Thinking about packing your bags and hitting the road solo? Solo travel can be
terrifying at first, but so exhilarating once you take the plunge.
To help you get started, we’ve rounded up 20 of the most amazing destinations that’ll
welcome you with open arms. Ready to have your wanderlust fired up? Let’s dive in!
Tokyo, Japan
Welcome to the future, with a side of ancient tradition. Tokyo’s a sensory rollercoaster that’ll have you slurping ramen one minute and meditating in a centuries-old temple the next.
Don’t worry about feeling lonely – the city’s energy is your constant companion.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Ever wanted to feel like you’re on another planet without leaving Earth? Say hello to Reykjavik.
With its incredible landscapes, Northern Lights, and locals who believe in elves, Iceland’s capital is a solo traveler’s dream. Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon.
It’s like bathing in warm, milky-blue heaven – and a great place to strike up conversations with fellow travelers.
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Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s a feast for the senses, from Gaudí’s mind-bending architecture to the mouthwatering tapas bars. Head to a local language exchange to practice your Spanish – it’s a great way to make friends and maybe score some insider tips on the best hidden bars.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Calling all adrenaline junkies! Queenstown’s where you can jump off perfectly good bridges, ski down ridiculous slopes and pretend you’re a hobbit all in one day.
The scenery is so stunning it will keep you clicking your camera. Plus, the backpacker scene is top-notch, so you’ll never have to adventure alone (unless you want to).
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai’s got temples galore, night markets that’ll set your taste buds dancing, and more cooking classes than you can shake a lemongrass stalk at. Want to make some jumbo-sized friends?
Check out the ethical elephant sanctuaries.
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Berlin, Germany
Whether you’re a history buff, party animal, or a hipster foodie, Berlin’s got you covered, no matter which hat you’re wearing. This city’s been through more costume changes than a pop star, and the result is a mind-bending mix of old and new.
Spend your days exploring world-class museums, and your nights… Well, let’s just say the party doesn’t stop till you do.
Cusco, Peru
Cusco’s like a time machine with really good food. This ancient Incan capital is your gateway to Machu Picchu, but don’t rush off too quickly – the city itself is a gem.
Wander the cobblestone streets, bargain at local markets, and maybe try some guinea pigs. Just take it easy as you adjust to the altitude.
Dublin, Ireland
This city’s all about good fun, flowing Guinness, and chats with strangers that turn
into all-night pub crawls. Between the literary history, live music, and chatty locals,
you’ll never have a dull moment.
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Bali, Indonesia
Bali’s like the Earth’s gift to solo travelers. Surf in Canggu, find your zen (and your yoga pose) in Ubud, or beach-bum it in the Gili Islands.
The locals are crazy friendly, and there are more healthy cafes than you can think of. Just watch out for those cheeky monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest – they’ve got sticky fingers and a taste for shiny things.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town’s got more sides than a diamond – and it’s just as brilliant. Hike up Table Mountain in the morning, penguin-watch at Boulders Beach in the afternoon, and sip sundowners at Camps Bay in the evening.
The hardest part of your day will be choosing which incredible thing to do next.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Forget what you’ve heard – Amsterdam’s not just about its infamous coffee shops. Rent a bike and join the two-wheeled masses, get lost in the canal rings, and pretend you’re in a Vermeer painting at the Rijksmuseum.
The Dutch are champions of gezelligheid (coziness), so you’ll feel right at home in no time.
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Kyoto, Japan
Want to time travel? Kyoto’s your ticket to old-world Japan.
It’s all serene gardens, kimono-clad geishas, and temples that’ll make your jaw drop. Try your hand at a tea ceremony, meditate with monks, or just wander the old streets.
You might just find your inner peace.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s the kind of place that feels like home, even if you’ve never been there before. Ride the rickety old trams, stuff your face with pastéis de nata, and listen to soul stirring fado music in cozy bars.
The hills will give your legs a workout, but hey, that just means you can eat more pastries, right? And if you’re into surfing, some of Europe’s best waves are just a short train ride away.
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne’s like that effortlessly cool friend who’s into everything hip before it’s cool. The coffee’s better than you’ve ever had, the street art is museum-worthy, and the food scene is out of this world.
Catch an AFL game, explore the laneways, and join a local for smashed avo on toast (it’s a religion there).
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Edinburgh, Scotland
The castle looms over the city like something out of a fairy tale, and the streets are packed with more stories than a library. Take a ghost tour, sample some whisky, and climb Arthur’s Seat for views that’ll make your heart sing.
Just pack a raincoat – the weather’s quite unpredictable.
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is proof that you can enjoy nature in an urban setting. One minute, you’re shopping downtown; the next, you’re hiking through temperate rainforests or skiing down epic slopes. The sushi is so good it’ll spoil you for life, and the locals are friendly.
Just be prepared for everyone to talk about the weather and real estate prices – it’s a local pastime.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi’s like a beautifully chaotic symphony where the honking scooters provide the rhythm. Dodge traffic in the Old Quarter, slurp the best pho of your life and wash it down with egg coffee.
The history’s as rich as the coffee, and the energy is infectious.
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Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is the type of city that makes you feel cool just for being there. Soak in thermal baths by day, party in ruined bars by night.
The architecture’s stunning, the food’s hearty, and the locals? They know how to live it up.
Try to learn a few Hungarian words – it’s unlike any language you’ve heard before, and your attempts will make the locals smile.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena’s like stepping into a Gabriel García Márquez novel – colorful, magical, and a little surreal. Wander the walled city, dance salsa till dawn, and eat fresh seafood.
The Caribbean vibe is strong, and resistance is futile.
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is sensory overload in the best way possible. Get lost in the medina, haggle in the souks, and pinch yourself as the call to prayer echoes over the city.
Stay in a riad for the full experience, and if you can, take a trip to the Sahara.
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Ready to Fly Solo?
There you have it, future solo travel superstar! Twenty incredible destinations that are just waiting for you to leave your mark.
Remember, solo travel isn’t about being alone – it’s about being open to whatever awesome experiences the world throws your way.
Go out and Explore the World
So, what are you waiting for? Pick a place, book that ticket, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
The world’s a big, beautiful place, and it’s time you went out and saw it for yourself. Who knows?
You might just find out that your best travel companion has been you all along. Now go on, get out there, and crush it!
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