solo travel road trips

22 Best Solo Road Trip Ideas In The USA (Epic!)

This guide to solo road trips in the United States contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for fun solo road trip ideas in the USA?

Then you’re in the right place!

Whether it’s your first time going on a road trip by yourself or the hundredth, the solo road trip destinations and routes mentioned below are sure to please.

Discover stunning coastal drives, adventurous routes showcasing national parks, and road trips that introduce you to local history, cultural, and even a few oddities!

Best of all, each road trip listed below has been carefully curated to appeal to solo travelers specifically so that you can confidently hit the road on your own and have an amazing time.

Ready to get inspired and find your perfect solo road trip? Keep reading!

Table of Contents

Road Trip By Yourself With Confidence (Free Course!)

But first, before we dive into our ultimate solo road trip guide, I want to invite you to grab access to the free Savvy Solo Traveler ecourse, which can help you successfully plan your  first solo travel experience !

The six-day ecourse is designed to help you feel confident about booking your solo trip and exploring the world alone. Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Grab your seat in the course here . Then keep reading to learn everything you need to know about creating the perfect solo road trip itinerary and how to travel solo successfully .

Best Solo Road Trip Ideas In The USA

Now it’s time to dive into our list of epic solo road trip destinations in the United States!

One of the biggest solo travel advantages is having ultimate freedom over your itinerary, and this guide shares some great routes to schedule into yours.

This list is in no way exhaustive, so if you have a route to add please leave it in the comments below. For instance, while many of the trips in this list are shorter, you might also consider a cross country road trip alone .

My goal: To empower this solo female travel community to confidently hit the road solo!

1. NYC To The 1000 Islands

Start: New York City

End: 1000 Islands, New York State

Distance: 352 miles+

About the solo road trip:

Looking for solo road trip ideas on the East Coast ? This is one of my favorites!

First of all, bustling New York York sits in stark contrast to the laid-back 1000 Islands, a region that straddles the New York (US)-Canadian border and features 1,864 islands. This means you get two completely different experiences at the beginning and end of your trip.

In NYC, wander interesting neighborhoods like the Upper East Side and the West Village , book a private NYC photo tour or explore local culture through a fun group tour , enjoy outdoor adventure through hiking in Manhattan , dine at truly unique New York restaurants , and take in some of the best views in NYC for free , to name a few experiences.

Honestly, I recommend spending as much time as possible in New York City before your road trip begins, as it’s one of the best places to travel solo in the US !

In the 1000 Islands, take a SUP yoga class with River Yoga, sip your way through the Thousand Islands Seaway Wine Trail, go whitewater rafting on the Black River with Whitewater Challengers, take a sunset sail with Sail Ontario, hike in the 2,636-acre Wellesley Island State Park, and visit the famous Boldt Castle before relaxing with a waterfront meal at Bella’s Restaurant in Clayton.

But, that’s not all.

Along this solo road trip, you’ll have numerous options for interesting stopovers, like Corning (home to the famous Corning Museum of Glass !), Oswego County (with beautiful parks like the Happy Valley Wildlife Management Area and Salmon River Falls Unique Area), Lewis County (where you can explore rugged countrsyide), and Lawrence County (home to some of the best hiking in Upstate New York ).

This road trip is great for solo travelers because it truly offers a choose-your-own adventure experience. You can go off the grid and travel in solitude or choose popular activities that put you with other people.

Moreover, there are loads of things to do in New York State that you can explore along the route!

-Jessie Festa, Jessie on a Journey + Epicure & Culture

2. Las Vegas To Grand Canyon Solo Road Trip

Start: Las Vegas, Nevada

End: Grand Canyon, Arizona

Distance: 270 miles+

One of the coolest and safest road trips in the USA for solo travelers is the route from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon, which is stunning and is also done on interstate highways. 

It will take about four hours one way to get there, covering about 270 miles. Drive down the Las Vegas Strip and head towards the Hoover Dam (via I-515 S and I-11 S), which you’ll get to in about 40 minutes.

