solo travel long weekend

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Planning A Solo Weekend Getaway: Tips & Destinations

June 8, 2020 by Janice Waugh

To maximize the pleasure of a weekend getaway you don't travel very far.

As a result, we tend to look more closely at what is close to home. For me, this has resulted in many new discoveries.

It isn't necessary to travel halfway across the world to experience something new. A short trip to a nearby city, town, or nature park may be exactly what you need.

For many of us, a solo weekend getaway within a few hours of home may be our first trip as we return to travel.

Tracey recently asked members of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook  for their solo weekend getaway suggestions. They came up with lots of destinations to consider, but first, let's review what makes a great solo getaway.

Planning the Perfect Solo Weekend Getaway

Here are a few tips for planning a great solo travel getaway.

• Learn something new.
• Enjoy the outdoors.
• Go to a festival.
• Take in some great theater.
• Eat great food.
• Hike or bike.
• Based on what you want out of your trip, choose a destination close to home so that you won't have to spend too much of your precious time getting there.
• Set reasonable expectations for that one thing you want to do. To reduce the chance of returning home disappointed, don't try to cram too much into your weekend.
• Plan your transportation.
• Book your accommodation.
• Get travel health insurance if you will be going out of the country.
• Pack and go! Here's a link to our Bare Minimum Packing post .

Reader Recommendations for Short Solo Trips

Brittany – Salzburg, Austria  “Even when I was living in the city, I loved exploring it on the weekends! You just have to be mindful. This historically Catholic city basically shuts down on Sundays, making it the perfect day for walks along the river.”

We have a Solo Travel Destination post on Salzburg by Rosemary from the UK. She begins by saying that “Salzburg is an absolutely beautiful town. Due to its compact Old Town, it is easy to navigate on foot with no need for a car or public transport (unless you want to explore the mountains outside of the town). Read all she had to say here .

Marie – “I love London, England and always make time for the Sir John Soanes and Geffrye Museums. Staying in Earlscourt, a tube train away from everything, can save you money.”

There are many posts about London on Solo Traveler including: 

• Solo Travel London on a Budget: Top Tips for Free and Cheap
• Best Places to Stay in London: Accommodation for Solo Travelers
• Exploring London Solo with Ease

Rosemary lives in West Yorkshire UK and says that “a really good day trip would be to the city of York . Not for me as I have been so many times over recent years that I honestly think I have seen everything, but if you haven’t been and ever get to England, it's fab, especially if you like history, beautiful buildings, and interesting museums.”

Pamela lives in the UK and recommends Whitby .  “It's a small coastal fishing village where Bram Stoker based the novel Dracula. It's very picturesque and lovely to walk through.”

Susan  says, “Tavira , Portugal was my destination when I lived in Germany. I would sit by the river, have a shrimp salad and a beer and then explore local culture. Loved it there.”

Tavira is a Portuguese city and municipality, situated in the east of the Algarve on the south coast of Portugal. The Gilão River meets the Atlantic Ocean in Tavira. We don't have a post on Tavira on Solo Traveler. If you'd like to add one please do so here . Until then, here's a Tavira guide .

Cécile also recommends a solo weekend getaway in Portugal. “ Porto is fantastic for a short break from anywhere in Europe. It has friendly people, good food and port wine. It’s very affordable, has beautiful architecture and colorful tiles, and it’s only a 15-minute bike ride or tram ride from the center to the beach.

North America

Sabrina lives in Missouri and recommends Colorado . “I love hiking, nature, and wildlife. My favorite is Rocky Mountain National Park. I go for a longer weekend or a full week, but it is definitely do-able for a weekend adventure. I feel very comfortable solo – actually, I prefer it.”

Bev has recommendations in several destinations.  “When in California, head to Carmel and Monterey ; when in London, travel to Oxford and Bath; when in Chicago, I just stay in Chicago!”

If you take Bev’s advice and head to Chicago for a solo weekend getaway, here are some great tips: Budget Chicago: 32 Free and Low-Cost Tips .

Beverly lives in the Monterey Bay area of CA. “I am within easy driving distance to Big Sur . I did (and will do again as my first trip when travel resumes) a solo road trip down to San Simeon to tour Hearst Castle. I also saw the Elephant Seals nearby. The absolutely breathtaking views through Big Sur were what inspired me, soothed my soul, and lifted my spirits. It was the most rejuvenating trip I ever took on my own. I highly recommend it!”

Angela lives in Niagara, Canada and works in the wine industry. She says, “Sometimes I'd like to be a tourist myself, so a nice weekend in the fall, is to rent an AirBnB in Prince Edward County (a few hours north east) and visit and tour the wineries there. Then I can have some fun and don't feel like I'm at work.”

Angela's home area is also a great option. Here’s how to fill three days on a solo trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake with recommendations for food, wine, theater, cycling, and more: Niagara-on-the-Lake Getaway: Culture and Sports in One Easy Destination .

Marilyn from Vancouver Island, BC recommends, “Head to Tofino . It’s wild and natural and has beautiful long sandy beaches. In the winter, go for storm watching. In the summer, go for surfing, kayaking, whale watching, or bear watching. You can shop in the artisan shops, eat fabulous food, and drink great local wines. Stay in a cute B&B or a fancy hotel. You will come home renewed.”

Kari is from Red Deer, Alberta. “I am a few hour’s drive from Banff, Edmonton, or Calgary , or I can go and spend time in the Badlands and see Dinosaurs at Drumheller . I also take day trips to Nordegg/Abraham Lake often.”

Here’s more on the Canadian Badlands : Facing Fear and Finding Spirit in the Canadian Badlands and Banff: Too Many Tourists in Banff? Here’s What to Do.

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Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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10 top spots for solo travelers in winter (or any other time of year)

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

Trekking to Machu Picchu is just one of many South American adventures that's perfect for solo travelers © Getty Images / iStockphoto / Andres Jacobi

The idea of traveling alone can be daunting if you've never taken a solo trip before. Checking in for your outbound flight is easy – it's only when you arrive alone in an unfamiliar destination that it all becomes real. But any initial doubts are fleeting. By the time you've checked into your hotel and hit the streets looking for your first meal, nerves will already be giving way to the thrill of being somewhere new.

A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether you're embarking on an epic multicountry trip or taking an impulsive city break, some places are more suitable for a solo travel experience than others. There are destinations that are naturally suited to solitude, and destinations where travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people.

Best of all, there are solo travel destinations in every corner of the globe, so you can take a solo trip in the depths of winter as easily as you can at the height of summer. Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, organized by interest. Whether you’re into raves, relaxation, hiking or sightseeing, these spots are certain to get your solo travel adventure off on the right foot.

South America: best for solo adventures

With mountains to climb, rivers to raft, ancient ruins to uncover and jungles to explore, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. And the northern hemisphere's winter is South America's summer – the prime time to visit Patagonia and the Andes. From well-trodden paths in Argentina , Chile and Brazil to virgin jungle trails in Ecuador and Colombia , the continent has something for every kind of adventurer. You'll certainly never struggle for company on the trek to Machu Picchu !

Don’t let the continent's size daunt you – with easy border crossings and well-established traveler hubs, South America is ideal for solo overlanding. The well-worn Gringo Trail, which takes in the continent’s most popular destinations, ensures recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction. This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes solo travel simple.

Epic solo travel experience : Mountain biking down Bolivia ’s infamous Death Road (the name is an exaggeration, in case you were worried) and debriefing with your fellow riders over a few beers afterward.

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

Whether you loved or loathed Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal solo travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love , there’s no denying that Bali has a special magic. The island's artistic and spiritual center, Ubud , is where the author found love (and presumably ate and prayed) and it remains a wonderfully laid-back place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. And Bali is a year-round destination – summer is peak season, but the island has a quieter and calmer charm in winter.

Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud attracts throngs of solo travelers, meaning no probing glances if you arrive alone at a morning yoga class or ask for a table for one in one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes. To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills around town.

Epic solo travel experience : Getting up super early before the heat climbs to join a holistic class – you find lessons in everything from yoga and meditation, and you can follow up with a massage at a tried and tested spa such as Taksu Spa .

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

Some say you are more likely to get into Berghain , the most famous nightclub in Berlin , if you arrive alone. Whether or not that’s the case, the rumor demonstrates the German capital’s natural affinity for solo travelers. Legions of solo citybreakers are drawn by Berlin's deserved reputation as one of the friendliest, most inclusive cities in Europe, and by its famous nightlife.

Berlin is one of the best places in Europe to party, offering a collection of colossal clubs and graffiti-spattered beer gardens, but going clubbing is just one of many things to do in Berlin. Thought-provoking history surrounds you from the moment you arrive, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Holocaust Memorial , while quirky cafes, cool boutiques, weekend flea markets and a growing food-truck scene provide more leisurely delights. Berlin is an easy place to wander alone, or join a walking tour for some company.

Epic solo travel experience : Heading out to a bar or nightclub and seeing where the night takes you. For some guided imbibing, join a beer tour with Brewer's Berlin Tours or Berlin Craft Beer Experience .

East Africa: best for a group tour

Have you always dreamed of viewing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda , meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya  or spotting the “Big Five” in Tanzania , but were daunted by the logistics of tackling East Africa independently? A group tour can simplify the experience of visiting this stunning region of the world, and provide a buffer for the sometimes challenging experiences Africa can throw at first-timers.

East Africa’s tourism infrastructure is well developed and traveling solo in most countries here is quite achievable (particularly in Kenya and Tanzania), but joining a group tour means you can bundle together a string of big game-viewing safaris in multiple countries, without getting hit by additional lone traveler charges or facing the daunting prospect of arranging multiple tours and transport.

Best of all, tours in these bucket-list destinations attract a diverse group of travelers, meaning you’re much less likely to be the only solo traveler sandwiched between canoodling couples, or the only 20-something in a coach full of empty-nesters.

Epic solo travel experience : Catching the great migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya – an almost Lion King -esque parade of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and predators.

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

With all manner of cultural attractions to explore, a growing collection of hostels and guesthouses, loads of free things to do , and one of the world’s best public transport systems (including excellent airport links), there are few more stress-free solo travel experiences than landing at Singapore 's award-winning Changi airport on a tropical afternoon.

Whether you choose to amble with an audio guide through the Chinatown Heritage Centre , gawp at the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay , plunge into a lavish rooftop pool, or join the hordes feasting in Singapore's hawker food courts , the city is perfectly suited to solo travel. An added bonus is the city's cosmopolitan attitude – locals don't bat an eyelid at the daily influx of international arrivals, and there are few hassles and scams to worry about.

Epic solo travel experience : Checking out the cozy cafes and quirky boutiques in the gentrified 1930s housing estate of Tiong Bahru .

Rome, Italy: best for culture

From ancient icons such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that is St Peter’s Basilica , Rome ’s cityscape is a kaleidoscopic canvas of artistic flair, architectural wonderment and historical marvels. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two months, there's so much to see that there's little risk of becoming bored.

Though English is not as widely spoken as in some European nations, it’s hard to feel lonely among the 14 million other tourists who visit this cultural hub each year. And solo dining means you only have to worry about keeping one palate happy in Rome's fabulous restaurants . But don’t pack too much into your itinerary, as Rome rewards relaxation; mingling with strangers over a glass of vino at sunset is an essential pastime in The Eternal City.

Epic solo travel experience : Visiting St Peter’s Basilica and walking the 7km (4.3 miles) of artwork-filled halls that comprise the Vatican Museums .

Portland, Oregon: best city break

One of the USA 's hippest hubs, Portland has all the cultural advantages of a major metropolis, but the down-home intimacy of a small town. This affable attitude reverberates in the town’s urban wineries, microbreweries and coffee shops, where conversation flows quicker than the drinks can be poured. And with its patchwork of small, friendly neighborhoods , it's easy to discover this easy-going city one district at a time.

There’s more to this bastion of counterculture than its love of a good chinwag, with a host of whimsical attractions highlighting its quirky streak, from a museum dedicated to vacuum cleaners to an urban herd of goats. It’s also a cinch to navigate, with good public transport and a popular bike-share scheme. And while Portland is famous for its artisan restaurants, a more sociable – and undeniably more fun – way to dine is at the city’s 500-or-so street food carts.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the Alberta Arts District; for the company of fellow art enthusiasts, time your visit to coincide with the Last Thursday art walk .

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

It's a close-run thing, but for solo foodie travel, one destination stands above all others for travelers who view the world through the prism of a knife and fork. The capital of northern Thailand – and once the center of an independent kingdom – Chiang Mai offers the entire Thai package in one compact location: stellar food, rich culture, ancient ruins, responsible elephant encounters , relaxed nightlife and an easy-going traveler scene that's easy to plug into.

Every time of day is snack time in Chiang Mai. From the city's impressive northern Thai restaurants to its fun-filled and frenetic night markets and hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving the city's famous kow soi soup, the city always has a fork or spoon in hand. What makes Chiang Mai especially suited to solo travelers is its collection of cooking schools – ideal places to meet new people and learn how to cook up a perfect bowl of phat thai , green curry or hot and sour tom yam soup.

Epic solo travel experience : Learning to cook Thai food, of course! Most courses start with a market trip so you can learn to identify local ingredients before you start pounding herbs and spices to make your own curry paste ( Small House Chiang Mai is one recommended school).

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

Enchanting atolls aren’t reserved for honeymooners. Pastel-hued, car-free Caye Caulker has always been a great place for solo travelers thanks to its compact size and easy-going, backpacker-friendly vibe, which draws a relaxed, international crowd in search of a less commercialized slice of paradise.

It’s easy to lose days lounging at The Split , the island’s premier beach, but there are plenty of other activities on offer, from snorkeling and diving on teeming reefs to kayaking to lesser-visited parts of the island while keeping a beady eye out for crocodiles. 

Join other travelers at local reggae bars during the afternoon happy hour before sampling Creole-style street food come nightfall. What's arguably the greatest blessing of solo travel? You don’t have to share your shrimp and swordfish dinner!

Epic solo travel experience : Snorkeling or diving in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve , which teems with turtles and small sharks.

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

It would actually be hard to explore the East Coast of Australia alone. So many travelers follow the snaking stretch of road that runs from Sydney to Cairns that solitude is often harder to find than companionship. For travelers in search of natural wonders, excellent infrastructure, abundant tours and group activities and raucous late-night revelry, there are few places to match it.

But it’s not just the good-time vibe that makes this stretch of coastline so spectacular. The classic road trip route is studded with bucket-list attractions, from lolling on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach to rambling through the ancient Daintree Rainforest or blowing bubbles on the Great Barrier Reef . Consider renting a car to explore – the most memorable moments will likely come from interactions with locals in coastal surf towns and one-pub villages in the Outback an hour or two inland from the coast.

Epic solo travel experience : Joining a tour with the East Coast's Indigenous people. Tours led by guides from Aboriginal communities will show you a less-seen side to this well-explored land.

You might also like: Female solo travel: what it's like to travel solo at every age How Black LGBTIQ+ travellers navigate a challenging world What it's like traveling with kids as a single parent

This article was first published Nov 30, 2017 and updated Dec 10, 2021.

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The Best Long-Weekend Destinations, According to Solo Travelers

I t’s a question that’s probably crossed everyone’s mind at some point during a period of restlessness: “I need to get away for a long weekend . Where should I go?” Finding the perfect weekend getaway is harder than it sounds, especially since time is limited. You need to choose somewhere that’s cost-effective, not too far away, and gives you plenty to do within a small window of time. These factors are especially important for solo travelers, who don’t have the safety net of a friend or spouse and may be looking for a solid social scene. Redditor dallaskd posed the question on r/solo_travelers that’s on everyone’s minds: “Solo travelers, where are your favorite 3-4 day weekend locations in the US?” While the poster is based in Dallas, the responses apply to anyone looking for a refreshing long weekend in the US — or nearby Canada. Here are some of our favorite suggestions from users on Reddit.

Note: Some quotes have been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

1. New Orleans

Photo: f11photo /Shutterstock

“Most people only think of the tacky, drunk scene on Bourbon (street). There’s so much more. Jazz clubs on Frenchmen, swamp tours, WWII museum, touring plantations, EATING, and just a fascinating city in general to explore.”

“Heading home from three days in New Orleans tomorrow morning. I’m not much of a drinker and have been really surprised by how much I’ve enjoyed it here. Visited national park sites, road tripped to Mississippi for a day to see the national seashore and the beach, did a ghost tour and some self guided walking tours of different neighborhoods. Would come back again.”

Photo: Sean Pavone /Shutterstock

“The Museum of Fine Arts and the Gardner have world class art. The ICA has great modern art. If you like shopping then Newbury Street and the Prudential Center are cool to walk around. There’s lots of pickup basketball and soccer going on all the time during good weather. You can tour Harpoon Brewery or Sam Adams. There’s a sports museum in the TD Garden that’s worth a look. After a game you can catch a midnight movie at the Coolidge Corner Theater.”

“Just walking along the river is a great way to spend an hour or so. You can also rent kayaks and go out on the river, either at Community Boating or at Charles River Canoe and Kayak. Other things to do: The MIT museum has the world’s largest holograph collection… the aquarium has penguins; you can go out on a whale watch or walk around the North End and have pizza, cannolis, and seafood.”

Photo: emperorcosar /Shutterstock

“You’ve got Olympic, North Cascades and Mt. Rainier National parks. Olympic is a cool rainforest, very mossy and green. I would take a ferry, then drive. Cascades is your typical PNW mountains. Lots of trees, hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. Mt Rainier is similar to Cascades but with a huge volcano. All of these are a bit out of Seattle, so a car is key.”

“You would probably enjoy Seattle. Great food, culture and public transportation. There is now a light rail that runs from the airport to downtown.”

Photo: ProDesign studio /Shutterstock

“I did Quebec City and Montreal for a long weekend last fall, and I felt like those were a great duo for a five day trip. I went mid-October and it was beautiful with the maples changing colors. Montreal definitely has everything you’re looking for. The ‘M Hostel’ Montreal is probably one of the coolest hostels I’ve stayed in.”

“Montreal is probably one of my most favorite cities in North America. I went for four days last winter (it was about 15-degrees Fahrenheit and snowing everyday) and the city was great. The nightlife never stopped, it wasn’t too expensive with the exchange rate, the people were very friendly and beautiful, it had that French charm, and the transit system was excellent… Everyone speaks English too if you cannot speak French.”

“Been all over the east coast of North America, Montreal is easily my favorite city. I’ve been on like a dozen solo trips there since moving to Upstate NY a couple years ago. Going to miss the city when I leave next year.”

Photo: moondogpro /Shutterstock

“Chicago, Chicago, Chicago! The people are friendly, museums are world class, food is to die for, and architecture is some of the best in the US. I’d recommend staying in the Uptown or around Lakeview to get a really good feel for what the city is actually like! The L line is super easy to use, and I never had any problems on it when I stayed there. If architecture is as big a thing for you as me, go out to Oak Park and possibly IIT if you love 20th-century modernism. Also, the architectural boat tours are fantastic.”

6. Philadelphia

Photo: photo.ua /Shutterstock

“It’s a very walkable city with neighborhoods that each have their own character (including pretty architecture — I’d recommend a walk around Spruce Hill/Cedar Park and Old City/Society Hill!), lots of history (Independence Hall, Elfreth’s Alley, Betsy Ross house, etc.), cool and interesting museums (Art Museum, the Barnes, Mutter Museum), and some great bars and clubs. The restaurant and beer scenes here in particular are ridiculously good.”

“If you like older buildings, Philly is a great pick. Elfreth’s Alley is the oldest continuously inhabited street in the US. And most of the area known as Old City is lousy with colonial buildings and streets. Of course, there’s also Independence Mall, as well. Additionally, to the west of the city center there are a lot of really nice residential streets with old, pretty houses. It’s called the Art Museum area because, well, it’s near the Art Museum. It’s one of my favorite areas, especially in the fall when the tree-lined streets are covered in leaves. The various squares in Center City are worth a visit as well, Rittenhouse being the most famous.”

7. Milwaukee

“Milwaukee is usually a pretty overlooked city to visit and three or four days is perfect. The art museum, museum of natural history, and zoo are pretty impressive for a medium-sized Midwest city… Like many other midwest cities it’s seeing a huge growth in bars and restaurants. There’s plenty of neighborhoods with well-matched places to eat and drink to choose from. There’s fine dining and nice cocktail lounges downtown, there are places that people liked before they were cool in Riverwest, Bayview has great places for the hipsters who grew up a little bit, a pretty strong LGBT presence in Walkers Point, the young professional fare in the 3rd ward.”

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Protect Your Trip »

Solo travel for women: the 18 best destinations (plus tips).

Plan an independent getaway to suit your own personal travel style.

Solo Travel for Women

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For your next solo adventure, consider exploring waterfalls in Iceland, rice fields in Indonesia, beaches in Thailand and more.

Perhaps you have a bucket list of places you've always wanted to travel at the ready but you just keep waiting for the right person to go with you. But if your friends are busy, you just broke up with your partner and you're not feeling a family vacation, you don't have to wait to embark on a new adventure – just go solo .

Traveling by yourself, even as a woman, is not as challenging or scary as you might think. There are plenty of benefits: You don't have to adhere to anyone else's schedule, budget or food preferences, so you can truly prioritize yourself. Solo travel means doing whatever you want whenever you want, while seeing the places that you most want to visit. Adventuring alone as a woman can empower you to see the world on your terms.

Whether you're concerned about safety or seeking companionship, there are plenty of places around the globe to consider for your next solo trip. U.S. News has compiled this list of top solo travel destinations (and helpful tips) with expertise from women who have traversed the globe by themselves and loved it.

Barcelona, Spain

With a visit to Barcelona , immerse yourself in the local culture at your leisure, whether you want to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or go cheer at a football (soccer) game. Writer Mona Gable says, "Barcelona is a place of wonder − medieval neighborhoods, sunny beaches, and world-class museums, not to mention Antoni Gaudí's celebrated architecture." She enjoyed exploring the Mediterranean port city, especially because of its walkability and easy-to-navigate transportation system with metro lines and buses. She also noted feeling safe on her own: "As a female traveler, I felt perfectly at ease wandering many neighborhoods alone, even at late hours, when Catalans famously dine out."

Travel tip: Gable says it's best to avoid touristy Las Ramblas – Barcelona's main thoroughfare – except to see La Boqueria, the city's legendary food market.

[See more of Barcelona:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Botswana is well known for African wildlife safaris , where travelers might encounter elephants, zebras, rhinos, lions and cheetahs while glamping in luxury tents and dining on gourmet food. "Wildlife travel offers an outstanding combination of camaraderie, safety and autonomy," says Darcie Smith, owner of Great Expeditions Travel . She recommends Botswana's green season (November to March) for solo female travelers; at this time of year the single supplement surcharge is waived at many safari camps, which offers an excellent value and means you're more likely to meet other solo travelers. It is also peak season for birding, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the lush landscape.

