Solo travel has gained immense popularity in recent years, offering individuals the freedom to explore the world on their terms. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, there’s a destination out there perfect for your solo journey. One trend in travel is going solo. In a recent study ranking the top destinations worldwide for solo travel. Why is it appealing? Travellers who go solo are drawn by the opportunity to explore at their own leisure, immerse themselves in the culture of the place they are visiting, and eat a meal without having to strike up a conversation. Another argument is that travelling solo enables you to form a closer bond with the places you visit because there is no distraction from a partner.
A new report has ranked the top 20 places for solo travel, considering factors such as safety, affordability, cultural diversity, and overall traveler experience.
1. Washington D.C
The best American cities for solitary travel were also listed by Kayak and OpenTable for individuals who would rather remain domestic. The number one city on the domestic list is Washington, D.C. The country’s capital offers many of options for independent exploration, making it ideal for both art and history enthusiasts. The city is a great option for single visitors in part because of its high average hotel rating and plenty of free attractions.
2. Japan Solo Travel
With its blend of ancient traditions and modern technology, Japan offers a unique and unforgettable experience for solo travelers. Explore bustling cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, immerse yourself in traditional tea ceremonies, or hike through stunning national parks. Japan’s efficient transportation system and polite locals make it easy to navigate as a solo traveler.
3. Portugal
Portugal’s charming cities, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine make it a popular destination for solo travelers. Explore the historic streets of Lisbon, relax on the golden sands of Algarve, or embark on a wine-tasting tour in the Douro Valley. Portugal’s affordable cost of living and welcoming atmosphere make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
4. New Zealand
New Zealand’s stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and adventurous spirit make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Hike through the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland National Park, explore the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, or embark on a scenic cruise through Milford Sound. New Zealand’s safety record and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo exploration.
5. Spain
With its vibrant culture, delicious food, and stunning architecture, Spain is a popular destination for solo travelers. Explore the bustling streets of Barcelona, relax on the sunny beaches of Ibiza, or wander through the historic city of Seville. Spain’s affordable cost of living and welcoming locals make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
6. Scotland
Scotland’s rugged landscapes, historic castles, and friendly locals make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the dramatic highlands, visit the iconic Loch Ness, or enjoy traditional Scottish music and dance. Scotland’s safety record and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo exploration.
7. Thailand
Thailand’s stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living make it a popular destination for solo travelers. Explore the bustling streets of Bangkok, relax on the idyllic islands of Phuket or Koh Samui, or embark on a trekking adventure in Chiang Mai. Thailand’s friendly locals and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
8. Australia
Australia’s vast landscapes, stunning beaches, and unique wildlife make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the iconic Sydney Opera House, visit the Great Barrier Reef, or embark on a road trip through the Outback. Australia’s safety record and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo exploration.
9. Peru
Peru’s ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the iconic Machu Picchu, hike through the Inca Trail, or visit the floating islands of Uros. Peru’s friendly locals and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
10. Iceland
Iceland’s combination of natural beauty, safety, and friendly locals make it a highly recommended destination for solo travelers.
Stunning landscapes: From glaciers and waterfalls to geysers and black sand beaches, Iceland offers a diverse and breathtaking natural environment.
- Safety: Iceland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, making it a comfortable destination for solo travelers.
- Friendly locals: Icelanders are known for their warm hospitality and English proficiency, making it easy to connect with locals and other travelers.
- Unique experiences: From whale watching and glacier hiking to exploring ice caves and soaking in geothermal hot springs, Iceland offers a wide range of unique and unforgettable experiences.
11. Croatia
Croatia’s stunning coastline, historic cities, and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the ancient city of Dubrovnik, sail the Adriatic Sea, or hike through the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Croatia’s friendly locals and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo exploration.
12. South Africa
South Africa’s diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the iconic Table Mountain, safari through Kruger National Park, or visit the historic city of Cape Town. South Africa’s safety record and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
13. Morocco
Morocco’s vibrant markets, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the bustling streets of Marrakech, relax in the souks of Fez, or hike through the Atlas Mountains. Morocco’s friendly locals and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
14. Vietnam
Vietnam’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City, cruise through Halong Bay, or trek through the Sapa mountains. Vietnam’s friendly locals and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
15. Colombia
Colombia’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the historic city of Cartagena, hike through the Lost City of the Teyuna, or relax on the beautiful beaches of San Andrés. Colombia’s safety record and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
16. Taiwan
Taiwan’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the bustling city of Taipei, hike through Taroko Gorge, or visit the ancient temples of Tainan. Taiwan’s safety record and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
17. Myanmar
Myanmar’s stunning temples, diverse landscapes, and friendly locals make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda, hike through the Kalaw mountains, or visit the floating villages of Inle Lake. Myanmar’s safety record and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
18. Turkey
Turkey’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the ancient city of Istanbul, visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, or hike through the Cappadocia region. Turkey’s friendly locals and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
19. Bolivia
Bolivia’s stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the iconic Salar de Uyuni, visit the ancient city of Tiahuanaco, or hike through the Madidi National Park. Bolivia’s safety record and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
20. Greece
Greece’s stunning islands, ancient ruins, and delicious cuisine make it a perfect destination for solo travelers. Explore the iconic Acropolis in Athens, sail the Aegean Sea, or visit the ancient ruins of Delphi. Greece’s friendly locals and well-developed infrastructure make it a great choice for solo adventurers.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, there’s a destination on this list perfect for your solo journey. By carefully considering factors such as safety, affordability, cultural diversity, and overall traveler experience, you can choose the ideal place to embark on your solo adventure.