20 Best Solo Travel Destinations Around the World
Solo travel is one of the best ways to see the world on your own terms. You choose where to go, how long to stay, and what kind of experiences matter to you.
It can feel exciting and a little scary at first, and that’s completely normal.
The good news is that some places are much easier for solo travelers than others. They feel safer, are easy to get around, and make it simple to meet new people if you want to.
In this guide, I’m sharing the best solo travel destinations based on real experiences, honest tips, and places travelers keep recommending.
How to Plan a Solo Trip
Planning a solo trip doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. A few smart choices upfront can make your journey smoother, safer, and way more enjoyable.
- Choose the right destination – Pick a place that feels safe, has good public transport, and matches your travel style.
- Set a realistic budget – Plan for stays, food, transport, activities, and a small emergency buffer.
- Book smart stays – Look for central locations, good reviews from solo travelers, and easy check-in.
- Plan a loose itinerary – List a few must-do things, but leave space for rest and surprises.
- Prepare for safety – Share your plans with someone you trust and keep digital copies of important documents.
The goal isn’t to plan everything, just enough to travel with confidence and enjoy the experience.
Best Solo Travel Destinations Within the US
Solo travel in the US is a great choice if you want less planning stress and familiar comforts. These destinations are easy to go to alone, offer plenty to do, and feel welcoming to solo travelers.
1. New York City, New York
New York City works well for solo travel because you can move freely without standing out. There’s always something happening, and many activities are perfect to do alone.
Public transport is reliable, which makes getting around simple. You can check out different neighborhoods, enjoy museums, or just walk and people-watch. Even a short trip feels full and exciting.
- Expense: $180–$350 per day
- Days Recommended: 3–5 days
- Best For: First-time solo travelers, culture lovers
- Easy to Get Around: Subway and buses run all day
- Things to Do Alone: Museums, shows, long city walks
2. Austin, Texas
Austin has a friendly and relaxed feel that makes solo travel comfortable. The city is known for live music, outdoor spaces, and casual food spots.
It’s easy to talk to people without pressure, especially at events and local hangouts. Austin is lively but not overwhelming, which makes it a good balance for solo travelers.
- Expense: $120–$220 per day
- Days Recommended: 2–4 days
- Best For: Music lovers, social solo travelers
- Local Vibe: Casual and welcoming
- Things to Do Alone: Live music, parks, food trucks
3. San Diego, California
San Diego is great for a slower solo trip with warm weather and open spaces. The city is spread out, but getting around is still manageable.
Beaches and coastal paths are perfect for solo walks and quiet time. You can mix relaxed days with light sightseeing. It’s a good choice if you want to unwind without feeling bored.
- Expense: $150–$260 per day
- Days Recommended: 3–5 days
- Best For: Beach lovers, relaxed solo trips
- Weather: Mild year-round
- Things to Do Alone: Beach walks, cafes, coastal views
4. Portland, Oregon
Portland suits solo travelers who enjoy calm cities and creative culture. The city is walkable and has good public transport.
Sitting alone in cafes or going to shops feels normal here. You can also plan easy day trips to nature spots nearby. Portland is best enjoyed at a slower pace.
- Expense: $110–$200 per day
- Days Recommended: 2–4 days
- Best For: Introverts, coffee lovers, nature fans
- City Feel: Quiet and creative
- Things to Do Alone: Cafes, bookstores, nearby parks
5. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is a great solo destination if you enjoy history, slow walks, and a calm atmosphere. The city is very walkable, and its historic squares make travelling alone feel safe and relaxed.
You can spend hours wandering without a fixed plan. Locals are friendly, and guided walking tours make it easy to learn and meet others. Savannah is less crowded than big cities, which helps if you want a quieter solo trip.
- Expense: $100–$180 per day
- Days Recommended: 2–3 days
- Best For: History lovers, slow-paced solo travel
- City Style: Walkable and scenic
- Things to Do Alone: Walking tours, historic districts, riverfront strolls
Solo Travel Destinations All Around the World
If you’re ready to go beyond the US, solo travel around the world can be incredibly rewarding.