Many camps will send someone to meet guests upon arrival to help you navigate airports or transfers. In Smith's experience, camp guests are also escorted to their rooms at night, for an added wildlife safety element. "Solo female travelers can enjoy daily shared safari activities in intimate camps that encourage social gatherings with full independence to design the itinerary around what's best for you," she says.

Travel tip: Smith recommends making your social media accounts private when you travel so strangers can't track your location as well as learning about the customs of your destination. "This will help avoid accidentally coming across as forward or flirtatious based on local standards," she explains. "For example, while long eye contact may be considered a sign of self-confidence or being polite at home, it may come across as flirtatious in your new destination."

Picture yourself indulging in pizza and gelato, visiting world-famous museums, touring picturesque wineries, and shopping at designer boutiques – all of that is at your fingertips in Italy , writer Martha McCully's go-to travel destination. "Italians want to share their culture and it's part of their personality to welcome you," she says. "Plus, the food and wine are outrageously divine."

The idea that traveling solo means you will be alone is a misconception, according to McCully. "It's simply not true," she says. "Book a group tour at your destination, or DM a friend from your past on Instagram, which is what I did in Bologna." There are plenty of unique ways to meet fellow travelers in Italy; she recommends signing up for a cooking class in Bologna through Taste of Italy, a food tour by Curious Appetite or a painting class with Plein Air Tuscany. "The idea is you will be with like-minded travelers and someone else is doing all the organizing," McCully explains.

Travel tip: McCully suggests sticking to your wellness routine while on the road to keep healthy habits. "I like to take my rituals with me," she says. "When I ground myself with what I know makes me feel good physically and mentally, it's like I'm living in another country, not just visiting."

[Read: The Top Italy Tours .]

With glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and hot springs galore, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland make it a must-visit destination. The "Land of Fire and Ice" is also known for puffins, its Viking history and women's empowerment, with the country's reputation as a champion of gender equality.

"Iceland is a favorite destination for female solo travelers because it is easily one of the safest countries in the world," says Jenny Ly, professional travel blogger at Go Wanderly . Iceland has one of the world's lowest crime rates and no animal predators dangerous to humans – just prepare for challenging weather and exercise caution if you plan to do any driving. Ly's itinerary recommendations include whale watching, with nearly a dozen types of whales navigating Icelandic waters; visiting Vatnajökull Glacier's ice caves; and chasing the northern lights in the darker months (October to April).

Travel tip: Ly encourages solo female travelers to not let the lack of a travel companion prevent them from exploring the world. "It can be both empowering and rewarding for women to travel solo, at least once in their life," she says. "While traveling alone can be riskier than traveling with others, it can also be more fun and gratifying." Her tip is to always be aware of your surroundings.

[Read: The Top Iceland Tours .]

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

While some women may shy away from traveling to Mexico due to safety concerns, travel blogger Jeanine Romo of lewildexplorer.com , who has ventured solo to many countries, recommends visiting the charming town of San Miguel de Allende . "I decided to go on my own and had such a wonderful time," she says. "The people are friendly, the hospitality is amazing, and there are so many things to do if you love art, incredible food, and incredible architecture." San Miguel de Allende is a great option for women travelers because the city center is easily walkable and Uber is available, which Romo says made her feel safe because she could always call a ride.

Travel tip: For women traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (such as local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. "I like to know how walkable the city I'm visiting is," says Romo. "This helps me feel so much more confident when navigating a new city."

[See more of San Miguel de Allende: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

New Zealand

From pristine beaches on the North Island to snowy mountains on the South Island – and all kinds of geological wonders in between – the diversity of New Zealand is a major draw for tourists. Travelers can learn about the indigenous Māori culture, visit a sheep farm or go sailing in Auckland , among an abundance of other incredible things to do in this island nation.

Travel blogger Nina Ragusa of whereintheworldisnina.com enjoys visiting because of the welcoming culture, outdoor adventure and feeling of safety. "Traveling New Zealand as a solo woman is quite easy, and if it's your first trip solo, this would be a good country to start in," she says. Ragusa spent a month camping in a van by herself and said she never had to worry about her safety, even in more remote areas. "I went on hikes solo, some of them deep into the mountains for miles and miles, and was either alone or passing other tourists or friendly kiwis to wave hello to," she says. Ragusa adds that New Zealand is not the cheapest travel destination, but her personal recommendation for saving money on longer trips here is to rent – or buy and later sell – a van to live in.

Travel tip: Ragusa recommends steering clear of the outskirts of the bigger cities (particularly if you do travel by van). She warns that, as in most urban destinations around the world, those parts of New Zealand are where you're more likely to run into trouble.

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

For an outdoor adventure in South America, Argentine Patagonia offers pristine ice hiking, backpacking, kayaking, trekking and wildlife viewing. Nicol Gillum-Thomas, an African-American solo female traveler whose mission is to encourage women to live life as an adventure, enjoyed her time in the town of El Calafate. "El Calafate, Argentina, was the destination that seemed the most off-putting in my imagination, but became the trip with the most adventure, awe-inspiring beauty and ease," she says.

Travel tip: Gillum-Thomas recommends a stay at the América del Sur Hostel Calafate, saying she appreciated the clean accommodations and interesting guests.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you dream of a getaway that includes picturesque beaches and crystal-clear water, Croatia is the perfect spot to explore. In Dubrovnik , the ancient city walls and medieval architecture of Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set a particularly gorgeous scene when the sun goes down. Tamara Williams, owner of solo female travel-focused blog My Elated Odyssey , says the unmatched beauty of the surrounding sea and mountains is only one reason to plan a trip here.

"The locals are some of the nicest people I have ever met," Williams says. "They truly made it feel like a second home. They spoke English well, so no need to worry about a language barrier." She adds that this Balkan country is also considerably more affordable than destinations in Western Europe.

Travel tip: For solo female travelers, Williams suggests staying in the Lapad neighborhood or near Old Town. "Both are full of cafes, bars and shopping to keep you busy," she says.

[See more of Dubrovnik: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Svalbard, Norway

You can't go wrong in Norway , with breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife, scenic railways, outdoor adventure and the chance to glimpse the northern lights . Jurga Rubinovaite, founder of the travel blog Full Suitcase , says you won't want to miss Svalbard: a Norwegian archipelago located approximately 800 miles from the North Pole. "It is one of the most unique nature destinations in the world," she says. "Despite being so far north in the Arctic, it's extremely easy to visit and is also a great and safe destination for solo female travelers."

The main town, Longyearbyen, is the focal point of activities in Svalbard, which range from hiking and boat tours in the summer to winter pursuits such as ice cave visits and snowmobiling. "Because of the presence of polar bears, everything you do in Svalbard requires booking a guided tour, so you are always in safe hands," Rubinovaite explains. "Longyearbyen town itself is very lively and safe, with lots of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and a few museums, all within easy walking distance from each other."

Travel tip: For women traveling alone, Rubinovaite advises thorough research in advance of your trip to this Arctic locale; staying in hotels, rather than private accommodations; and booking guided tours or looking for a travel buddy when venturing out to very remote places.

Head to Ireland for a memorable solo getaway complete with rolling emerald-green hills, fairytale castles and Irish coffee. Experienced traveler Kelie Fiala of the Vacations Planned blog ranks this European country at the top of her list for solo travel spots. "Many attractions in Ireland are wonderful for solo travelers because they offer peaceful spots to stop and enjoy the gorgeous views, but also provide plenty of opportunities to meet friendly people at cafes and other points of interest," she says.

Fiala appreciates the nightlife and music scene of Ireland as much as the history and scenery. She suggests experiencing some of the country's pubs, even if you're a woman traveling alone, since you'll almost always find live music and friendly people. "Even if you start out by yourself, you'll easily find that you're having great conversations in no time," she says.

Travel tip: Fiala warns that for solo travelers, especially women, it's best to be careful how much you drink and leave the situation if you ever feel uncomfortable. But she also encourages women to not be afraid to have a chat. "You could hear some great stories, and make a new friend," she says.

Beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly people, exotic animals and floating markets are just some of the incredible things that you can experience in Thailand . Loredana Gogoescu, head of content for Destguides.com , says she felt safe in Thailand as soon as she arrived. "Thai people are hospitable and kind," she says. "Moreover, as a solo traveler, I was surprisingly never alone. I had to book a private room for myself at one point just to get a breather, as I was constantly meeting new people!"

Travel tip: If you're apprehensive about exploring a new place on your own, especially if you've never traveled abroad before, Gogoescu recommends sorting out all the logistics like accommodations and transportation in advance so it's easier to acclimate once you get there. She adds, "If you're afraid of being alone, join different apps like Bumble and Facebook groups for the destination you're traveling to, to see if you can match up with other solo female travelers who will be in the area at the same time as you."

Netherlands

Nailah Hayward of TheresSoMuchToSee.com says the Netherlands is a superb option for first-time solo female travelers, based on ease of transportation, overall safety, the variety of things to do and other factors. "The Netherlands comes out high on all of these areas," she says. "And after multiple visits to the country, traveling through big cities and small towns, I always felt extremely safe." With the country's extensive train system, in addition to local trams and bike lanes, navigating the Netherlands by yourself doesn't pose too great a burden. Hayward also appreciates the ease of communicating with locals as an English speaker, since most people speak English in addition to Dutch.

"Whether you are into the arts scene, outdoor activities, luxury experiences, cultural exploration or culinary delights, the Netherlands has a huge variety of activities to dive into," Hayward says. "All of these elements make the Netherlands a place that I enthusiastically recommend for solo women travelers."

Travel tip: Don't carry cash. Hayward says most transactions can be done electronically, so there's no need for frequent trips to the ATM.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially because of its high safety rating from the U.S. Department of State. There's also no shortage of activities in this Caribbean destination, with Bromberg calling Stingray City a must. "The stingrays are peaceful and gentle," she says. "They glide along the ocean floor and you're free to observe and even play with them in their natural habitat." She also recommends soaking up some sun at the renowned Seven Mile Beach .

Grand Cayman is also a foodie paradise, according to Bromberg. "The vibrant dishes are as tasty as they are exciting, representing the fascinating mix of cultures and traditions that make the island so unique," she says. Her suggestions for food to try include the classic Cayman-style lobster, coconut shrimp and Johnny cakes.

Travel tip: Bromberg recommends checking the U.S. Department of State safety rating and other solo travelers' experiences prior to booking a trip.

[See more of the Cayman Islands:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

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Chart your course for Istanbul , the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. This anomaly is one of many features making the Turkish city stand out as a unique destination; you'll get to experience its Byzantine architecture, Ottoman cuisine and landmarks like the Grand Bazaar on a trip here. Farihah Fuaad, a Muslim solo travel expert and founder of MuslimSoloTravel.com , says, "It offers the best of both worlds – East and West, Europe and Asia, modern and ancient – and lots of surprises." This lively, fast-paced metropolis is also rich in history and culture, with remnants of bygone eras visible in the skyline of Istanbul, according to Fuuad.

For solo travelers, there are endless opportunities for memorable experiences. "Wherever you go in Istanbul, multiple surprises await you at the corner of every street, its cobblestone alleys, or within the maze-like structure in Grand Bazaar," Fuaad says. The network of easy and convenient public transportation options also makes Istanbul a great choice for women traveling solo.

Travel tip: For first-time solo female travelers, Fuaad suggests taking time to adjust to being on your own: "Start small, by venturing to your next neighboring town or city first, or any city in your country first before you make the leap into solo traveling abroad." She adds, "Don't do things you're not comfortable with. Listen to your gut feelings – they're always right!"

[See more of Istanbul:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Bali, Indonesia

For a tropical island escape, Bali is undeniably magical. Its natural beauty spans volcanoes, waterfalls and stunning beaches, as well as sprawling rice fields, diverse nightlife and breathtaking temples. Katie Caf, travel blogger at KatieCafTravel.com , who has been traveling solo full time for the past year and a half, says Bali is by far her favorite place to visit. "The Balinese people are very respectful towards female travelers, there's no street harassment based on gender like you might find in other locations, and while no place is perfect, Bali just feels very safe as a woman," Caf says. She adds that, although Indonesia is a conservative country, she found that women traveling there aren't expected to cover up except in temples or other sacred religious sites.

Travel tip: Caf recommends that travelers always use ride-sharing apps like Uber, Gojek and Grab rather than hailing cabs off the street, since the apps' tracking features make them much safer to use for solo female travelers in foreign countries. Some of these sites also allow you to share your route with chosen contacts for added safety.

[See more of Bali:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Paris is one of the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage , considers the "City of Love" a superb option for women traveling solo due to its cuisine, cultural attractions and hands-on activities of all sorts. "I consider Paris the city of self-love because it has everything solo women travelers need to care for themselves and their interests," Harris says.

With the flexibility of traveling on your own, you can plan the Paris trip of your dreams. Depending on what you're interested in, you may choose to learn about French cooking, immerse yourself in the Louvre , attend an opera at the historic Palais Garnier or browse local shops, as Harris has done. "Uninhibited by the demands or requests of others, I was able to really take the time to focus on who I am, what I wanted and what sparks joy and life in my spirit," she says. "Traveling to Paris taught me how to truly enjoy spending time solo."

Travel tip: One of Harris' top tips is to not bring more than you can carry, as you won't always find someone to help you with your luggage if an escalator breaks and you have to take the stairs. "By keeping only the essentials, you're able to move quickly to and from your destination without worrying too much about being a target for crime," Harris says. She also recommends downloading an offline map you can reference even without internet connection and sharing your itinerary with family members or friends who could help in a sticky situation.

[See more of Paris:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

New York City

It's hard to beat the allure of the twinkling lights of Times Square , award-winning Broadway shows and Lady Liberty . Melanie Musson, a travel expert with AutoInsurance.org , loves taking a solo trip to New York City , saying she doesn't even have the chance to feel lonely because the hustle and bustle of the big city keeps her sufficiently distracted.

Musson says that, while there are risks for visitors in any city, the odds of anything scary happening to you in New York are low as long as you take appropriate precautions. "New York City prioritizes tourist safety because they know they’d lose this valuable industry if visitors had frequent bad experiences," she explains, adding that you may be surprised how friendly the local residents are. "They're usually happy to help you identify the right subway line to take or bus to catch. They'll probably even give you tips on the best places to eat or things to see."

Travel tip: Musson's pre-trip tip is to check crime reports in the destination you're heading to and stay within the safe areas. "Trust your gut and get out of the area if you don't feel safe," she cautions.

[See more of New York City:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

The city of Singapore is known for being clean, green and safe for travelers – as well as expensive. Singapore boasts impressive architecture, the iconic Singapore sling cocktail, street food markets and luxury shopping malls. Daina Cohen, editor at WorldlyKnown.com , says, "Singapore is a fantastic destination for solo women travelers because of its vibrant, yet safe culture and exciting sights." On a solo trip to this Southeast Asian city, you can experience the unique blend of diverse cultures and cuisines, Cohen says, in addition to other benefits. "It's easy to navigate with plenty of public transportation options, plus an excellent healthcare system, which makes it a great choice for those who want to travel solo," Cohen notes. Tourists should research Singapore's laws – such as a ban on chewing gum – before traveling there to avoid fines.

Travel tip: Cohen advises staying in a hostel (which often have options for women-only dorms) or renting an Airbnb for more privacy. You'll also want to familiarize yourself with the city's public transportation system prior to arrival.

[See more of Singapore: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to solo travel for women. Her first trip by herself was to New Zealand when she was 19. Since then, she has traveled solo all over the U.S. and to countries such as Fiji, Argentina, Chile and Italy. Her favorite destination to travel alone is still her native California, which offers a diverse landscape from the city to the sea and the mountains and the desert.

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Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

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The Best Solo Vacations to Take in 2024

By Caitlin Morton

There used to be a certain stigma around solo vacations , with cruises charging extra for single occupancy and waiters frowning at the words “table for one.” But we're happy to report that the times are a’changing. The world has never been more accommodating to solo travelers—we’re constantly hearing about new meet-up apps to combat loneliness and safety measures to address discomfort (so long, catcalling ).

If you have the will and the way, you can travel just about anywhere by yourself. In fact, these 18 getaways are even better when you go it alone, whether it's a soul-searching hike through Scotland or a pod hotel where, frankly, two’s a crowd. And if you’re still a little anxious about writing up an itinerary by yourself, we’ve gone ahead and suggested travel specialists who can help you out with the more planning-heavy trips.

Check out some of our favorite solo vacations for 2024, and get ready to start loving your own company.

This article has been updated since its original publish date. All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Embark a self-guided tour of Ireland

For U.S.-based travelers, Ireland is kind of a no-brainer when it comes to solo travel, thanks to easy access and friendly locals. Travel to the Emerald Isle becomes even easier with Brendan Vacations, a Dublin-based agency dating back to 1969. While they offer traditional group tours, solo travelers should try one of the “locally hosted rail” options: These excursions—including the editor-approved  Ireland’s Sparkling Gems tour—will set you up with hotels, transports (including train rides and chauffeured drives), and one activity per day, but leave you with enough free time to explore on your own. Even better? You’ll be given a 24/7 emergency number and a local guide who will meet you in each city, ready to provide restaurant recommendations, insider tips, and more.

Price: From $2,403 When to go: Open all year How to book:   brendanvacations.com Tap the experts:   Kathleen Sheridan (McCabe World Travel)

Take a silent retreat in Bali

The Buddhist practice of quietly meditating dates back millennia, but the need for silent reflection in the face of never-ending online chatter is so needed today. There are many hideaways around the world aimed at helping travelers disconnect, but one of our favorites is Bali Silent Retreat . As the name suggests, the retreat involves no talking, no listening to music, just silence and the noises of nature (so really, there wouldn’t be any point in bringing along a travel companion). Nestled in the foothills of the sacred Mount Batukaru volcano and surrounded by rice fields and jungle, this is an especially great choice if you want to completely get away from it all—no phones or internet allowed. Another perk for solo travelers: Accommodations range from women-only dormitories to single rooms and private bungalows.

Price: Housing from $40 to $90 per night; Day Passes (which cover the cost of meals and programs) are $47 When to go: Open all year How to book: balisilentretreat.com Tap the experts: Diane Embree (Bali Barong Tours)

Sleep in Japan’s pod hotels

When there are two pairs of elbows in a tiny hotel room, someone’s bound to get hurt. But a single traveler has more options, like New York’s two Pod Hotels in Midtown. Single rooms have a twin bed, flat-screen TV, free Wi-fi, and…not much else, ideal for propelling you out on the town. In Japan (including various train stations and Tokyo’s Narita Airport), the experience is more extreme: For a low price, you can get a pod bed at Nine Hours for, yes, nine hours—just long enough to rest and shower.

Price: From $30 per nine hours When to go: Early spring or late fall, when the weather is ideal How to book: ninehours.co.jp Tap the experts: Amy Tadehara (InsideJapan Tours)

Rescue turtles in the Mexican Caribbean

People travel alone for many reasons, but not everyone wants to focus on the self. Do your part as an eco-friendly traveler in Quintana Roo, Mexico, where you can join the many local efforts to rescue sea turtles. Most notable is the Akumal Turtle Camp, a program that’s been hosted by the Akumal Ecological Center (CEA) since 1993. The camp invites volunteers to learn about the species with in-class education, turtle monitoring protocols, and species identification before continuing with fieldwork: tagging and protecting nesting females, marking nests with GPS coordinates, and minimizing predators from the nesting sites. Note that the program requires volunteers to commit at least two weeks of their time, so start stocking up on vacation days now.

Price: $180 for two weeks; $350 for four weeks (does not include accommodations) When to go: May to October How to book: ceakumal.org Tap the experts: Zachary Rabinor (Journey Mexico)

Steph Koyfman

Alex Erdekian

Laura Walsh

Jamie Spain

Chase the Northern Lights in Finland

Solo travel company Flash Pack launched a collection of new travel experiences in late 2021. One of the most exciting offerings is the “ Finland’s Secret Island ” tour, a four-day journey through Finnish Lapland complete with husky rides, cold-water plunges, and Northern Lights safaris on the back of snowmobiles. At night, you can cozy up at Hotel Vartiosaari , a boutique property located on its own private island in the Kemijoki River. Only up to 18 travelers are allowed to join the group at one time, so you’re guaranteed to make quick friends as you huddle for warmth above the Arctic Circle.

Price: From $3,345 When to go: January to March; November to December How to book: flashpack.com Tap the experts: Jan Sortland (Norwegian Adventures AS)

Set sail on a European river cruise

It’s hard for solo travelers to consider a cruise without first worrying about “single supplements”—the dreaded fees slapped on passengers for booking a room designed to hold two or more people (depending on the trip, those fees can end up tacking on thousands of extra dollars). Luckily, the industry is becoming increasingly accommodating , with cruise lines of all sizes reducing or getting rid of the infamous fees. Riviera River Cruises is one company that specifically caters to solo travelers, with a variety of routes and exclusive departures for solo travelers. Even better? The cruise line has waived the dreaded single supplement on eight of its 2024 itineraries , including routes that visit Burgundy, Paris, and Normandy, as well as Portugal’s Douro Valley.

Price: $2,049 to $4,889 (varies based on trip) When to go: Departure dates available in March, April, July, August, October, and November How to book: rivierarivercruises.com Tap the experts: Angela Turen (Churchill and Turen Ltd.)

Drive Iceland’s Golden Circle

Safety is obviously a concern during solo vacations, so you might as well plan a trip to one of the safest countries in the world: Iceland. Fly into Reykjavik , then rent a car and hit the road. Iceland is great for long, soul-seeking drives—and if you go by yourself, you won’t have to annoy fellow passengers when you pull over every five minutes to take photos of waterfalls and glaciers. You can see most of the country along the Ring Road (Route 1), but if you're crunched for time, catch some of southern Iceland’s greatest hits like Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, along the Golden Circle route .

Price: Gas is currently $8.82 per gallon in Iceland When to go: Early May, before the summer crowds descend Tap the experts: Chris Gordon (Icepedition)

Track gorillas in Rwanda

Yes, a solo safari is possible—and extremely rewarding. There are few better places to recharge and recenter than in the middle of Africa, with only the hotel staff and wild animals to keep you company; plus, some travel companies even have discounted single supplements. In 2019, Singita opened two new properties in Rwanda— Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House —complete with gorilla trekking expeditions ideal for adventurers traveling alone. You don’t have to worry about having enough travel companions in a group, because regardless of whether you’re alone or traveling with friends, “guests are divided into groups of eight (dependent on their fitness level) where guides take them into the Volcanoes National Park to track gorillas,” Traveler contributor Mary Holland discovered during her solo trip to Rwanda.

Price: Trekking permits are $1,500 per person, per trek; suites start at $2,470 per night When to go: June to September or December 2024, to avoid the rainy seasons How to book: singita.com Tap the experts: Linda Friedman (Custom Safaris)

Get away with Getaway

While cabins in the woods tend to conjure up horror-movie memories, Getaway’s cabins are nothing but charming and idyllic—and perfect for solo travelers. The company specializes in boutique rentals in rural areas outside of major hubs like New York, Austin, and Los Angeles, the idea being that people can escape the stress of the city for a long weekend. Expect all the normal creature comforts (a full bathroom, kitchenette, comfortable bed, etc.) as well as cute touches like vintage radios and s’mores kits. The star of every cabin, however, is the giant floor-to-ceiling window adjacent to the bed—perfect for an unplugged vacation that trades Netflix binges for birdwatching and leaf peeping.

