Planning your first solo trip can feel scary and overwhelming. Each year, more than 25% of travelers choose to explore the world alone. This guide lists ten amazing places that are perfect for new solo travelers, with tips on safety, costs, and fun things to do.
Get ready to start your own exciting adventure!
Bali, Indonesia
Bali stands as a perfect spot for solo travelers to start their journey. This Indonesian island mixes safety and low costs with amazing views. Rice fields stretch far and wide, while ancient temples dot the landscape.
Canggu draws many visitors with its fun beach clubs and spaces to work. The friendly locals make everyone feel at home.
Bali is where nature meets culture, making it a solo traveler’s dream.
The island offers more than just pretty sights. Solo visitors can surf waves, swim with fish, or hike up hills. Ubud, Uluwatu, and Sanur each bring their own charm to explore. Art shows pop up often, showing off local dance and crafts.
Beach lovers flock to the Gili Islands for clear waters and soft sand. Every sunset paints the sky in bright colors, perfect for photos.
Known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and friendly locals, Bali is a top pick for solo travelers seeking spiritual rejuvenation and adventure.
Solo travelers love Bali for its mix of peace and fun. The island offers many places to stay, from cheap hostels to nice villas, fitting any budget. English-speaking locals make it easy to get around and meet new friends.
Most people spend $1,200 to $1,500 per month here, which covers food, stays, and fun activities.
Getting around Bali is simple with local drivers and ride apps. Tourists can pick from short trips in Ubud or longer stays to see the Gili Islands. The beaches are clean, and the culture is rich with temples and art.
Safe drinking needs some care – stick to filtered or bottled water. Many spots offer yoga, surfing, and spiritual activities that help solo guests feel at home.
New Zealand
New Zealand stands out as a top spot for first-time travelers going alone. The country offers safe spaces and friendly faces in its social hostels. Many people share great stories about their trips here.
Travelers can meet new friends while staying at these hostels across both islands.
Camper van trips make exploring New Zealand fun and easy. The North and South Islands pack amazing sights to see, though costs run high for daily needs. Many travelers say the higher prices are worth it because the country helps them grow braver and stronger.
The safe setting lets people focus on having fun rather than worrying about problems.
With its breathtaking landscapes and well-established backpacker culture, New Zealand offers a safe and engaging environment for solo explorers.
Solo travelers love New Zealand’s peaceful setting. The country ranks fourth on the 2023 Global Peace Index, making it perfect for first-time adventurers. Spring and fall offer the best times to explore stunning spots like Auckland, Taupo, and Queenstown.
Most people stay three to four weeks to see everything.
Getting around is easy with a rental car or campervan. The well-known backpacker culture helps solo travelers meet new friends along the way. While costs can be high, the safe environment and beautiful views make up for it.
Many solo explorers enjoy the freedom to move between cities at their own pace.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest stands as a perfect spot for first-time travelers going alone. The city mixes old beauty with new fun in its buildings and streets. Travelers can enjoy cheap places to stay and eat while they explore the city.
The famous thermal baths offer great spots to relax and meet other visitors.
Public buses and trains make it easy to see all parts of the city safely. Many people speak English, which helps new travelers feel at home. The mix of history and modern life creates fun days filled with seeing old castles, eating tasty food, and walking through pretty streets.
Safe streets and friendly locals make Budapest an ideal choice for anyone starting their travel journey.
This city combines historic charm with a youthful energy, making it an affordable and culturally rich destination for solo visitors.
Solo travelers love exploring the historic sites in Budapest. The city offers amazing spots like the grand Parliament Building and the beautiful St. Stephen’s Basilica. Fun activities stay cheap here, with famous thermal baths like Széchenyi drawing many visitors.
The city’s metro and tram system makes getting around simple and safe.
Nightlife buzzes with cool spots like Szimpla Kert, a popular ruin pub where people meet new friends. Solo guests can join cooking classes to learn local dishes and meet others. Female travelers rate the city very safe for walking and sightseeing.
Many budget-friendly hostels help travelers save money while making friends. Next up, let’s explore why Prague charms visitors with its fairy tale views and fun activities.
Portugal
Moving from Budapest’s charm, Portugal stands out as Europe’s hidden gem for travelers. The country mixes old-world beauty with modern fun at prices that won’t break the bank. Cobblestone pathways wind through colorful towns, leading to stunning coastal views and friendly faces.
Portugal offers a perfect mix of city life and beach time for people traveling alone. Locals welcome visitors with open arms and warm smiles, making new friends easy. The seaside charm draws people to spots like the Algarve, where clear waters meet golden sand.
Budget-smart travelers love Portugal’s low costs for food, stays, and fun activities.
From the historic streets of Lisbon to the beautiful beaches of the Algarve, Portugal provides a secure and welcoming setting for solo travelers.
