius came across as the most enchanting for me – for just the same reason as you discovered – that the pace of life is slow here. I did enjoy seeing the lifestyle in the three capitals and despite them being do close to each other I found each had a very different character.

James Fahey

Really in-depth post as usual!

I think the Baltics are both underexplored and underappreciated by most people in Western Europe which is a shame. I’ve only been to Riga and found it to be less crowded than other European cities and a fun place to spend a weekend. Vilnius has since been added to my list and this post shows me what I can expect which is great. A hot air balloon ride would be a pretty amazing thing to do. Six weeks is a good shout when putting together a trip of this stature.

Good idea placing yourself close to The Art Nouveau triangle which I enjoyed a lot in Riga. Helsinki also looks worth a visit with a good number of UNESCO sites, museums and cathedrals too!

Looks like you had a huge and wonderful journey so fair play for completing it. Well done!

Loved reading about your tour through the Baltics and into Finland. We have visited Riga, Helsinki, and Tallin (just a day trip from Helsinki), but it was a long time ago so your post has prompted us to think about returning as well as finally getting to see Vilnius. How great that you can do a hot air balloon ride from the city. (Interesting about booking via the tourist information if you want a more international experience.) As ever, this post was extremely well researched with lots of practical advice about travelling through these wonderful cities. Like you, we often find that tourist information centres offer a wealth of advice on attractions. As you say, each city has a unique character and it’s difficult to pick a favourite – we’ll just have to visit them all!

Lyn (aka Jazz)

There is so much that I love about this post. I have not seriously considered any of these locations but now I’m really interested. The Art Nouveau architecture would be a major pull for me in the cities but I have to admit, the whole medieval vibe and turret towers in Tallinn would work for me, too.

I always appreciate your coffee culture focus and reviews and I really liked the tips/what else to know

As I read each section I kept thinking “oh, this is my favourite” and then I read the next section. I shall have to plan a trip that includes all of them. This list is not getting any shorter!

Lyn | http://www.ramblynjazz.com

I had been trying to search for some reading materials about the Baltics for awhile now and this post is a wonderful addition to what I have collated so far. You let us in to some quirks about each city and I think it speaks a lot in trying to find out what makes a city tick. Can’t say I have my favorite yet but it would be exciting to find out and even retraced your steps. To know that it is certainy less crowded in the height of summer in the Baltics is something that every discerning traveler like to poke one’s nose into. Thanks for sharing this with us Carolin and happy travels #flyingbaguette

Jan – https://flyingbaguette.com/

Sounds like an amazing time! I loved Helsinki and wasn’t expecting to, even in the winter. I wish we got to Tallinn but with covid protocols in 2022, we kept it safe and didn’t leave the country. I love the architecture though. I truly believe the Baltics & Scandinavia are really underrated destinations for travelers. They have so much to offer. I’d love to visit in the summer and compare it to the winter.

I’m one of those sorry people who know little about the Baltic capitals, sad to say. Hopefully one day I will make it there, as they seem to all be cool places to explore. Helsinki looks beautiful, too, and I especially love that rainbow street. That Suomenlinna UNESCO site may not have captured you, but I think it might be something I’d enjoy so thanks for including it

You and I need to swap our experiences. I did this exact trip but in winter (and minus Vilnius which is now top of my list to visit). I absolutely adore Riga though, one of my favorite European capitals and cities in general. I’m glad you got to spend extra time in Helsinki. I really wanted more time there so I’m going to have to go back. and I’ll have to do all of this in summer I think

What a fabulous article! If I already had a strong desire to explore the Baltic, now my curiosity has been piqued. It’s incredible how these countries are so undervalued and unexplored in terms of tourism, compared to Western Europe. All the tips in the post are enlightening and encourage everyone to visit these fabulous cities, but your photos give the content a huge boost! If anyone had doubts about putting the Baltic countries on their travel list, I think they’ve been cleared up!

Clazz - An Orcadian Abroad

Great post! I would love to do this trip some time, especially the ferry between Tallinn and Helsinki ever since I found out you can do that. Although Riga looks amazing (and has flights from Edinburgh which is always a bonus!) and has been on my list for years.

We stayed in a CityBox in Oslo but it was just for a night which was fine – I agree though, very no-frills and basic, check in on a screen in the lobby. We just needed somewhere to stay when we arrived before our train the next day, and when we got back to Oslo we stayed in a nicer hotel, which I was glad we did to be honest.

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Solo trip to Helsinki, Finland

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If you are going on a solo trip to Helsinki, one of the famous Scandnadivan destinations in Finland, you will find this article helpful because not only I am covering the best places to visit in Helsinki alone but also all the essential Helsinki travels tips for first-timers ie visa, accommodation, food to try, the best time to visit, where to go, activities and day trips from Helsinki also. This is going to be a solid itinerary about Helsinki, let’s get started!

Helsinki is the capital city of Finland and the most northerly of continental European capitals. Geographically, it is situated on the southern peninsula by the Gulf of Finland facing Tallinn (Estonia) across the bay, and a number of islands, which are part of Helsinki, can be reached via boats and ferries even on a day trip. (more on that below)

You can even see the northern lights – auroras once every 20 days in Helsinki and it is true that the tap water in Helsinki comes straight from mountain springs via Päijännetunneli which is the longest water tunnel in the world! The quality of water in Helsinki is so good Saudi Arabia has been buying drinking water from the Finnish capital for many years.

• Solo trip to Helsinki

How to get to Helsinki

How to get around helsinki, how many days in helsinki is enough, where to stay in helsinki, do i need a visa for helsinki, when is the best time to visit helsinki, is helsinki safe for a solo female traveler, local currency, people, language, simcard, must-have travel apps for helsinki, what to eat in helsinki, where to eat in helsinki, solo travel to helsinki, best places to visit in helsinki, best place to watch sunsets in helsinki, day trips from helsinki, let me know in the comments:.

It is a long story but in short, I wasn’t aware there were two airports in Helsinki. So, I arrived at the wrong one and missed a flight which led to spending all day at the airport to catch a late-night flight. Then I had to detour to London instead of flying direct to Italy. I was awake from 5 AM to 5 AM, it was an awful experience.

Okay back to the travel tips for your solo trip to Helsinki. We establish that there are 2 airports in Helsinki. 1. Helsinki-Malmi Airport (HEM) 2. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) and 3. Hyvinkää Airfield (HYV, 50 km north of Helsinki not an airport but falls into the same region)

Use Skyscanner to scan the best price for flights to Helsinki. Most likely you land at the Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport. There are two terminals and both are open 24 hours with cafes and free WIFI. The connection was fast (100Mbs) and easy to use.

Alternatively, you could take a ferry from either Tallinn, Estonia (I did this), and Stockholm, Sweden. Ferries run daily between these countries and the journey takes 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tallinn. I bought the ferry ticket from Eckeroline cost $44 and they run twice daily. The Helsinki Stockholm ferry route connects Finland with Sweden and is currently operated by 2 ferry companies. The Tallink Silja service runs up to 7 times per week with a sailing duration of around 17 hours 30 minutes and the Viking Line service runs up to 7 times per week with a duration from 17 hr 45 min.

By Train/Bus

If flying or taking a ferry is not your style, you can also travel overland from Copenhagen to Helsinki with train or car ferry via Malmö Centralstation which takes 24h 18m and costs $230 – $470. Trains also run daily to Helsinki from St Petersburg and Moscow! Fares start from around $33 one-way in 2nd class or $78 in 1st class if you pre-book, rising to around $90 in 2nd class, $149 in 1st class if you buy your tickets close to the departure date. Children aged 6 to 16 (inclusive) travel at half fare.

Regardless of the mode of transport, you choose, once you arrive in Helsinki you will find its fresh Nordic air and charming city beautiful.

The first option I always suggest is to walk around the new city because it offers so much more with the sights, sounds, conversations with the locals, and more.

That said, Helsinki also has an established public transport system served by bus, and tram. I found the tram to be clean, fast, and frequent which made accessing Helsinki’s main tourist areas easy. You can buy a single ticket from the tram driver costs 3 euros. A tram ticket is just a special discounted (2,20 €) ticket, which is valid only on Helsinki trams. As a separate ticked it can only be purchased from ticket vending machines – not from a tram driver. There is also a shared-bike scheme City Bikes that offers some 1500 bikes at 150 stations citywide from April to September!

Alternatively, you can download Uber for going around in Bratislava. Here is the $10 off your first ride on the Uber app. Use code ‘k7zapn’ to sign up. Enjoy!  https://www.uber.com/invite/k7zapn

Although I like staying until my visa runs out in each country, I would say at least 3 days is the ideal time to spend in Helsinki. That is just enough time to explore the city and perhaps take a day trip or two.

If you don’t want to stay in expensive hotels or cheap dirty hostels, the easy alternative is to stay at Airbnb. You can even wash the bedsheets once you arrive as Airbnbs usually come with washing and laundry. You would be spoilt for choice in some of the best neighborhoods which are city center, especially in Kammpi, Eira, Ullanlinna, Kaivopuisto, Punavuori, and Töölö in the southern parts of the city. Kulosaari, Munkkiniemi, Lehtisaari, and Kuusisaari are a bit farther away, but still worth considering too.

Open a new Airbnb account with my link and use this $50-70 Airbnb discount for your first booking.

If your passport is from the EU, and EEA you do not need a visa to enter Helsinki, you can stay for unlimited time using only the National ID (except UK citizens, passports are needed). For Australians, we can stay up to 90 days on an arrival stamp. That being said, the authorities may ask for the return air or ferry ticket. I highly recommend checking the official website online or with your local embassy to find out if your country requires an Estonian visa.

The best times to visit Helsinki are May throughout August because during these months usually the climate is warm-sunny and there are tons of events and activities you can enjoy in the long summer days. Plus the outdoor markers, harbor, and beach. If you are into winter sports, snow or Lapland going during winter December to March would be perfect for you.

My solo trip to Helsinki was safe. So I would say unless there is a drastic change in the country’s political situation, pandemic, or some natural disaster it is safe to travel to Helsinki. Just remember to apply a general rule of thumb i.e. Don’t walk down that dark alleyway on your own, respect the culture, don’t argue about religion, dress modestly, trust your instincts, don’t be afraid but be cautious.

The official currency in Finland is the euro (€). Remember to consider bank fees from your bank and the ATM withdraw fee while you do your budget.

My experience meeting the local Finns was positive. They were all friendly and funny! It’s the people who make the country right? so I think it’s fair to say these happy people made Finland the happiest country in the world! Of course, personal freedom and a good work-life balance reflect people’s general happiness in life also.

Locals speak their main native language Finnish, with Swedish and the Sami language as other official languages and love their coffee and sauna!