Price: From $99 per night When to go: All year How to book: getaway.house

Cycle through the Italian Dolomites

Cycling trips are perfect for lone travelers, giving you plenty of time with your thoughts while still being part of a small group. There are tons of tour operators specializing in bike trips, but try to book with a group that specializes in solo travel—like Trek Travel , a company with experienced guides, plus options to room either by yourself or with an arranged roommate. One of their newest adventures is a five-day ride through the Italian Dolomites, with 220 miles of challenging trails offset by the beauty of the surrounding mountains and glistening lakes. The price of the trip includes hotel accommodations, meals, equipment (including Domane SL 7 bikes), and daily snacks and drinks.

Price: From $1,999 When to go: June to August How to book: trektravel.com Tap the experts: Georgia Yuill (Butterfield and Robinson)

Escape the noise in Antarctica

Ever since we saw Cate Blanchett sneak off to Antarctica in Where'd You Go, Bernadette? , we've been wondering how possible a solo trip to the frozen continent really is. Turns out, a solo trip is very possible. Contributor Judy Koutsky wrote about her Antarctic cruise , which she claims was best experienced by herself. Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten ensures travelers have enough space without getting lonely, with group excursions and restaurants that allow you to join others' tables. And then there are the quiet moments. Koutsky writes: “Walking among the chinstrap penguins, or taking a scenic zodiac ride where the Gentoo penguins were diving in the water, cruising around massive icebergs, snowshoeing up a hill to get amazing views of humpback whales—it felt so peaceful, so fitting that I was alone.”

Price: From $10,576 When to go: January, March, October How to book: hurtigruten.com Tap the experts: Tim Soper (EYOS Expeditions)

Walk across the Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos archipelago, off the coast of Ecuador, is one of the world’s most famous destinations for adventure travel . Join a small group of fellow outdoor enthusiasts on this “ Galapagos: In Darwin’s Footsteps ” trip from Exodus Travels , a two-week walking tour that lets you explore 45 miles of the islands on foot. Highlights include hiking up the Sierra Negra Volcano, snorkeling with sea turtles and manta rays, boating past sea lion colonies, and touring the city of Quito on the mainland. With a group size of 6 to 16 people and no mandatory single supplement fees (though if you don’t want to share a room, you can book single rooms for a very minimal fee), this trip is custom-made for solo travelers.

Price: From $8,118 When to go: April to May; October to November How to book: exodustravels.com Tap the experts: Jennifer Gillmore (Travel Beyond)

Visit elephants in Thailand (the responsible way)

While few subjects elicit more impassioned debate than elephant tourism , there are ethical ways to see the gentle giants up close. Travel company Contiki offers a 14-day “ Total Thailand ” trip, covering Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai . (Accommodations range from twin-share hotel rooms to jungle cottages.) The Chiang Mai leg includes a visit to the Elephant Nature Park, a rescue and rehabilitation center that allows visitors to feed the animals without exploiting (or riding) them.

Price: From $2,376 When to go: January to December How to book: contiki.com Tap the experts: Daniel Fraser (Smiling Albino)

Venture deep into the South Caucasus

Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.) is a tour company specializing in small group trips for women, with trips exploring 75 countries across all seven continents—plus no single supplements! For a true bucket list experience, book a spot in the “ Georgia & Armenia: Ancient Lands of the Southern Caucasus ” tour, a 16-day journey that stretches from Tbilisi down to Yerevan, Armenia. The guided journey includes stops in Borjomi, the cave city of Vardzia, and plenty of monasteries, temples, and wineries in between. You’ll also get to participate in lectures and discussions about sensitive, yet important cultural topics, like the role of women in post-Soviet Georgia and the Armenian genocide.

Price: From $5,495 When to go: April to October How to book: oattravel.com Tap the experts: Natalie Fordham (Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel)

Hop aboard the Oriental Express

Long solo train rides and bus trips lend themselves perfectly to reading. Since you aren’t going to be chitchatting with a friend or challenging each other to a game of cards, now’s the opportunity to finally read that book everybody’s been talking about. (Need some recommendations? Check out this list .) And while you can accomplish that on any given Amtrak ride, we suggest taking the ultra-luxurious route—Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express throughout Malaysia, to be exact. The brand’s “Wild Malaysia” trip includes guided tours of Penang and Taman Negara National Park, and the iconic train comes with private suites, multi-course meals, and 24-hour concierge service.

Price: From $3,410 When to go: March to October How to book: belmond.com Tap the experts: Tisha Neufville (Neufville Travel)

Backpack through the Scottish Highlands

In the crowded Old World, the idea of backpacking is less wild and more cultural. Trek through Scotland on a multi-day trip, and you’ll hardly be alone—you’ll meet farmers as you cross their fields and sleep in small-town inns every night. The 96-mile West Highland Way is probably the most famous hike in the country, taking travelers past the moors and mountains of the Scottish Highlands. You can certainly plan the trek yourself, or let a travel company do it for you— Macs Travels has an 8-day tour that includes daily breakfasts, door-to-door baggage transfers, and accommodation in select B&Bs and guest houses.

Price: From $1,265 When to go: March to October How to book: macsadventure.com Tap the experts: Camilla Davidson (NoteWorthy) or Jonathan Epstein (Celebrated Experiences)

Channel your inner Indiana Jones in Jordan

Jordan has all the colorful history, layered archeology, and warm hospitality of its neighboring Middle Eastern countries, with none of the turmoil—meaning the country is a viable option for solo travelers. Instead of planning every detail of a trip to a country that's new to you, book a spot on the “Untold Jordan” trip offered through Flash Pack—a company that specializes in high-end adventures for solo travelers in their 30s and 40s. Highlights of the eight-day tour include riding camels through the Wadi Rum Desert, floating in the Dead Sea, and hiking to the ancient city of Petra.

Price: From $3,095 When to go: February to June; August to December How to book: flashpack.com Tap the experts: Jennifer Barnaby (Kaanect)

Learn Spanish in Costa Rica

Travel with a buddy abroad, and you’ll revert to English most of the time; go alone, and you’ll be forced to talk the talk. Language immersion vacations can include homestays and hangouts outside of class—and, best of all, they can take place on the beach in Costa Rica . Language school Intercultura offers a variety of Spanish programs for all ages and skill levels (both group and private lessons), which take place in either Heredia City or the school's waterfront campus in Samara Beach.

Price: From $235 per week for classes, $195 per week for homestay immersion When to go: All year except for Costa Rican national holidays How to book: interculturacostarica.com Tap the experts: Pierre Gedeon (Costa Adventures)

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The 15 best places to travel alone

There’s nothing like gallivanting around the globe on your own. These are the best solo travel destinations in the world

Nothing sounds quite as liberating as upping sticks and going to see the world, at whatever pace, and for however long you want. The freedom of only being tied to your own schedule is the beauty of travelling solo, and it seems like lots of us are catching on. 

Travelling the world alone has only grown in popularity since we came out of pandemic restrictions, with many of us adopting the ‘life’s too short’ mindset, and working up the courage to just book that damn flight. And why shouldn’t we? There’s such an abundance of places to travel solo, some so glorious that you won’t even notice you don’t have company. 

Of course, there are some things to consider if you’re jetting off solo. Safety, especially for women travellers , is an important element to factor into your planning, among plenty of other aspects that need weighing up. We’ve done our research: here is our list of the best solo travel destinations in the world. 

RECOMMENDED:  🧗‍♀️ The best destinations for solo female travel ☀️ The prettiest islands in the world 🌆 The  best cities in the world  🖼️ The most beautiful places in the world

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The best places to travel alone

1.  Iceland

The aptly-named ‘land of fire and ice’ is a magnet for nature fanatics, and perfect for those travelling solo. An abundance of caves, caverns, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and geysers should be plenty to keep you occupied, as the landscape and scope of this Nordic island is second to none. The country’s charming capital, Reykjavik , is jam-packed with activity – why not add the Blue Lagoon or the Laugarvatn Fontana to your to-do list for some solo relaxation? And the best thing about Iceland for solo travellers is the safety. The country is named time and time again named  one of the safest places for travellers , thanks to low crime rates and a generally accepting society. It’s definitely one for the bucket list.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Iceland

2.  East Coast Australia

It goes without saying that Australia is absolutely massive. Mahoosive. Ginormous. And while that fact might make it seem daunting, particularly for those of us travelling solo, most of the action is concentrated on the East Coast. There are plenty of classic routes that run from Adelaide to Brisbane and beyond, allowing intrepid explorers to visit a variety of exciting towns that each seem to have their own magnificent ocean view. Australians are famously sociable, too, so meeting new people will never be an issue in this isolated corner of our beautiful planet.

📍 Discover the best places to visit in Australia

3.  Botswana

For those keen to explore the wonders of Africa, Botswana is likely your best bet. The country has a wealth of wildlife to appreciate and observe, with nearly 40 percent of its land area being devoted to national parks. The Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert and Chobe National Park are world-renowned safari spots, home to everything from giraffes to rhinos. Botswana is also a politically and economically steady nation, and ranks highly on safety indexes for African countries. This, plus the fact that many Botswanans speak excellent English, makes it a great destination to navigate on your solo travels.

4.  Canada

Canada ’s name is one thrown around most often when it comes to solo travel. The population has a worldwide reputation for their friendliness, and the country has everything you could want from a travel destination. Incredible off-the-grid adventure opportunities like visiting the Rockies, Niagara Falls and Banff National Park offer up plenty to see for intrepid globetrotters. However, Toronto is considered one of the world’s most multicultural cities, and Vancouver is famed for its unique urban design, stunning surroundings and the fact it's on the doorstep to some incredible nature. The weather? Not so great, but the people? Incredible.

5.  Vietnam

Vietnam ’s unique beauty and complicated history make it a compelling travel destination, particularly for those doing so alone. The country has grown into a popular travelling hotspot, and that’s led to a thriving social scene – the well-established tourist route means it should be really easy to meet like-minded travellers to journey alongside. Ha Long Bay, Hanoi and the Ha Giang Loop are three of the nation’s tourist highlights. There are also great transport networks, it’s budget-friendly and full of hostels. What more could you ask for when you’re travelling alone?

📍 Discover the  best things to do in Vietnam

6.  Portugal

Portugal’s most popular spots frequently pick up travel awards and plaudits alike, and the hype is not without good reason. Lisbon is a backpacker’s dream, while the dreamlike beauty of Porto attracts wide-eyed adventurers from all over the world.  The Algarve is much more than its budget holiday destination suggests, and the rest of the country is packed with stunning sights and spots. This European treasure boasts 800km of coastline, and it’s a particularly surfer-friendly paradise, thanks to the fact it’s perched on the edge of the Atlantic.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Portugal

7.  Chile

In South America, Chile leads the way in terms of quality of life, and unsurprisingly, lowest crime rate. It’s the perfect destination for people travelling alone thanks to its tight-knit community of backpackers, and, of course, abundance of sights to see. Atacama, the driest desert in the world, is located in the north, while there’s plenty to see in Santiago, the nation’s capital. You won’t go thirsty either, thanks to the fantastic Chilean repertoire of beer and wine. It’s also considered one of the best places in the world for stargazing, thanks to its high altitude.

8.  Slovenia

Small but perfectly formed, Slovenia is a tremendous destination for solo travellers. The old ‘four seasons in a day’ adage is very much alive and well in a place where you can spend the morning skiing in the Alps before heading for a romantic solo sunset on the Adriatic at Piran. The capital, Ljubljana, is the perfect base for exploration, a city of friendly people and social spots an easy bus or train from Slovenia’s famous lakes and less-famous postcard villages. Pro tip: pick up a €15 IZLETka train ticket and get unlimited travel on the weekends.

📍 Discover four Slovenian getaways that are good for the planet

9.  New Zealand

New Zealand is a country that just gets things right. For one, it takes its reputation as one of the safest countries in the world very seriously, meaning travellers can explore in total security. But it isn’t usually safety that brings individual adventurers to New Zealand ; instead, it’s the dazzling landscapes, buzzing towns and cities and convivial people that make NZ the place it is. All of the bigger towns are backpacker paradises filled with history, culture and booze (the great trifecta of backpacking), and the scenery in between is staggering.

📍 Discover the best things to do in New Zealand

10.  Ireland

Irish storytelling is world-famous, immortalised in the novels of Joyce, Stoker, Wilde and the rest. Spend an evening in any Dublin pub and you will almost certainly hear a tale for the ages, as locals spin yarns and transport listeners to a world within a world, one pint at a time. The friendly hospitality of the Irish guarantees good conversation, while the stunning breadth of nature here allows for tranquil walks and plenty of room to think, ideal for solo travel. Getting around also couldn’t be easier, as it looks like Irish railway services are about to be amped up .

📍 Discover the best things to do in Ireland

11.  Japan

It can often feel as though Japan has been organised with solo travellers in mind. The efficiency of its transport links is as legendary as such things can be, allowing vagabonds all the time in the world to hit up the gripping cities and out-of-this-world scenery. (Check out our Japan rail itinerary if you’re planning to see the place by train.) The Japanese are among the friendliest in the world, the food is incredible and the whole experience is exactly that: an experience. It’s also another country that is consistently ranked the safest destination in the world for solo travellers .

📍 Discover the best things to do in Japan

12.  Greek Islands

No matter your preferred form of travel, a spot of island-hopping in Greece is almost a rite of passage for any traveller. That’s why you’ll meet everyone from excitable backpackers to considered veterans of the road here, each with a different story to tell. The Greek Islands are gorgeous and lush, not to mention packed with excellent food. Each one seems ready to capture your heart and convince you to stay forever and ever. Kefalonia and Corfu are the most popular and thus offer endless social opportunities, while the serenity of Naxos and Icaria will appeal to more introverted explorers.

📍 Discover the best Greek islands

13.  Bhutan

What could be safer than a culture so infused with Buddhism? Bhutan is definitely a place to include on your list should safety be one of your top priorities. The Trans Bhutan Trail reopened in 2022 , meaning travellers can follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and monks who trod the 400km route. The architecture is awe-inspiring, and the tiny country is of course perched on the very edge of the Himalayas, meaning the views are truly unmatched. There’s also tranquil lakes, luscious green valleys and dazzling glaciers to admire. Take heed: you will need some extra cash to splash in Bhutan, as the country has a pretty steep tourist tax .

14.  Croatia

Another super-safe solo-friendly destination is this jewel of the Adriatic. Boundless glorious beaches, fascinating mediaeval towns and relatively low prices are what Croatia has become so popular for. The nightlife is another perk of this place – the festival calendar is absolutely jam-packed, and Croatian cities are known for their cheap drinks and plethora of party spots. Eight national parks are also dotted around the country. Like waterfalls? There’s a whopping 90 of them at Plitvice Lakes,  though if you want a dip, head to the smaller falls at Krka National Park instead. Croatia is also an underrated wine producer and, of course, a hotspot for  Game of Thrones  fans.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Croatia

15.  Singapore

The phrase ‘melting pot’ is ridiculously overused, but one place that’s truly worthy of the label is Singapore . The island nation is a glorious meeting of different cuisines and cultures, with a landscape characterised by ancient temples and towering glass skyscrapers. Singapore is also incredibly safe, according to 96 percent of locals who we surveyed last year for our annual list of the world’s best cities . There are plenty of hostels if you’re wanting to meet other travellers. Spend your time soaking up the year-round tropical climate, and make sure to go on a food tour through Singapore’s  markets . 

📍 Discover the best things to do in Singapore

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The 26 Best Places to Travel Alone in the US!

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: February 3, 2024

Categories North America , Solo Female Travel

Are you a diehard solo traveler who is desperately searching for some of the best places to travel alone in the US? If you are then you’ve come to the right place because trust me, there really ain’t no party like a USA solo travel party (YEE-HAW)!

Besides solo travel is just, in general, the total shiz! Esepcially since, well, who really has time to sit around, waiting for other prople, just to book an epic USA vacay?

I know I don’t! I mean, if I sat around, waiting for other people to travel, then I think THE most exicitng place that I’d ever go would be the grocery store. WOMP, WOMP, WOMP.

Which is why I created this SUPER handy list of all the best places to travel alone in the US, this way you can quickly and easily get your solo travel swerve on, and while waiting for…exactly NO ONE. Wait! Time out! Scratch that! Because in all honesty,  I actually wrote a WHOLE LOT of NOTHING.

Yeah. See, instead of writing this post myself, I actually found some of the raddest and baddest solo travelers out there to help me create this list of awesome American cities for solo travelers.

So take a gander, get MAD innspired, and see if you favorite metropolis made the cut, or is just another, anonymous addition to the chorus of the song, “another one bites the dust.”. Either way stick around and find out exactly where your solo travels should take you next, as you explore the grand old, U S of A!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. 

1. San Diego, California

By: Sane of Spend Life Traveling

One of the many things I love about San Diego is the intense devotion of locals to this city and the level of pride that they have in calling this place home.

And for good reason! Because between its perfect, year-round climate, the beautiful beaches, the gorgeous Balboa Park, and the many independent shops, restaurants, and cafés, San Diego really is a fabulous city!

I mean I myself have taken many solo trips to San Diego and cannot recommend it enough as one of the best places to travel alone in the US.

And added bonus? Many tourists seem to skip over this city when visiting California, making this place a whole lot less touristy than many other nearby, urban centers.

But If you’re unsure of what to do during your solo trip here, then why not start with one of the best  things to do in San Diego  and explore some of the city’s many amazing beaches? Two of my personal favorites are Ocean Beach and the Mission Beach boardwalk.

However La Jolla is great too. And if you do end up here, be sure to visit the seals at La Jolla Cove (if you’re feeling extra brave, you can even swim with them too!)

Now, if you have time you cannot leave San Diego without visiting Coronado Island for the day. You’ll also want to explore the enchanting Balboa Park (take your time since this greenspace is massive!) and spend at least one evening in Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter.

But if all this solo travel leaves you feeling a bit lonely, then you can always check out Meetup.com  and meet like-minded, solo travelers while at a rejuvenating yoga sesh by the beach or while enjoying a fun, craft beer tasting. Because the array of different activities that this website offers really are endless.

2. Honolulu, Hawaii

By: Noel of Travel Photo Discovery

Of all the fun places that solo female travelers can visit in the US, Honolulu, in Oahu, is definitely one of the best.

Just a short, five-hour flight from the west coast of the USA, Honolulu is a vivacious hub of international travel and is a fantastic home base from which you can explore Hawaii’s many neighboring islands.

However the city is itself is also a fun and easy place for solo travelers to explore since it is home to iconic, tourist attractions like Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head State Park.

But if you’re looking to do something a bit more cultural, then you can always visit one of the area’s many historical attractions like Iolani Palace (the only royal palace in the United States), city hall, Chinatown, Aloha Tower, Pearl Harbor, and Ala Moana (the largest outdoor shopping mall in the Pacific). 

Additionally, Honolulu is a paradise for adventure lovers and has many different activities that solo travelers can enjoy, like water sports, hiking, biking, sailing, and climbing; all of which can be done as part of a group tour group or on your very own, DIY excursion.

However if food is more your thing, then you’ll love Honolulu’s food scene, which is a beautiful mixture of traditional, Hawaiian dishes with other, distinct, Asian cuisines, creating a cross-cultural feast of flavors that can be found throughout the city’s many different street food vendors, food courts, and fine dining venues.

So if you’re ready to visit Honolulu for yourself, then check out this post about some of the  top things you can do in Honolulu , and get some additional inspiration about what to see and do while on the island of Oahu.

3. New York City, New York

By: Claudia of My Adventures Across The World

New York is hands down, one of the best cities to travel alone in the US! I mean, after all, it was the immortal backdrop for the iconic show, Sex and the City! Which makes sense since this is the kind of place where a solo traveler never really feels alone.

No, really! There are just so many things to do, places to visit, shows to see, and events to attend that you never really have time to feel lonely.

Plus there are tons of classic things to do in New York , like see the Statue of Liberty, go on the Staten Island ferry, visit the Empire State Building (from where you can get breathtaking views of Manhattan), explore Central Park, stop by the MET (the Metropolitan Museum of Art), check out the Guggenheim, visit MOMA (Museum of Modern Art), and pay your respect at the National 9/11 Memorial and World Trade Center.

While you’re here I also recommend walking across the Brooklyn Bridge and exploring Brooklyn Heights, one of the nicest neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Once here you’ll enjoy stunning, panoramic views of both Manhattan and the Williamsburg Bridge, another iconic bridge that connects downtown Manhattan with Brooklyn.

However if you’re looking for an excellent place to eat, then you can’t beat Olio e Piu, which is a nice Italian eatery in The Village. Zibetto Espresso Bar is also a fantastic place for an awesome cup of coffee in Midtown Manhattan.

And while New York does have some excellent accommodations, they can be quite costly. Therefore you may want to opt for an Airbnb instead of a regular hotel, especially since the experience will feel a bit more personable.

Plus if you can find a centrally located Airbnb in the East Village, then you’ll still have easy access to some of the best attractions, restaurants, and nightlife spots in the entire city.

4. Asheville, North Carolina

By: Meghan of Meghan the Traveling Teacher

Asheville is such a fun city to visit alone! Not only will you find plenty of likeminded people here, but you’ll also discover that a visit to this charming little mountain town can be super affordable too!

Additionally Asheville is located less than an hour from the Smoky Mountains, making it easy for visitors to go on incredible hikes and explore some of the region’s most spectacular waterfalls.

Personally though my favorite area is the Pisgah National Forest since you can go down a natural rock slide waterfall in the summer and marvel at the beautiful fall foliage here in the Autumn.

Because while you’re in Asheville, the mountains really are all around you in, which is why many locals, and travelers alike, will join hiking groups (you can find them on Facebook or MeetUp) and explore the plethora of different hiking trails around the city.

But, after all that hiking, you’ll probably be a little hungry! Which is perfect since Asheville has an amazing food and drink scene, with local favorites including restaurants like Tupelo Honey (Southern food), Corner Kitchen (American cuisine), and Curate (Spanish food).

So feel free to relax and go on an awesome brewery tour. Or, learn more about the city’s fascinating history at places like the Biltmore Estate and Omni Grove Park Hotel.  Because trust me! There really are a ton of fun and cheap things to do around Asheville, North Carolina.

5. Memphis, Tennessee

By: Clare of I live 4 Travel

Memphis is a city that is known for its music, making it the perfect place to experience some authentic Blue’s and Rock-n-Roll.

Which is why the one thing that you absolutely HAVE to do while in Memphis is visit Graceland , the former home of Elvis Presley.

During your visit not only will you get to see exactly what the mansion looked like on the day of Elvis’ death, but you’ll also get to view some of his lavish outfits and pay your respects at his gravesite.

