Perhaps due to financial constraints, safety concerns, or the joy of shared experiences, most people choose to travel with companions during their limited vacation time. The hustle and bustle of planning, buying tickets, booking hotels, packing, and rushing to catch planes and trains with friends, family, or tour groups is a common sight for modern-day vacations.
But what if you can't find a compatible travel partner, or the perfect itinerary? Or if you have time constraints? Will you consider traveling alone?
When you're without company, your senses are heightened. Walking down unfamiliar streets, looking up at new sights or tasting local flavors, you face the unknown and the fresh as a solo traveler. It’s an entirely new experience. Many people, actively or passively, find this quiet journey to be a time to open up, reflect, and simplify their thoughts, so they can better absorb new perspectives and return refreshed.
Solo travel removes the need for unnecessary compromises, allowing for a unique experience of self-discovery and personal challenge. It's not about being reclusive or selfish, nor does it mean one is unable to be with others. In fact, if someone can't be alone with themselves, they may struggle to truly connect with others.
This article is curated for the brave and independent traveler. Here are 10 cities that are perfect for a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable solo adventure:
1. New York City, USA
In New York, no one cares where you come from, what your background or quirks are. Here, you'll find people who are similar to you, no matter how unique you are. If you’re the type of solo traveler who prefers not to be overly scrutinized, this is the place for you.
With so many distractions vying for attention, your accent, clothing, and unfamiliar expression will get lost in the chaotic mix of life. You'll feel the welcoming nature and diverse energy of this mega-city immediately.
New York is one of the safest cities in the US, and you can enjoy a drink at a bar or a Broadway show at night. New Yorkers are known to be talkative and eager to make friends. Strike up a conversation in any restaurant or cafe – people come from all over the world and are generally friendly and open-minded.
Fun is the primary theme of this city. You'll encounter diverse people from all over the globe, ensuring that even traveling alone, you'll never feel lonely.
2. Bangkok, Thailand
Known as the "Venice of the East," Bangkok is a primary gateway to Southeast Asia. It’s a city where fragments of different cultures meet, giving it a slow, yet powerful, charm. The laid-back attitude of the Thai people is sure to influence your solo journey.
While tourist groups have likely trampled all corners of Thailand, if you explore the streets of this tropical city alone, taste local street food, visit night markets, or enjoy a Thai massage, you will have a different experience. During the day, explore Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Maeklong Railway Market, or Amphawa Floating Market at your own pace.
If you want to escape the heat, the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre or the National Museum are great places to while away the time. You can quietly appreciate the art and culture, which is an added perk for solo travelers.
3. Havana, Cuba
Havana is one of the world's best cities for solo travelers because it's perfect for wandering aimlessly. There are so many streets and alleys to explore, and magical adventures await you around every corner.
The climate is mild and pleasant year-round, and although tropical, it is very comfortable due to its coastal location. The city is divided into old and new sections, with historic churches, castles, squares, and museums alongside wide boulevards, luxurious hotels, and modern restaurants.
While Cuba may be known for its passionate and exuberant spirit, the local coffee culture is particularly appealing. Havanans are just as devoted to coffee as the Italians. The climate of Cuba is ideal for coffee bean cultivation, and locals love their espresso, which is a staple for three meals a day.
You can spend an entire afternoon exploring the historic buildings along the city’s eastern edge, La Habana Vieja, and seeking out its coffee shops.
4. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a fantastic city for meeting new people. The city is full of youth hostels, which offer endless opportunities to connect with like-minded travelers from all over the world.
Located in southern Europe, the city is bathed in sunshine with a warm and welcoming climate. Spending time here will lift your spirits. When traveling alone, weather and mood are of utmost importance.
Take your camera and wander through the city. Visit Gaudí's architectural wonders, such as the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. You'll find some of the best urban beaches in the Mediterranean, great shopping, and lively streets.
A particularly special spot is Barcelona's oldest food market, La Boqueria, which CNN has called one of the "Ten Best Markets in the World."
Behind the hustle and bustle of La Boqueria lies the most authentic Barcelona cuisine, and it's an epicenter of local life. Even if you don't speak the language, haggling with the vendors offers a unique sense of joy.
5. Lisbon, Portugal
One of the reasons Lisbon is perfect for solo travel is the ease of getting from the airport to the city center with a direct train. Locals are also friendly, perhaps because of the relaxed atmosphere. They are always willing to help visitors.