I used Elisa for Simcard, worked fine. It is also easy to upgrade and recharge your data plan. https://lataa.elisa.fi/

Starter packages for Elisa and other operators are available at every R-Kioski. No need for registration. Finland’s country domain is .fi, and country code is +358.

Google Translate for easy communication on the local language and it’s extremely simple to use!

Uber for going around in Bratislava. Here is the $10 off your first ride on the Uber app. Use code ‘k7zapn’ to sign up. Enjoy!  https://www.uber.com/invite/k7zapn

HSL App for the most comprehensive travel information on public transport across the Helsinki metropolitan area- tram, bus, metro, and train.

Helsinki Bikes app is useful for those with a city bike membership.

VR app because it provides long-distance rail passenger transport within Finland and to Russia.

Taksi Helsinki is available pretty much available 24/7 but compared to Uber was expensive.

Unicafe, Wolt, and ResQ for food delivery and cheap food.

Ylläs Aurora App for anyone in search of the Northern Lights in Finland. The app tells you where the Northern Lights have been spotted, there is a 2,99€ charge though.

Google Maps because it offers very good coverage of Bratislava, including Street View. Google Drive, Calendar for time management, and storing pictures.

Direct Ferries app to compare companies, prices, and, once you’re happy, book those ferry tickets.

Visiting Helsinki wouldn’t be complete without trying their food! The must-try food in Helsinki is Baltic Herrin, Grilled Sausages (Grillimakkara), Salted Licorice (Salmiakki), Karjalanpiirakka (rice pies), Ruisleipa (rye bread), Leipajuusto (bread cheese), Kalakukko (fish pie), Korvapuusti (cinnamon buns), Lihapullat (Finnish meatballs), Graavilohi (cured salmon), and Mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie).

As you know most countries have a signature drink. Finland is no different. So the must-try drink in Helsinki is the local spirit called Finlandia Vodka which has approximately 80% alcohol content!

Because of Helsinki’s vibrant food culture, whether you’re interested in fine dining or street food you can find both here. There are some great island restaurants to choose from and for seasonal delicacies, the traditional market halls and market places are the best. Some places that I recommend are Restaurant Bassi, Saaga, Muru, Sasslik, and Finnjävel Sali. Don’t be afraid to go on solo dining Helsinki, the food is worth it!

Now that we got the practical tips out of the way, let’s get into the best places to visit during your solo travel to Tallinn and day trips from it.

If it’s your solo trip to Helsinki, and you would like to meet other fellow travelers I consider joining a walking tour, meet other travelers and get familiar with the city with the help of licensed, professional guides. There are many types of walking tours available from the public to private tours ranging from 1 to 3 hours.

Either way, whether you join the tours or end up exploring on your own, here are the must-see places in Helsinki you shouldn’t miss: Helsinki Cathedral, The Senate Square, The Market Square, Temppeliaukio Church, Suomenlinna or Sveaborg, The historic Town Hall Square, The biggest historical museum in Helsinki National Museum of Finland, the Finnish National Opera, the Finlandia concert hall, and the Helsinki Music Centre.

Another option is to get a hop on hop off bus card. It is a fun way to explore also and covers following places. Senate Square, Havis Amanda, Olympia Terminal / Mannerheim Museum, Kaivopuisto Park, Eira, Hernesaari Cruise Terminal (for cruise ships), Melkki Cruise Terminal (for cruise ships), Hietalahti Flea Market / Market Hall, Bulevardi, Tennis Palace / Kamppi, Rock Church, Sibelius Monument, Olympic Stadium, Parliament / National Museum, City Centre / Lasipalatsi, Swedish Theatre and Esplanade / Market.

If you heading there in August, check out the Helsinki Festival which is an annual art and culture festival, which takes place every August (including the Night of the Arts).

For a breath of fresh air in Helsinki, you can visit Nuuksio National Park which is one of Finland’s top nature attractions or go to Korkeasaari Zoo, Hietaranta Beach, Aurinkolahti Beach, Tropicario, Baana.

There are some great places you can watch the sunsets in Helsinki during your solo trip to Helsinki. Such as, Atelijee rooftop bar (even the bathroom had amazing views!), SkyWheel, Uspenski Cathedral, Observatory Hill, Linnanmäki Observation Tower, Suomenlinna Fortress island, Malminkartano Hill, Harakka Nature Centre, Pihlajasaari Island, Kaivopuisto Park, and sunsets by the sea in Siltasaari, Hakaniemi, Kruununhaka, or Katajanokka.

Locals in Helsinki enjoy crossing the Baltic sea to go to Tallinn on a day trip. Whether that be for cheaper booze shopping or a simple day out. You can also easily do a day trip and back, taking a plane to Sweden. If that is a little too much, you can visit Nuuksio National Park for a full-day hike from Helsinki, or head out to see the beautiful nearby medieval town of Porvoo.

I hope this solo trip to Helsinki article helped you in planning your travels.

• If you have any questions about this solo travel to Helsinki
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Solo Traveler

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

Solo Travel Destination: Lapland, Finland

January 27, 2022 by Tracey Nesbitt

I am pleased to present a new Solo Travel Destination Post from Kristine, a member of the  Solo Travel Society  on Facebook. Kristine is from Canada and submitted the following report about solo travel to Lapland, Finland. Do you have a solo travel destination that you would like to recommend?  Submit your description here , along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!

Solo Travel Rating:  1  (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult. Please see chart below)

Languages Spoken: Finnish, English

Costs at Destination:    Expensive  ( local transportation, dining, tours, events, and attractions )

Reindeer, Northern Lights, and an Igloo

I traveled solo to Lapland, Finland and stayed at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Saariselkä. My accommodation was a panoramic thermal glass-domed igloo. Half board was included in the accommodation rate, which was a breakfast buffet and 3-course dinners with vegetarian options.

I went on a husky sledding safari, rode a sleigh pulled by reindeer to view the Aurora Borealis, visited Santa's Home and the Planetarium on the resort property (equivalent to a North American IMAX theater).

The resort is approximately a half hour shuttle bus ride from Ivalo Airport, Europe's northernmost airport. All amenities and activities are located on the resort property which include communal showers (a short walk from your igloo to the building), Finnish saunas, a couple of restaurants, a souvenir gift shop, etc. Complimentary shuttle buses are available to transport you across the property for activities.

The food was of high quality and the variety was plentiful. Options included breakfast cereals, breads, pastries, eggs, and bacon; smoked salmon, herring, white fish, and vegetables; reindeer filet, and delicious desserts. The menu was world class as was the customer service.

This resort boasts 200+ nights of Northern Lights viewing opportunities every year. Viewing the Aurora Borealis was on my bucket list. I saw them dancing in the beautiful starry sky five out of the seven nights I stayed nestled in my glass igloo. There are Aurora alarms in each igloo as well. Wi-Fi is available in the reception area and restaurants only so ensure you have an international mobile data plan. There is a toilet and sink inside each igloo and the beds are adjustable.

This was my first international solo trip and it was the best vacation I ever enjoyed (a close tie with my trip to Bolivia in 2019 where I visited the salt flats and mountain biked down Death Road in the Andes Mountains). It was an absolutely amazing experience as a solo female traveler. I would recommend solo travel in Lapland and I would definitely go back and visit Finland again!

Solo Travel Rating for Lapland

• Safety   – 1  (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)
• Language   – 2  (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)
• Navigation – 1  (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)
• Culture – 1  (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)
• Average Rating – 1  (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult)

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Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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Finland Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice

This post may contain affiliate links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer here and our Privacy Policy here .

Welcome to the Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice page for Finland !

This page is brought to you by Solo Female Travelers Tours , our curated small group trips for women, by women.

On this page you will find first-hand, unbiased, and real  safety tips, advice and reviews  from women traveling solo, submitted directly from their personal experiences in the country.

Their opinions are unfiltered and submitted independently as part of the Solo Female Travel Safety Index , a ranking of 210 countries and regions based on how safe they are for women traveling solo.

The safety scores range from 1 to 4 with 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers.

You don’t need to login to read the below reviews. But do sign up or login to share your solo travel experiences, country safety rating and comments.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE – LEAVE YOUR SAFETY REVIEWS! We can make the world a safer place for women traveling solo together. Sign up to our portal and leave your reviews NOW. Share your experience with other solo female travelers and help us empower more women through travel.

Finland Country data

We have compiled a few data points below that can help you better understand Finland and have more context when thinking about travel safety.

Official country name: Republic of Finland.

Etymology: Name may derive from the ancient Fenni peoples who are first described as living in northeastern Europe in the first centuries A.D.

Country map

Locator map

Capital: Helsinki.

Independence / foundation: Finland was a province and then a grand duchy under Sweden from the 12th to the 19th centuries. It then became an autonomous grand duchy of Russia after 1809. It gained complete independence in 1917.

Population: 6 million.

Currency: Euro (EUR) 1 USD = 0.91 - 0.93

Time zone: UTC+2

Languages spoken: Finnish (official) 86%, Swedish (official) 5%, Russian 2%, other 7% .

Religions: Lutheran 67%, Greek Orthodox 1%, other 2%, none 30%.

Climate: Cold temperate climate. Potentially subarctic weather, but comparatively mild because of moderating influence of the North Atlantic Current, Baltic Sea, and more than 60,000 lakes.

Real GDP (ppp – purchasing power parity): $274 billion.

Real GDP per capita (ppp): $49,400.

Main airports: Helsinki Vantaa Airport, Turku Airport, Tampere-Pirkkala Airport.

World heritage sites in Finland

There are over 1,100 world heritage sites spread across more than 165 countries. New ones are added every year, and some may be removed from the list for various reasons.

Number of UNESCO listed sites : 7.

Top world heritage sites :

Interesting facts about Finland

Further reading : N/A.

Finland Travel tips

Socket type: C / F. Guide to socket types .

Weekend days: Saturday and Sunday.

Driving: Cars drive on the Right.

Local taxi apps: Uber , Yango

Travel Guides: Lonely Planet .

Languages spoken : Finnish (official) 86%, Swedish (official) 5%, Russian 2%, other 7% .

Basic words and phrases in the main language:

Find a hotel in Finland

Book tours and activities :

More about Finland on Solo Female Travelers

Did you spot any errors? We do our best to keep this information updated and accurate, but things change. If you saw anything that is not right, let us know so we can fix it: [email protected] .

About the Solo Female Travel Safety Index

Safety matters to solo female travelers, you told us so in our annual  Solo Female Travel Survey , where year after year, women prove that this is their most important concern when traveling solo.

We wanted to do something about it, so we built these country-specific pages where you can find reviews and scores for 7 key variables affecting the safety of women traveling solo.

• Risk of scam
• Risk of theft
• Risk of harassment
• Attitudes towards women
• UK Travel Advisory
• US Travel advisory
• Global Peace Index (GPI)

Informing OSAC

The Solo Female Travel Safety Score is used by the Overseas Security Advisory Council for including safety concerns for women travelers in their country security reports; OSAC is a partnership between the U.S. Department of State and private-sector security community.