While in the city you can also stop by the legendary Sun Studio , the birthplace of Rock-n-Roll, and hear the unique stories behind rock-n-roll legends like Turner, Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Roy Orbison, all of whom recorded albums here.

However if history and museums are more your thing, then you cannot leave Memphis without an eye-opening visit to the National Civil Rights Museum , a unique attraction that was built around the Lorraine Motel, the exact place where Martin Luther King was assassinated.

But Memphis is not just famous for its music. It’s also known for its unique style of barbecue, which can be enjoyed at Central BBQ , in downtown Memphis. And once you’ve had your fill of amazing BBQ take a nice, leisurely stroll down Beale Street and listen to some live music at one of the area’s many fantastic bars.

Yes Memphis really is the perfect city for solo female travelers since it’s safe, easy to get around, and home to a ton of different attractions that every type of solo traveler will love.

6. Madison, Wisconsin

By: Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Madison,  Wisconsin  is often overlooked by travelers who are searching for some of the top destinations in the United States. However the capital of Wisconsin is a great place to visit, especially if you’re traveling solo!

“Why?” you may rightly wonder. Well, this city has so many amazing activities for you to enjoy alone, like visiting the  Madison Historical Society , exploring the  Wisconsin State Capitol , or enjoying a scenic walk along Lake Mendota.

But if you don’t want to spend your entire time in Madison alone, then you can always visit one of the city’s many bars and restaurants, like  Madison Eleven Park , since this is an easy place to meet people, thanks in large part to nearby, Madison University.

And if you’re not sure where to stay while in Madison then you’ll be delighted to know that this amazing city has several different hostels, like the  HI Madison Hostel , that offer a wide array of activities for solo travelers to enjoy. 

7. San Francisco, California

By: Marina of Travel Eat Blog

San Francisco is one of my favorite places to travel solo since it’s a safe, vibrant city, that is also home to an amazing public transportation system.

I also love how unique every neighborhood in San Francisco is.

I mean it’s like each neighborhood has it’s very own, unique history; a history that you can personally experience while you’re there. That’s why, I would definitely recommend visiting one of the  most beautiful districts in San Francisco , the Marina/ Cow Hollow District.

While you’re here you’ll find a ton of different local shops, street bars, restaurants, and beaches, as well as some beyond exquisite views of the Golden Gate Bridge. 

The Palace of Fine Arts  is also in this area and a total must since you can pack yourself a little picnic lunch and enjoy it out in front of the pond here. You can also stroll through the park and enjoy mesmerizing views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Similarly Chinatown is another must-see neighborhood, in downtown, San Francisco, that is filled with unique decorations,  colorful shops, historic street lights, vibrant hanging lanterns, and charming pagodas.

This area is also home to Chong Qing Xiao Mian, an amazing little Chinese restaurant that serves some of the best Sichuan noodles (beef noodles with pickled mustard) in the entire city. And for a fantastic, reasonably priced place to stay try some of the hotels near Union Square since they are centrally located and within close proximity of some fantastic entertainment, food, and shopping options.

8. Phoenix, Arizona

By: Nicole of American SW Obsessed

Best visited between October and March when the weather isn’t too hot, Phoenix is without a doubt one of the most underrated cities in the USA.

I mean not only is there a lot to do there, but it also makes a great home base from which you can explore the area’s many National Parks and Monuments.

Personally though my favorite part of Phoenix is Scottsdale since it is a real foodie’s paradise that has over 800 restaurants and cafes to choose from. And while a variety of different cuisines are represented here, I recommend sampling Scottsdale’s authentic Southwestern cuisine since it is a beautiful cross between Spanish, Mexican and Tex-Mex flavors.

However to really enjoy dishes from as many restaurants as possible, I recommend joining one of the many amazing food tours that are offered by Arizona Food Tours .

While you’re here I would also recommend going on a hike along the Treasure Loop Trail since it a beginner’s trail that will take you through the Superstition Mountains (to the east of Phoenix) and provide you with breath-taking views of the surrounding area (When hiking in Phoenix, always start early in the morning and carry plenty of water).

9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

By: Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting

Philadelphia is a fantastic city for any type of traveler, but especially for solo female travelers since it is well-lit, safe, easy to get around, and has a ton of fun things to do , many of which are best enjoyed alone.

Philly is also known for its wealth of world-renowned art museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art , The Barnes Foundation , and The Rodin Museum .

However if science is more your thing, then you’ll love Philly’s Franklin Institute , as well as The Mutter Museum of Medical Oddities. Additionally, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens are another hidden gem that is well worth visiting since this fantastical place includes an exhibition of tile-mosaics that are spread throughout multiple city lots.

Now because Philadelphia is home to more street art murals than almost any other city in the United States, it is also a fantastic city to explore on foot.

And along the way you can also discover Philly’s Old City, and learn more about this city’s prominent. place in American history, with a visit to Independence Hall , The Liberty Bell , and The Constitution Center.

And for all the food lovers out there, no trip to Philly would be complete without sampling local favorites like a cheesesteak and a Philly soft pretzel. Plus most Philadelphia restaurants actually offer food service at the bar, which is the perfect place to dine when eating alone.

10. Disney World, Florida

By: Kris of Nomad By Trade

My first ever solo trip was to Disney World and I truly believe that it is the perfect place to start your very own, solo travel adventure.

I mean if you’re staying in Disney itself then all of your transportation (including from the airport to your hotel and from your hotel to the parks) is included with the cost of your stay.

Therefore you really don’t have to worry about the logistics of getting around by yourself or being alone at night. And with four theme parks, two water parks, and a shopping/dining district to enjoy, there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay.

Plus not only do you get to plan your days exactly as you want them, visiting all of the top attractions that matter to you the most, but dining reservations and FastPasses are also much easier to come by when you’re traveling alone.

There are also official, Photopass photographers, stationed at all of the best Disney photo spots, who will help you take pictures, even if you don’t purchase photos directly from Disney so that you can come home with something other than a selfie.

Additionally several popular attractions now have designated, single rider lines that you can use to help reduce wait times, which is just one of the many reasons why I love visiting Disney World solo .

11. Santa Fe, New Mexico

By: Stella of Around the World in 24 Hours

Santa Fe, New Mexico is one of the most pleasant and charming cities for a solo female traveler in the United States. First of all, it’s not a huge city. In fact, it’s not even the largest city in New Mexico, making it a relatively easy place for solo travelers to navigate.

Now because Santa Fe is the state capital, and one of the most historic cities in New Mexico, it has a wealth of cultural attractions and delicious restaurants that guests can enjoy.

That’s why the first stop for any solo female traveler in Santa Fe should be the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum , an institution that is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the most famous American, female artist of all time.

However if you’re more interested in history, then you can always visit the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian , to learn more about New Mexico’s very first settlers, and the Palace of the Governors, to better understand the men and women who helped shape New Mexico’s past.

But, if you’re looking for a bit of relaxation then be sure to make an appointment at Santa Fe’s legendary Ten Thousand Waves Spa, where you can splurge on an all-day package, or save some money on one of their more affordable, female-only baths.

Also don’t miss the out on Santa Fe’s extraordinary restaurant scene, where you can go casual at Cafe Pasqual’s or enjoy something a bit more upscale at Restaurant Martin .

Either way Do NOT leave without trying the area’s famous, New Mexican green chiles! Because yes, they really are THAT GOOD!

12. Boise, Idaho

By: Kay of The Awkward Traveller

Like most of Idaho, Boise is a criminally underrated hidden gem in the United States. However that’s also part of the reason why this city is such a fantastic destination for solo female travelers.

I mean… Pull up those Tinder profiles ladies! HEYYYOOO.

But, aside from the top tier dating potential, this vibrant, college town hosts an array of fun pop up events that solo travelers will LOVE, like indie film showings, poetry slams, and trivia nights every day of the week.

Boise is also a microbrewery mecca of sorts, with some of my personal favorites including Sockeye Brewing and Boise Brewing.

Speaking of booze and food, Boise does a magnificent job of bringing the earthy goodness of Idaho’s treasure – the potato – to life in new and exciting ways.

So be sure to stop by Boise Fry Co, and sample some of the more than 20 sauces that accompany their endless array of potato types and fry cuts. Also and I hate to say it, but you really haven’t lived until you’ve eaten Idaho’s famous Butter Cake. So, definitely pick up a slice after a fantastic lunch (or dinner) at Fork !

And while Idaho has no National Parks to speak of, the natural areas that surround Boise are truly exquisite and full of enchanting waterfalls that are waiting to be discovered in places like Shoshone Falls and Craters of the Moon National Monument .

But if culture and learning is more your jam, then definitely check out one of the nation’s top nuclear labs at Atomic City. Or you could always decolonize your understanding of American history and take a trip to the Sacagawea Cultural Center, where you can learn all about the TRUE story behind the Lewis & Clark expedition.

13. Denver, Colorado

By: Meg of Fox in the Forest

When choosing some of the best places to travel alone in the US, Denver just HAS to be on your list!

I mean one of the BEST things about Denver, Colorado, is the fact that most of the residents here are actually from somewhere else. Yup! It’s an incredibly dynamic city full of transplants, that is home to a variety of different people from all across the USA.

And while the people of Denver are amazing, there are also a ton of fun things to do in Denver, like visit a top-notch brewery, catch a concert at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater, head to a museum, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of Denver’s many parks, or go on one of the many amazing  hikes near Denver.

If you can though be sure to rent a car (at least for a day) so that you can enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery or  Rocky Mountain National Park  or visit one of the many relaxing hot springs just outside of Denver.

Now although there a ton of different boutique hotels in Denver, one of the best places to stay for any solo female traveler is going to be an Airbnb.

And the Highlands, RiNo, and Capitol Hill are all perfect neighborhoods to stay in since there are plenty of small businesses, boutique shops, and restaurants here for visitors to explore.

14. Atlanta, Georgia

By: Allie of WOC Travel

Atlanta is a great destination for solo female travelers since there are a multitude of things to do here, that will satisfy people with a variety of different interests.

I mean from history to art to cultural activities to food, you will not run out of things to do here. And one of your very first stops here should be the Atlanta Botanical Gardens . 

Because one of the park’s most awe-inspiring, feature displays is that of the Earth Goddess, a 25-foot tall, living sculpture that consists of more than 18,000 annual plants that are used to create the structure’s beautiful face and hair.

Now, in addition to the botanical gardens, intrepid solo travelers can also enjoy the city’s famed World of Coke, Zoo Atlanta, Centennial Park, and the Aquarium, as well as a ton of different festivals that occur each weekend.

And if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Atlanta then I would definitely recommend the Midtown area since it’s in close proximity to multiple forms of public transportation.

There are also many fantastic restaurants, like South City Kitchen for brunch and Surin of Thailand for late-night dinner,  in this amazing neighborhood, as well as top attractions, like Piedmont Park (AKA the City of Atlanta’s premier green space).

15. Boston, Massachusetts

By: Retha of The Roaming Nanny

Boston is a great city for solo female travelers. Not only are there plenty of things to do here, year-round, but this city is also home to a fantastic, easy-to-use, network of public transportation.

That’s why I highly recommend a Boston itinerary of at least 3 days, if not more, since this will give you plenty of time to visit many of the city’s top attractions.

Because as someone who grew up nearby, I always tell visitors that they NEED to do two things while in Boston: Explore Boston Common and Public Gardens and Watch a baseball game at Fenway Park (or at least take a tour).

Trust me on this, the Common always has something going on, especially when the weather is nice and the flowers in the Public Gardens are in full bloom, There are also plenty of fun statues to discover, as well as a slew of Swan Boats that you MUST take a spin on.

And while I’m a HUGE baseball fan myself even if you’re not into the sport, you should still definitely watch the Red Sox play at Fenway Park (one of the oldest ballparks in the country) since it is always one hell of an experience.

So yeah just grab a hotdog, a beer, and some cheap tickets (they usually start at around $25-$35 apiece), so that you too can enjoy Boston’s immortal, boys of summer.

Now when searching for a place to stay in Boston, look no further than  HI Boston , which sits right near Boston Common, I promise this is an absolutely ideal location to stay in as it’s right near the Redline (which can get you anywhere in the city that you need to go) and is within walking distance of both Chinatown and the Theatre District.

This fantastic hostel also offers guests both private and shared rooms, as well as a complimentary breakfast every morning. 

16. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

By: Heather of RaulersonGirlsTravel

You wouldn’t immediately think of Myrtle Beach as a fantastic, solo female travel destination, but you should! Because not only is Myrtle Beach small enough for you to explore comfortably on your own, but there are also a ton of different things do there; so much so that you won’t have any idea what to do first.

So, to start, you can always do the obvious, and rent a lounge chair on the beach, while periodically dipping your toes in the water.

However, if all that relaxation gets a bit dull, you can always take a nice stroll along the beach, enjoy the 1.2-mile-long boardwalk here (with several piers that extend out into the ocean), and even stop at the legendary Bowery for some live music.

Plus, if you get hungry along the way you can always enjoy one of the numerous, beachside eateries here, which include Rip Tydz (known for their seafood) and Duffy’s (known for their incredibly sassy waitstaff).

But if you want an even bigger selection of restaurants to choose from, then just stop by Broadway at the Beach, which is also home to a local movie theater, an aquarium, speed boat rides, and various forms of nightlife.

And if you’re feeling REALLY adventurous, you could always rent a car and take a short drive to Brookgreen Gardens or go a bit further afield and explore the beautiful city of Charleston (If you don’t want to drive, you could always take an UBER too).

Now during my trip to Myrtle Beach, I enjoyed a lovely stay at the Anderson Ocean Club and Spa , which sits right on the water. However there are plenty of hotels available here, with a variety of different price ranges, that are all within easy walking distance of the beach.

Which is just one of the many reasons why Myrtle Beach really does have everything you need for the perfect, weekend getaway as a solo female traveler.

17. Portland, Maine

By; Olivia of My Wandering Voyage

Portland, Maine, is an enchanting, east coast town that is filled with historic, red brick buildings and seafood restaurants as far as the eye can see.

Add in a BEYOND friendly atmosphere and you have the perfect destination for solo travelers. But what really makes Portland, Maine special is the fact that it has been named both the craft brew capital of the United States and the restaurant city of the year in 2018. 

Therefore expect more eateries here, per capita, than in any other city in the US, except for San Francisco of course! And some of the most amazing, foodie hot spots that you’ll just HAVE  to try while you’re in town include  Bite into Maine ,  The Highroller Lobster Co ., Portland Lobster Co.,  J’s Oysters , and Eventide Oyster Co. for delicious seafood and incredible fresh lobster. 

Next wash all that delicious food down with some great cocktails at  Vena’s Fizz House , mead from Maine Mead Works, delicious gin from  Hardshore Distilling Company , or a pint from one of the town’s many craft breweries.

While in Portland you’ll also want to explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, do a bit of shopping on Exchange Street, enjoy the views from Munjoy Hill, or watch the boats go by at the Historic Waterfront. 

However the real highlight of any trip to Portland, Maine are the series of quaint lighthouses that surround the city, the most famous of which is the  Portland Head Lighthouse . See there really is so much to see and do, that you’ll definitely want to plan a fun  weekend in Portland ! 

18. Salt Lake City, Utah

By: Rachelle of Adventure is Never Far Away

Salt Lake City, Utah, is the PERFECT destination for solo female travelers in the USA!   Known as the biggest little town in the west, Salt Lake City has something to satisfy the wanderlust in every type of traveler.  

So If you’re an adrenaline junkie, why not take to the sky and go skydiving or paragliding? Or If you’re a rock climber, why not explore one of the numerous slot canyons and sheer faces that surround the city?

And if you visit during winter, well, then be sure to take advantage of the best snow on earth and test your skills at one of Salt Lake City’s world-class ski resorts.

Because with a wealth of restaurants, interactive museums, sporting events, and festivals for solo travelers to experience, the variety of different activities here will always keep you coming back for more.

Plus not only is Salt Lake City easy to navigate, but it’s also one of the safest capital cities in the entire United States.  

So much so that residents always welcome visitors and even look out for solo travelers, guaranteeing that anyone who visits will have an amazing time. Salt Lake City also has the added benefit of having hotels outposts for most major chains and being home to a diverse array of AirBnB options.  

That’s why for a more socially engaging travel experience, be sure to stay at the new SLC Hostel, which is located just a mile from downtown, right across the street from the city’s light rail system; making this hostel the perfect jumping-off location for exploration further afield.

19. Las Vegas, Nevada

By: Jordan of The Solo Life

A surprisingly fun city to visit as a solo traveler is Las Vegas, Nevada. And although unexpected there are a number of exciting things to do for anyone who wants to solo travel Las Vegas.

Now of course there’s gambling in Vegas, as well as shopping, seeing a show, or simply people-watching along The Strip; all of which can be enjoyed as a solo traveler.   And because there are so many people around, and so much security at all of the city’s major hotels and casinos, Las Vegas never really feels unsafe, which is something that is important to any solo traveler.

Another great thing about Las Vegas is that it’s pretty reasonably priced, at least if you’re not a gambler.  

Additionally there are a ton of different day trips that you can take from the city, to places like the Hoover Dam and even the Grand Canyon .

However for a fun and totally unique solo activity, try booking a tour at the  Neon Museum , a place that collects and restores neon signs, in order to tell the story of Las Vegas’ dynamic past.  

Once inside visitors can see a multitude of historic signs, and all while learning more about them from a dedicated guide.   So whether you’re a gambler, a fan of live shows, or an avid, outdoor enthusiast, Las Vegas really does have something to offer every type of solo traveler. 

20. Cincinnati, Ohio

By: Sage of Everyday Wanderer

Easy to navigate and with plenty to see and do, Cincinnati is an amazing Midwest destination for solo travelers.

I mean, I explored the city solo from before dawn until well after dusk and always felt safe, which is why I think that Queen City is one of the best places to travel alone in the US.

Founded in the mid-1800s by immigrants from Prussia, Bavaria, and Saxony, Cincinnati’s so-called, “Over the Rhine” neighborhood has a great, central location and is full of one-of-a-kind boutiques, delicious restaurants, and local breweries that are al just waiting to be explored.

And if you enjoy learning about the past then discover the dark and sobering history of slavery in America at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Cente r.  

Next lighten things up a bit at the American Sign Museum , which is home to the largest collection of vintage, 1900s era signs in the United States, including a two-ton McDonald’s sign and a fiberglass Big Boy.

From here take a stroll along the Ohio River, at Smale Riverfront Park, admire some the city’s 140 street art murals, and walk across the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, a structure that connects Ohio with Kentucky and that offers visitors unparalleled views of the entire city.  

But no trip to Cincinnati would be complete without enjoying a nice, big, bowl of Skyline Chili , nestled atop a bed of spaghetti, and a scoop of black raspberry chocolate chip ice cream from Graeter’s . Conversely, you could also kick start your day with breakfast at Maplewood Kitchen and Bar , where the menu highlights locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients.  

Afterwards check out the gourmet hot dogs at The Senate, which should be closely followed by a visit to Bakersfield , where you can enjoy some of the city’s best street tacos and drinks (preferably ones with tequila or whiskey).  

21. Charleston, South Carolina

By: Michelle of The Wandering Queen

Charleston, South Carolina is without a doubt, one of the best cities in the USA for solo travelers.   Not only is this town an incredibly, Instagrammable place, filled with historic, pastel-colored homes, but it’s also known for its wealth of delicious seafood and is famed for its one of a kind, southern hospitality.

However Charleston is also home to some wonderfully, delectable cuisine.  

So much so that it can be extremely difficult to get reservations at some of the city’s top eateries, like Edmunds, Oast,  Prohibition, Magnolias, and Husk.

And when it comes to deciding where to stay in Charleston, I highly recommend the downtown area since it is a pedestrian-friendly, centrally located neighborhood, that is within easy walking distance of iconic places like Waterfront Park, Marion Square Farmers Market, King Street shopping center, Historic Charleston City Market, Battery Park, Rainbow Row, and White Point Gardens.  

Before you leave though Do NOT forget to take some Instagram shots at Rainbow Row and the Pineapple fountain since both places are incredibly photogenic. But regardless of what fun things you do in Charleston , you’ll definitely fall heard over heels in love with this charming, pastel-hued city.

22. Miami, Florida

By: Inna of Executive Thrillseekers

As a solo traveler you’ll first need to decide what part of Miami you’d like to stay in, either Miami or Miami Beach, since these are two completely different areas.

See Miami is a fairly typical city, filled with residential buildings, business centers, skyscrapers, hubs of public transportation, two airports (Miami International & Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport), restaurants, clothing stores, parks and basically anything else you can think of.

In contrast Miami Beach is located on an island and feels like an entirely different city with its own, unique vibe. So, you may want to visit as part of your New York to Miami road trip .

That’s why this place feels more like a cozy little resort town, with a variety of different low-rise buildings, cafes, restaurants and nightclubs for you to check out. There are also groves of beautiful palm trees here that sit nestled along the magnificent, 10-Mile beach.  

Therefore if you can, do try and make the most of your time here by staying at a hotel right on Miami Beach, with 24-hour concierge service, just so that you can feel a little safer. Now there are are also plenty of amazing places to visit in Miami , like:

• Bayside Mall – A beautiful, cozy street along the bay that is home to a ton of different shops and restaurants.
• Bayfront Park – A stunning park on Biscayne Bay that hosts a variety of different local events and shows.
• Miami Zoo – Occupying more than 750 acres, this is considered one of the best zoos in the country and is home to more than 500 different species of animals.
• Wynwood – An artsy neighborhood filled with street art murals, theaters, art studios, museums, and designer clothing stores. 

And while 90% of travelers visit Miami to relax on the beach, and enjoy some of the island’s many famed nightclubs, as a solo traveler,   do be careful and take the same precautions that you would in any major city.

23. New Orleans, Louisiana

By: Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

New Orleans is typically viewed as a party town, a place where you can go with a group of friends and have a wild time.  

But can you actually enjoy the Big Easy as a solo traveler?   Yes, absolutely!   Because honestly, one of the most amazing things about New Orleans is the iconic, Southern hospitality that you’ll experience from locals.  

I mean it’s totally normal for random strangers to strike up a conversation with you. That’s why it’s incredibly easy for solo travelers to make new friends here.   Plus New Orleans locals will be quick to lend a hand if you look like you’re lost or are in need of some help.

Another great way for you to meet people is through a walking tour, during which you can admire the beautiful architecture of exquisite neighborhoods like the French Quarter, the Garden District, and Faubourg Marigny.  

Other interesting tour options through the city include cemetery tours and plantation tours.   But if you opt for the latter, be sure to choose one that goes to Whitney Plantation, which has been converted into a very insightful museum about slavery.

And if official tours aren’t really your thing then you can always just wander around the city and enjoy the live music scene here, since you’ll find lots of musicians performing along the streets of the French Quarter.

That being said Frenchmen Street is typically where most locals go to enjoy some live music, and you might want to do the same.

Additionally there are also some amazing restaurants in New Orleans  that serve up traditional, Cajun-style dishes, some of which are available in gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan variations.