Portugal stands as one of Europe’s safest spots for solo travelers. Lisbon draws visitors to its famous Praca do Comercio and old Alfama district, where sweet pastéis de nata treats await.
Solo guests can stay at friendly places like Goodmorning Hostel in Lisbon or Olive Hostel in Lagos.
The sunny Algarve region offers perfect beaches for solo beach lovers. Most people spend 7-10 days exploring Portugal’s main cities and coast. Porto Spot Hostel makes a great base in Porto, while Lagos serves as the top spot to enjoy the Algarve’s beautiful shores.
Budget-smart travelers love Portugal’s mix of low costs and rich culture.
Thailand
Thailand stands out as a top spot for solo travelers. You can live well here on $1200-$1500 each month, making it perfect for budget trips. Bangkok and Chiang Mai offer great starting points with many fun things to do.
Solo guests can join cooking classes or visit ethical elephant parks to learn about Thai life.
Thailand makes travel simple and safe for people on their own. The country has good planes, trains, and buses to help you move around. Many tourists pick Thailand because friendly people live here.
Smart travelers should check safety tips before they go. The mix of low costs and easy travel draws many solo visitors to this beautiful country.
Known for its friendly atmosphere, exquisite cuisine, and affordability, Thailand remains a favorite among solo adventurers.
Solo travelers love exploring Thailand’s top spots like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The country offers great value with monthly costs between $1,200 to $1,500. Visitors can stay safe in tourist areas, which rate 4 out of 5 stars for security.
Public buses and tuk-tuks make getting around easy and cheap.
Local food stands and friendly people create a warm welcome for solo guests. Famous places like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho show off Thai culture. UNESCO sites teach visitors about local life and history.
Many backpackers start their Southeast Asia trips here because it feels safe and fun. Next up on our list, Prague charms visitors with its fairy tale beauty and rich history.
Prague, Czechia
Prague stands as a perfect city for first-time travelers who want to explore alone. The famous Charles Bridge and Prague Castle show off the city’s amazing old buildings. Many people travel here because it feels safe to walk around and see things on their own.
The city buses and trains make it easy to get everywhere.
Prague offers many cheap places to stay, like hostels where you can meet other travelers. The local food spots welcome people eating by themselves, so you can try Czech food without worry.
The mix of old stories and new fun makes Prague special. Many budget-friendly spots help travelers save money while having great times in this beautiful city.
Prague is a fairy tale city where solo travelers can enjoy stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and an array of activities at a reasonable cost.
Solo travelers will love the magic of Prague. This safe city scores 4.6 out of 5 for solo trips. You can explore 4,000 tourist spots and join 1,000 group tours. The city’s cheap and fast public transport ranks second-best in the world.
Hotels cost about $113 per night, making Prague a budget-friendly choice. The safety index of 75.39 puts it among Europe’s safest spots. Solo guests can walk the old streets, snap photos of grand buildings, and party at night.
The mix of fun things to do and fair prices draws many people who travel alone.
Italy
Italy stands as a perfect spot for people who travel alone. The country offers amazing food like pizza, pasta, and gelato in every corner. Tourists can explore famous places like the Colosseum in Rome or take boat rides in Venice’s canals.
The streets of Milan show off the latest fashion trends, while Florence holds beautiful art in its museums.
Italy’s Mediterranean charm makes it easy to meet other travelers and locals. Visitors can take trains between cities to see Vatican City’s grand churches or shop at local markets.
The warm weather and friendly people help new travelers feel at home right away. Each city brings its own special mix of history, food, and fun things to do.
Italy offers diverse experiences from the historical ruins in Rome to the canals of Venice and the fashion in Milan, making it ideal for solo travelers who enjoy art, history, and cuisine.
Solo travelers find magic in every corner of Rome, Venice, and Florence. Each city shows off its own special charm. Rome stands proud with old ruins that tell stories from long ago.
Venice pulls visitors in with its pretty canals and water streets. Florence shares amazing art that makes people stop and stare.
Safe cities like Bologna make perfect spots for lone explorers to stay. Most solo trips start with three nights in Rome to see the main sights. Hotels and hostels fit different budgets, from cheap to fancy.
The food scene brings life to every street, with fresh pasta and pizza at local spots. Solo guests can join food tours or cooking classes to meet new friends while learning about Italian dishes.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow stands as a perfect spot for solo trips in Europe. The city’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town offers many places to see and things to do. Friendly locals make visitors feel at home in this safe Polish city.
Budget travelers love Krakow for its low costs on food, stays, and fun activities.
The city buzzes with life through its many cafes, bars, and restaurants. Travelers can explore the historic sites right in town or take quick day trips to nearby places. The mix of old charm and new energy makes Krakow special.
Its rich past shows in every street corner, while modern spots keep things lively and fun.