How to use the Safety Index

On this page, you will find the country score and the personal opinions on safety of other women traveling solo.

You can sort the comments by:

• The  level of experience traveling solo  of the reviewer (beginner = <5 trips solo, Intermediate = 5 to 10 trips solo, Experienced = >10 trips solo).
• The  age  of the traveler.
• Whether they are a  visitor or local .
• The  date  they were posted.

The safety scores range from 1 to 4 with 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers. 

Thus, the lower the score, the safer the country.

Looking for more safety resources?

This entire website is devoted to helping women travel solo. Check out the links below to learn more:

Solo Female Travel Stats : Results from the the largest, most comprehensive and only global research study on solo female travel trends, preferences and behaviors published.

Thanks to Jacobo Vilella for creating the Solo Female Travelers Safety Index ❤️

Helsinki Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

But it’s definitely worth taking the time to see.

Historic, small, brimming with green space, and set on the Baltic Sea, Helsinki is a picturesque city filled with friendly people and few tourists. It’s especially great if you love art and music as they have a ton of museums and a vibrant music scene.

If you ask me, Helsinki is one of the most underrated capitals in Europe . I always love my time here!

This travel guide to Helsinki can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Helsinki

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Helsinki

1. Visit the National Museum of Finland

This museum has a large collection of Finnish artifacts from the Stone Age to the present, including jewelry, coins, tools, weapons, and more. Containing the most comprehensive collection of cultural history in Finland, the museum is ideal for learning about Finnish folk culture and the Finno-Ugric people. The collection didn’t actually have a building until an architectural contest was held to build the structure that houses the current museum (construction started in 1910). It was officially opened as the National Museum of Finland in 1916. Permanent collections can be viewed alongside a fascinating array of rotating pop-up exhibits. The museum also hosts workshops and tours. It’s a good place to get an overview of Finland’s history. Admission is 15 EUR and is free every Friday from 4pm–6pm.

2. Relax at Kaivopuisto Park

During the summer, residents and tourists alike flock to this park to hang out, play sports, picnic, and enjoy the view of the Baltic Sea Located on the southern point of the peninsula in a high-end neighborhood, it has well-maintained paths for walking, plenty of green space, and some old growth trees. It’s the oldest park in Helsinki and the Ursa Observatory sits atop the highest point of the park. Cafes and restaurants are scattered around the shoreline and islands. Concerts and other events are often held in the park during warmer months. During the winter, the largest hill in the park is a favorite spot for tobogganing. If the weather is nice, bring a book and lounge the day away!

3. See the Helsinki Cathedral

This cathedral was built in the 19th century as a tribute to Czar Nicholas I, the Grand Duke of Finland, and was known as St. Nicholas Church until Finland gained independence in 1917. Built in the Neoclassical style, it’s one of the most recognizable sights in the capital’s skyline and can be seen from almost every vantage point in Helsinki. If you’ve visited a lot of cathedrals, you likely won’t think this is one of the greatest in Europe but I think it’s one of the best in Scandinavia.

4. Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art (Kiasma)

Opened in 1990, Kiasma is housed in a unique modern building not far from the Post Museum (see below). The collection consists of over 8,500 works and pays tribute to Finnish art from the 1960s to the present day. Part of the Finnish National Gallery, Kiasma is Finnish for “chiasma,” a term describing the crossing of nerves or tendons, and was named by the American architect, Steven Holl, who designed the unique building. Concerts and events are often held within Kiasma and the building contains a theater, a library, a café restaurant, and a bookstore. Tickets are 18 EUR for adults and free for anyone under 18. Admission is free on the first Friday of every month.

5. Tour Suomenlinna Fortress

This island fort was constructed by the Swedes in 1748 as a defense against the Russians. When Russia took over Helsinki in 1808, they used it as a garrison. The designers and architects of the fortress incorporated the unique geographical features of the area and constructed many of the buildings using stones from the islands. Since 1748, different groups added on to the sea fortress and it has served to defend 3 separate nations. It now covers six islands, all of which belong to the city of Helsinki. After World War II, the fort was converted for the people of Finland to use. Today, it’s a park and residential area. There are a lot of interesting buildings, secluded beaches, and parks here. Guided tours cost 11 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Helsinki

1. tour the post museum.

This museum is dedicated to the history of Finland’s postal service. It sounds absolutely boring but I found it surprisingly interesting and educational. It highlights the history of the mail service in Finland, from ships and sleds in the 1600s to their modern-day delivery service. There are all kinds of artifacts, photographs, and short films about how they made mail delivery work in such a sparsely populated and harsh environment. Admission is 14 EUR.

2. Visit the Finnish Museum of Photography

The photography museum houses a sizeable collection of works by Finnish artists (there are over 2 million photos here). You’ll find photos from famous Finnish photographers like Elina Brotherus and Pentti Sammallahti. They also host rotating international exhibitions as well. Tickets are 12 EUR.

3. Shop at the Central Market

Located near the harbor, this market is where you can do lots of souvenir shopping, eat some local food, and buy fresh vegetables (and lots of fresh berries in the summer). It’s usually swarming with tourists, but I heard enough Finnish there to know it isn’t a complete tourist trap. There’s also a covered portion of the market where you can find pastries, fish, meat, and cheese. Eat at the Soup Kitchen if you’re hungry (they have an amazing seafood soup).

4. Visit the Sinebrychoff Art Museum

This museum houses a lot of old paintings and portraits from the 14th-19th centuries. It’s the only museum in the city that really focuses on old European art. The bottom floor of the museum has a lot of photos and more modern works, while the top floor has the older paintings that you see as you walk through the old Sinebrychoff residence. Portrait of a Lady by Alexander Roslin and Portrait of Mademoiselle Charlotte Eckerman by Adolf Ulrik Wertmüller are two noteworthy pieces in the collection. Admission is 16 EUR and entry is free on the first Wednesday of the month from 5-8pm. Admission to the house museum on the second floor is free.

5. Relax in Sinebrychoff Park

Right near the Sinebrychoff Museum is a nice little residential park worth hanging out in. Dating to the 18th century, the park was originally a private garden belonging to a Russian businessman before becoming a public park in the 1960s. Today, you’ll find lots of coffee shops nearby so you can grab a snack and relax. Bring a book, grab a coffee, and lounge away the day!

6. Visit the Bank of Finland Museum

This museum was one of the coolest museums I’ve seen in a long time. While it does a good job illuminating the history of money in Finland, what it really does well describes the history of finance and modern finance. You get to see Euro coins from all the European countries and discover what a gold nugget looks like, but you’ll also learn how to spot counterfeit money. It offers up detailed background information and great exhibits. It was quite a learning experience! Admission is free.

7. Admire the Uspenski Cathedral

Sitting on a hill overlooking the city, this massive red cathedral is hard to miss. Uspenski is an Eastern Orthodox Cathedral with large domes and gold crosses. Made of red brick, it stands out nicely against the rest of the city. Consecrated in 1868, it’s the largest Eastern Orthodox church in Western Europe. The interior is lavishly decorated with typical Eastern Orthodox iconography (though many of the statues and items have been stolen over the years). It’s a place of worship, so dress respectfully when you visit. Admission is free.

8. Explore the Helsinki City Museum

Like the National Museum of Finland, the Helsinki City Museum offers an in-depth look at the capital’s history. There are plenty of great exhibits and photos with detailed descriptions that bring the history of the city to life. There are also photos by famous Finnish photographers like Signe Brander as well as exhibitions featuring typical Finnish homes from the 1950s and 1970s so you can see what life used to be like here. Admission is free.

9. Relax in Esplanade Park

This park (called “Espa” by the locals) is a popular place to spend a lunch hour if the weather is nice. There are usually a number of street musicians around and there are also a few eateries nearby too. Opened in 1812, you’ll find several statues honoring Finnish poets and writers such as Johan Ludvig Runeberg, Zacharias Topelius, and Eino Leino. Come here to relax, picnic, read, or people-watch!

10. Visit the Harbor Islands

There are over 330 islands that make up the Helsinki city archipelago. Suomenlinna is the easiest to reach with regular municipal ferries (you can take a ferry directly from Market Square). Vallisaari and Kuninkaansaari are two other islands worth visiting, as they used to be military bases closed off to the public (during the Viking era, Vallisaari was used as an outpost that would light a fire whenever a Viking raid was coming so people could prepare). The islands have since been reclaimed by nature and turned into parks dotted with abandoned fortifications. You can explore on your own or take a guided tour; there are a ton to choose from, most last 1-2 hours and cost around 25 EUR.

11. Have Fun at Linnanmäki

Just north of the city, this amusement park is a fun place to visit if you’re traveling with kids (or if you just want to act like a kid yourself!). Opened in 1950, the park is actually owned by a non-profit that donates money to child welfare programs. There are over 40 different attractions here, including 8 roller coasters (one of which is a traditional wooden roller coaster). A wristband is 45 EUR, which gives you access to all the rides. Entry to the park itself is free, so if you want to just visit and explore you can do that without spending money.

12. Experience a Finnish Sauna

Saunas originated in Finland ( sauna is a Finnish word meaning “Finnish bath”). There are some 2 million saunas in Finland — a country with just over 5 million people — so you won’t have a hard time finding one. Many hostels, hotels, and even apartments have their own sauna. Löyly Helsinki is the most popular public sauna in the Finnish capital. A two-hour session costs 19 EUR. Just be sure to keep sauna etiquette in mind: bring your swimwear, men and women are separated, towels are acceptable (but people are usually naked), and don’t be loud.

13. See the Temppeliaukio Church

Temppeliaukio Church, also called Church of the Rock, is a Lutheran Church built directly into solid rock and partially underground. The Suomalainen brothers won an architectural competition for their design and started construction in the 1960s. The walls are all exposed stone and the roof is a huge dome that lets in natural light. Over half a million people visit the church each year, and the venue is also used regularly for concerts and large events.

14. Wander the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

Located north of Helsinki on Seurasaari Island, the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum allows you to get up close to numerous traditional Finnish buildings from the early 18th-20th centuries. They aren’t replicas either; the buildings were collected from all over the country and brought here. There are houses, cottages, outbuildings, a windmill, and more. Opened in 1909, guided tours are available daily during the summer (it’s closed in the winter). Admission is 10 EUR.

15. Visit the Design Museum

Finnish design, like its Scandinavian counterparts, is incredibly popular, known for seamlessly integrating design elements into regular life. The Design Museum allows you to learn about the history of Finnish design and Finnish architecture over the last 150 years. It opened in 1873 and holds over 75,000 objects, 40,000 drawings, and 100,000 photographs. The museum also publishes books and exhibition catalogs about modern design. It’s 15 EUR to get in but it’s free on the last Tuesday of every month from 4-8pm.

