25 Best Places for Solo Travel

Some of my earliest solo traveling days were spent flying from Boise, Idaho, to Chicago. I loved the city so much that I moved here! The renowned food in Chicago’s 77 train-accessible communities made me feel I could travel the world by dining at different restaurants. It's hard to feel lonely as you wander through the many exhibits at the Museum of Science, Industry Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago and many others. I enjoyed relaxing on the shores of Lake Michigan, which boasts 28 miles of public lakefront perfect for swimming and lounging during the warmer months. And though the winter brings a fierce cold, the city remains bright and alive. My first trip to Chicago was in January, and it was freezing, but the city was a dream. Holiday markets. Ice skating. Shopping on the Magnificent Mile. There was no shortage of things to do. Chicago is also the perfect destination for a long weekend or a quick trip.

Vancouver is the marriage of urban fun and natural beauty, with a friendly atmosphere that eagerly welcomes solo travelers. I’ve always wanted to meet its charming locals and explore the city’s striking scenery. Its skyline sprawls along the Salish Sea (a coastal waterway of the Pacific Ocean) while backdropped by the towering Coast Mountain Range. One day, I would love to hike the Lighthouse Park trail and bike through the Stanley Park Seawall. With a vibrant food scene, diverse neighborhoods and cultural attractions that are easily accessible by public transportation, this is a city I hope to find myself in soon.

I had a friend solo travel around South America. Medellín was awarded a glowing review. Nestled in the Aburrá Valley, the Andes mountains surround this city. Known for its welcoming locals and year-round pleasant climate, Medellín offers a combination of rich culture and stunning scenery. Also, its public metro and cable cars are a fast and easy way to explore. There's always something to see and do, from lush parks and beautiful plazas to fascinating museums and lively markets. From Medellín, there are so many other cities and landscapes in Colombia to explore.

Since traveling to Tokyo and Bali, I yearn to return to the Asia-Pacific. I’ve been researching, combing through the best places to solo travel in China and comparing notes with friends who have. In the end, it was Hong Kong's vibrant blend of culture, food and adventure spoke most to me. Plus, the city’s accessible and widespread public transportation and ferries allow solo travelers to easily see Hong Kong. I itch to experience first-hand the world’s most iconic skylines via a tram to Victoria Peak, wander through the markets in Mong Kok and ride a cable car to Lantau Island. And we found the best Hong Kong restaurants for solo travelers who may worry about dining alone.

Nashville is filled with big groups and bachelorettes. But it can also be nice for solo travelers, specifically those who love good music and food. In Music City, streets like Broadway, Music Row and Printers Alley are brimming with action you don't need a group to enjoy. In addition to the notable honkytonks on Broadway, travelers can also visit museums, landmarks and unique eateries known for hot chicken and Southern-style comfort food.

We’ve all craved a beach vacation. When I get the urge, with one quick flight, I’m sunbathing on the beaches of Cancun. For solo travelers like me, Cancun’s Hotel Zone is an ideal 15-minute drive from the airport. However, make sure to arrange airport transportation before you arrive. There are taxis available, but they are not always reliable. Depending on the hotel you book, airport cars and ride services may be offered. When you arrive at the stretch of oceanfront hotels, restaurants and bars just feet away from the glimmering turquoise ocean, you’ll see why I keep coming back. Most hotels offer a concierge who will help you book activities off-property. Best of all, here, it’s easy to plan a cost-effective, memorable trip.

Growing up in a rural town, I craved the stir of a big city. So, in high school, I would take mini trips to Portland, the closest big city. It has always felt a bit like home with its quirky culture, rolling hills and rivers surrounding downtown. I love how walkable and bike-friendly the city is, making it easy to explore its different areas at your own pace. But there’s nothing like escaping to the Portland Japanese Garden just outside the city. Other Portland highlights are its fantastic food carts scattered throughout the city, the shops in the Pearl District and the iconic Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world.