Spend a couple of hours admiring this man-made engineering marvel, which straddles the Nevada-Arizona border. It is recommended that you book tickets in advance for touring the Hoover Dam and visiting special exhibits, which you can do here.

From the Hoover Dam, it is another 95 miles to reach the Grand Canyon West Rim and 240 miles to the Grand Canyon National Park. Once you are at the park’s West Rim, you can enjoy the glass-bottomed Skywalk Bridge ( tickets here ) and soak in the views of the natural gem.

If you are heading towards the South Rim, consider spending a night or two in the Grand Canyon village to sleep right in the park. This makes it easier to wake up early and take in a gorgeous Grand Canyon sunrise, as well!

– Mayuri from ToSomePlaceNew

3. Maui’s Road To Hana In Hawaii

Start: Paia, Hawaii

End: Haleakala National Park Entrance, Kipahulu District, Hawaii

Distance:  60 miles

About the solo road trip :

Maui’s Road to Hana is one of the most famous US road trips — and with over 600 hairpin turns, dozens of beautiful vistas, and plenty of exciting stops along the way, it’s easy to see why!

Plus, beautiful and safe Hawaii is a paradise for those traveling solo , making this road trip the perfect addition to a solo Hawaii itinerary.

Start your drive in Paia, a surfing town on the north side of the island. Follow the road east for the next 60 miles for some of Maui’s most beautiful scenery!

Technically, this road goes past the tiny town of Hana and ends at the eastern entrance of Haleakala National Park. This is one road trip that is definitely more about the journey than the destination.

For the best experience, rent a car and drive this road yourself. That way, you can stop along the route as much as you want!

To get helpful and entertaining commentary along the way, download an audio guide app before you go, such as the Shaka Guide. 

While there are dozens of stops along the way, there are a few must-visits. The first one is the Keanae Peninsula, which you’ll see just past Mile Marker 16. Here you can try the famous Aunty Sandy’s banana bread — made with sweet Maui bananas — and enjoy views of the ocean along the rugged, lava-crusted coastline.

Next, make sure to visit Waianapanapa State Park at Mile Marker 32! You’ll need an advance reservation to enter, but it’s worth it to visit Maui’s most beautiful black sand beach. 

Just past Mile Marker 45, you’ll reach the most photographed waterfall on Maui, Wailua Falls! This 80-foot waterfall is just a short hike from the road.

Finally, make sure to stop at Haleakala National Park at Mile Marker 42 (the mile markers start going down once you pass the town of Hana). Here you can hike the famous Pipiwai Trail — one of the world’s most beautiful hiking trails — which takes you through a bamboo forest and to the gorgeous 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

-Jennifer from Glassesandboardingpasses

4. Blue Ridge Parkway In North Carolina

Start: Cherokee, North Carolina

End:  Waynesboro, Virginia

Distance: 469 miles

Arguably ranking among the world’s greatest road trips and the most iconic driving routes in the United States, the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles from Cherokee, North Carolina to Waynesboro, Virginia. 

This stunningly scenic route was originally envisioned by US President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1935 as a means to connect Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia — where it turns into the equally picturesque Skyline Drive. 

The visionary plan was part of his historic New Deal initiative, which FDR designed to improve American infrastructure and create jobs as a means to accelerate the nation’s economic recovery after the Great Depression. 

The vast majority of the construction of the 469-mile parkway was completed by 1966, but it took another 21 years to finish the eight-mile stretch in North Carolina that includes the technically difficult engineering feat now known as the Linn Cove Viaduct.

Now, with more than 15 million people driving some portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway every year, it is the most visited unit of the US National Park Service. 

The fact that the Blue Ridge Parkway is so popular is a big part of what makes it so safe for solo travelers. You may be alone in your car, but there are virtually always other cars, RVs, and cyclists riding the winding, mountainous roads through the heart of the Blue Ridge region.