16. Ride the Skywheel Helsinki

Located a few minutes away from Uspenski Cathedral, Skywheel Helsinki is a Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city. Standing 40-meters (131 feet), it’s the best way to see the city from “above” since there aren’t really any skyscrapers here. Rides are 14 EUR and last around 12 minutes. It’s also possible to have a sauna experience while riding the Skywheel too (though it’s not cheap). Prices for the SkySauna start at 240 EUR per hour for up to 4 people, including two drinks per person.

17. Visit Amos Rex

This art museum opened in August 2018 and it’s already one of the most popular in Helsinki. It’s named after Amos Anderson, a Finnish patron of the arts. You’ll find a rotating series of temporary exhibitions from local and international artists here so check the website to see what events/exhibitions are coming up. I don’t love modern art myself, but I’m told this gallery has really cool exhibitions. Admission is 20 EUR.

18. Admire some classical art

Ateneum is one of three museums that forms the Finnish National Gallery (with the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma and the Sinebrychoff Art Museum). It has the biggest collection of classical art in Finland, with over 4,300 paintings and 750 sculptures. You’ll also find pieces by artists such as Van Gogh and Cézanne. If you love classical art, don’t miss this museum! Admission is 18 EUR.

Helsinki Travel Costs

If you’re traveling with a tent, wild camping is legal outside of the city on public land. Just make sure to be respectful and use common sense. There are also plenty of campgrounds nearby, usually charging 10-25 EUR per night for a basic two-person plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Generally, you can expect to pay 75-115 EUR per night for a budget hotel with free Wi-Fi and basic amenities like TV and a coffee/tea maker. During the summer, prices are closer to 100-150 EUR per night.

Airbnb is a great budget option in the city, with private rooms starting at 40 EUR (though they average double that). If you’re looking for an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 70 EUR, though prices average over 120 EUR.

Average cost of food – Finnish cuisine leans heavily on fish, meat (specifically pork), and hearty vegetables like potatoes. Reindeer is commonly eaten as well as wild game like deer and moose. Smoked salmon and smoked or pickled herring are also popular dishes. Like their Scandinavian neighbors, Finns also enjoy dark bread and cheeses, usually as part of an open-faced sandwich (these are the go-to breakfast choice).

Overall, the food here is expensive in the city. Your average cheap casual restaurant charges around 13 EUR for a meal while fast food (think McDonald’s) is 9 EUR. For a three-course meal with table service, expect to pay at least 50-80 EUR.

Pizza costs around 10 EUR for a large pizza while Thai or Chinese food costs 10-15 EUR for a main dish. If you want to splash out, I suggest Ravintola Aino for good Finnish food (try the reindeer). Dishes cost between 50-62 EUR but are incredibly tasty!

Beer costs 7 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 4 EUR. Bottled water is 1.70 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, groceries cost between 50-65 EUR per week for basic staples like vegetables, bread, pasta, and some fish or meat.

Backpacking Helsinki Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 70 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do free activities like visiting the free museums, hitting the beach, and relaxing in the parks. If you plan on drinking, add 10-15 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 140 EUR, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for some meals, have a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting the Post Museum or taking a guided tour of Suomenlinna Fortress.

On a “luxury” budget of 290 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a car to explore, and do whatever activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Helsinki Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Helsinki is a super expensive destination to visit. It’s hard to visit here “on a budget” but, fortunately, there are ways to save money if you know where to look. Here are a few tips to help you keep your budget intact when you visit:

• Get a Helsinki Card – There’s a lot to see in the city and paying 10-15 EUR per attraction adds up. This tourism card grants you free admission to the main sights (as well as access to the hop-on/hop-off bus) for 50 EUR (for a 24-hour pass). You can also get a 48-hour pass for 63 EUR or a 72-hour pass for 74 EUR. It includes discounts on some restaurants as well. For an additional charge, you can add free public transit on your card too.
• Avoid taxis – Helsinki is easy to navigate with public transportation and on foot. Skip the taxis here — they add up fast!
• Stay with a local for free – Couchsurfing connects you with a local who can host you for free. You may have to sleep on a couch, but you’ll get to make a new friend and get tons of insider information about the city.
• Skip the drinking – A night out in Finland, especially in Helsinki, can put a deep hole in your pocket. To maintain your budget, avoid drinking alcohol.
• Go grocery shopping – Buying basic staples like bread, meat, and cheese for breakfast or for a quick lunch on the go can save you quite a bit of cash. By cooking your own meals you’ll save a ton of money, enabling you to eventually splurge on some great local dinners and traditional fare.
• Take the free city tours – Green Cap Tours offers daily free walking tours around Helsinki. You get to see the main sights while interacting with an expert guide who can answer all your questions. Just be sure to tip at the end!
• Check out free attractions – The Bank of Finland Museum and the Helsinki City Museum are always free. The National Museum of Finland is free on Fridays from 4:15pm-6pm. The Museum of Contemporary Art is free on the first Friday of every month. Don’t miss them when you get there without paying, you’ll save money!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is super clean, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and lower your plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a bottle with a built-in filter so you can always ensure your water is clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Helsinki:

• Cheapsleep Hostel
• Hostel Diana Park
• The Yard Hostel

How to Get Around Helsinki

Helsinki also has one of the oldest tram networks in the world (it’s been around since 1891). The trams work on the same ticketing system as the metro and bus.

Bicycle – Helsinki is small so it’s easy to get around by bicycle. Bike rentals start at 15 EUR per day.

Taxi – Taxis start at a whopping 7 EUR and go up 1 EUR per kilometer. Avoid them if you can.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Helsinki (it’s the only city in the country Uber operates in).

Car rental – Cars can be rented for as little as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Drivers must be at least 20 and have an International Driving Permit (IDP). That said, unless you’re planning on leaving the city to explore, you won’t need to rent a vehicle here. The city is easy to get around on foot and by bus.

When to Go to Helsinki

Summer is the most popular time to visit — and the best time as well. Temperatures hover between 19-21°C (66-71°F) and green spaces (and beaches) are busy but not crowded. Prices are slightly higher, however, there are lots of events happening and the city is at its busiest. That said, “busy” in Helsinki is a far cry from “busy” in cities like Paris, London, or Barcelona so it won’t be crowded

Spring is a nice time to visit Helsinki, especially in May and June. The weather is warm and there are many events, such as the Vappu Festival on May 1st (which marks the end of winter) and the Finnish Carnival in early June. Moreover, not many tourists visit in spring so things are more relaxed.

Autumn offers changing leaves and chilly weather. Daily highs average 6-8°C (43-48°F). The days are still long enough to enjoy everything, though you may need a rain jacket or a sweater if it gets cool.

Winter is a nice time to visit if you’re into winter sports. Otherwise, it’s very cold and dark so I’d avoid visiting unless you’re going to get out of the city to ski and enjoy the snow.

How to Stay Safe in Helsinki

Helsinki is a safe city. In fact, Finland is considered one of the safest countries in the world. Pickpocketing can still occur so keep an eye on your belongings while at bus stations and on crowded public transportation. Incidents are rare, but being vigilant is always a good idea.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here as Finland is very progressive and has a lot of woman’s rights. That said, the standard safety precautions should apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific advice, read one of the many solo female travel blogs about the city.

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it at night. Break-ins are incredibly rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Scams here are very rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Helsinki Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Helsinki Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Finland travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hostels in Helsinki

The 21 Best Things to See and Do in Helsinki

How to Spend Three Days in Helsinki

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Finland Solo Trips and Holidays 2024/2025

The Scandinavian country of Finland is a beautiful destination year-round. In the south, the capital city of Helsinki has a beautiful harbour offering sailing tours and cruises, while Lapland in the north is ideal for sightings of the Northern Lights. Families flock to Rovaniemi each year in hopes of seeing Santa Claus, while snowshoers and skiers head to Kuusamo to get in touch with nature.

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Finland - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Spending holidays in Finland is like visiting a winter wonderland. However, this northern European nation rarely gets the attention it deserves. Finland is one of the most outstanding and breath-taking countries in the world. In winter, its snow-covered forests, frozen valleys, and endless horizons will transport you to a fairy-tale world. During the summer, tree lines as far as the eye can see, clear blue skies, and untouched lakes will make you want to stay forever. A trip to Finland needs to be in your travel bucket list if it isn’t already. Don’t miss out on some of the most breath-taking landscapes on earth. 

Travel Highlights

• Visit Suomenlinna, which is an 18th century sea fortress and a UNESCO world heritage site.
• Visit Helsinki Senate Square, a must-see in every visit to Helsinki.
• Rovaniemi is the “official” home of Santa Claus, and a mere one hour flight from Helsinki .
• Högberget’s Cave is another outstanding sight that was formed during an ice age.
• The Legendary Gold Fields of Lapland is full of myths and adventure.

Travel Tips

• Finland is the land of saunas. It would be a crime to not seek one out while visiting. The country claims to have roughly 3.5 million saunas in all of Finland, which is equivalent to a sauna for every 1.6 people.
• Thanks to the strong influences from Sweden and Russia, Finnish architecture is one of the most breath-taking ones in Europe. Go for a walk around Helsinki and admire the architecture, especially works by Alvar Aalto.
• If you’re looking to connect with nature, there’s no better place than Finland. Pack appropriately and head out to the Finnish archipelago for an amazing experience.
• If you’re not planning on driving, then it’s a good idea to obtain a Rail Pass while in Finland. These passes could save you quite a bit on transportation, and help you get around the country easily.
• For those who want to visit Finland on a budget, opt for the Fall and Winter months. Prices at these times are, as you might expect, much cheaper than the high season. Frozen Finnish landscapes are truly mesmerizing, which makes it absolutely worth it.
• If you’re hunting for northern lights, then the winter months are the best times to visit. Sign up for a northern light safari, and go out hunting for northern lights on a snowmobile!

Finland has seasonal weather so please do check up on best time to visit Finland before planning your tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Finland, do check out our Finland Travel Guide for more information.

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

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

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

Charlotte, North Carolina

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

Seoul, South Korea

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

Atlantic City, New Jersey

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

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

Indianapolis, Indiana

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

Riviera Maya, Mexico

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

Washington, D.C.

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

Osaka, Japan

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

Miami, Florida

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

Florence, Italy

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

Columbus, Ohio

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

New Zealand

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

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

Puebla, Mexico

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

Chattanooga, Tennessee

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

Helsinki, Finland

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

Naples, Florida

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

Bangkok, Thailand

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

Oahu, Hawaii

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

Montreal, Canada

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

Phoenix, Arizona

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

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

US Virgin Islands

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

Dubrovnik, Croatia

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

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10 Solo Travel Destinations Around The World, Ranked By Safety

• Croatia, Poland, and Finland are among the safest countries for solo travelers, offering stunning landscapes, cultural attractions, and exciting activities.
• Slovenia, Monaco, and Liechtenstein also provide safe and enjoyable experiences for travelers, with iconic landmarks and peaceful environments.
• Singapore, Bermuda, Denmark, and Iceland are cosmopolitan destinations that offer a fusion of cultures, natural wonders, and friendly locals, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable trip.

The Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, and Austria are among the world’s 10 most peaceful countries, as rated by the Global Peace Index , which technically makes them ideal travel destinations due to low crime rates, superior infrastructure and facilities, and the absence of big-scale conflicts.

On the other hand, Travel Safe – Abroad has compiled a list of the most dangerous and the safest travel destinations , ranking them over 100. Afghanistan, North Korea ( there are many things to know before considering it ), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are considered high-risk, while France, Lebanon, and Nepal are medium-risk. But what about states that are deemed least perilous and are full of exciting activities and scenic locations for those who prefer globetrotting on their own?

Here is a curated selection of 10 countries with a lot to offer that meet both requirements.

Related: 10 Statistically Safest Towns You Can Visit In Nevada

Safety index score: 83/100

Located in Central Europe, Croatia features one of the most stunning coastlines in the entire Balkan Peninsula, as well as vibrant cities with quasi-intact historical centers and traditional architecture. The Temple of Augustus in Pula, for instance, is a small but very well-preserved Roman monument that is worth checking out, while the island resort of Hvar boasts 13th-century walls and a hilltop fortress.

• Safest Cities: Dubrovnik and Split
• Recommended Activities: Free Spirit Walking Tour Dubrovnik (free; Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday); Zadar Sea Organ (free)
• Best Time To Visit: May, June, September, and October

Safety index score: 84/100

Because Poland is one of the largest countries in Central Europe , it offers diverse, picturesque landscapes, numerous cultural and historical attractions, and different regional culinary delights. It’s an ideal destination for both solo and budget travelers.

• Total Area: 120,421 sq mi
• Safest Cities: Kraków and Warsaw
• Recommended Activities: Planty Garden Ring in Kraków (free entrance and Wi-Fi); Warsaw: 2-Hour Old Town Walking Tour (from $64)
• Best Time To Visit: May to October

Dining alone in Poland is very common; solo travelers will blend in comfortably.

Safety index score: 86/100

Bordering Russia, Norway, and Sweden, Finland is considered the happiest country in the world . Solo travelers can safely marvel at the Northern Lights, indulge in eco-friendly spa treatments, attend open-air music festivals, visit art, history, and science museums, and even say hello to Santa all year long at Lapland, which turns into a magical winter wonderland during the beautiful snowy season .

• Safest Cities: Helsinki and Oulu
• Recommended Activities: Tuska Open Air Metal Festival ($248 for 3 days); Santa Claus Village In Lapland (free; Bus number 8 from Rovaniemi)
• Best Time To Visit: June and July

Related: These New York Cities Are Officially The Safest In The U.S.

Safety index score: 87/100

Slovenia is nicknamed Europe’s Green Heart and is considered peaceful enough to attract solo travelers. Other than its iconic Lake Bled, an enchanting lake with a castle and church , it offers vibrant main squares, impressive castles and cathedrals, and geological wonders like Postojna Cave.

• Safest Area: Ljubljana, voted safest city in 2018
• Recommended Day Trip: Slovenia Day Tour to Bled, Postojna, and Predjama (from $124)

Since there is no Uber or Lyft in Slovenia, downloading the Hopin Taxi app is recommended.

Safety index score: 88/100

With only 10 cities, the Principality of Monaco is teeny tiny and luxurious in the most delightful way . It may not be budget-friendly, but since there is one police officer per 100 residents, solo visitors are bound to feel relaxed enough to enjoy the museums, high-end resorts, casinos, cuisine, and shopping venues.

• Recommended Activities: Prince’s Palace of Monaco ($11/adult); Princess Grace Rose Garden (free)
• Most Crowded Periods: Monte-Carlo Masters tennis tournament in April; Grand Prix in May; Yacht Show in September

Liechtenstein

Safety index score: 89/100.

Liechtenstein is a German-speaking principality nestled on the banks of the Rhine in Central Europe, between Austria and Switzerland. It is a top-tier winter sports, hiking, mountain biking, and culinary destination where visitors have often felt at ease despite shelling out.

• Safest City: Vaduz, the capital
• Recommended Activities: Hike through the Liechtenstein Alpine World of Llamas and Alpacas (from $53); Best of Triesenberg Walking Tour (from $196)
• Best Time To Visit: April to June, September, and October

Safety index score: 90/100

The cosmopolitan island-state of Singapore is a contemporary melting pot of Chinese, Malay, British, and Indian cultures, rendering it an exciting, vibrant, yet pleasantly peaceful travel destination. Its fusion cuisine, spotless streets, and effortless blend of technology and natural sites are world-famous.

• Free Attractions: Sentosa’s beaches, Art performances at Esplanade, Free 2.5-hour Guided Singapore Tour
• Affordable Restaurants: Mr Biryani ($6-$11); Soi Aroy ($3-7); JINJJA Chicken ($5-$11)
• Best Time To Visit: December to June
• Best Month For Budget Deals: March

Related: The Safest Destinations In Southeast Asia ( And The Most Dangerous)

Bermuda is a self-governing overseas UK territory located in the North Atlantic Ocean and comprising seven islands and smaller rocks and islets. Its soft pink sandy beaches, rocky coves, crystal caves, serene gardens, and lush resorts render it a dreamy and pleasant paradise.

• Best Activities: 5-Hour Dolphin and Humpback Whale Watching (March and April; from $100); Crystal Caves, Hamilton Shopping, and Beach Tour (from $105); Bermuda Food Tour (from $129); Bermuda Island Sights, Sands, and Shopping (from $45)
• Best Time To Visit: June to September

This page offers regular discounts on vacation packages.

Safety index score: 94/100

Denmark is a serene Scandinavian country comprising the Jutland Peninsula and several islands. Solo visitors enjoy Aarhus’ iconic harbor, Copenhagen’s Forest Tower, Reffen Street Food, and colorful houses, and the world’s largest waterfall, the Denmark Strait Cataract .

• Safest Cities: Aalborg and Copenhagen
• Recommended Copenhagen Tours: 3-hour Culinary Bike Tour in English (from $98); Classic Canal Tour (from $20)
• Easy Trail: Lyngby Lake Loop (2.9 miles; 55 minutes)
• Best Time To Visit: June, July, and August

Safety index score: 95/100

Iceland ’s name is misleading since only 10% of it is covered in glaciers, while the rest of it is a wondrous land to explore in total safety, barring warnings of volcanic activity, naturally. Visitors enjoy soaking away the stress at the best hot springs , as well as marveling at many geological wonders and interacting with the kind and peaceful residents.

• Best Time To Visit: September to March to admire the Northern Lights; June and August for summer fun
• Scenic Trail: Heiðmörk via Elliðavatn (about 3 hours; 7.3 miles)
• Best Locations: Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, the South Coast

Even though the above-mentioned destinations are considered super low-risk for solo travelers, it’s best to remain vigilant for pickpockets, frequently check for bad weather and natural disasters, and not venture alone to remote areas at night.

More From Forbes

The 20 best places for solo travel, ranked in a new report.

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A new report has listed the top places to travel solo. Pictured here: A traveler on the ... [+] Oberbaumbrucke bridge in Berlin, which was named the top spot for solo travelers.

Solo travel is having a moment. According to a recent report by Kayak and OpenTable that ranks the world’s best places for solo travel, 50% of Americans plan to take a solo trip within the next year.

What’s the appeal? The freedom to explore at your own pace, dive deep into a local culture and enjoy a meal without making small talk are just a few examples of what’s drawing adventurers to hit the road solo. Another reason: Without the distraction of a companion, solo travel allows for a deeper connection with the destinations you visit.

So where to go on your next solo trip? Kayak and OpenTable analyzed a number of cities in the U.S. and around the world based on the largest share of solo travel searches made on Kayak and the share of solo dining at OpenTable restaurants. They then crunched the numbers by tapping into data like safety (including a safety index from Numbeo and FBI crime reports), affordability (including prices of hotels, flights and meals on Kayak and OpenTable), hotel satisfaction scores and cultural richness (using OpenStreetMap to see the number of tagged museums, theaters and concert halls in a city). Lastly, an online consumer survey was conducted to determine how welcoming the cities are to solo travelers.

The result—a ranking of the 10 best destinations for solo travel worldwide and the 10 best places for solo trips in the U.S.

The World’s Best Cities for Solo Travel

Coming in at the top of the worldwide list is Berlin—and it’s easy to see why this German city has been named the world’s best city for solo travel. Whether you’re exploring the remnants of the Berlin Wall or dancing the night away in a techno club, Berlin offers solo travelers a chance to dive into a city that is as dynamic as it is welcoming. With an average meal cost of $31 and hotel prices at $168 per night, it’s a budget-friendly choice, too.

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Viewing the Vancouver skyline at sunset from the Island Park Walk.

Coming in second on the list is Vancouver, a Canadian city that blends urban sophistication and natural beauty. Known for its safety and stunning landscapes, Vancouver is ideal for those who enjoy both city life and the great outdoors.

Montreal—another Canadian city—takes third place. A city of festivals, food and history, Montreal provides an exciting cultural experience with a European flair. Plus, it’s got a high safety rating and moderate costs, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers.

Crossing a bridge over the Lachine Canal in Montreal, one of the world's best places for traveling ... [+] solo.

Other cities on the list include Paris (which might be famous as the city of love but is also a dream for solo travelers), followed by Milan, Dublin, Toronto, Dubai, Mexico City and London.

The Best U.S. Cities for Solo Travel

For those who prefer to stay stateside, Kayak and OpenTable also ranked the top U.S. cities for solo travel. Topping the list domestically is Washington, D.C. The nation’s capital is perfect for history buffs and art lovers alike, with plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace. The city’s high average hotel rating and its numerous free attractions also help make it a top choice for solo travelers.

Walking alone on Beacon Hill in Boston.

Boston follows closely behind. Rich in history and brimming with character, the capital of Massachusetts offers solo travelers a chance to follow in the footsteps of America’s founders, enjoy world-class museums and dine in some of the best seafood restaurants in the country. The city’s compact size and walkability make it an easy and enjoyable place to explore on your own.

Chicago—a place known for its architecture, arts scene and deep-dish pizza—lands in third place. The Windy City offers a mix of cultural experiences, from the Art Institute to jazz clubs, making it a fantastic destination for those traveling alone. The city’s affordability and variety of attractions ensure you’ll never run out of things to do.

