Best places solo travel can be scary, but it’s also a great way to get out of your comfort zone and grow as a person. Plus, it’s great for your mental health!
Whether you want to soak up some sun in Bali, where Elizabeth Gilbert wrote Eat, Pray, Love or explore the rich modern culture of Berlin, here are the best places for solo travel.
Melbourne
One of the best places for solo travel is Melbourne, Australia. This vibrant city has plenty of attractions for every interest, and is within a reasonable commuting distance of other destinations and beaches. It also has a good selection of restaurants and bars and has a friendly, welcoming population.
It may have a reputation for being a bit expensive, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth visiting. There are some amazing deals to be had in this cosmopolitan Australian city. You can find a hotel for as little as $AU 200 ($US 140) during the week, but weekend rates jump to more than double that amount.
The city’s affluent neighborhoods have boutique hotels with high-end amenities, but you can still enjoy affordable dining and drink in the edgy, arty laneways. And if you want to get away from the city, the region’s lush forests and beaches make for an idyllic escape.
A popular destination thanks to Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love, Bali has a special charm for best places solo travelers. Set among emerald rice fields framed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud’s health retreats welcome guests looking to recharge or reconnect with themselves and their spirituality.
There’s so much to see and do in Edinburgh that you’ll need at least three days to experience it all. Whether you’re interested in whiskey, golf, or simply exploring the castles and museums of this fascinating Scottish city, there is something for everyone here. It’s also the perfect base for a day trip to the Highlands or a trek to the coast to search for Nessie. And if you need a break from all the sightseeing, there are a number of incredible spas in the area to relax in.
Florence
Florence was the spark that ignited the Italian Renaissance and blessed us with a wealth of art treasures and awe-inspiring architecture. It is also known for delicious food and wine and friendly locals. This makes it one of the best places for solo travel.
While Italy is generally considered to be safe, if you are new to solo traveling you may want to avoid smaller towns and Southern cities where people don’t know as much English. Also, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local culture before arriving as this can help make your trip easier and more enjoyable. This means learning the basics like greetings with a kiss on each cheek (unless it is your first meeting, then it should be a handshake), respectful drinking habits and courteous dining etiquette.
Another great option is the eastern French city of Lyon. With easy access to the stunning Roman ruins of Vienne and a gateway to Burgundy, it is the perfect destination for a first-time solo traveler or anyone wanting to experience France’s rich history.
It is a very walkable city and has a great public transportation system, making it easy to explore. It is also a very affordable place to stay and there are plenty of hostels and hotels to choose from. It is also a very easy place to meet people as there are many expats who live in the city and locals are very friendly and welcoming. Aside from exploring the beautiful city, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. You can visit museums, shop at the boutiques, or try your hand at cooking some of the local cuisine.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is one of the best cities for solo travel, thanks to its thriving arts scene, picturesque canals, and countless things to do. But it’s also a great place to push yourself outside your comfort zone – the city isn’t all about weed, sex, and bars (although there are plenty of them too).
For a real taste of Amsterdam’s culture, head to the museum district and browse the 17th-century canal houses that house a wide range of galleries and ateliers. Then, stop for a coffee at a local brown cafe – similar to the eighteenth-century coffee shops in London, these friendly spaces are perfect for meeting fellow travellers and making new friends.
If you’re looking for a more interactive experience, join a walking or bike tour of the city. This is a great way to meet other travellers and learn more about the city’s history at the same time.
Alternatively, explore the city’s markets by yourself or with a guide. They’re a great place to find hidden treasures like Dutch antiques, locally grown produce, and must-try Dutch snacks like poffertjes and cones of fries slathered in mayo.
Antwerp is a surprisingly great destination for solo travellers. It’s a beautiful city to visit at any time of year. In the summer, it’s a stunning destination for enjoying day trips and festivals. While in winter you can marvel at its dazzling Christmas Markets.
Paris
If friends ask who you’re traveling with, you can answer, “No one.” This is a time to focus on yourself and your own interests. You’ll find no shortage of things to do in Paris alone.
You can’t go wrong with a boat cruise along the Seine. This popular activity will give you an excellent view of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Is ideal for those on a budget. If you’re nervous about being out on your own in the evening. Try to book a tour that has dinner included or get an Uber back afterward.
A gondola ride is another way to see the sights. These can be booked at several places on the river. The Louvre is another major must-see for art lovers. If you want to avoid crowds, consider purchasing a museum pass for 78 euros. That allows you six days of access to 50 museums in Paris.
Taking in a film is a fun way to socialize on your solo trip. For a month each summer, the Cinema en Plein Air festival shows free films in the Parc de La Villette. Known by locals as the Promenade Plantee or the old Vincennes railway line. The Parc de La Villette is also the inspiration for New York City’s High Line.
Paris is a food lover’s paradise, and it’s easy to eat well on a budget here. For a unique dining experience, look into VoulezVous Diner. Which offers an evening with a local family that includes dinner and entertainment.
The city also has many restaurants that offer affordable meals and best places. You can sample northern Thai dishes at the city’s impressive restaurants. Eat a bowl of phat thai or kow soi soup at hole-in-the-wall eateries.
Vancouver
Vancouver is one of the most popular cities for solo travelers due to its beautiful scenery and cosmopolitan city life. It is also a safe country and has low crime rates, making it the ideal place to travel alone. Additionally, the city offers many affordable activities and is easy to navigate.
One of the best things to do in Vancouver is taking a jet ski tour of English Bay. This experience is perfect for solo travelers because it is a fun and unique way to see the city. In addition to riding a jet ski. This activity includes a guide who will tell you about the city and its sights.
Another great solo activity in Vancouver is taking a chocolate making workshop. During this experience, you will learn about the process of making artisan chocolate. In addition, you will get to taste the finished product. This is a great activity for anyone who loves chocolate!
Lastly, if you want to do something fun. Different while traveling alone in Vancouver, consider joining a board games meetup. This is a great way to meet people and make new friends. Additionally, this is a great way to relax and take a break from sightseeing.
In addition to the above tips. It is important to remember that solo travel can be a bit stressful at times. Therefore, it is essential to prepare well for your trip. This means researching the destination and planning your itinerary in advance. It is also a good idea to pack travel essentials. Such as a comfortable pair of shoes and a portable pillow. Also, remember to bring a journal or laptop so that you can keep track of your thoughts and feelings.