And if you’re going to drink while in New Orleans, please do so responsibly and limit yourself to a couple of cocktails.  But if you’re not comfortable drinking alone, then you can always join one of the many pub crawls or cocktails tours through the city .  

24. Washington D.C.

By: Richa of My Ticklefeet

The capital city of the US will take you beyond politics and into a world full of history, fun, and adventure.  

Now, in my opinion, the best time to visit is during the Spring, when you can see all of the beautiful Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC .

Washington D.C. really is amazing at any time of the year since there are a ton of different attractions here that you can happily enjoy alone. From dozens of free Smithsonian museums to National monuments to tours of government buildings, like Capitol Hill, the White House, the Library of Congress, etc., this magical city really does have it all.

And If you’re visiting during the Spring or Summer seasons, then don’t forget to check out some of the free summer festivals that take place, almost every weekend, throughout the city.   Plus many of the embassies in the city will actually open their doors to the public and host various, cultural events during the month of May.

But given the number of tourists and amount of traffic in the city, I’d recommend using either public transport or shared car services to navigate the city (Also, don’t forget to pack a pair of extra comfortable sneakers since you’ll be doing a lot of walking).

I’d also recommend staying in either the downtown area near China town or near the National Mall since both of these areas are extremely close to many of D.C.’s top attractions.

25. Savannah, Georgia

By: Marta and Milosz of Backpackers.WRO

Located in the Southeastern part of the United States, Savannah is the oldest city in the state of Georgia and is a perfect destination for anyone who loves history or who wants to explore famous locations from their favorite books and movies.

However no trip to Savannah would complete without a visit to the city’s historic center, a charming, incredibly safe place that is easy for solo travelers to explore.

You could happily spend hours here, walking amongst the historic buildings and the enormous oak trees, with their characteristic Spanish moss.

While you’re here you can also visit a wealth of different filming locations and sit on Forest Gump’s bench in Chippewa Square, visit the house from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil , or explore the wedding chapel, on Tybee Island, from The Last Song .

Also don’t forget to sample some local delicacies from the famous confectionery – Byrd Cookie Company.   Trust me, the selection of goodies here is huge, with the Scottish Oatmeals being my personal favorite.  

You also can’t miss River Street Sweet, which is home to the most famous candy store in all of Savannah (No matter what, get the beyond delicious pralines).

And if you can, do try and visit River Street in the evening, when you can listen to live music, get a hot dog from a food truck, and grab a local souvenir.

26. Blue Ridge, Georgia

By: Bret of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

Located in northern Georgia, at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains , is the tiny town of Blue Ridge.

Encompassing a mere 2.4 square miles of land, and with a population of less than 1500 people, this quaint village sits adjacent to the Tennessee River watershed in the north and the Alabama River watershed in the south.

Blue Ridge is also surrounded by the mountains of the Chattahoochee National Forest, and offers visitors endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.  

Which is precisely what makes this friendly, welcoming town such a great place for solo travelers.  

Love hiking?   Then explore the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail and check out some of the gorgeous waterfalls that can be found in the Vogel and Amicalola Falls State Parks.  

Enjoy being near the water?   Then stop by Lake Blue Ridge and do some fishing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, or boating. You could also try tubing or fly fishing, for freshwater trout, along the Ellijay and Toccoa Rivers.

Additionally there are plenty of cozy mountain cabins that are available for rent, as well as some amazing hotels that you can stay in, like the Douglas Inn and the historic Blue Ridge Inn B&B.   This quaint little town also has some fantastic restaurants for you to enjoy, like Mike’s Trackside BBQ, Harvest on Main, and the aptly-named Southern Charm.  

Whatever you do though be sure to take a ride on the famous, 125- year-old, Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. It takes visitors on a picturesque, 13-mile journey along the beautiful Toccoa River, to the twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee.

27. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs, Arkansas is one of the best places to travel alone in the US. This spot is famous for its hot springs. Duh! No brainer right! I’m sure the name gave it away. Anyways, if you want some alone time where you can unwind and just connect with yourself, then this is the place to visit.

Just think about going to Bathhouse Row which has 8 bath houses. These date back to the early 19th and 20th century and make great places for a solo stop. Otherwise head to Garvan Woodland gardens for a nice leisurely stroll. The bonsai garden has a lot to see!

If that’s not something you want to do, swap Garvan Woodland gardens with Hot Springs National park. A great tip is to head to the visitor center at Fordyce Bathhouse. It offers free tours of the National park. Once you are done hiking along the trails, you head back to Bathhouse row for another soak!

28. Seattle, Washington

Seattle is one of the big cities that are perfect for anyone who is interested in traveling alone in the US. First off, it has all the amenities that every big city has. Think of museums, amazing food, good shopping, lots of great restaurants and more. One of the top things to do in Seattle is to head to the top of the Space Needle. This is where you will get a bird’s eye view of the Seattle skyline. 

Don’t forget to head to Pike Place Market. It is always bustling and it will definitely make you feel like one with the crowd. Here you can get a lot of great handmade souvenirs, amazing local food and more. While you are there, make sure not to forget the underground speciality shops!

Now if you want to get away from the city, then head to Olympic National Park where you can enjoy the calm forests and trails. Hiking is something that is popular in the region but make sure that you check the weather before you head out on the trails!

Best Places To Travel Alone In The US FAQ

How do you travel alone for the first time in the us.

Traveling alone in the US can be daunting when you are heading out for your first trip. The best thing to do is follow a few rules to ensure that you are safe. For one, make sure to arrive at your destination early. Try to not reach after dark. This will allow you to check in at your accommodation and to check out your neighborhood. Other tips are”

• Always let someone know where you will be.
• Always and I mean always have travel insurance .
• Carry your hotel’s address/business card.
• Never tell anyone where you are staying.

Can A Girl Travel Alone In The USA?

Yes by all means! I have traveled solo across the US so many times. It is safe as long as you are sensible about your interactions with others. 

At What Age Can You Travel Alone In The USA?

Generally airlines allow children above the age of 5 to travel alone. Children between the age of 5-11 will however have parental permission and you have to check with the airlines before traveling.

TADA ! OUR MISSION TO FIND THE 26 BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL ALONE IN THE US IS NOW COMPLETE!

I hope you found this list moderately inspiring because, gosh darn it, i know i did., sure, i’ve been to a couple of these cities, but most of them are still totally new to., so, if you need me, i’ll be living my best life on one of these  hella awesome, solo vacations, and if this list of epic, solo trips has left you longing for some usa solo travel, then pin this now and read it again later.

Fares Match

Thursday 3rd of March 2022

I read a lot of Blog Post on Solo Travel but this blog are really intresting and I never read blog topic like this. Your writing skill Awesome!

girlwiththepassport

Thanks so much for reading.

Friday 4th of February 2022

I liked the post, very interesting and well written, I really needed to know about Solo Travel in the USA, thanks for sharing :D!

Thanks for the comment and so glad you found the post useful. Thanks for reading.

Monday 8th of February 2021

This is such a great list! Philadelphia and Phoenix are personally high on my list of upcoming places to check out. I'll definitely save these suggestions for the future!

Tuesday 23rd of February 2021

Oh awesome! Thanks for reading Courtney and so glad you found this article helpful.

Saturday 4th of January 2020

This is such an awesome post! I'd always discounted traveling solo in the US - not from choice, but because I don't drive and thought that'd be a problem. I'm seeing now that I had a lot more options than I thought! Thank you! <3

Thanks for reading! Yeah, there are a TON of solo travel options for anyone in the United States. Just so much to do and so little time, per usual.

As a solo traveller, I’m definitely adding lots of these places to my list! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for reading and so glad that you found this post useful.

Privacy Overview

30 BEST Places in the USA for Solo Female Travelers in 2024

05/07/2023 by Kristin Addis 28 Comments

The United States is gorgeous, from sea to shining sea. I love being from such a huge and varied country with all kinds of different landscapes, cultures, and sights. If I spent my lifetime only exploring the States, I’d have so much variety it would still feel like I’d traveled far and wide.

It’s incredible that in one country you have some of the highest mountaintops, tropical beaches and icy glaciers, and rocky deserts with some of the most breathtaking formations on planet Earth.

So for those who want to test out solo traveling at home before they go abroad, or if you’re from elsewhere and want to see what the US has to offer, you’ve made a great choice. But with so many options, you might be wondering where to start. For a visual tour, watch the video below, or keep reading for an explanation of each below:

These are some of my favorites in the USA, plus the advice of several other solo female travelers to get you started:

Table of Contents

1. Maui, Hawaii

I forgive you if you don’t think of Hawai’i when you think of great places to travel solo, and I wouldn’t have either until I actually went to Maui alone last year. It was fantastic! There was so much to do , from a women’s surf school to driving the Road to Hana to joining snorkeling trips.

I thought I would be surrounded by honeymooners, but I actually found that people were very outgoing and friendly, coupled off or not. I highly recommend Maui solo, much to my surprise!

Book your stay in Maui here.

Book guided tours in Maui here .

2. The Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places for adventurous solo female travelers. With volcanoes, world-class dive and snorkeling sites , interesting beaches, and miles of hiking trails, there’s more to discover on the Big island than any other island in Hawaii. In fact, it’s larger than all of them, combined! After visiting more than six times, my favorite things to do are swim with the Manta rays at night, hike to the Captain Cook memorial, and join boat tours.

It’s easy to meet friends through activities, at the beach, and by going on day tours. The island is easy to navigate with a rental car, as there is one main road that circles the entire island. Most people consider going to the more tourist-heavy islands like Oahu , but the Big Island is amazing, too.

Book your stay in The Big Island here , or consider staying in a real treehouse (!).

-READ MORE-

The perfect Hawai’i Big Island itinerary

The best beaches on the Big Island of Hawai’i

24 amazing things to do on the Big Island of Hawai’i

3. Alabama Hills, California

The Alabama Hills is BLM land, meaning it’s owned by the public (the Bureau of Land Management), with arches, beautiful views of the eastern Sierras, and lots of Hollywood history. I did a solo road trip here and enjoyed every minute of it. If you are a photography lover, the Alabama Hills has plenty of photogenic stops, including the popular Movie Road (pictured above), Mobius Arch (go at sunset!), Boot Arch, and Miss Alabama herself.

As a solo traveler, you’ll get lots of solitude in the Alabama Hills and the other deserts on my California deserts road trip , which I loved. This is one of the beautiful things about traveling in this part of the world: all the wide-open spaces and the spiritual vibe. Plus, you can’t beat the stargazing or the sunsets!

The ultimate Alabama Hills, California guide

4. San Francisco, California

Whenever people who aren’t from the state visit California, almost everyone ends up falling in love with San Francisco. As a native Southern Californian, it’s in my DNA to roll my eyes and find this offensive, but deep down, I silently agree. The Bay Area in general is beautiful and temperate, and has a unique culture. My European friends often say it has a charm that reminds them of home.

I love it for the ease of getting around on the BART system, how small and contained the city itself is, and how picturesque and multicultural it is. Try a yoga or meditation class, head there during Pride, or see some live music at the Outside Lands festival. It’s the perfect place to jump off from or end up in when on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway too!

Book your stay in San Francisco here.

5. Big Sur, California

I’ve looked on every continent and I still haven’t found anywhere as beautiful or majestic as Big Sur on the central coast in California, though it’s seen its fair share of disasters lately. Still, when accessible, McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is one of the dreamiest waterfalls I’ve seen.

Big Sur is a fantastic place to unwind. If you want to meet others, the campsites can be pretty social. However when I’m out there, I find the best companions are the dolphins and whales jumping out of the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, and the squirrels and deer on the trails.

For more on my favorite state and national parks in California, check out my musings on Alamo’s Scenic Route.

Book your stay in Big Sur here.

6. Lake Tahoe, California

One of my favorite spots to explore on my own is in my backyard – Lake Tahoe! There are nearly limitless trails to discover (like in Emerald Bay ) during the summer months , including Tallac pictured above.

For those who don’t feel comfortable hiking or biking on their own, there are multiple companies that offer guided tours . There’s also much to do that doesn’t have to do with hiking, like taking pictures at some of the most beautiful parts of Lake Tahoe , especially in springtime . If you’re into skiing, sledding, or just taking a scenic gondola ride, winter in Lake Tahoe has so much to offer as well.

Need a place to stay? We’ve got you covered with a list of the best Airbnb’s and boutique hotels .

7. Mendocino, California

If you’re looking for moody coastline, crashing waves, spotted seals, incredible sunsets, adorable BnBs , and an abundance of inspiration, Mendocino is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

This is more of a retreat for those who want some peace and quiet. Walk along the coastal bluffs, explore Van Damme State Park, check out the glass sand beach in Fort Bragg, and eat delicious food at the Noyo Harbor Inn.

8. Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington

When it comes to national parks in Washington , Rainier is easily my favorite. It’s such a prominent volcano, you can see it from most major freeways and suburbs of Seattle. Hiking around it is also easy enough, with trails like the Skyline trail serving up beautiful views all along your way.

Rainier is a popular national park, so if hiking solo , you’ll rarely be truly alone.

9. Seattle, Washington

If you want to visit a city teeming with activity but still find time for solitude, head to Seattle where the various neighborhoods and activities provide opportunities for both, sometimes even on the same day. Here you’ll find cultural foods , fantastic museums , and beautiful public parks. Talented local musicians perform throughout the city on most nights, so you’ll hear jazz, experimental, rock, punk, metal, baroque, blues, hip-hop.

You can navigate the city via public transit by day, or taxi/ride-share by night. Seattle is very solo-traveler friendly, so you’ll notice other people dining and enjoying the musical ambiance alone. Don’t hesitate to reach out and get past that ‘Seattle Freeze’ as people are friendly once you start the conversation.

Book your stay in Seattle here.

10. Portland, Oregon

The beauty of Portland is that a solo traveler can be as social as they’d like in the city and then retreat to the forest for solitude at any time. Portland is just a short drive away from the Columbia River Gorge , where you’ll find the majestic Multnomah Falls, among others.

In the city, you’ll enjoy bearing witness to all of Portland’s quirks, like its quintessential underground donut scene . Biking is quite popular in Portland, and you can join in on the cycling fun by taking a bike tour that focuses on the city’s vibrant art and poetry culture.

11. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas wouldn’t have been the first place that I would have expected to be awesome traveling alone, but with so much to do, it’s actually perfect! People are in a good mood. They’re there to be social and have a good time. I almost always make friends when I visit, whether with a group, or by myself.

There are fun indoor activities like the famous wax museum, Madame Tussaud’s , and there’s so much to see that isn’t on the strip, like the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam . These are my favorite day trips to take from Las Vegas. Las Vegas is also an excellent jumping-off point if you want to explore Reno (below). You can plan your road trip based off this guide .

12. Reno, Nevada

My current hometown , Reno is truly the biggest little city in the world. Because of it’s pretty small size but excellent amenities, Reno a wonderful place to travel alone. It’s a hub for those looking to get lucky at our casinos, and the perfect spot for events like the balloon race each September, when hundreds of hot air balloons take to the sky. Thanks to the art, food and culture boom of the last decade, there are tons of funky little cafes and restaurants.

If you love nature, there’s a place for outdoorsy people, too, who want to hike or ski in and around Lake Tahoe. You’ll find bobcats, the extraordinary lake, migratory birds, hiking trails, mountains, salt pans, sand dunes, brilliant stars, and hundred-year-old trees. In Reno, you’ll have the time and space to take it all in.

13. Page, Arizona

Page is the jumping-off point for several of Arizona’s most beautiful places. I was blown away in particular by Horseshoe Bend and of course the famous Antelope Canyon. Since this part of the world attracts so many travelers, I found it easy to have conversations with others who were free-camping with me, and even made a friend when I ventured to the paid campsites for a shower (but not in the shower itself, we met in the parking lot later, I swear).

If you’re considering which of the two canyons to visit, I did a comparison of Lower and Upper here , though both are worth checking out for different reasons!

Book your stay in Page, Arizona, here.

See tours available in Page here .

14. Moab, Utah

Utah is one of my favorite states to road trip through solo . I’ve done it twice and I’d do it again!

Although Zion National Park is gorgeous, and I love the national forests around Provo, it’s Moab that I find the best as a solo female traveler. Moab is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. There are tons of parks like Canyonlands and Arches National Parks as well as Dead Horse Point State Park . Basically it’s one of the most gorgeous areas on earth, with a high concentration of incredible rock formations and free campsites, and plenty of things to do .

I tend to find that when a place attracts people because of common interest, especially something outdoorsy, it tends to be social. Moab is no exception. It’s a favorite amongst van-lifers, which means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet others on the trails, in cafes, and at viewpoints .

Book your stay in Moab here .

15. Sun Valley, Idaho

Idaho really must be one of the most beautiful states in the wintertime . I stayed in Sun Valley for a winter and fell in love with the tranquil views, the spectacular sunsets, and snowmobiling when my legs were too tired from snowshoeing and skiing.

Sun Valley is a quaint town with fantastic skiing and snowshoeing, natural hot springs, and locals who are more than happy to have a conversation with visitors and newcomers. If you want to venture outside of Sun Valley, there are tons of amazing hot springs to check out. You can find my itinerary here .

Book your stay in Idaho here , or stay in a cozy, heated treehouse !

16. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in Montana is a magical slice of outdoors heaven that is perfect for solo travelers with an adventurous spirit and who thrive in solitude. Here you’ll find crystal-clear lakes, abundant greenery as far as the eye can see, and some of the best stargazing in the US.

Don’t be intimidated by the park’s size, because it’s totally doable to visit for just a couple of days. Check out everything you can do in Glacier National Park in just 48 hours for inspiration.

17. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe seems like the more upscale, artsy, and design-focused part of New Mexico — and I love it! While other parts of the state have their own character, Santa Fe served up that quintessential Southwestern vibe that most people picture when they think of New Mexico.

This is where you’ll find some of the finest restaurants, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA). The Meow Wolf Museum was a trippy wonderland, and the galleries of Canyon Road had me enchanted. It’s a solo traveler’s paradise, with many awesome things to do .

18. Bayfield, Wisconsin

Midwesterners are known for being friendly, and they lived up to their reputation when I visited Bayfield, Wisconsin. It’s an artsy town with outgoing residents, and it’s small enough that it feels intimate, yet big enough that there is plenty to do. Join a kayaking or boat trip, or take a drive around to the various orchards.

There are plenty of beaches and quirky hangouts as well, and camping opportunities abound. If you visit in the winter, the famous caves ice over, which looks incredible. If you’re into photography and the outdoors, then you will absolutely love this little town on Lake Superior, the jumping-off point for the Apostle Islands .

Book your stay in Bayfield here.

19. Chicago, Illinois

Visiting such a large city solo gives you a sense of anonymity that can be exciting. When I lived in Chicago, I loved going on solo adventures all over town and discovering cultural gems, quirky restaurants, and unexpected museums. Each neighborhood in Chicago has a personality of its own, filled with endless adventures. Whether you’re staying for a couple of days or a few weeks, you can be sure that Chicago lives up to the hype of its being one of the most fascinating cities in the country.

No matter if you visit during the frigid winter or the lively summer, don’t miss out on an architecture boat tour — Chicago is bursting with history, and many stories come to the surface through its unique architectural history. You can also take a tour of the legendary Art Institute of Chicago before opening hours, for a VIP experience.

I recommend that solo travelers choose accommodations that are in the Loop (downtown) area or close to an L train (Chicago’s metro) for easy access to public transport. This will give you the freedom to move around town without having to navigate the buses or use rideshares, which can get expensive, especially if you’re on your own.

If you are looking for ways to save money, check out all these incredible things to do in Chicago for free !

20. Detroit, Michigan

Although it’s known as the Motor City, there’s so much more to Detroit than cars and engines. It has a reputation for being one of the most historically rich destinations in the country, let alone the Midwest. It’s famous for its contributions to music, industry, and architecture especially.

Start your solo trip to Detroit with a walking tour that highlights the city’s beauty and architectural gems. You also won’t want to miss a trip to Belle Isle, a massive, 982-acre island park home to a conservatory, aquarium, museum, and nature center. Who knew you could find a peaceful green paradise in such an industrial place?

That’s what makes Detroit so special for a solo trip, though. You could spend hours walking around town, getting a feel for its urban flair, and then head somewhere else to connect with nature and find solitude.

There is so much to do in Detroit , you might find yourself going back over and over again for a solo trip or otherwise.

21. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is the perfect place for solo female travelers ; there’s something for everyone here (check out our vegan guide !). You’ll find a fascinating and rich cultural history, one that you can discover over a long weekend, and then of course NOLA is known for Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras . If it’s your first trip, stay in a boutique hotel on Royal Street, right near the allegedly haunted LaLaurie Mansion , or check out our list of boutique hotels in New Orleans . While you may have heard of the Garden District and the French Quarter, you absolutely cannot miss the Bywater district where you’ll find hipster art and culture with a Southern twist.

Though New Orleans is a large city, you can easily get around via public transportation (bus or streetcar), or navigate on foot. You’ll be surrounded by tourists and locals and as with any city, exercise precautions. Our New Orleans packing list will help pack to get the most out of your trip.

Book your stay in New Orleans here.

22. Austin, Texas

In recent years, Austin has completely exploded in popularity. More and more young people are choosing to transplant themselves to this hip Southern city, and I can’t blame them. There’s so much to do there — from catching live music to the summer street festivals and top-notch museums, this city has it all.

Austin is the perfect solo destination for travelers who enjoy meeting other people on the road. It’s very social, with bustling restaurant, café, and bar scenes. Go vintage shopping at North Loop Vintage Shops, see the city via bike tour , or connect with your inner child at the Museum of Ice Cream . It’s no wonder Austin is such a popular destination for travelers, solo or otherwise.

23. Big Bend, Texas

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and that’s certainly how it felt exploring Big Bend National Park . The sky, the landscape, and the wide open spaces felt endless. Plus, Texans are friendly.

Check out the Windows, watch the sunset on the Rio Grande, and hike til your heart’s content in one of the biggest national parks in the system.

24. Nashville, Tennessee

Famously a destination for girls’ trips and bachelor bashes, Nashville has a bit of a reputation for being a party city. Maybe as a solo traveler, this is exciting to you. If it’s not, no worries! There is much more to Nashville than its vibrant nightlife.

Nashville is bubbling over with historic sites, street festivals, live shows, and much more. It’s also one of the cheapest destinations in the USA and has plenty of free things to do . The Tennessee State Museum and Cooter’s Place Museum are among many free museums one can visit; there are also plenty of parks and the legendary Music City Walk of Fame.

When you travel solo, you don’t have anybody to split transportation and accommodation costs with, so finding affordable destinations makes a big difference in how much you can stretch your dollar. Nashville is my top pick for an affordable solo trip.

25. Islamorada, Florida

Also known as the Village of Islands, Islamorada is a beautiful destination for a solo traveler. The best time to visit is during the winter or early spring when hurricanes are raging somewhere else. When you get here, it’s super easy and affordable to navigate the town with the free taxi-service in electric vehicles called Freebee .