Beyond the top three, other U.S. cities that shine as solo travel destinations include Atlanta (which offers a blend of Southern hospitality and a rich culture); Salt Lake City (perfect for outdoor enthusiasts); Tampa, Florida; Philadelphia; Seattle; Los Angeles and New York City.

Crossing a city street in Berlin, which was named the best place to travel solo.

Ranked: The World’s Top 10 Solo Travel Destinations

• Berlin, Germany
• Vancouver, Canada
• Montreal, Canada
• Paris, France
• Milan, Italy
• Dublin, Ireland
• Toronto, Canada
• Mexico City, Mexico
• London, U.K.

Exploring solo in Washington D.C. along the Tidal Basin.

Ranked: The Top 10 Solo Travel Destinations in the U.S.

• Washington, D.C.
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Chicago, Illinois
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Salt Lake City, Utah
• Tampa, Florida
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Seattle, Washington
• Los Angeles, California
• New York City

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• The ultimate solo travel guide to Finland: Everything you need to know

Nicola Gibbs 22nd Oct 2022 9 min read

Solo travel in Scandinavia comes into its own in Finland : a natural wonderland of lakes, islands and wilderness. Firm believers in jokamiehenoikeus (the freedom to roam) and the benefits of being in the forest, Finns are uniquely in tune with the great outdoors. Consistently ranked among the world’s happiest countries , it’s an ideal destination for adventure-loving solo travellers in search of solitude.   

With the northern tip within the Arctic Circle, life in Suomi (the Finnish name for Finland) is dictated by the seasons. Summer days are so long the sun barely sets between May and August. Come winter, the landscape in the north transforms into a real life Narnia, with the show-stopping Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) dancing across the inky night sky.  

Further south, the capital Helsinki is a culture-packed urban hub with innovative architecture, a cutting-edge design district, hip restaurants and bars and steamy waterside saunas . 

With so much space and so few people, Finland is the ultimate place to get away from it all. But if you do want to share your experience with like-minded solo travellers , Flash Pack offers group solo trips with other adventurers in their 30s and 40s. Here’s everything you need to know about the nature-loving Nordic country before you go.

Finland travel facts

Wedged between Norway, Sweden and Russia, Finland is one of the most densely forested countries on earth, with around 75% of its landmass covered with pine, birch and fir trees. It also has one of the world’s biggest archipelagos with 75,000 islands (many of them small uninhabited specks, others scenic summer playgrounds), as well as Europe’s largest lake district and wilderness, home to elks, wolves and bears. 

Around a quarter of the country lies within the Arctic Circle, where the Sámi, the EU’s only indigenous people, still live a semi-nomadic life that includes hunting, fishing and reindeer herding. Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland is the official home of Santa Claus and you can visit him all year round (if you’ve been good).

Is Finland good for solo travel?

With its laid-back culture, small cities and efficient transport system, Finland is an excellent choice for solo travellers . If you’re on your own, you’ll be in good company, as virtually everyone speaks English. It’s easy to meet local people in coffee houses and bars but, if you’re venturing out into the wilderness for the first time, it’s best to sign up for a group tour, such as scheduling a stay on Finland’s Secret Island . 

Joining a Flash Pack group of solo travellers means you can get off the beaten track safely and easily, with all in-country travel organised for you, along with carefully curated activities and handpicked hotels that help immerse you in the local culture.

Best places to visit in Finland

What should you do on a solo trip to Finland ? For history and culture, start in Helsinki with its stately buildings, quirky island restaurants and shoreside saunas. From the central Market Square, it’s easy to reach the fortress island of  Suomenlinna and the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art . You can also take a day trip to the Porvoo Old Town with its colourful riverside warehouses.

Turku is the oldest city in Finland (founded in the 13th century) and gateway to Finland’s vast Åland Archipelago. Further north, Lakeland is where Finns come to recharge and reconnect with nature; the whole area is abundant with glassine lakes and bushy forests, perfect for canoeing, hiking and fishing.

In the far north, Rovaniemi also acts as the main gateway to Lapland and all the adventure activities of the Arctic. Think cross-country skiing, husky-sled rides and staying on your own private island. Flash Pack’s Secret Island trip offers luxury in the wilderness.

Where to stay as a solo traveller in Finland

What are hotels like in Finland? With its emphasis on style and design, you’ll find plenty of boutique stays in Helsinki. Beyond the city, there are some incredible places to hunker down, including luxury lake cabins, Arctic treehouses and an array of glass igloos, domes and adventure lodges where you can watch the aurora from the comfort of your bed. You can even stay in an ice hotel or a traditional Sámi lavvu (tipi), kept warm with reindeer blankets.  

With Flash Pack’s group solo trip to Finland , you’ll have the unique opportunity of staying in a chic architect designed hotel set on a private island. Sharing a room helps to keep costs down. But if you’d rather have space to yourself, there’s an option to upgrade, too.

How to get to Finland

The easiest way to travel to Finland is by plane. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is the country’s biggest airport, with regular international flights and connections to other parts of the country, including Rovaniemi Airport in Lapland. Ferries arrive from Tallinn in Estonia and Stockholm in Sweden. Or, there’s an overland route by train from St Petersburg in Russia. 

Arranging your own trip can be time-consuming and costly. When you book with Flash Pack , you’ll fly directly to Rovaniemi and receive a complimentary airport transfer. Being met at the airport and whisked directly to your private island hotel makes for a relaxing start to your trip.

How to get around Finland

Finland has a wide network of trains and buses with regular connections to all parts of the country. Sleeper trains are a good option for solo travellers looking to cover larger distances. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can hop on a domestic flight to over 20 regional airports. Even remote areas, such as Lapland, have good transport options. Conditions in the Arctic north can be perilously icy in winter. Driving is possible but 4x4s and winter tyres are obligatory. Oh, and keep your eyes peeled for the local reindeer or moose straying onto the road. 

Travelling as part of a solo group takes the stress out of your adventure. All the internal travel is included in Flash Pack’s Secret Island adventure , so you don’t have to worry about buying tickets or getting from A to B.

Best time to visit Finland

Your experience of Finland will depend on the month you visit, but every season has its attractions. In the summer months of June to August, the days are long and sunny with temperatures averaging over 20°C. This is the time for hiking, camping and fishing in the lush green forests. In winter, temperatures can drop as low as -30°C. At this time, much of the country transforms into a snowy winter wonderland perfect for activities, like ice fishing, cross-country skiing and husky sled rides. If you’re hoping to catch the Northern Lights, the best time is when darkness prevails between September and March. The Midnight Sun is visible in the north from mid-May until late July.

Finland travel itineraries

Flash Pack’s Secret Island adventure is the perfect winter itinerary. From the comfort of your hotel on a remote Arctic island, you’ll be fully immersed in the wilderness. By day, you’ll explore the majesty of winter Finland on cross-country skis and cross the icy tundra by husky sleigh like a real Sámi herder. By night, you’ll chase down the Northern Lights on a snowmobile safari before huddling around a warm campfire with hot chocolate and a hearty meal. For the ultimate invigorating wellness experience, you’ll cut a hole in a frozen lake and take an icy dip, before warming up in a steamy wood-fired sauna in true Finnish style.

What to pack for solo travel in Finland

Your packing list for Finland will vary massively depending on the season – the weather can change frequently within a single day. In summer, lightweight, breathable layers are ideal for outdoor activities. Bring some warmer tops for the evening, as well as a light jacket so that you’re prepared for any showers. If you’re travelling in June or July, the mosquitoes will be out in force so be sure to bring long sleeves and plenty of insect repellent. 

In winter, temperatures drop below freezing and you’ll need to wrap up with good quality winter gear. When you travel with Flash Pack , you’ll be provided with a thick snowsuit, boots and gloves able to withstand the elements and keep you toasty and warm during outdoor activities.

Solo travel advice for Finland

With its vibrant cities and wild landscapes, Finland offers great opportunities for the solo traveller. If you’re into outdoor activities, you’ll be in your element with hiking, fishing, skiing, canoeing and more. If it’s a digital detox you need, or you’re looking to de-stress from work, Finland’s wilderness will replenish your energy and reconnect you with nature. Don’t feel like travelling alone? Joining a Flash Pack adventure means you can enjoy all your experiences with a group of like-minded solo travellers. Sharing those amazing moments – like cold-water therapy and spotting the Northern Lights – will create memories to last a lifetime.

Is it safe to travel solo in Finland?

Thousands of visitors travel to Finland every year and most trips are trouble free. However, do check out the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (UK), the Department of State Travel Advisories (US) or your country’s local government guidelines for the latest advice before travelling.

Finland is considered one of the safest countries in the world. According to a social experiment , 11 out of 12 lost wallets in Helsinki were returned to their owners. With its forward-thinking and open-minded culture, male, female and LGBTQ+ travellers will feel equally at ease. Solo travellers might prefer the safety and security of travelling with a Flash Pack group. 

Ready for your next adventure? Try group solo travel in Finland with Flash Pack – designed exclusively for people in their 30s and 40s, seeking the independence of solo travel within the safety of a group.

A cool 98% of Flashpackers arrive solo to join our group adventures . So, you’ll be in good company – whether a first time solo traveller or a seasoned pro looking for like-minded new friends.

Images: Flash Pack and Unsplash

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7 great places for solo travelers in Europe

Aug 26, 2024 • 8 min read

Sicily, with its many incredible historic sites, is great for solo travelers © Giovenda / Shutterstock

Europe, with its  compact size, captivating cities and endless outdoor pursuits, has long been a top solo travel destination for people of all ages. But with so much continent to explore, narrowing down exactly where to take your solo sojourn can be tough. Luckily, the benefit of traveling alone is not compromising on the destination, so you can follow your heart to some of Europe ’s most unique and intriguing places.

To find those spots, we asked our expert writers to share their recommendations for the best places to fly solo in Europe. Here's where to go. 

1. Sicily, Italy 

Recommended by Nicola Williams

On an island where kaleidoscopic cultural and historical riches are all-consuming, travel companions can risk becoming a tiresome distraction. Solo Sicily is unfettered joy. Its sparky combo of seaside, mountains, sassy food, sun-filled wine and spitting volcanoes means you never "get bored". Indeed, there is a deeply moving aura to this sun-scorched island lapped by three seas that inspires quiet contemplation and a reassuring ease with one’s own company.

Start your journey on the Ionian Coast in Sicily’s hypnotic east: join a guide up the explosive slopes of Mt Etna and locals at Catania ’s chaotic fish market . Savor vino bursting with sunshine in volcanic vineyards. If you’re a drama queen, star-lit performances at ancient Greek theaters in Syracuse and Taormina will leave you spellbound for days – as will the paradise-on-earth Aeolian archipelago , with cobalt-blue waters and clandestine coves to match every mood and moment. In the west , capital city Palermo weaves captivating stories in glittering gold mosaics in the Cappella Palatina at Palazzo dei Normanni , while Stanze al Genio – the unusual palazzo home and majolica tile museum of an art collector – is one of Italy’s loveliest solo B&B stays. Ditto for the oddly romantic, evocative quarry garden Giardino dell’Impossible with enchanting rooms on butterfly-shaped Favignana.