Stretching along the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a striking city of sun-bleached stone buildings, red-tile roofs and bustling ports. For solo travelers, it’s a unique European summer getaway that should be at the top of your list. When I spent some time in Split, just up the coast, I met many travelers who had just come from Dubrovnik. They raved about the city. Not only does Croatia consistently rank as one of the safest European countries to travel solo (especially for women), but it is also home to islands that rival, if not beat, the beauty of nearby Greece and Italy. From Dubrovnik, you can easily book a day trip to the surrounding islands of Kolocep, Sipan and Korcula. Though you’re traveling alone, sometimes company is a welcomed treat. Try one of the city’s many guided tours and activities that can connect you to locals and other tourists.

There’s nothing like romanticizing your life during a solo trip to New York City...just me? Possibly. After only a few days in the city, I found myself in a tattoo shop on the Lower East Side. I needed a permanent reminder of this transformative trip. It’s impossible to feel alone in New York, whether catching a show on Broadway, wandering the 800+ acres of Central Park or shopping and dining in SoHo. Visiting NYC is like taking a world trip in just one stop—and without leaving the U.S. Every borough brims with life and cultures. Around every corner is a bustling cafe, restaurant or some hidden art gallery to escape into. No experience can't be found within the city that really never sleeps.

Orlando was never a place I was dying to see, but I can admit when I’m wrong. The city and surrounding areas are a haven for theme park enthusiasts who love warm weather year-round and unique cuisines. Solo travelers can choose from several theme parks, like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios or SeaWorld, excursions and a diverse dining scene. Stay on International Dr by the Orange County Convention Center, within walking distance of several attractions and restaurants. Just down the coast sits the striking waterside cities of Palm Beach, Miami and Fort Lauderdale, filled with their own hidden gems.

Germany was another country low on my list of must-see destinations. Then, I traveled to Münster, Germany, for work. I was awed by how kind and generous the locals were. It made me realize that maybe I wasn’t giving Germany a fair shot. One day, I’d love to return to Berlin. Germany’s capital is a place of monumental history, a city with a turbulent past the world will not soon forget. For solo travelers interested in important world history, these streets are for you. From iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall to bustling markets and vibrant street art, the German capital offers the perfect mix of history, culture and excitement. Thanks to its efficient public transportation system, Berlin is also easy to navigate.

I visited San Francisco with a group. But some of my favorite moments were made venturing out on my own. San Francisco’s versatility lets travelers experience urban areas and then get lost in the beauty of its surrounding natural landscapes. I even took a quick trip to Napa where I enjoyed touring several wineries and even riding on a hot air balloon where I bonded with strangers over the unique and mildly scary experience. I loved walking along the sea cliffs at Land’s End Park, where the imposing Golden Gate Bridge can be seen just ahead. I ate some of my favorite food at Fisherman’s Warf while the abandoned Alcatraz loomed in the distance. You’ll also want to visit iconic landmarks like The Painted Ladies, Golden Gate Park and the Japanese Tea Garden.

As mentioned, my first solo trip was to Paris. I was an inexperienced traveler who knew little of the city and even less French. And yet, Paris welcomed me with open arms. I realized the City of Love was not reserved for couples but for everyone who walked its elegant streets. The Metro quickly brings you to any neighborhood—or arrondissement— each alive with its own distinct culture. And because of Paris’s year-round popularity, restaurants and attractions are often very crowded. As a solo traveler, this was no problem. I could quickly weave through crowds or grab the last seat at any popular restaurant. Between cruises along the Seine, wandering through Montmartre and having a picnic along Quai de la Tournelle, Paris is as magical as people say.

Grand galleries. Historic Monuments. Museums brimming with exhibits and world collections. America’s capital is a place for the curious, a city where history-rich experiences are inevitable. And for solo travelers, it's a clean, friendly and painless city to navigate. I spent an entire day walking through the city with plenty to explore. D.C. has world-class attractions like the Smithsonian, Lincoln Memorial and National Mall. Washington, D.C., is also home to more than 20 Black-owned restaurants like Oohh’s & Aahh’s, known for its soul food, and other culinary gems like modern Afghan bistro, Lapis, that blend flavors and techniques from different traditions.

As an avid solo traveler, I’m embarrassed to admit I haven’t made it to Amsterdam yet. Whether it’s a quick trip or a longer stay, it’s okay to be selfish in wanting to experience Amsterdam alone. With many iconic sites like the Van Gogh Museum, a vibrant social and dining scene and serene experiences like bike riding along scenic canals, the city is best taken in at your own pace. Amsterdam’s off-season is also a great time to explore, especially if you want to skip the crowds.