Islamorada has beautiful snorkeling (interested in snorkeling in Key Largo ?), awesome fishing opportunities, and uninhabited mangrove islands to explore. If you rent your own boat, you can go to some of the best off-shore reefs and fishing spots; if you rent a kayak, you can check out the historic ghost town of Indian Key. 

Water-based activities aren’t for everyone though, so hop on the road and drive over to Windley Key to walk along giant walls of carved limestone. Islamorada also has a thriving local arts culture, supported especially by the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District. Plus there are beautiful beaches (check out the best beaches in Key Largo ), and vibey restaurants where you can find locally caught seafood, live entertainment, and activities like feeding the tarpon. Uniquely situated among the rest of the Florida Keys, you can also conveniently take a bus north towards Key Largo or south towards Key West , stopping at tropical destinations along the way like those in Marathon and Big Pine .

Book your stay in Islamorada here (the hotel also offers fishing charters!).

26. Miami, Florida

Colorful and vibrant, Miami stands out as one of the most unique cities in the US. Between hearing salsa at all hours of the day in Little Havana and finding murals from world-renowned artists throughout the city, your senses will be delighted here.

If you thought Miami was all about crowded beaches and roaring nightclubs, think again. It’s a great place for solo female travelers, because of the abundance of things to do in Miami . Plus, the city has an excellent reputation for being extremely hospitable, and even quite safe in general.

Whether you are looking for a beach vacation where you can soothe your worries with a dip in the ocean or a full-on intercultural experience, you’ll find it in Miami.

27. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is dripping with Southern charm, and definitely has plenty to do to keep any solo traveler occupied. Some travelers describe it as the closest thing to a fairytale, and judging by the elaborate architecture, towering oak trees with Spanish moss, and overall historical atmosphere, I think they’re right.

Fall in love with Savannah by hopping on an e-bike tour to see the city’s highlights. As it’s such a globally recognized soul food destination, get a taste by taking a food tour . Both of these activities are great if you want to have a bit of social interaction with other travelers, but if you want to hit the town solo, make sure to spend time strolling through the Historic District and River Street.

Ready to be enchanted? Check out this ultimate Savannah Guide for more ideas of what to do and where to eat.

28. Washington, DC

Our nation’s capital city is undoubtedly the mega-hub for incredible historical sites and museums, such as those at the National Mall . Personally, I prefer going to museums solo, so I can move through each exhibit at my own pace. I’m that girl that needs to read every placard and see every little thing, so going by myself gives me the freedom to do that without holding anybody else up.

If this is also you, Washington DC will be heavenly to visit alone. Get up before dawn to see the way the rising sun illuminates the Lincoln Memorial, because nobody can stop you. This city is truly magical at sunrise, before the hustle and bustle of the day begins.

You can also grab a seat on a historic hop-on-hop-off landmarks tour for another self-paced option. Or, if you prefer your history lesson a bit spookier, check out this haunted history ghost tour .

The Northeast

29. cape cod, massachusetts.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts is a family-friendly beach destination. Because it’s safe, easy to explore and absolutely gorgeous, it’s especially suited to solo female travelers. It’s also only an hour away from Boston and Providence.

If you have a car, you can more efficiently explore the ocean beaches and epic sand dunes. On the bay side, you’ll get breathtaking sunsets, which are even more spectacular at low tide when the colors reflect off the sand flat puddles.

If you like to hike, try the 25-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail , which runs from Wellfleet to Dennis. You can rent a bike in outposts along the trail and deviate to marshes, lakes and cranberry bogs. If you’re looking for a more relaxing adventure, Wellfleet has drive-in movies and a weekend flea market. Gay-friendly Provincetown has restaurants serving the legendary clam chowder, nightlife, shop-til-you-drop opportunities and whale-watching excursions .

Book your stay on Cape Cod here.

30. Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson Valley nothing like New York City , yet the Big Apple is only an hour away. Here you’ll find farmers markets and mom ‘n’ pop shops in place of grocery stores and chain restaurants, and gorgeous views accessible via many outdoor activities, such as rock climbing and hiking. Some of the best rock climbing is at “the Gunks,” or you can explore trails at Harriman or Bear Mountain State Park or experience the Walkway over the Hudson .

There are so many pocket towns, called “hamlets,” where you can walk through orchards, browse in art galleries, and skip along the railway. The valley is also an excellent place for a road trip, especially during the fall when all the leaves are starting to change color.

Though the United States is huge, and no list could ever do justice to the wealth of places to see and experience, these are a few of our favorites. I hope this list helped you to get a sense of where to start — or continue — your solo journey.

If you have some favorite solo spots to share, please tell me in the comments below!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Ijana Loss says

01/21/2018 at 7:31 am

I’ve actually been kind of thinking I wanted a list like this for a while! There are tons of articles about the best places in the USA to visit, but this list pertaining specifically to solo travel is great! And I love how many of these places don’t need a car to get around; I would much rather use public transport or my feet if possible

Kristin says

01/22/2018 at 2:22 am

Which is a rarity back home, but I agree!

01/21/2018 at 3:32 pm

Hey there! Glad you have added a post about the US, this is awesome. I love the Western US in my travels, hard to believe it is the same country! Here are my thoughts to add to this nice post plus some Eastern US call-outs solo or with friends, hope this is helpful as I have traveled a lot of the East:

1. Minneapolis and New Orleans: travel 3-4 hours north of Minneapolis to Lake Itasca, and an hour downstream of New Orleans and you will get to see the beginning and end of the mighty Mississippi River! There is St. Paul, MN, Minneapolis’ sister city, interesting history and it is the capital of Minnesota. You can walk in comfort for miles through downtown Minneapolis even in winter through the Minneapolis Skyway System, an engineering achievement.

2. Oregon coast: One of the most breathtaking views and experiences I have ever had was a rare sunny day along the Oregon coast. I got to see the coastline specifically near Florence, Oregon with rocks sitting on the beach several stories tall, temperate rain forests (not all rain forests are tropical) with trees hugging the cliff sides maybe 1000 feet steep if not more, sliding down to the beautiful blue ocean. Then there are the huge sand dunes (not like Namibia, but really neat). June is the best time to get it to clear up, that is the catch, having the weather cooperate (visibility).

For those who are on the Eastern side of the US, besides Cape Cod you’ve got:

3. The warm ocean beaches stretching from North Carolina (south of Cape Hatteras) to Florida: NC is quiet/quaint, South Carolina lots to do, so need to avoid busy season, Charleston, SC my favorite for history, Georgia coast for nature (loggerhead nesting) or for rustic privacy (11 private islands) or resort fancy vacations, Florida for tropical feel or exciting Miami, or more relaxed feel of the Gulf coast, or see the Everglades, swim with manatees and dolphins. 4. The FL Keys: Drive it or bike it, includes incredible bridges like the Seven Mile Bridge over the water 5. Niagara Falls, 6. New York City (you can go solo here, I have, the food is great, Manhattan is fun, 15% is park land, can do it too at a reasonable price if flexible), 7. Washington, D.C (use mass transit you are set, so much history and history being made, Smithsonian, it’s all free! Saw every museum then they built 3 more!), 8. West Virginia-Virginia Blue Ridge Parkway down to NC Smoky Mountains: For those into mountains instead of beaches, not as steep as the West, but so green, lush, and prehistoric (most diverse species of trees in North America)! 9. Maine coastline up to Canadian border: Gorgeous, rocky coastline, ending your trip at Pembroke, ME and see the “Reversing Falls” (yes the tides are so big there that the roaring cascades stop and reverse, need to get there 1 hour or so before high tide). If go into Canada, Bay of Fundy tide change biggest in the world. You can do a lot of this by bike! I have this in my travel plans soon!

I’d love to visit the Keys

02/27/2018 at 6:25 am

Yes, the Keys are great and offer some fantastic diving opportunities among other things. Morehead City, NC as well as Flower Garden Banks off Texas are great options as well in this regard! (but nothing like Rajat Ampat I am sure and I can only speak for the East Coast, I bet you could list off the top of your head spots to go out West! 🙂 ).

04/25/2019 at 3:58 am

Omg – you have to go to the Keys. I think Key West is closer to New Orleans than Miami. And, while you are at it jump down to the BVI.

Brittany Quaglieri says

01/22/2018 at 11:37 am

As a born-and-raised Cape Codder, I enthusiastically second it as a great destination for solo travelers! I take a solo trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket (sometimes both!) every year. Thanks for including me in this post!

03/15/2018 at 11:08 am

GReat list! I would add Portland Oregon, and Eugene and Bend Oregon!

JD White says

03/23/2018 at 10:46 pm

Wow, what a list! I’d have to agree on San Francisco. I definitely left my heart there last April! Have you considered exploring more in the prairie regions? I might have some suggestions!

03/25/2018 at 8:20 pm

Feel free to add them here!

Alissa M says

05/28/2018 at 4:17 pm

Charleston SC is also a gorgeous destination & one easy to traverse solo. Historic neighborhoods are breathtaking.

One can easily walk much of the city, along with a free trolley and many bicycle cabs

05/29/2018 at 12:51 am

Thanks for the addition! I’d love to check out the South.

03/28/2019 at 11:46 pm

Hi Kristin,

I’m planning a trip to Alaska for northern light in September, I want to visit some places in the west coast of US after 1 week in Alaska.

My questions are: 1. Can you share typical places suit for solo traveler in the west coast as I plan to spend 1 week there? I’m not into shopping 2. Is it safe for girl to travel alone there 3. Are there public transportation eg: subway, bus

The itinerary is : Ho Chi Minh city –> Alaska –> West Coast –> Ho Chi Minh city

Thank a lot advance. Leu

04/01/2019 at 5:14 pm

Hi Leu, There will probably not be dorms in Alaska that you can use. I wish that hotel availability was better there. It might be more expensive but worth it! I would travel there solo, though Anchorage does have some crime. Sadly the public transport in Vietnam is much better than in the US so renting a car is best!

George Fox-Edwards says

04/30/2019 at 5:49 am

I wish I’d read this post when I roadtripped the West coast of the US! So much adventure to be had, let alone epic sights to see. Can’t believe I’d never heard of Moab before, that’s been swiftly added to the bucket list!

05/01/2019 at 6:23 pm

Moab is soooo awesome!

Solo Female Traveler says

09/13/2019 at 8:29 pm

Oh my gosh. My next travel destination: The Big Island! I definitely believe Hawaii is the most friendliest place and ideal for solo travelers. Amazing post! 🙂

09/16/2019 at 1:37 am

John Harper says

01/11/2020 at 4:42 am

Las Vegas is on my bucket list. This list is awesome to explore USA. What time do you recommend to visit Big Sur?

01/12/2020 at 9:32 pm

Probably September. The weather is still nice and the kiddies are back in school so fewer tourists. However that’s close to our burning season which seems to be a yearly thing now so hard to say.

02/07/2021 at 6:36 pm

I’ve been looking where to vacation as a solo female for a year now. I want to pull the trigger this March. I’ve narrowed it down to Utah or South Dakota. History and mountains are my interest. Thanks for the website. It was very informative

02/09/2021 at 9:43 am

Denise says

09/12/2021 at 10:57 am

I am turning 50 in March and would like to plan a trip that involves being active : like hiking , yoga beaches . Any advice ?

Mikaela says

03/02/2022 at 8:54 pm

I am planning a little solo road trip around the Southwest this spring and am really wondering about the free campsites you mentioned around the desert, especially Utah! I am sure I would stumble upon them somehow during my wandering, but for the sake of some broad planning and peace of mind, could you reccomend some free campsite areas? How did you find them, asking around or a cool website or both? Any tips are greatly appreciated ??

03/07/2022 at 10:09 am

Yes, look specifically for Bureau of land management areas on maps. When you are on BLM land, look for little side roads. Those almost always lead to an area where you can camp. You just have to be at least a mile from the road and not visible from major roadways. You also have to leave no trace so keep in mind that these areas do not have any services including bathrooms. Quite often, you will also need a 4WD vehicle. You can also look at freecampsites.net or the dyrt. Sometimes those are decent resources.

Chrish Smith says

03/02/2022 at 9:55 pm

I read a lot of Blog Post on Solo Travel but this blog are really interesting and I never read blog topic like this. Your writing skill Awesome!

03/07/2022 at 10:07 am

12/01/2023 at 6:13 am

My name is Donna,I would like to go on a Solo weekend, where no driving is involve,just walking from sites to sites and affordable. And Amtrax is my way of getting to my weekend getaway. 3-4 hours is my train ride.

Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Solo Travelers

Have the ultimate fun at Barceló Bávaro Beach in the Dominican Republic

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

When traveling and exploring solo, checking into an all-inclusive resort can offer a stress-free way to unwind or partake in activities without keeping a mental tab on costs. Room rates will often include meals, activities, and even a spa treatment or two at some of the most interesting all-inclusive resorts. Check out our selections below, from an adults-only retreat or clothing-optional resort in the Caribbean to our picks for the best warm- and cold-weather resorts to book in 2023. We factored in value, dining options, and guest reviews while putting together this roundup.

Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Solo Travelers in 2024

• Best Overall: Barceló Bávaro Beach, Dominican Republic
• Best Adults-Only: BodyHoliday, St. Lucia
• Best Retreat: Lake Austin Spa Resort, Austin, Texas
• Best Clothing Optional: Hedonism II, Negril, Jamaica
• Best for a Warm Getaway: Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada
• Best for a Winter Getaway: Glacier View Lodge, Canada
• Best Mediterranean: Club Med Kemer - Turkey
• Our Top Picks
• Barceló Bávaro Beach, Dominican Republic
• BodyHoliday, St. Lucia
• Lake Austin Spa Resort, Austin, Texas
• Hedonism II, Negril, Jamaica
• Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada

Glacier View Lodge, Canada

• Club Med Kemer - Turkey
• See More (4)

Final Verdict

Compare the best all-inclusive resorts for singles, methodology, best overall : barceló bávaro beach , dominican republic.

Barceló Bávaro Beach

Dozens of activities, multiple pools and dining outlets, and a dedicated singles week offer lots to do for the solo traveler.

Multiple dining outlets and bars, adults-only pool, premium lounge

Array of different activities

Adults-only section offers extra relaxation

Beautiful grounds

Not ideal for a boutique experience

Guests in 2022 have mentioned rooms could use an update

Rapid service can be inconsistent at times

Barceló Bávaro Beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic is a 500-plus-room, adults-only all-inclusive resort located steps from the breathtaking beach for which it is named. Guests particularly enjoy the ample sun beds, relaxing atmosphere, and access to the casino and nightclub located at its sister property within the same complex, Barcelo Palace.

Although the resort attracts honeymooners and couples, its annual Singles Week—typically held each fall—is a full week dedicated to solo travelers looking to socialize , and it’s packed full of group activities like watersports and volleyball, live DJ-ed pool and beach parties, excursions, and more. Year round, find quiet spots for sunbathing or reading a book on the beach or in the resort’s landscaped tropical gardens. Mingle with others at the swimming pool or at included activities ranging from yoga classes to kayaking. 

Between Bavaro Beach and Palace, the two resorts boast nine bars, restaurants, pools, an 18-hole golf course, and tennis courts. Booking a Premium Level reservation includes an upgraded room, exclusive lounge access, a bottle of rum, access to the spa’s hydrotherapy area, and 10 percent off spa services.

Best Adults-Only : BodyHoliday , St. Lucia

BodyHoliday Saint Lucia

Experience adults-only, wellness-focused downtime or active adventures in pristine tropical surroundings.

Wellness center, beauty clinic, adventure program, piano bar

All-inclusive rate includes a daily wellness treatment

Resort hosts annual solo traveler retreat

Expert activity instructors

Resort’s hilly locale may be inconvenient for some

Daily wellness treatments included in rate are limited to massage, body wrap, or a facial

As one of the Caribbean’s best all-inclusive spa resorts, set your own immersive, nourishing pace at beachfront BodyHoliday Saint Lucia. Bookings include a complimentary daily massage, facial, or body wrap, as well as access to personal fitness trainers, nutritionists, and other wellness practitioners. Activities like golf, snorkeling and scuba diving, tai chi, and Pilates classes are also included. So are half- or full-day walks, which take in sights like Sulphur Springs (touted as the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano), Diamond Falls, and The Pitons—a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For those looking to connect with others, the resort hosts an annual September Solos retreat. In addition to a personalized schedule of daily spa treatments, the week includes group activities that range from cocktail and dinner parties to land and water sports. Standard Garden View rooms do not incur a single supplement , and ground floor rooms in this category open into a patio in the gardens.

Best Retreat : Lake Austin Spa Resort , Austin , Texas

Lake Austin Spa Resort

Unwind lakefront or at the spa in an intimate setting.

25,000-square-foot spa facility, water taxi service, daily land and water sports activities

Lakeside activities in secluded surroundings

Discounts for longer stays

40 rooms offer an intimate, personal experience

Resort asks guests silence cell phones in public spaces on property

Resort dining ends at 9 p.m.

Changes or cancellations to a reservation may forfeit $1,000 deposit

An all-inclusive overnight experience at Lake Austin Spa Resort in Texas’ Hill Country includes everything from happy hour wine cruises on the lake, artist talks, and culinary demonstrations, to watercraft like stand-up paddleboards and hydro-bikes. Consult its activities calendar on the website to learn about more than a dozen daily activities throughout the week.

Also covered are three meals a day, unlimited smoothies, juices, and coffee, for starters; access to two outdoor pools and a heated indoor pool; and a 25,000-square-foot spa facility.

Situated across 19 secluded lakefront acres, arrive at the resort (by water taxi, if desired) primed to do everything or nothing at all. Depending on your selected room category, its 40 rooms might include a private garden or a private outdoor hot tub. The resort is also pet-friendly.

The wellness resort has been around since the 1940s, and in its prior lives, it was a camp geared towards fishing, then nudism, and finally the rodeo before transforming into the wellness resort today.

Best Clothing Optional : Hedonism II , Negril , Jamaica

 Hedonism II

Shed inhibitions at one of the Caribbean’s top clothing-optional resorts.

Multiple dining and drinking options, playroom, nightly entertainment

Lively pool and beach areas

Themed parties

Land and water activities included

Only certain room categories feature a balcony

Not ideal for those looking for a retreat

Resort could use a refresh

Uninhibited solo travelers will feel at home at Hedonism II in Negril, Jamaica, located along Negril’s famous Seven Mile Beach. The all-inclusive, beachfront resort offers ocean view or garden view rooms and suites and is clothing optional in most areas (restaurants excluded). The resort’s all-inclusive rates cover daytime activities that range from volleyball to tennis, sailing, and scuba diving.

Beginning at 10:30 p.m., the Romping Shop playroom opens for overnight guests. There’s also the Kama Sutra Palace (for desire-centric workshops like Tantra), a spa, and dining and drinking outlets including a steak house, an Italian restaurant with a Jamaican twist, and buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner dining. 

Airport transfer service can be arranged for an additional fee, and all gratuities are included in the daily rate. 

Best for a Warm Getaway : Spice Island Beach Resort , Grenada

Spice Island Beach Resort

Upscale villa-style accommodations and top-notch service are enjoyed in one of the Caribbean’s most fragrant islands.

Spa, private pool in select rooms

Staff go above and beyond

Some room categories open up directly to the beach

Currently the island nation’s only AAA Five Diamond award recipient

Some rooms and patios situated too close together for privacy

Located on one of the busier parts of the beach

Guests of this 8-acre all-inclusive resort appreciate the attentive staff (who make a point to learn your name), fresh meals accented with herbs from the property’s gardens, and the boutique resort’s understated luxury. Its beachfront location along Grand Anse beach, which stretches for nearly 2 miles of calm, clear waters, certainly helps, too. A booking at Spice Island Resort includes all-day dining, access to its bars (and in-room mini bar), a fitness center, and use of its non-motorized water sports equipment. Spa treatments are also available.

Spice Island Resort in St. George’s, Grenada, features 64 villa-style suites; some open up directly onto the beach, feature a private pool, or include a patio or balcony. Suites also include Molton Brown bath amenities, exposed wood-paneled ceilings in some, and a color palette that mimics Grenada’s colorful natural surroundings. 

Also known as a Spice Isle, a tour of a local spice plantation or factory—think nutmeg, cacao, cinnamon—offers a snapshot of the island’s history and culture if you venture out from the resort’s comforts.

Best for a Winter Getaway : Glacier View Lodge , Canada

Cold weather enthusiasts will enjoy a singular opportunity to check into one of the only glacier-front resorts.

Welcome reception, guided glacier tours

2019 redesign with updated, contemporary Scandinavian décor and a refreshed look for its restaurants

Ideal for cold weather enthusiasts in search of a remote respite (and adventure)

Transfer service between Jasper, Banff, and Calgary via the Brewster Express

No room service

Seasonal operations

Dining not included in the rate

Cold weather solace seekers should head to Alberta and check in at pristine Glacier View Lodged, located between Jasper and Banff. The seasonal resort operates between May and September. Though not entirely all-inclusive, guests can choose to book a room only (with views of the mountains or Athabasca Glacier) or opt for the Columbia Icefield Experience, which includes a guided evening tour along the Columbia Icefield Skywalk , and guided morning tour of Athabasca Glacier. All bookings include a welcome reception and beverage.

While dining at its two restaurants is not included in the room rate, an overnight at Canada’s only glacier-front resort, coupled with the guided icefield experiences, offers a unique option for solo exploration.

Best Mediterranean : Club Med Kemer - Turkey

Club Med Kemer

History, culture, and relaxation converge at this coastal all-inclusive resort in Turkey.

Water sports like skiing and snorkeling, day excursions dive into history and culture (for an additional fee), outdoor pool with mountain views

Coastal location also offers mountain views

Outdoor dining

Some travelers mentioned that the property could use an update

The resort's family-oriented marketing might be a turnoff

While Club Med’s Palmiye outpost is often touted as an ideal family-friendly resort, solo travelers cite its hospitable staff and numerous activities as just some of the many reasons to make the journey to this all-inclusive resort on Turkey’s southernly Lycian coast. Included in the nightly rate: all-day outdoor and waterfront dining, an open bar, land and water sports from waterskiing to snorkeling, entertainment like live music and the occasional all-white dress party, and gratuities. Its outdoor swimming pool (there are two) boasts the Taurus Mountains as its backdrop.

For an additional fee, book a cultural excursion and join a small group for an afternoon sail along Kekova Bay, lunch, and visit to a Greco-Roman theater. Or book a half-day historical tour through Antalya’s city center. On certain days during the week, venture into town and browse its markets full of produce, accessories, and traditional textiles.

Don’t let the marketing to couples and families turn you off, as many resorts, including the ones listed, host solo travelers and welcome them. From a domestic stay to a long weekend in the Caribbean or Europe, there’s an all-inclusive resort experience for solo travelers looking to unwind or stay active.

We considered dozens of all-inclusive resorts and filtered for the overall included value of dining and drinking, activities, and other perks. We also considered reviews from prior solo guests, and bonus points were given to resorts that offer dedicated solo traveler programming.