2. Naxos, Greece

Recommended by Helen Iatro

With its white sand beaches and shallow seas, you’d be forgiven for thinking Naxos is exclusively for families. But the Cyclades’ largest isle has set its sights on drawing solo travelers to experience its myriad attractions, from a fortified capital and farm-to-table cuisine to dopamine-spiking watersports. Start with a walk through medieval main town Hora and admire the Venetian-era Glezos and Della Rocca Barozzi towers . Next, try your hand at wind surfing with an expert instructor at Flisvos Sport Club on Agios Georgios beach. If two wheels are more your style, join a Naxos Bikes e-bike and hike tour through olive groves to Mt Zeus, the island’s highest point at 1,003m (3,290 ft).

Afterwards, you’ll make a stop at Halki village to sample Naxos’ aromatic PDO citron liqueur at a small distillery. Immerse yourself further in the island’s culinary traditions with a visit to a dairy farm hosted by Philema Food Tours. You’ll chat with farmers, feed the animals and assist in making Naxos’ hallmark arseniko cheese. With tummy sated, center yourself with sunset yoga at Kite beach in Mikri Vigla. Soul in Motion’s Melina Rigopoulos leads sessions between June and September, along with occasional retreats.

3. Aix-en-Provence, France

Navigating the notoriously feisty metropolis of Marseille in France ’s hot south solo is not for everyone. Meandering the graceful boulevards of its cleaner, safer, slower-paced little sister, a 45-minute bus or train ride away, most definitely is. Open your foray in chichi Aix-en-Provence with a café crème and croissant beneath emerald-leafed plane trees at Le Forbin , footsteps from fountain-stitched main avenue Cours Mirabeau. Time slows at the town’s Musée Granet in Quartier Mazarin, packed with pieces by Picasso, Matisse, Monet and local lad Paul Cézanne who painted nearby Montagne Ste-Victoire numerous times (following in his footsteps by e-bike is an inspirational day trip, either solo or with a group tour).

Don’t miss 13th-century Église St-Jean de Malte next to the art museum and the flower gardens of palatial art gallery Hôtel de Caumont (1742), a five-minute walk away. Grab a smoothie, shake or chai latte afterwards at Book In Bar ; this English-language bookshop-cafe is a honeypot for students from Aix’s prestigious university, should you fancy mingling. Come dusk, take a people-watching pew on a cafe terrace on buzzing rue de la Verrerie, place Richelme or Forum des Cardeurs. For a more intimate scale and vibe, gravitate to place de l’Hôtel de Ville.

4. Palma de Mallorca, Spain 

Recommended by Chloe Braithwaite 

Palma de Mallorca is a welcoming city, with its well-lit public spaces, beautiful beaches and glut of restaurants, markets and historic sites. That means solo travelers won’t struggle to have the perfect relaxed day alone. Start your visit at Mercat de Santa Catalina, the oldest food market in the city, brimming with tapas and local produce. Nearby, Lluís Pérez Pastisser is a delightful pastry cafe known for its croissant ibérico con tomatitos : a flaky croissant filled with ibérico ham and tart cherry tomatoes. Excellent coffee can be found at Café Riu Tort, while Mistral Coffee prides itself on beans roasted locally.

Spend your day strolling along Passeig des Borne , a tree-lined boulevard dotted with both luxury and mainstream shops. For a satisfying lunch, El Toque de Queda offers a range of charcuterie boards with local cheeses, or try La Vasca for authentic Basque flavors. Spend your afternoon exploring cultural landmarks like the Catedral de Mallorca with its tranquil Bishop’s Garden and the historic Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths). In the evening, head to Cineciutat, a non-profit cinema that showcases films in their original languages. Then end the day with a visit Bar La Sang for natural wines, or reserve a spot at Vermutería La Rosa for a traditional vermouth tasting.

5. Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Recommended by Monica Suma

Bohemian, slower-paced Cluj-Napoca in northwestern Romania, is everything that the much larger, rowdy (and often chaotic) capital of Bucharest is not. Despite being Transylvania ’s biggest city and the country’s second-largest, Cluj (as it’s more commonly referred to as) exudes a different feel that is more relaxed ⁠– perfect for solo travelers. And that’s in part due to the thousands of students studying here, as well as the compact layout of the city. The city dates to pre-Roman times ("Napoca" originates from the Dacians), but its superb Baroque architecture, stemming from the Austro-Hungarian era, stands out. Easy to explore and becoming increasingly in demand as the tech sector flourishes, modern Cluj is artsy, heaps of fun, and delightfully cosmopolitan.

It hosts the fêted Transylvania Film Festival and the massive crowd-pulling Electric Castle and Untold festivals (stay away in late July and early August unless you book months ahead or can pay exorbitant accommodation prices). These days, contemporary energy comes in high doses. So do specialty coffee shops dotted around the center, the highest number per capita in the country ( Narcoffee Roasters is fab). The food scene is equally exciting. Country-chic Casa Boema is an enduring favorite for its oasis-like courtyard terrace. Best of all, nature is within sight. Walk up to Cetăţuia Park for panoramic views of the city – one nestled between the Transylvanian Plain and Apuseni Mountains.

6. Vipava Valley, Slovenia

Recommended by Daniel James Clarke

If you're solo tripping, Slovenia's Vipava Valley is the place to be sipping – especially as you'll never be drinking alone. In this wine-obsessed, welcoming community, sharing a bottle of your own-grown best with strangers is standard. Hundreds of family-owned, small-batch cellars such as Cejkotova Domačija hide under the valley's fertile carpet, stacked with casks aging the native, golden-hued, fruity Zelen grape. Cycling between these underground tastings is a solo traveler's dream. Gently rolling countryside roads flit through manicured vines and fragrant orchards, dramatic karst mountains looming beyond. If a two-wheel tasting tour isn't appealing, board the seasonal wine train instead for a five-hour, friends-guaranteed rail ride, pit-stopping at local villages and vineyards. Volunteer during September's harvest, and you'll practically become part of the family.

Viapava's spirit isn't solely found in a glass, though. Sober solo adventures abound. Hike atop the Trnovo Forest Plateau for emerald valley panoramas. Paraglide higher still courtesy of the fierce, locally treasured bora wind. A handful of hostels offer community, while creative connections are plentiful at Sinji Vrh Pension 's artistic workshops.

7. Faroe Islands

Elemental, ethereal and utterly enticing, the Faroe Islands arc from the wild North Atlantic like uncut emeralds scattered by a storm. At first glance, this seemingly inhospitable land commandeered by sheep, gannets, and puffins appears an audacious expedition. But look closer, and you'll find a tight-knit community that's long embraced solo travelers. In fact, every year, the islanders do exactly that, inviting maintenance-assisting volunteers to stay in their farms or homes. Heimablídni  (Faroese for home hospitality) is so ingrained that family-hosted, breaking-bread spreads are standard. Some require group bookings, while others, like Heima í Stovu's supper club, or Durita and Fróði's traditional Faroese feast of skerpikjøt (air-dried lamb) and ræst (fermented lamb and fish), welcome sharing, storytelling strangers.

Away from Tórshavn 's turf-roofs and contemporary cultural spaces, bite-sized adventures abound. Hikes to seemingly levitating Lake Sørvágsvatn or cinematic Kallur Lighthouse need no support. Well-kept roads, underwater island-linking tunnels, and regular ferries keep communities connected, and a surprisingly decent bus network affords solo, car-free exploration. Amidst soaring sea stacks, ocean-plunging cascades, or scenic fjord-flanked Saksun, you'll feel like a true castaway – but you're never far from a heartwarming chat with a cuppa.

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These 5 Hotels Aim to Make Solo Travel Easier

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

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A Chamber King guest room at the Virgin Hotels New York

Courtesy of Virgin Hotels New York

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

Moxy Athens City

The lobby of Moxy Athens City

Courtesy of Moxy Athens City

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

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

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

Virgin Hotels New York

A Chamber King guest room at Virgin Hotels New York

• Location: New York City

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

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

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

We Care Spa

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

Courtesy of We Care Spa

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

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

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

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

The Twin Fin

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

Courtesy of the Twin Fin

• Location: Honolulu, Hawai‘i

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

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

Singita Pamushana Lodge

The swimming pool at Zimbabwe’s Singita Pamushana Lodge

Courtesy of Singita

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

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

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

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• Solo Travel

This European City Was Just Named the No. 1 Solo Travel Destination in the World — and It Has Affordable Hotels and Food

Berlin came in at the top, followed by Vancouver.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Drazen_/Getty Images

Some things are better done alone. While travel is often marketed as something to do with your partner, friends, or family, traveling solo has some real perks . If you book a solo trip to Singapore in April, you know it’s going to happen and don’t have to listen to people’s excuses as they bail. Plus, you don’t have to worry if your travel companion is having fun or explain yourself if you want to change plans at the last minute. The appeal is real: according to a recent report by Kayak and OpenTable , 50 percent of Americans plan to travel alone this year.

But where are all these solo travelers going? Some destinations are better for solo travelers than others, but there’s a lot to consider when designating somewhere “solo travel friendly” — including safety and cost. Thankfully, the team at Kayak used their data to determine what destinations are getting high hotel ratings from solo travelers and where things like flights and lodging won’t break the bank. 

At the tippy top of the list is Berlin . Kayak gave the German city a solo travel score of 100 percent, recommending it to those interested in history, street art, and techno clubs. Berlin was also a standout when it comes to things like the cost per meal ($31) and the average hotel nightly rate ($168). It also has a high number of museums, concert halls, and theaters, meaning you’ll have plenty to do.

Second on the list is Vancouver , which is a great choice for those living in the Pacific Northwest. (The Canadian city is three hours by car from Seattle, so you don’t have to worry about flight prices.) Kayak gave Vancouver a solo travel score of 90 percent, recommending it for people interested in adventure, nature, and craft brews. The city stood out when it came to the average hotel rating from solo travelers, the relatively low spend per meal ($35), and the perception of safety.

Kayak's full list is below:

• Montreal The Canadian city has the second-highest perception of safety.
• Paris The City of Light has the most museums, theaters, and concert halls (by far), and a low spend per meal ($33).
• Milan Italy's second most populous city has lots of museums, theaters, concert halls, and one of the lower average nightly rates ($212).
• Dublin Ireland's capital has a good average hotel rating for solo travelers and a low spend per meal ($35).
• Dubai This Emirati city has the best perception of safety (83.8) and the lowest average hotel nightly rate ($102).
• Mexico City The capital of Mexico has the highest average hotel rating for solo travelers and a lower average hotel nightly rate ($146).
• London England's capital has a fairly low average hotel nightly rate ($266).