Who doesn’t love live music and Texas barbecue? If I were in Austin, I would catch a show at one of its iconic venues and visit quirky shops and art installations in the vibrant East Austin neighborhood. I will also never pass up the opportunity to take a river boat tour because I feel like it’s one of the best ways to see an entire city. In addition to this tour, there are also restaurant crawls and tours that can guide solo travelers to the best food in Texas’ capital city. While this open-aired city is easy to navigate and has plenty of activities for solo travelers, it’s also a great place to make new friends and connect with friendly locals. Are you eyeing other areas of Texas for your next solo adventure? We recommend Houston for its endless entertainment options, museums, and parks.

On my way to Bali, I spent my layover in Taipei at the airport. Huge mistake. Taipei’s natural beauty and one-of-a-kind adventures offer experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else. From boba tea to Din Tai Fung dumplings, its culinary scene bursts with flavor. Taipei is also famous for its Shilin, Ningxa and Huaxi Street night markets. Plus, the city is walkable and safe for all solo travelers, making it easy to experience the Qingshan temple and Taipei Confucius temple in person. You can also quickly get around on the city’s extensive public transportation system.

I will visit London anytime, especially as a solo traveler who loves shopping, beans for breakfast and public transportation that will connect me to every part of town. Take in London by riding its famous double-decker buses. Or head underground to the trains, effortlessly whisking you across the city. I still remember wandering through Borough Market, sipping afternoon tea at Sketch and discovering London’s world-class museums. Solo traveling history connoisseurs will also love the dozens of historic sights, like Big Ben, the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace.

Australia offers many exciting destinations, particularly when flying United to Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne, each providing unique attractions and activities for solo travelers. I recently visited Sydney, and the trip solidified my thoughts on it being the ultimate solo adventure. The city is beautiful, with a mix of new and old architecture, a diverse dining scene, and easy access to several attractions via train, bus or ferry. I loved exploring the Featherdale Wildlife Park, where I fed and pet wallabies and kangaroos. I also visited the Taronga Zoo, just a short ferry ride from the city, where I saw giraffes, monkeys, capybaras, and more. And the beaches are beautiful! I visited Manly Beach and Bondi Beach, home to cool swim clubs and daring surfers.

Seattle is far from a gloomy city from the bustling Pike Place Market filled with fresh flower stands and organic produce shops to ferries offering rides to nearby San Juan Islands and Bainbridge Island. Seattle is a relaxing and mellow trip for solo travelers who love artsy cafes, artisanal shops and stunning nature hikes. Sip coffee at the country’s first-ever Starbucks or see the sprawling city skyline from atop the iconic Space Needle.

The Eternal City, where eons of ancient history meet the modern day. Rome is the perfect starting point for a European solo adventure. But, in my experience, the city center quickly became overwhelming, especially in summer. Here’s my solution. I started with Rome’s iconic sights, spending a few hours touring The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Pantheon, on foot. From there, the world, or really Italy, is your oyster. Staring at the capital, the country’s high-speed train networks can take you anywhere. I highly recommend heading South to Naples, the birthplace of modern pizza. For quaint Italian vibes, try Florence. And every shopaholic should experience the boutiques of Milan.

Seoul is a vibrant city where cutting-edge technology flourishes, like its excellent public transportation that easily and safely connects travelers to the entire city. The city’s laid-back atmosphere lets you explore iconic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and the bustling streets of Myeongdong at your own pace. I dream of trying delicious street food at Gwangjang Market, strolling along the Cheonggyecheon Stream and discovering the lively Hongdae neighborhood, known for its art scene and nightlife.

Boston is a forward-thinking city. The birthplace of some of America’s greatest institutions, many of the country’s brightest minds call this historic city home. As you explore the Freedom Trail, soak up the city’s fascinating history, visiting landmarks like Paul Revere’s House and the Massachusetts State House, the state capitol building and seat of government for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The city’s compact size makes it easily accessible, so even its charming neighborhoods like Beacon Hill, with its cobblestone streets and unique shops, are just a walk away.