Federico Scotto / Getty Images

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• Packing Lists

22 Essentials for Your Next Solo Trip, According to T+L Editors

From portable chargers to door locks, here's what you need for the best — and safest — solo travel.

In This Article

Tips for Solo Travel

Frequently asked questions.

• Why Trust T+L

Travel & Leisure / Kevin Liang

One of the most delightful — and daunting — aspects of solo travel is that you’re in charge of everything. Much like how you get to choose wherever and whenever you eat and sleep or can opt to relax rather than rush to sightsee each day, you also determine what objects are worthy of making the journey with you. 

Packing for such a trip embodies the ethos of solo travel itself: While it’s nice to leave a little wiggle room (be it in your itinerary or for souvenirs), it also pays to be prepared. Ensuring you have everything you need to set the baseline for a safe and enjoyable trip ultimately allows you more flexibility in your day-to-day decisions. Plus, when traveling alone, there’s no one else to blame (or borrow from) if you forget your universal charger or toothpaste at home. 

We’ve rounded up T+L editor-approved, tried-and-true packing essentials for safer, more comfortable, and convenient solo trips. Use this guide when you’re gearing up for your next getaway — and don’t forget your general essentials as well, such as your passport and any necessary visas or vaccination cards. 

Best Portable Door Lock

Addalock the original portable door lock.

We love that this lock is easy to install (once you get the hang of it) and doesn’t require any tools to set up. "I get wigged out by how easy it is to break through many hotel doors. This tiny lock basically adds an extra deadbolt to make sure no one gets through," says T+L senior commerce editor Lydia Price . "I love the handy carrying pouch it comes in so that the hard metal won't damage anything else in your bag."

Best Door Alarm

Lewis n clark travel door alarm.

As an added level of safety whether you're at a hotel, hostel, or home rental, pack the Lewis N Clark Travel Door Alarm, "It works with most hotel and rental doors and windows and it'll make a loud noise if the alarm is triggered, which will wake you up and alert anyone else in earshot that something is amiss," Price said. It's incredibly light and compact, so it's easy to bring with you wherever you go.

Best Personal Safety Device

Birdie personal safety alarm.

Personal safety alarms are invaluable protection for solo travelers and offer peace of mind while out walking alone, especially at night. “Personal alarms are great for added peace of mind and this is the most subtle and stylish, one I’ve ever seen,” T+L associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker shared. “I’ve held it in my hand while walking on a semi-busy street after dark, but I’ll keep it clipped onto a belt bag or backpack in certain destinations (so I can easily yank the alarm part off as needed). Note: I did this while unpacking once and, let’s just say, I won’t forget the sound — and flashing strobe light — anytime soon.”

Best Travel Purse

Lululemon everywhere belt bag 1l.

For safeguarding your passport, money, or other important travel documents, you'll want a secure travel purse like this one from Lululemon. "This bag is small but still fits a deceptive amount. I like to wear this across my chest when traveling alone so I keep my belongings close," Parker said. "There's even a zippered pocket on the back that fits a phone along with credit cards and cash if I don't want to open up and rustle through the main compartment on the go." The adjustable strap makes it easy to change the length for a tight and comfortable fit around the waist or across the upper body.

Best Hotspot Router

Glocalme 4g lte mobile hotspot.

As much as we all would love to “go off the grid” a bit more, it’s less relaxing than it sounds—and sometimes outright dangerous —when you find yourself somewhere with limited WiFi and no way to contact friends or family. “If I'm traveling overseas and don't have access to my phone plan, a mobile hotspot is essential for staying on the grid while flying solo,” T+L associate commerce editor Anna Popp said. “It gives me so much peace of mind knowing I have access to the internet 24/7 in case there isn't WiFi readily available.” Mobile hotspots are also great for digital nomads who may find themselves working from remote areas with limited internet access. 

Best Portable Charger

Charmast small portable charger.

Running out of phone battery in an unfamiliar place is one of Popp's biggest fears while traveling alone so she never leaves the house without this ultra-compact phone charger. "This charger is so small that it can fit in my pocket or a compact purse, which makes it easy to bring anywhere from museums to concerts," she shared. "I love that it has an iPhone charging port built-in so all I have to do is plug the charger into my phone without having to deal with cords or a bulky charging pad."

Best Headphones

Jbl tune 710bt wireless over-ear headphones.

"As an introvert and a lover of solo travel, a good reliable pair of noise-canceling headphones is a must for me. I have this pair from JBL and I bring them on every flight," T+L senior commerce editor Jasmine Grant said. "They're great at tuning out disruptive noises on a flight, but I also use them wirelessly in between destinations. The foam of the ear muffs is cushiony and comfy, and I also appreciate the long battery life on these things." With an impressive 50-hour battery, these headphones are perfect for listening to music or podcasts for the entire duration of your solo trip.

Best Tripod

Geometrical pocket tripod.

"One of the hardest things when traveling alone is taking photos without asking for a stranger's help, so I keep this little lifesaver in my wallet at all times — even at home," Parker said, referring to this handy mini tripod. "It comes with inserts so you can perfectly fit any phone or phone case, and it helps you prop up your device so you can grab landscape or portrait shots. The tilt angle can easily be adjusted and I've balanced it on rocks, sand, and window ledges and got excellent timer shots (or use this remote , another solo travel essential)." Best of all, the tripod folds flat like a credit card, so it can even fit in your pocket.

Best Zipper Lock

Bobino zipper clip.

Utilizing a zipper lock can keep your items safe and provide you extra comfort when you're on the go. "You can attach [the Bobino Zipper Clip] to any bag or purse with a zipper to make it hard for pickpockets to open them," Price said. "It gives me extra peace of mind when I'm in crowds or wearing a backpack anywhere. I'm also hopeful it can deter thieves from seeing you as a target in the first place. Plus, it's very small and light so it's an extra layer of protection without much hassle."

Best Eye Mask

Sleep masks in general are a must-have for solo travelers — they’re great for flights when aisle-mates don’t want to close the window shade and can be game-changing in hotels without blackout curtains. We love that this one uses low-intensity light therapy technology, so you have the best sleep possible. "Not only does it fit super well without putting pressure on your eyes, but it also helps you to actually fall asleep, which is a game-changer," T+L commerce editor Taylor Fox said.

Best eReader

Amazon kindle fire hd 8 plus tablet.

T+L senior commerce writer Merrell Readman always brings her Kindle Fire tablet with her on trips as a form of entertainment while on the go. "Last year I took my first solo trip to Portugal, and without a doubt, my Kindle was the best thing I packed," she shared. "Since I was alone I had plenty of time to work through my reading list, and I ended up getting through five books on the trip — but the best part is the Kindle connects directly to the NYPL website, making it so I could swap out books without weighing down my suitcase." The device boasts up to 12 hours of battery life on one charge, which is perfect for long-haul flights and a full day of lounging at the beach.

Best Outlet Adapter

Sublimeware international power adapter.

An outlet adapter is essential for charging electronics in countries that use different sockets. "I never leave the country without this international power adapter. Because it works for most destinations, it majorly streamlines my packing list and makes me feel secure that if all else fails I’ll have at least one adapter that will work no matter where in the world I am," T+L commerce editor Sophie Mendel shared. This one works in over 150 countries and you can charge multiple devices at once.

Best Quick-dry Towel

Rainleaf microfiber towel.

For showering or swimming in the ocean, this lightweight and quick-drying towel is perfect for tossing in a backpack or carry-on. "An endlessly versatile travel accessory, a compact, quick-dry towel is a must for any trip. I’ve used mine everywhere from hostel bathrooms in Bolivia to the cold-plunge saunas in Arctic Norway and beyond," Mendel said. "This one is reliable, dries super fast, and packs down small so you can toss it in your carry-on shortly after use for a quick turnaround."

Best Hydration Packets

Liquid i.v. hydration hero bundle.

"I tend to forget to drink water as much as I should when I travel, but these individual packets are a helpful reminder to stay hydrated," T+L testing editor Jackie Cucco said. "I like that they come in individual packets so you can carry as much as you need for the day." They're especially helpful if you've also packed your own water bottle, so you can stick the travel-size packets in your day pack and fill up wherever the day takes you.

Best Headlamp

Energizer led headlamp flashlight.

While this may sound unnecessary when you’ve got a phone flashlight, you’ll never regret having a battery-operated headlamp in case of emergency, particularly when traveling alone. “Not only did I use it to navigate my way to the restroom in the Sahara, but when I was in Cuba, there was a blackout while I was packing, so I simply strapped it on my head and continued without missing a beat,” T+L contributor Rachel Chang shared. It’s always better to be prepared! We love this model because it’s super lightweight and budget-friendly.

Best Money Belt

Eagle creek money belt.

“I use money belts while traveling to avoid getting my credit cards or cash stolen,” says Popp, who recommends Eagle Creek’s Silk Undercover Money Belt. This satin-lined accessory is sweat-resistant and features two handy zippered pockets to keep your passport, cash, and credit cards organized and secured. “I usually carry a regular purse, too, but having a hidden money belt helps keep track of money or other small valuables,” Popp noted. 

Best Backpack

Herschel packable daypack.

Whether you’re backpacking or carry-on-ing, it’s always a good idea to bring a small, packable bag that you can use for day trips or hikes — and Herschel’s version, made of rugged ripstop material, folds up into next to nothing. “A packable backpack can be a godsend for storing items like a water bottle, extra sweater, phone chargers, etc. while I'm on the go,” Popp said. “I love that this backpack folds up into a built-in small pouch to make storing it even easier when it's not needed.” 

Best Zipper-helper

Sharemoon zipper pulls.

Your wardrobe is one thing that definitely should not be limited by traveling alone. “You don’t want to corner a stranger in the elevator or walk down to the front desk partially clothed, so something like this is incredibly convenient when traveling solo,” Parker said. “While there are many styles to buy, I’d recommend one with a spring clip versus a hook or lobster clasp as this style can work with the widest range of zippers.”

Best First Aid Kit

Curad compact first aid kit.

Wherever you go, it's important to prioritize your health — this first aid kit has all of the basics you need to feel your best for a full day out. "It includes three different bandage sizes plus other first-aid essentials like cleansing towelettes, alcohol pads, and antibiotic ointment," Parker said. "I actually keep this travel-sized first-aid kit at home and pull from it to make smaller kits in snack-sized plastic bags when I travel. Then I can restock the larger travel kit as needed to have all my essentials in one place at home, plus have several little first-aid 'go bags' to stash in my various travel bags."

Best Tech Organizer

Bevegekos tech organizer travel case.

Stay organized on the go with a handy tech organizer for keeping all of your important gadgets in one place. "Chargers and adapters can easily wind up in a tangled heap of a mess in my travel bag if they're not organized in some way. I truly love this one because there are pockets for all of my phone and laptop power cords, my portable charger, and even my wireless earbuds," Grant shared. "It's great to have on hand when I'm solo traveling to avoid forgetting my electronics and accessories from place to place." This one is slim and compact, but it's large enough to store all of the tech essentials and it has a wrap-around zipper to secure the items.

Best Reusable Bags

W&p porter silicone reusable bags.

"I love that these bags are dishwasher-safe when I return home from a trip," Parker says. "I love these reusable bags when traveling, especially the stand-up ones so I can have my snacks set out on the airplane tray in front of me. I've bought other brands and find the quality of these to be top-notch, and I also like that they have a roll-top version that can be sized smaller when I'm halfway through what I'm eating. I usually stash one of the traditional ones in my purse since I'm prone to buying snacks that I don't finish while I'm on my shopping adventures so I don't need to go out alone late at night if I get hungry again."

Best Water Bottle

Que collapsible water bottle.

Staying hydrated on a can be difficult, so consider bringing a compact water bottle like this one that folds down to save space in a bag. "To avoid spending $10 on a plastic bottle of water at the airport, I bring this folding water bottle to save money and space in my backpack," Popp said. "It folds down into a super small size and it comes with a clip to attach it to my backpack when it's filled up. It's not the largest bottle, but the portability factor makes it worth traveling with." Plus, it comes in an array of pretty colors from violent to sage.

Share your itinerary (or location) with someone before you go

Most of my close friends and I share our location using “Find My Friends,” an iPhone app that shares where we are in real time (which can be very comforting while traveling solo). If you’re not keen to share that level of detail, consider at least sharing an itinerary and any general travel confirmations (i.e. flight numbers and hotel addresses) with someone you trust. 

You can also add friends to ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft so that they’re notified whenever you book a ride and reach your destination. (The auto-texts generated by the app have unexpectedly been a great prompt for staying in touch with friends while traveling, leading us to check-in about where we’ve been that weekend or dish on late-night rides home from evenings out.)  

Skip the selfie stick

Paris-based T+L contributor Sara Lieberman , who has traveled to over fifteen countries on her own, suggests skipping selfies and instead asking someone to take your photo, which is often an easy and no-pressure conversation starter. “Asking someone to take a photo of you will not only (hopefully) result in a better shot—feel free to direct them and set it up to your liking—but perhaps a conversation or even a shared experience. Maybe they'd be interested in joining you on a local tour that required a two-person minimum.” 

Go guilt-free

When traveling with someone else, you typically need to make some compromises to ensure you both get what you want out of the trip, perhaps waking up earlier than you’d like, or sightseeing longer than you’d want. The beauty of traveling alone is you get to call the shots, and leave the guilt of not feeling always-aligned with someone else behind. 

“Solo travel has always been my preferred way of seeing the world. I love the feeling of exploring a new place entirely on my own, which leaves me more open to unexpected discoveries and connecting with strangers,” says Yagoda. “Also, I can't lie, I love to do exactly what I want, when I want it—without worrying about a travel partner who may have a different vision in mind. I'm someone who needs a lot of rest and relaxation while traveling, so when I'm alone I don't have to feel guilty about skipping an afternoon of sightseeing if I don't feel up to it.”

Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers

It may go against what we’re taught as kids, but it’s crucial to trust your gut and chat up friendly-looking folks as you go about your travels. I recently climbed up 500 very steep steps to catch a sunset in Vietnam and found myself laughing with the other out-of-breath people at the top, lamenting the climb, which segued naturally into chatting about our respective trips.  

Lieberman puts it this way: “You know that NYC subway phrase about suspicious packages? ‘If you see something, say something’: Well, use it to meet people. But, like, with your general observations,” she suggests, noting that simple comments like, "’Amazing sunset. Do you know another good spot around here?’” can be natural openers for great conversations (and hopefully great travel tips!).

Don’t rely (only) on Google 

Another way to initiate conversations with locals or fellow travelers—and hopefully to enrich your trip in the process—is to ask them for advice. “If you don't know, ask!” Lieberman says. “We travel to learn, and when we're alone we often rely on Google or Wikipedia to educate ourselves rather than, say, another traveler who seems adept at buying metro tickets or a local who knows the right pronunciation for ‘addition’ (the bill) in French.”

Always read reviews before booking accommodations 

This applies to all travel but is particularly salient as a solo traveler: Do your homework before booking a place to stay. The worst thing when you’re weary after a long day of travel is showing up to a place that makes you feel anything less than comfortable. 

Prepare physical and digital copies of important docs

When you're traveling alone, it's important to have copied back-ups of all of your important documents like reservations, passports, IDs, and more. But it can also be helpful to have printed copies as well as digital copies on a separate device in case of lost or theft. For example, if you travel with an iPad or tablet, you should ensure that you save all of the same important documents on that second device as you do on your phone.

Traveling alone can be one of the most incredible ways to connect more deeply with yourself and with the people and places you encounter along your journey. It’s a physical and emotional juxtaposition from your comfort zone, taking you to new places where there’s a good chance you don’t speak the language or know anyone (yet!). And that’s where the good stuff starts: Traveling alone forces you to chat up people you might never otherwise engage with if you had a friend or partner there to keep you company. Often, you may find yourself opening up about parts of your life that you haven’t even explored with your loved ones back home; there’s something about being removed from the familiar (and from the pressure of living up to what those closest to you might expect from you) that allows you to shed certain parts of yourself and try new ones on for size.

While there are ample upsides to solo travel, there’s also an inherent risk in navigating a foreign (or even not-so-foreign) place by yourself. To mitigate that risk, it’s crucial to take proper precautions like some of the solo travel tips outlined above, whether that’s sharing your location with a friend or doing your due diligence when picking a place to stay. Carrying some of the travel safety products recommended here as well, like a personal safety alarm and a portable lock for the door in your accommodations, can offer peace of mind and an added layer of security as well. 

For more inspiration and comfort, check out solo-travel-focused groups on Facebook. Many are dedicated specifically to female solo travel, while others may be destination-specific and offer insights into things to be aware of or visa logistics. You’re likely to find a ton of helpful tips and maybe even a travel buddy to link up with somewhere!

The beauty (and at times, most daunting aspect) of a solo trip is that you’re calling all the shots—including how long you’d like to travel for. Of course, there are the typical constraints, like a job that requires you to be on-site, or a family to consider. Budget is a determining factor as well, although there are ample ways to stretch your budget if you’re eager to keep traveling. Otherwise, it’s all up to you. If you’re new to solo travel, start with a shorter trip—maybe a long weekend or a five-day jaunt somewhere—to let yourself find your own rhythm without the pressure of weeks “alone” stretching ahead of you (as most solo travelers know, you’re rarely alone for long—you’re bound to meet friendly new faces along the way!).

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Sophie Dodd is a full-time freelance writer for T+L and other reputable publications. She spends her time working on vineyards, road-tripping through the Pacific Northwest, and seeking out the greatest outdoor showers of all time—all in the name of investigative journalism. She focuses on personal essays, branded content, feature writing, and just about anything that involves Paris. She and T+L writer Taylor Fox spoke with other globetrotting writers and editors to curate this list of the best products and tips for solo travel.

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12 Best Long Weekend Trips in Europe

As someone with a 9 to 5 , I try my best to fit in as many trips as I can while working. This means that I have to be savvy with my annual leave days and bank holidays (aka public holidays). So looking for the best long weekend trips in Europe has been essential in being able to see more of the world with a full time job. 

Weekend or long weekend travel is perfect if you work full-time because you only need to use one or two holiday days and sometimes even none, if done correctly! All my Europe travels have been long weekend or weekend trips, so I thought to share my reccomendations on 12 of the best destinations in Europe for weekend trips!

Here are my 12 Best Long Weekend Trips in Europe!

Best Weekend Trips in Europe

1.)  split, croatia.

Not only is Split an amazing city to visit for a Europe long weekend (especially if you’re a Game of Thrones fan), there are also quite a few super cool things to do in Split . Everywhere you turn the views are stunning and the city is steeped with history. Split is Croatia’s second largest city but still has a small-town feel to it. So if you want to skip some of the crowds in Dubrovnik, Split is a city to consider! 

I’ve also got a guide to exploring Split to help you plan your visit to this awesome city and see it in the best way!

READ MORE: 10 Things to know before you go to Split

2.)  Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is one of the best weekend trips in Europe because you can easily see a lot of the city in a few days. Full of culture, great food and a little quirk, I really loved visiting Copenhagen for the weekend. You might be thinking Copenhagen isn’t very budget friendly but trust me, there are ways to enjoy your weekend in Copenhagen on a Budget .

READ MORE: The Ultimate Copenhagen Travel Guide

3.)  Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of the best places for a long weekend trips in Europe and one of my absolute favourite cities to visit. I’ve visited three whole times already and even spent my birthday there! It is home to one of my favourite structures EVER, The Sagrada Familia, and of course lots of beautiful Gaudi creations.

Let’s not forget the nightlife, you’ll have a ball here, I know I have! A weekend is perfect to visit Barcelona as it gives you an excuse to keep coming back and seeing more of what the city has to offer each time. Trust me, Barcelona for the weekend is a no brainer!

4.) Prague, Czech Republic

Easily one of the most beautiful and charming cities in Europe, Prague has a wealth of sights to see that will keep you busy for a weekend (and then some!). Prague usually doesn’t come to mind when thinking of Europe breaks but, with its pastel-coloured buildings, cobbled streets, and unique art, a weekend in Prague is an absolutely perfect city break! And with Prague being a compact city, a lot of the sites are nearby which means you can see a lot of them easily over a weekend in Prague! 

READ MORE: Prague Travel Guide

5. )  Berlin, Germany

Long weekends in Berlin are a BLAST and I speak from experience, the city is so full of energy! Now, saying that, it’s impossible to see everything on a weekend in Berlin but you will have an amazing time regardless. And you’ll have another excuse to another long weekend visit to Berlin and that’s a great feeling. Berlin is huge hub of design, fashion, culture, art and music. And let’s not even get started on Potsdam!

6.) Thessaloniki, Greece

This was the first city I visited solo and for that, it will always have a special place in my heart. Thessaloniki is a perfect city for long weekend trips in Europe and one I would fully recommend. The city is compact enough to hit the major spots in a weekend and the best part, it is VERY affordable! My entire trip here cost me under £300 including flights, accommodation and spending, which is insane. I would return to Thessaloniki in a heart beat, it’s a little Greek gem!

READ MORE: Solo Travel in Thessaloniki

7.)  Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Rotterdam is a city I visited on a whim as a result of a poll I did on my Instagram (Crazy, I know!) while I was literally on the train to Amsterdam! Even though I was only there for a day technically, I would definitely recommend it for a weekend trip. It has such a cool and artsy vibe and I felt extremely comfortable as a solo black woman. It’s also less busy than Amsterdam and lately, also much more affordable to visit.

READ MORE: How to Spend a Day in Rotterdam

8. ) Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or city break! You can appreciate the architecture, enjoy a visit to some of the most famous vineyards in the world or spend a day at tallest sand dune in Europe! Whether you are travelling solo, with friends or family, spending a weekend in the vibrant city of Bordeaux is a great idea!

READ MORE: How to Spend a Weekend in Bordeaux

9.) Budapest, Hungary

An ideal long weekend destination in Europe is Budapest. Budapest is LOVED by a lot of travellers (and locals) for so many reasons. From the diversity & variety of activities you could get into, the rich & open culture that goes beyond museums and theatres but one that is important to the people to the bustling and vibrant nightlife. Best of all, it is affordable, which makes Budapest perfect for a long weekend break in Europe!

10.) Porto, Portugal

We all know about Lisbon, but lets shine some light on the wonderful city of Porto! Porto is in the north of Portugal and is an excellent destination for city breaks in Europe. Enjoy some Port wine in it’s origin city, visit the Dom Luis I Bridge, the Sao Bento railway station (one of the most beautiful train stations in the world!) , and the Duoro river. A visit to Porto is never a bad idea!

11.) Seville, Spain

Seville is a compact city that can easily be enjoyed over a long weekend trip in Europe and with minimal planning necessary. It is a beautiful city with gorgeous food, extraordinary architecture, fast-paced flamenco and seduce and home to the world’s largest cathedral – with Columbus’ tomb hidden inside. It’s a city I can’t wait to visit myself for a long weekend!