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14 Best Destinations for Women Who Are Traveling Solo

Whether you're planning your first trip or looking for your next international adventure, these places are both fun and safe.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

If you live in a big city or have been overloaded at work lately, you may be long overdue for a relaxing vacation. While a much-needed girls' weekend getaway is always a great option for lasting memories and tons of LOLs, you may want to consider taking some time for yourself and planning a solo trip .

We consulted experts in travel from Fora, a modern travel agency , who have helped several clients meet and fulfill their solo travel aspirations. We also considered recommendations from our Good Housekeeping team, which has been evaluating destinations worldwide for the Family Travel Awards . Together, we've compiled this list of tried-and-true solo travel destinations for women.

If you’re still a little concerned about safety while navigating these cities on your own, not to worry because we also checked the Institute for Economics and Peace's 2023 Global Peace Index , which vets each country to measure their "peacefulness" as well as the U.S. Department of State's travel advisories .

As always, when traveling alone you should carry out your own research on each destination and take proper precautions to keep yourself safe. Otherwise, happy travels!

Iceland tops the Global Peace Index for the most peaceful country in the world. Even the U.S. government notes that Iceland has a " low crime rate ." It also lends itself to adventure lovers with its many natural attractions. Top nature destinations include Black Sand Beach, Ring Road, Blue Lagoon, ice caps, and steaming geysers. Just make sure to enjoy some time in the beautiful city of Reykjavik , as well.

TIP: Get more of a feel for the local culture by looking to residents as resources. "Iceland is an extremely safe country with very friendly locals who love sharing information about their beautiful country with visitors," Fora Advisor Kara Kassuba told Good Housekeeping. "During your time there, you’ll likely meet many people and find yourself engaged in interesting conversations with non-stop learning opportunities."

EXPLORE NOW

Denmark is well known for its stunning castles, vibrant towns and villages, as well as famous natural-occurring attractions. The country is also vetted as safe and secure, ranking second on the 2023 Global Peace Index .

GH Staffer Emma Seymour recently traveled to Copenhagen on her own and expressed that the destination was ideal for biking and had a ton of great restaurants and shops. " I biked everywhere and it was really easy to rent bikes (there are a bunch of bikes just lying around that you can use with an app!)," she said. "I highly recommend biking through Christiania and eating at the vegan restaurants there. It can feel awkward to embrace going to bars or restaurants alone, but it's the best way to see a city."

TIP: Consider staying in a hostel for added security and the opportunity to connect with other travelers. "I stayed at Steel House hostel , which was so fun," Seymour said. "I had a private room that was small, but perfectly organized. The hostel had a ton of social events too and was very family friendly. It felt super safe."

The key to solo travel in Mexico is to pick cities that are easy to navigate and welcoming to tourists. Fora Advisor Caryn Ruocco suggests Mexico City, Mexico. "The city is safe, especially in neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa and Polanco," she told Good Housekeeping, noting that "these areas are particularly well-patrolled." The city is also very walkable and offers an impressive art scene for those looking to immerse themselves in Mexican culture. Another Mexican city solo travelers should add to their list for its warm and fun energy? Sayulita.

TIP: Treat your resort as a home base for your activities and travel. "You should treat yourself to a little R&R at a resort after a solo adventure and end your time with a stop at Susurros de Corazón or Four Seasons Punta Mita to treat yourself to a night in luxury and a visit to the spa,” Ruehl said.

It's hard to beat the beauty of Ireland. The U.S. government notes that the country has a "low rate of violent crime" so traveling on your own should feel secure and comfortable. GH staffer Kaitlyn Phoenix took one of her first solo vacations to the country, noting that it is a must-visit. “The people in Ireland were super welcoming. I was young and trying to save money at the time so mostly stayed at bed and breakfasts, but I splurged for a night in Ballyseede Castle and loved it so much,” Phoenix said.

GH staffer Stephanie Dolgoff also loved how easy it was to get around Dublin on her own."I stayed at a tiny, cheap little place called Parkway Guesthouse . Very spare but cute and nice and the proprietor was a lovely, helpful guy," Dolgoff said. "Dublin is a walkable place and I could get most anywhere on foot from there, although it wasn’t directly in one of the trendy neighborhoods."

Phoenix also noted that Ireland has no shortage of outdoor attractions. " The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see if you’re in Ireland," she said. "If you’re into nature walks and gardens, the Blarney Castle grounds are nice to explore so it’s not just about kissing the Blarney Stone."

TIP: If you opt to rent a car in Ireland "keep in mind that in addition to driving on the left side of the road, you’ll have to navigate a lot of one-lane roads (like the Conor Pass) where you have to pull over if another car comes by from the opposite direction," Phoenix said.

As if the beaches, architecture and food were not already a major draw, Spain ranks in the top 35 on the 2023 Global Peace Index , making it one of the countries in the world that has maintained peace over the last year. Solo travelers will enjoy the country's diverse terrain, offering walkable cities, vast deserts and calming countrysides.

TIP: Enjoy tapas for one sitting barside or enjoy street food in a nearby park as an easy way to meet others.

RELATED : Best Beach Vacations for Families

Though Hawaii may often get overlooked for solo travel due to its reputation as a romantic or family destination, the island of Hawaiʻi (you might know it as The Big Island) is definitely worth a visit. Whether you spend time on the Kona side filled with resorts or the tropical and lush Hilo side, you'll get to experience the beauty of the diverse landscape. Musts on the to-do list include the volcano park, horseback riding, and swimming at night with the manta rays, says Fora Advisor Melissa Friedman-Levine .

TIP: If you want to travel with a four-legged friend, book your stay at Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club , which allows all sizes of dogs without any pet fee. Solo travelers can treat their pups to dog-friendly programming, including   SUP paddle and surf lessons for dogs  and  pet portraits with a local dog photographer . EXPLORE NOW RELATED : Best Travel Instagram Captions

Seattle, Washington

You might actually be sleepless in Seattle — just because there's so much to do. Solo travelers will feel right at home in Pike Place Market , where they can grab breakfast and lunch from one of the many stands, and pick up gifts and unique souvenirs. Pike Place Market is also home to Golden Age Collectables, the oldest comic book store.

In a nearby area of the city is a different collection of attractions to see. "I was surprised that The Museum of Glass , Museum of Pop Culture , and the Space Needle neighbor each other. So, plan to spend the day visiting all three," said Karen Cicero , Contributing Travel Editor.

Another tip? "Take an excursion for the day or overnight to Olympic National Park, which has a lake, rainforest and rugged coastline," Cicero added.

Another GH staffer, Amanda Constantine , said "one of the best things about Seattle is the coffee culture, which is also perfect for solo travel!" She noted that the shops can easily be found on most corners and she tried more than a few. "Some of my favorites were the original Starbucks, Victrola Coffee Roasters and Analog."

TIP: July and August are the least rainy months to visit while November and December are the wettest. "I visited last July and there wasn't a drop of rain and the temperatures were in the 70s — it was perfection," said Cicero.

Boasting over 1,200 islands, Croatia is the perfect destination for anyone who loves sailing or outdoor water activities. Its coastal cities also feature gorgeous cobblestone streets, adorable cafés and artisan boutiques. If that isn't enough, the country's low crime rate also makes it an amazing option for solo travel.

TIP: Game of Thrones fans will want to check out Dubrovnik, where several of the scenes from the series were shot. There are also tons of options for Game of Thrones tours where travelers can visit film sites and learn more about what went on behind the scenes.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Believe it or not, the Big Easy has tons to offer solo travelers. Take your pick from jamming to live entertainment on The French Quarter, visiting plenty of historical sites, and indulging in excellent cajun and creole cuisine. Exploring the quarter, filled with live music, is the way to do it. You'll also want to get tickets to Preservation Hall , which is home to classic New Orleans jazz music. Other notable stops for wandering include the Garden District for home tours, Magazine Street for restaurants and shops, and the Arts + Warehouse District , which features the Ogden Museum for Southern Art and a variety of interesting local galleries on Julia Street.

TIP: Book a dinner at Mosquito Supper Club or Dakar Nola , which both have shared tables. "As a solo diner I’ve always had an interesting evening with my paired dining partners,” Kassuba said.

You may come for the hot springs, festivals and breathtaking landscape, but you'll want to stay for the variety of places to shop and dine. Taiwan's diverse offerings make it the ideal location for solo exploration.

TIP : Stop by the night markets for affordable and delicious cuisine. Linjiang Street (Tonghua) Night Market has been said by reviewers to have plenty of options, but be sure to have cash on hand as not all vendors will take card.

If you're looking for a destination that is as culturally and spiritually rich as it is beautiful, Cambodia is a great place to go. Your money will also go a long way as one US dollar is equal to about 4,100 Cambodian riel. Some highlights of Cambodia include gorgeous temples, eclectic and diverse cities, relaxing beaches, and luxury hotels.

TIP: Make sure to visit the spectacular temples of Angkor Wat , which Fora Advisor Alexandra Hepworth described as "a sight to behold."

Washington, DC

If you're traveling solo for the first time, DC is your ticket to fun. It's easy to access by train or plane, depending on where you're coming from and it has an easy-to-navigate public transportation system. Many museums and historical sites are free to enter, so there's no pressure to stay for hours. That means you can hop from the gemstone exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History to the remarkable collections at the National Portrait Gallery all in one day — and still have time to grab lunch from one of the food trucks near the National Mall. "Be sure to make it over to the Georgetown neighborhood during your trip," suggested Cicero. "You'll find wonderful restaurants with many types of cuisine plus cute one-of-a-kind shops and coffee bars. There's even a cat cafe!"

TIP: Even though the attractions are free, you need to make reservations in advance to enter; it's easy to do through the websites.

For a beachside vacation, Costa Rica is just the place to go. Not only does it have clear blue waters, but you can also visit a national park or conservation areas. Costa Rica is also a less expensive alternative to some European cities, but is just as easy to get around.

TIP: Join in on group activities. The town of Santa Teresa "attracts a lot of solo travelers and digital nomads, so it's easy to meet people," according to Fora Advisor Ronit Margolis . "It has a vibrant food scene, with plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal alone or with new friends. You will feel a strong sense of community as everyone is so friendly."

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Rwanda is one of a few countries that are in the blue zone on the U.S. government's website , meaning you can exercise "normal" precautions when traveling. You'll have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the African country as you can plan to see incredible wildlife in their many National Parks.

TIP: Beyond experiencing the great outdoors, learn a bit about the history and culture by exploring the Kigali Genocide Memorial and multiple art galleries .

Cameron (she/her) is a staff writer for Good Housekeeping , where she covers everything from holidays to food. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B.A. in magazine journalism. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping.

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