Lisbon is also relatively affordable compared to other European cities, making it perfect for solo budgets. The best way to see Lisbon is to wander without a specific plan.
Due to its history, Lisbon's architecture is incredibly diverse. When you tire of walking, find a spot on a set of steps and soak up the Portuguese sunlight.
As night falls, head into a local bar and enjoy the unique Fado music. Visit the Feira da Ladra (Thieves Market), Lisbon's oldest market in the Alfama district. Every Tuesday and Saturday, the square is bustling with traders and shoppers. This flea market is an excellent spot for solo travelers to find unique treasures.
6. Queenstown, New Zealand
The picturesque Queenstown, located on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Its welcoming people and outdoor activities make it a top destination for solo travelers.
If you are an adventure seeker, this is the perfect spot. In addition to winter skiing, you can experience bungee jumping, skydiving, canyon swings, jet boating, and horseback riding. If you just want to enjoy the views, the natural landscapes will leave you with a sense of awe.
Queenstown is a popular tourist town with plenty of tourist services and English guides, making solo travel easy and safe. For deeper exploration, join one of the many group tours and meet fellow travelers.
7. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto's tranquility deeply attracts everyone who visits. As Japan's former capital, it's home to a rich history and traditional culture.
Wandering through the rolling streets of Kyoto allows the solo traveler to settle into a peaceful state of mind. The city's history brings a unique kind of magic.
Kyoto is small enough to get around by subway or bus. If you want a break from temples, visit Arashiyama on the outskirts of the city, where you can experience the beauty of the cherry and maple blossoms. Surrounded by greenery, with the sound of birdsong, you will enjoy peace and tranquility.
Or spend time at the Kamogawa River for some reflection and relaxation. The clear river is a great place to be alone. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the riverbank, and the summer air is revitalizing.
8. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, the filming location of Game of Thrones, showcases stunning scenery. When the film crew arrived at the Old City, they knew it was the location for King’s Landing.
The entire Old City is filled with Baroque and Gothic architecture, a medieval ambiance that is unlike anything you have seen before. Explore the churches, museums, and art galleries, then head up to the mountains for panoramic city views.
Dubrovnik is a coastal city with lush greenery that has a natural calming effect. If traveling solo, try to find a homestay in the mountains, where you can enjoy local breakfasts and chats with other travelers, with a backdrop of the sparkling blue sea. The city is small enough to cover in 2-3 hours, making it perfect to explore at your own pace.
9. Santiago, Chile
Santiago, in faraway Chile, is one of the most distant cities, with a flight time of 26 hours or more. You will experience a 12-hour jet lag, giving you the perfect excuse to forget everything and just get some sleep!
Santiago is the fourth-largest city in South America. Located on the banks of the Mapocho River, the city is surrounded by mountains, with views of the Andes from the city center. It’s a perfect city for solo adventures.
Santiago is relatively safe for a South American city. A 400-year-old city, it was once colonized by Spain and has many colonial-era historical sites to explore.
You can divide your time between the new and old city. Visit the Plaza de Armas, Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral, National History Museum, and Santa Lucia Hill Park, which are all centrally located and easily accessible. While the people are welcoming, relatively few speak English. Learning some Spanish will greatly enhance your trip.
10. Copenhagen, Denmark
In 2008, Monocle magazine named Copenhagen as the "Most Livable City," as well as the "Best Designed City." In Western Europe, Copenhagen was ranked third "ideal city to headquarter businesses," after Paris and London. You will be wowed by the perfect design and color schemes in this fairytale city. Every corner is picture-perfect. Even a simple cafe has the unique Nordic aesthetic.
If you visit alone, the fine details of the city will be amplified. You can appreciate the design of this capital city at your own pace.
If you don't visit any of the tourist attractions, you can explore the secrets of this city at the National Gallery of Denmark and the Danish Design Museum. There are also numerous boutiques and concept stores in the city center. Then visit the Blue Planet Aquarium to satisfy your curiosity about the stories of the Nordic Sea.
You'll never be bored in this city. The beauty and orderliness of Copenhagen make it worthy of exploring and savoring. Also be sure to book a table at one of the city's famous New Nordic cuisine restaurants and indulge in their fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and creative dishes. This is a well-deserved treat.
Hopefully, our paths will cross someday.