Krakow is a historical gem with a robust student population, offering a mix of history, culture, and entertainment that appeals to solo visitors.
This historic Polish city stands out as a safe spot for solo travelers. Market Square buzzes with life, while Wawel Castle shows off the city’s rich past. Solo guests can stay at nice places like The Queen Boutique Hotel or 1891 Garni Hotel without spending too much money.
Solo visitors love the easy ways to get around town using buses and trams. The city offers fun trips to cool spots like the Wieliczka Salt Mine. At night, you can enjoy jazz bars and local pubs.
The student crowd makes the city feel young and lively, perfect for meeting new friends.
Costa Rica
Moving from the historic streets of Krakow, we explore Costa Rica’s natural wonders. Costa Rica stands as a top choice for solo travelers who love nature and outdoor fun. The country draws solo visitors with its amazing beaches, waterfalls, and famous spots like Manuel Antonio National Park.
Solo travelers feel safe here, thanks to friendly locals and easy ways to meet other people.
Costa Rica offers perfect spots for both rest and action-packed trips. Solo visitors can go surfing, hiking through rainforests, or watch wild animals in their homes. Many female travelers pick Costa Rica as their first solo trip spot in Central America.
The mix of peaceful beaches and exciting volcano trails makes it great for any type of traveler.
For those who love nature and adventure, Costa Rica provides a safe and thrilling environment with its rich biodiversity and numerous outdoor activities.
Costa Rica stands as a top spot for solo travelers who want to explore nature. The country shines during its dry season from mid-December to April. Monteverde and Tamarindo offer amazing spots for outdoor fun.
Solo visitors can join group tours to try zip-lining, whitewater rafting, and hiking through lush rainforests.
This eco-friendly paradise puts safety first while giving guests thrilling adventures. The middle-range costs make it perfect for budget-smart travelers. The rich wildlife and natural beauty create endless chances for jungle exploration.
Smart travelers should avoid walking alone at night in some areas. Costa Rica’s focus on sustainable tourism helps protect its stunning environment for future visitors.
Croatia
Croatia stands out as a top spot for solo travelers. The country offers stunning beaches and warm, friendly people who make guests feel at home. Zagreb and Split draw many solo visitors, remote workers, and people from other countries.
These cities mix old charm with new life, making them perfect for anyone traveling alone.
March to October brings the best weather for exploring Croatia’s beautiful coast. Solo adventures here feel safe and fun, with many places to see and things to do. The mix of clear seas, old towns, and nice weather makes Croatia a great choice for first-time solo trips.
Many people pick Croatia because it offers both city life and beach time in one place.
With its stunning coastline, historic sites, and islands, Croatia is becoming increasingly popular among solo travelers who enjoy history, nature, and the seaside.
Solo travelers flock to Split, Hvar, and Dubrovnik for amazing coastal views and rich history. These charming towns offer safe spaces to explore ancient buildings and natural wonders.
Visitors can walk through UNESCO sites or swim in clear blue waters at their own pace.
The scenic Plitvice Lakes and Krka Waterfalls stand out as must-see spots for nature lovers. Many solo guests pick Mljet National Park for peaceful hikes and outdoor fun. Travel costs have gone up lately, but most places still offer fair prices for food and stays.
The mix of friendly locals, beautiful islands, and historic spots makes this Mediterranean gem perfect for solo trips.
Bottom line
Choosing the right destination for your first solo travel experience can greatly influence your overall experience. Each of these destinations offers unique attractions and a welcoming atmosphere for solo travelers, ensuring your adventure is as enriching as it is exciting. Whether you’re looking for cultural immersion, natural beauty, or historical exploration, these top 10 destinations provide the perfect starting point for a memorable solo journey
Picking the perfect place for your first trip alone makes a big difference. Your choice will shape how safe and happy you feel during your travels. Smart planning helps you stay within your budget and enjoy your time away.
Each spot on our list offers fun things to do and friendly people to meet.
Safety comes first for travelers going alone. You need to think about where you’ll stay, how much money to bring, and if you can speak the local language. These ten places welcome new travelers with open arms.
They mix beautiful sights with easy-to-use public transport and clear signs in English. Your trip will be more fun if you pick a place that fits your style and makes you feel at home.
Exploring Beyond Solo Travel: 10 Most Breathtaking Road Trips Around the World
Road trips offer a different way to see the world after solo travel. Amazing drives await in places like the Pacific Coast Highway in California and the Great Ocean Road in Australia.
These trips let you stop at cool spots, take photos, and go at your own speed.
Travel fans can find great routes in many countries. The Ring Road in Iceland shows off waterfalls and black sand beaches. Norway’s Atlantic Road jumps across islands with stunning views.
Each road trip brings new sights and fun stops along the way. These drives make perfect trips for people who love to explore new places.