12.) Rome, Italy

There’s no place quite like Rome! I remember walking around the city during my 25th birthday and feeling like I was walking through the pages of history. There’s every thing from the actual Colosseum, Trevi fountain, the Pantheon, to the Roman Forum, the Spanish steps and so much more! There’s so much to see in Rome to fit into one weekend trip, so you definitely won’t be bored. Take your time, enjoy the slower pace, take in the history you’re now a part of.

Where are some of your favourite destinations for a long weekend trip in Europe? Share in the comments! Don’t forget to share and save this!

Until Next Time,

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These are some really great recommendations! I’ve been to many of these places and they’re all are definitely worth a visit. Personally I would also add Munich and Vienna 🙂

Thank you for your recommendations!

Ah, I wish I lived closer to Europe to be able to take long weekend breaks to these incredible cities. I’ve been to a few on your list but since I live in South Africa, I have to plan longer trips to make the flights there worthwhile. You’ve given me some great ideas for my Europe trip next year though.

Yeah! Whenever next you’re in Europe, you can combine a few of these countries to make it worth your while and since they are weekend trips, you can do a few countries in a week!

Great list of places in Europe for a long weekend. I’ve been to most, but still need to get to Seville and Porto! – Saving this post as a reminder to go check them out!

Yay! I hope you enjoy them when you do get to go!

I love the photo of you in Rotterdam with the yellow ceiling! You look so pretty! It’s pretty awesome that those living in Europe can do weekend trips to another country. In the states, we can barely do a weekend trip to a different state they’re so far away let alone a different country. Except Canada, because we live in MI and can see it across the Detroit river haha

Thank you! That’s so interesting, I just assumed dong weekend breaks within the country would be easy, like we get to do in Europe. And I love Canada, so that’s a great alternative haha

I had visited the Netherlands back in 2016, but the day trip I had planned to Rotterdam somehow could not get materialized. I am glad you could visit the beautiful place.

Awww I do hope you get to visit Rotterdam in the future, its a really cool city!

How awesome to live close enough to each of these destinations to be able to pop over for a long weekend trip. Someday I hope to be able to live in Europe and have this opportunity.

I hope you get the opportunity too, it’s a really great privilege that we have living in Europe.

Love all these Euro break ideas, especially since there’s so much to see in just a weekend’s worth of time. I’d love to check out Copenhagen 🙂

Copenhagen is such a cool city, you’ll love it!

You’ve just given me some great ideas for my next short trip to Europe! There are some places on your list that I’ve been dying to visit for a while now.

Yay! I’m glad you got some ideas from the post.

Great post!

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3 Days in Edinburgh: A Long Weekend Itinerary

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 7th September 2023

Categories Itineraries , Scotland

Last Updated on 7th September 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Three days in the Scottish capital is the perfect introduction to Edinburgh, a city filled with ancient history, authentic eateries, and all the culture you could ever wish for from a British city. Here’s how to spend a long weekend in Edinburgh , and your  72-hour guide on making the most of your limited time in Scotland!

Is 3 days enough time to visit Edinburgh?

Day one: an introduction to edinburgh, day two: on the fringes of edinburgh, day three: conquering history, following authors, take a day trip from edinburgh, budget accommodation in edinburgh, mid-range accommodation in edinburgh, luxury accommodation in edinburgh, watch the 3 days in edinburgh travel video, enjoyed reading this three days long weekend in edinburgh guide pin it now, read it again later:.

Despite being the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is a fairly small city, where all of the major attractions are grouped close to one another and you never have to walk or take a bus/ taxi too far between destinations. As such, 3 days is the perfect amount of time for a well-rounded introduction to the city.

A suggested 3 day weekend in Edinburgh itinerary

As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is a city that if explored properly, would take decades to uncover. Luckily, it’s incredibly easy to scratch the surface of this vibrant and cultural hub, if only you know how to.

As such, the first day of your 3 days in Edinburgh itinerary is dedicated to seeing the tourist sites, and getting a feel for the city by exploring its must-see hotspots! If you’re short on time and won’t have three days in the Scottish capital, then you could also consider prioritising this first day as a suggested itinerary for a shorter visit.

Wander down the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile, so called because it covers roughly a mile between Edinburgh Castle and reaches down through the city centre towards Holyrood Palace (the Scottish Residence of Elizabeth II) .

A stroll down this main road, listening to the bagpipes and entering all the small shops which line its two sides is simply one of the best things to do in the Scottish capital.

Highlights of this stretch of street include a wander into St Giles’ Cathedral (a Roman Catholic church founded in the 12th-century) , and the Museum of Childhood (the first museum in the world dedicated to childhood) .

Along the Royal Mile, there are also plenty of local Scottish pubs. While in the city, I highly recommend sampling one of the many local Scottish beers served throughout the capital, or even trying some local Scottish wine !

Walk around Grassmarket

What started in the 14th-century as a marketplace for horses (hence the name) and carried on right up until the 19th-century has since become a vital and spirited city centre district of Edinburgh.

Filled with pubs, small shops and plenty of boutique hotels, you can’t go wrong by dedicating an hour or so to exploring this quirky area.

After all, the picturesque streets and quintessentially Scottish pubs located in the Grassmarket make it a must-see attraction on any Scottish adventure. There, you’ll find vibrant streets matched only by an ever-lively nightlife, which happens to be the perfect opportunity to check our some local Scottish beers .

This is where locals come to hang out, and where you’ll want to grab dinner, or simply head for some after exploring drinks. Nearby, you’ll also find plenty of historical buildings, including the once famous Magdalen Chapel .

Visit Edinburgh Castle

The most visited attraction in Edinburgh is its castle, which sits atop of an extinct volcano on Castle Rock. Best seen earlier in the day when fewer tourists are queuing to see the fortifications and you’ll get more of the place to yourself, it’s a must visit on any weekend trip to Edinburgh!

The Castle is a perfect morning or afternoon out for couples and families alike, with interactive exhibits exploring the history of the fortifications, as well as the city on a wider level.

If you’re looking to save time, then you might want to consider buying a castle ticket in advance . And, if you prefer wandering around a historic site with a guide, then consider this guided tour !

Visit the National Museum of Scotland or the National Gallery

In the centre of the city, not far from one of the main great parks, you’ll find one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh in the form of the National Gallery. Filled with picturesque paintings and priceless artworks, it’s well worth a visit.

Incredible works of art by artists such as Andy Warhol, Sir Henry Raeburn, and Robert Maplethorpe can all be found there. If you prefer artefacts and learning about history, then the National Museum of Scotland is in the centre of the city, free to visit, and is home to Dolly the Sheep.

If day one was about getting to explore the city as a tourist, then day two of your long weekend in Edinburgh is all about getting to know the city on a more local level. This is the time to explore some of the city’s many hidden gems, as well as a chance to head a little off the beaten tourist track…

Visit Dean Village

You can’t spend a weekend in Edinburgh and miss out on its prettiest attraction, that of Dean Village. Picturesque and hidden away, Dean Village is well worth a visit on any trip to Edinburgh, even a short one!

First constructed to house mill workers, by the 20th-century, most of the mills of Edinburgh had closed down. Today the village is a quiet slice of the city and a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of busy city life.

Hike Arthur’s Seat

With incredible views onto Edinburgh and beyond (as well as a great, yet fun, workout) I highly recommend a hike up Arthur’s Seat for any first time visitor to the city.

Although legends of King Arthur are never far away when it comes to Gaelic and Celtic countries, in this case, the extinct volcano that is Arthur’s Seat won its name in a different way.

With no traditional Gaelic name for the hill, William Maitland suggested that the mount should be called ‘Àrd-na-Said’ (Height of Arrows) during the 16th-century. Over time, the name morphed into what it is called today ‘Arthur’s Seat.’

Now, located above Holyrood Palace, a visit here can easily be combined with a trip into the Queen’s Scottish Residence. While on the hill, make sure not to miss the 14th-century ruins of Anthony’s Chapel.

Wander around New Town

Deceptively named, the New Town of Edinburgh is actually full of beautiful Georgian façades and vintage buildings… So it’s not really that ‘new’ after all!

The main and most popular street of the city’s New Town is Princes Street, a row filled with all manner of stores and shops. If you’re looking for some pretty photos spots, this area of town is great for architectural shots!

Wake up early this morning because you’re packing a lot into day three of this long weekend in Edinburgh. Today is all about exploring the outskirts of the city through its many historic castles, as well as following in the footsteps of many a famous author who once resided here. After all, Edinburgh hasn’t been named one of the best literary locations in Europe and a UNESCO City of Literature for nothing!

Follow the Harry Potter Trail of Edinburgh

It’s well known that JK Rowling wrote the Harry Potter series while she was living in Edinburgh (a city in which she still lives in today) . As a result, magical traces of the wizarding school can be found throughout the city.

From Tom Marvolo’s grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard to the Elephant Tearooms in the centre of town, there’s no shortage of Harry Potter attractions in Edinburgh ! And, if you want to discover the Harry Potter trail together with a local guide, then you might consider booking a tour like this one.

If you’re not a huge fan of Harry Potter, then it’s also possible to follow in the footsteps of many other iconic authors who once lived in Edinburgh.

A beautiful museum dedicated to all things literature and called “The Writers’ Museum” can be found just a short stroll from the Royal Mile. Inside there are exhibitions dedicated to the likes of Robert Burns, Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.

Best known for being the home of Rosslyn Chapel, the church featured in Dan Brown’s ‘The Da Vinci Code,’ Roslin is a pretty village with plenty to see. Of course, there’s the ancient and ornate Chapel to visit, but there’s also castle ruins and a delightful tea room to enjoy a hot brew in. Discover more about the town of Rolsin here .

Craigmillar Castle

Often referred to as ‘Edinburgh’s other castle,’ Craigmillar is one of the best castles the Scottish capital has to offer. The well preserved medieval ruins are situated just a half hour by bus from the city centre, and so the castle is incredibly easy to reach!

Cramond Island

This pretty tidal island is located an hour or so from Edinburgh’s Waverly Bridge by bus. Purchase some picnic essentials, grab a book and hop on a bus on a sunny day to make the most of this short day trip from Edinburgh.

Nearby, there are coastal paths to follow and history to uncover; the most important Roman statue ever found in Scotland, the Cramond Lioness was uncovered in the estuary near Cramond Island! For further information, check out our guide on how to visit Cramond Island .

Linlithgow Palace

Used as a royal residence throughout the ages, Linlithgow Palace is located in a town of the same name and was one of the most important seats of the monarchy during the 15th and 16th-centuries. In fact, it was even the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots!

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Haystack hostel  .

Situated close to Princes Street in the very heart of the shopping area of the city, if you want to stay in the heart of it all at an affordable rate, be sure to check out this well-reviewed hostel.

Check prices and availability here .

Safestay Edinburgh

From private rooms to dorms accommodating up to 12 people, you’re sure to find a bed that’s perfect for you and within your price range. Female-only dorms are also available.

Hotel Ibis Styles

For those familiar with the Ibis Chain, the brand’s synonymity with cleanliness and good service is probably a given. I’ve stayed in various Ibis Hotels over the years and always found them to be a great place from which to explore the city .

Check prices and availability here

Principal Hotel Charlotte Square

Situated close to Princes Street, somewhere between Edinburgh Castle and Dean Village, this four-star accommodation has all the amenities you’d expect from a modern hotel, blended with a historical twist.

The Balmoral

For those looking for a true taste of luxury in the heart of the city, The Balmoral is synonymous with charm and elegance. It’s even in one of the suites in this five-star hotel where JK Rowling finished the Harry Potter series! Local legend suggests that the author signed her name on one of the pieces of furniture!

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Thursday 17th of February 2022

There is a mistake, you introduce the Linlithgow palace but you put a pic of the Rosslyn Chapel...

Sophie Nadeau

Saturday 26th of February 2022

Good spot! Thanks for letting me know!

The Travel Blogger's Guide to Scotland - The Travel Hack

Wednesday 18th of July 2018

[…] A Long Weekend in Edinburgh Itinerary You’ll Want to Copy – Solo Sophie […]

Wednesday 11th of April 2018

St Giles Cathedral has been Protestant since 1560!

Arrive solo, travel together. 

Visit incredible UK landmarks and explore the best of Europe with other Manchester-based solo travellers.

Solo Breaks travellers join us from all walks of life, but there’s one thing we all have in common – a love for adventures. We make most of the good times, rather than being a slave to an itinerary. Your tour guide take care of all the planning, so you can concentrate on enjoying the experience!

Do you fancy a city break, walking holiday or a long weekend away? Our short trips allow you to tick off those bucket-list destinations and make life-long friends along the way. 

Enjoy the company of a great bunch of people with the same sense of adventure and create lasting friendships. Typically, our groups are based in Greater Manchester and are between the ages of 30-50.

We take care of everything for you, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Your host, Steve, is on hand to answer any questions you have and organise an unforgettable holiday.

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Tired of compromising on your travel dreams because no one is available to go with you?

What to expect

• Travel with 5-10 companions, typically in their 30’s-50’s.
• We select some of the UKs most popular hotels which all rate highly on TripAdvisor
• A unique trip every time with an itinerary packed with sightseeing opportunities and activities in the day. Together we’ll visit popular landmarks and hidden gems and in the evening we usually go out for dinner and drinks. You can join everything or opt to do your own thing.
• Before we travel, we’ll have an ice-breaker on Zoom so you can get to know the team. A couple of days before we leave, you’ll be invited to join a WhatsApp group so you can chat with fellow travellers.
• Your Tour Guide will take care of all of the arrangements, leaving you to prioritise fun and adventure
• Every Solo Breaks trip will be an adventure to remember with fellow solo travellers who become lifelong friends.

Where will your next adventure take you?

Check out some of our previous adventures:.

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Experience the legendary celebration of arts and culture with like-minded travellers., edinburgh fringe festival.

Windermere Activity Weekender

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Northumberland Culture & Spa Break

Enjoy spectacular views, outdoor activities, a luxury spa and golf courses with your newfound travelling buddies..

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Experience this beautiful welsh island and immerse yourself in its captivating history alongside friendly solo explorers..

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Take a break from the same old routine and escape to the stunning cornwall coast with likeminded solo travellers..

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Enjoy guided hikes in the mountains and hills of snowdonia’s national park, visit neighbouring villages and soak up historical sights., snowdonia summer walking weekend, snowdon summit sunrise adventure, make new friends on this weekend escape to wales - the perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity..

Cotswolds Spa Retreat with meals

Explore honey-coloured villages and magnificent english countryside with likeminded solo travellers..

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Make new friends as you dare yourself to climb the three highest peaks of scotland, england and wales..

Culture and world-changing Discoveries in Cambridge

Join a great group of travellers on this beautifully historic trip to cambridge..

Stratford-upon-Avon with meals & cocktails

Escape for the night to a stylish, luxury manor in shakespeare's famous birthplace., 7 lessons for solo travellers.

We have compiled a free guide: ‘7 Lessons For First-Time Solo Travellers. To get you free copy, simply fill in your name and email address below.

Who will I be travelling with?

Mostly Manchester-based independent explorers who want to travel in the comfort of a group and make new friends along the way.

Whether it’s your first Solo Breaks trip, or you’ve travelled with us before, everyone is made to feel welcome.

Typically, our groups are made up of people between the ages of 30-50.

One of the best things about booking a trip through Solo Breaks is that you get to meet people from all  walks of life. However, there’s one thing we all have in common – a love for travel and adventures.

Meet your host, Steve

Hi, I’m Steve.

After spending five years travelling the world, and over a decade organising trips across the UK and Europe, I found the biggest fear around travel was going alone. Booking a group tour with people you don’t know can also feel daunting and so that’s why at Solo Breaks, we organise small group trips so everyone can get to know each other and form life-long friendships.

As your host, I’ll be there on every trip to take care of the travel logistics, answer any of your questions, and most importantly, make sure you have an unforgettable experience! 

Have questions? Find answers

It’s important for all travellers to arrange their own travel insurance before we set-off. If you need help with travel insurance, give Steve a call and he will advise. 

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More From Forbes

3 international destinations ideal for solo vacations.

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Sunny Seville street and scenic view of Giralda tower

Solo travel was one of the top trends to emerge from Forbes Travel Guide’s 2024 Summit.

This trend is popular for a few reasons:

• Solo travel affords maximum freedom and flexibility. Go where you want when you want and explore on your own terms, rather than acquiescing to a companion or group’s wants and concerns.
• It gives you a chance to reconnect with yourself. There’s only one agenda when you’re traveling alone, and it’s the one that you create for yourself. You’ll tune into yourself to discover your needs and wants.
• It can provide a sense of empowerment. You leave your comfort zone when you go on any trip. Going alone means that you’ll rely solely on yourself to navigate all situations, which can boost confidence.
• It can be a cure for loneliness. In 2023, more than half of Americans reported feeling lonely consistently . It’s counterintuitive, but going abroad alone can open you up to meeting new people. You may be more inclined to strike up conversations with strangers than you would be if you had a travel companion.

If you’re nervous about traveling on your own, you can go solo with a group. There are tours and trips you can join that are designed for solo travelers.

In fact, solo travel has become so popular that an entire industry has emerged to cater to it. Cruise lines, resorts, and tour companies are rolling out “packages for one” to accommodate this new consumer.

But you don’t have to buy one of these packages to enjoy a solo trip. Independent travel and traditional boots-on-the-ground exploration and adventure are available to solo travelers as well.

The key to having a good experience as a solo traveler is picking the right destination.

If safety concerns, loneliness, and boredom are the main drawbacks of solo travel, then you should choose a destination that’s safe, friendly, and vibrant, with plenty to see and do.

Here’s my short list of destinations that are ideal for solo travelers.

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The top 10 richest people in the world (may 2024), toyota s suv lineup is new and refreshed which one is right for you, montevideo, uruguay.

For someone taking their first trip as a solo traveler, the capital of Uruguay—despite not being on many people’s radar—is a great choice.

It’s safe, so solo travelers can feel comfortable exploring on their own. In fact, Uruguay is the highest-rated South American country in the 2023 Global Peace Index, coming in at #50.

It’s affordable and offers plenty to see and do—from learning about Guacho (cowboy) culture and attending barbecues to watching soccer matches and enjoying mate (tea made from the yerba mate plant).

It also has a long coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, with a beach accessible from Montevideo and another nearby in Punta del Este.

Uruguay may live in the shadows of Brazil and Argentina, but it outshines them when it comes to standard of living, with strong social safety nets and infrastructure.

Everything works as it should here, from its public transportation system to its U.S. dollar-dispensing ATMs. That user-friendliness makes it an ideal destination for solo travelers.

Seville, Spain

Seville is the beating heart of Andalusia, a proud, culturally rich area in the south of Spain.

It’s replete with historically significant landmarks; architecture from the Islamic, Gothic, and Renaissance eras; parks with walking trails; cycle lanes; flamenco music and dancing; river cruises; café and tapas culture; and more.

It’s also vibrant, with people socializing in plazas or on the terraces of restaurants until late in the evening most nights of the week. This constant presence of others at night can make a solo traveler feel more at ease, although this city is very safe to begin with.

Locals are friendly and welcoming. However, the English-speaking ability of those not in the tourism industry is limited. Speaking a bit of Spanish definitely enhances your travel experience in Seville.

Hanoi, Vietnam

With its bustling streets, constant traffic, quick-moving scooters, vibrant markets, and street hawkers, Hanoi has a buzz about it. It pulls people in and keeps them constantly entertained.

Its chief attraction is its Old Quarter, a labyrinth of a neighborhood that features a mix of architectural styles, from French mansions to Chinese temples to Buddhist pagodas. It’s a dense neighborhood that’s full of landmarks, restaurants, and cafés and is best explored on foot.

Hanoi is safe and affordable. It has a flourishing tourism industry, with tours and experiences available for all kinds of travelers.

Street food tours are a great way to sample the best of Hanoian cuisine and can also be a way to give back, as they’re often hosted by local university students who are eager to practice their English skills.

Dining in Hanoi is a casual affair; meals at local-style restaurants tend to be quick and informal, so you’ll never feel uncomfortable going to a restaurant by yourself.

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The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

Tags:  Moscow city

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Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

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Trains Moscow to Elektrostal: Times, Prices and Tickets

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Moscow to Elektrostal by train

The journey from Moscow to Elektrostal by train is 32.44 mi and takes 2 hr 7 min. There are 71 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:15 AM and the last at 11:46 PM. It is possible to travel from Moscow to Elektrostal by train for as little as or as much as . The best price for this journey is .

Get from Moscow to Elektrostal with Virail

Virail's search tool will provide you with the options you need when you want to go from Moscow to Elektrostal. All you need to do is enter the dates of your planned journey, and let us take care of everything else. Our engine does the hard work, searching through thousands of routes offered by our trusted travel partners to show you options for traveling by train, bus, plane, or carpool. You can filter the results to suit your needs. There are a number of filtering options, including price, one-way or round trip, departure or arrival time, duration of journey, or number of connections. Soon you'll find the best choice for your journey. When you're ready, Virail will transfer you to the provider's website to complete the booking. No matter where you're going, get there with Virail.

How can I find the cheapest train tickets to get from Moscow to Elektrostal?

Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. You can find train tickets for prices as low as , but it may require some flexibility with your travel plans. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets. Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results. Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets.

How long does it take to get from Moscow to Elektrostal by train?

The journey between Moscow and Elektrostal by train is approximately 32.44 mi. It will take you more or less 2 hr 7 min to complete this journey. This average figure does not take into account any delays that might arise on your route in exceptional circumstances. If you are planning to make a connection or operating on a tight schedule, give yourself plenty of time. The distance between Moscow and Elektrostal is around 32.44 mi. Depending on the exact route and provider you travel with, your journey time can vary. On average, this journey will take approximately 2 hr 7 min. However, the fastest routes between Moscow and Elektrostal take 1 hr 3 min. If a fast journey is a priority for you when traveling, look out for express services that may get you there faster. Some flexibility may be necessary when booking. Often, these services only leave at particular times of day - or even on certain days of the week. You may also find a faster journey by taking an indirect route and connecting in another station along the way.

How many journeys from Moscow to Elektrostal are there every day?

On average, there are 71 daily departures from Moscow to Elektrostal. However, there may be more or less on different days. Providers' timetables can change on certain days of the week or public holidays, and many also vary at particular times of year. Some providers change their schedules during the summer season, for example. At very busy times, there may be up to departures each day. The providers that travel along this route include , and each operates according to their own specific schedules. As a traveler, you may prefer a direct journey, or you may not mind making changes and connections. If you have heavy suitcases, a direct journey could be best; otherwise, you might be able to save money and enjoy more flexibility by making a change along the way. Every day, there are an average of 18 departures from Moscow which travel directly to Elektrostal. There are 53 journeys with one change or more. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Moscow to Elektrostal.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Moscow to Elektrostal

The cheapest Moscow - Elektrostal train tickets can be found for as low as $35.01 if you’re lucky, or $54.00 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $77.49.

Find the best day to travel to Elektrostal by train

When travelling to Elektrostal by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Moscow to Elektrostal CO2 Emissions by Train

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