These destinations are popular with solo travelers because they are easy to navigate, feel welcoming, and offer a good mix of safety, culture, and social experiences.
6. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of the easiest European cities for solo travel. It’s walkable, affordable, and full of life without feeling rushed. You can check out viewpoints, local cafes, and historic streets at your own pace.
Many travelers say it feels friendly and relaxed, even for first-timers. Day trips are simple and add variety to your stay.
- Expense: $90–$160 per day
- Days Recommended: 3–4 days
- Best For: First-time solo travelers
- Getting Around: Walkable and good trams
- Things to Do Alone: Cafes, viewpoints, day trips
7. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona offers culture, beaches, and a social vibe that works well for solo trips. You can spend mornings sightseeing and evenings relaxing by the sea.
It’s easy to join group tours or meet people at hostels. The city feels lively but still manageable on your own.
- Expense: $100–$180 per day
- Days Recommended: 3–5 days
- Best For: Culture and food lovers
- City Feel: Lively and walkable
- Things to Do Alone: Architecture, beaches, markets
8. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is compact and very solo-friendly. You can bike or walk almost everywhere without stress. Museums, canals, and cafes are perfect for solo travellers.
It’s common to see people dining or sightseeing alone here, which feels comforting.
- Expense: $130–$220 per day
- Days Recommended: 2–4 days
- Best For: Easy city breaks
- Getting Around: Bikes and public transport
- Things to Do Alone: Museums, canal walks
9. Berlin, Germany
Berlin suits solo travelers who like history and creative spaces. The city is spread out but easy to navigate.
You can go to museums, neighborhoods, and markets without feeling rushed. Berlin also has a strong solo dining and cafe culture.
- Expense: $100–$170 per day
- Days Recommended: 3–4 days
- Best For: History and culture fans
- City Style: Casual and open
- Things to Do Alone: Museums, street walks
10. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague feels like a fairytale city and is easy to travel solo. The historic center is compact and great for walking.
It’s budget-friendly compared to other European cities. You can enjoy quiet mornings and lively evenings without pressure.
- Expense: $80–$140 per day
- Days Recommended: 2–3 days
- Best For: Budget solo travel
- City Feel: Compact and scenic
- Things to Do Alone: Old town walks, cafes
11. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is one of the easiest cities in the world for solo travel. It feels safe, organized, and welcoming, even if it’s your first time traveling alone. Public transport is clear and reliable, which removes a lot of stress.
Solo dining is very common, so you never feel out of place eating alone. Each neighborhood feels different, giving you variety without leaving the city. There is always something to do, day or night.
- Expense: $120–$200 per day
- Days Recommended: 4–6 days
- Best For: Safe and structured solo trips
- Getting Around: Excellent trains
- Things to Do Alone: Food spots, city walks
12. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is perfect for solo travelers who enjoy quiet moments and slow travel. The city feels calm compared to Tokyo and is ideal for early mornings and peaceful walks.
Temples, gardens, and small streets are best enjoyed alone. You can move at your own pace without feeling rushed. Many travelers say Kyoto is where they feel most present during their trip.
- Expense: $110–$180 per day
- Days Recommended: 2–3 days
- Best For: Calm and cultural trips
- City Style: Traditional and quiet
- Things to Do Alone: Temples, gardens
13. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is lively, affordable, and full of energy, which makes it exciting for solo travel. It’s easy to meet other travelers through hostels and tours.
Food is cheap and available everywhere, even late at night. While the city can feel busy, it’s easy to take breaks in cafes or quieter areas. Bangkok is a great mix of chaos and comfort.
- Expense: $50–$100 per day
- Days Recommended: 3–5 days
- Best For: Budget and social travel
- City Feel: Busy but fun
- Things to Do Alone: Street food, temples
14. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a favorite for solo travelers who want a slower pace. The city feels friendly and easy to settle into. Many people come here alone and end up staying longer than planned.
Cafes, temples, and short day trips fill your days without pressure. It’s also a great place to focus on yourself and relax.
- Expense: $40–$90 per day
- Days Recommended: 3–5 days
- Best For: Slow solo travel
- City Style: Calm and friendly
- Things to Do Alone: Cafes, temples
15. Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is full of local life and strong culture, which makes it interesting to explore alone. The old quarter is busy but walkable, and guided tours help ease you in.
Food is affordable and easy to try solo. The city feels real and lived-in, which many solo travelers enjoy. It’s a great place to learn and observe.
- Expense: $40–$80 per day
- Days Recommended: 2–4 days
- Best For: Budget travellers
- City Feel: Lively and local
- Things to Do Alone: Food walks, museums
16. Bali, Indonesia
Bali works well for solo travelers because you can shape the trip your way. Some areas are social and lively, while others are quiet and peaceful.
It’s easy to meet people through classes, tours, or cafes. Many solo travelers enjoy the balance of nature and comfort here. Bali is also a popular place for longer stays.
- Expense: $50–$120 per day
- Days Recommended: 4–7 days
- Best For: Wellness and nature
- Island Vibe: Flexible and relaxed
- Things to Do Alone: Yoga, cafes
17. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne is great for solo travelers who enjoy city life without chaos. The city feels relaxed and easy to navigate. Cafes, markets, and walking areas make solo time enjoyable.
It’s normal to see people doing things alone here. Melbourne feels welcoming and comfortable from day one.
- Expense: $140–$230 per day
- Days Recommended: 3–5 days
- Best For: City goers
- City Style: Laid-back and modern
- Things to Do Alone: Cafes, markets
18. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is ideal for solo travelers who love nature and open spaces. The city itself is small and easy to cover. Most people join group tours to see the countryside, which makes solo travel simple.
Iceland feels safe and well-organized. It’s perfect if you want adventure without planning everything alone.
- Expense: $180–$300 per day
- Days Recommended: 2–4 days
- Best For: Nature and scenery
- Getting Around: Tours and buses
- Things to Do Alone: Hot springs, walks
19. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin has a friendly and social feel that suits solo travelers. It’s easy to start conversations, especially on walking tours or in pubs.
The city is compact and simple. Day trips are popular and easy to join. Dublin feels warm and welcoming, even if you’re on your own.
- Expense: $130–$210 per day
- Days Recommended: 2–3 days
- Best For: Social solo travel
- City Feel: Warm and lively
- Things to Do Alone: Walking tours, pubs
20. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn is a quiet and charming city that’s easy to travel in alone. The old town is compact and full of history. It’s less crowded than many European cities, which makes it relaxing.
Solo travelers often enjoy the slower pace here. Tallinn is perfect for short, peaceful city breaks.
- Expense: $90–$150 per day
- Days Recommended: 2–3 days
- Best For: Quiet city breaks
- City Style: Compact and historic
- Things to Do Alone: Old Town walks
Choosing the Right Destination
Picking the right destination can shape your entire solo trip. When the place matches your comfort level and travel style, everything feels easier and more enjoyable.
| What to Consider | Why It Matters | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Level | Helps you feel relaxed and confident while being alone | Japan, Iceland, Portugal |
| Ease of Transport | Makes moving around simple without stress | Cities with trains, metros, and walkable areas |
| Travel Style | Matches what you enjoy most on a trip | Nature, food, culture, slow travel |
| Budget | Keeps your trip comfortable and realistic | Southeast Asia vs Western Europe |
Choosing a destination isn’t about finding the “perfect” place. It’s about finding one that feels right for you right now and supports the kind of solo trip you want to have.
Conclusion
Solo travel is not just about the destination, but how the place makes you feel while roaming on your own.
The right destination can boost your confidence, help you slow down, and open the door to new experiences. Whether you prefer busy cities, quiet towns, or nature-filled escapes, there is a solo-friendly place out there for you.
Start with somewhere that feels safe and easy, then build from there as you gain confidence. Trust your instincts, plan smart, and give yourself room to enjoy the journey.
If you’ve traveled solo before, share your favorite destination in the comments. If you’re planning your first trip, let us know where you’re thinking of going.