You’ll likely encounter friendly strangers at many of the 200+ breathtaking overlooks along the way, and the 200-mile North Carolina section takes you close to charming mountain towns such as Asheville, Cherokee, Banner Elk, Blowing Rock, and Boone that offer plenty of overnight accommodation options. There are also great hiking trails near Boone !

The parkway is an extraordinary conservation initiative, with virtually no commerce — including hotels, restaurants, billboards or, importantly, gas stations — alongside the road.

What it does offer is jaw-dropping natural beauty, including Jefferson, George Washington, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests; numerous impressive state parks; and countless hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and streams. 

The North Carolina section is where you’ll find many of the parkway’s most noteworthy landmarks, including Mount Mitchell (the tallest peak east of the Mississippi River), Grandfather Mountain, the Linville Gorge Wilderness, Looking Glass Rock, and Julian Price Memorial Park.

Each of these iconic places offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the splendor of America’s wilderness at its most pristine.  

-Bret Love & Mary Gabbett from Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

5. Solo Road Trip Through New York’s Finger Lakes Region

Start : Rochester, New York

End : Syracuse, New York

Distance: 270 – 350 miles

New York’s incredibly popular Finger Lakes region is a peaceful getaway filled with world-famous wine, locally produced ciders and craft beers, stunning waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and some of the best hikes in Upstate New York . It’s the perfect combination for a solo road trip!

Road tripping routes through the Finger Lakes are completely open to your own interpretation. 

A more relaxing break might involve circumnavigating Seneca and Cayuga Lakes on boozy wine tasting tours and slowly exploring quaint lakeside villages.

However, the action-packed Finger Lakes itinerary I’ll be sharing begins in Rochester and ends in Syracuse, with a total driving distance of anywhere between 270 miles by main roads and 350 miles by taking the scenic route.

Up first is a true Finger Lakes hidden gem: Letchworth State Park, which is lesser-known and further out from the epicenter of state parks around Ithaca, New York. Three gorgeous waterfalls and a dramatic 400-foot deep horseshoe-shaped gorge are unmissable Letchworth highlights.

From hidden gem to magazine front cover, the Finger Lakes’ star attraction is Watkins Glen State Park , which is one place you absolutely can’t miss on a visit to the region. A beautifully crafted stone walkway transports visitors past 19 picturesque waterfalls cascading through Glen Canyon, climaxing at spectacular Rainbow Falls.

Take a break from the waterfalls by sampling award-winning wines, swimming in Seneca Lake, and visiting 19th-century Belhurst Castle in the small but charming city of Geneva.

Back to gorges and waterfalls, a scenic trip awaits in the famous college town of Ithaca.

First is Taughannock Falls State Park, which features the tallest single drop waterfall east of the Rockies. Next up, blow the cobwebs off with steep gorge hikes in both Robert H Treman and Buttermilk Falls State Parks.

The last stop after leaving Ithaca is arguably the prettiest and most tourist-friendly village in the region, Skaneateles. This quintessential and vibrant Finger Lakes hamlet sits on a clear blue lake with high-end dining and boutique stores a plenty.

New York’s Finger Lakes cater to solo travelers who enjoy photography, hiking, countryside drives, and escapism; however, starting out solo doesn’t necessarily mean staying solo. Join a highly rated wine tour to meet like-minded people and make new connections.

– Mark and Kristen from Where Are Those Morgans ?

6. Driving The Great River Road In Louisiana

Start : New Orleans, Louisiana

End : New Orleans, Louisiana

Distance: 280 miles

The Great River Road in Louisiana isn’t a shy kind of place. Its iconic images include grand avenues with dripping live oaks, opulent plantation homes, and mint juleps on the side. 

Yet, of course, there’s more to it than that. And through initiatives like the Whitney Plantation Museum, which focuses on sharing the stories of those enslaved rather than their owners, there’s never been a better time to explore this part of the US. 

Most road trips start and finish in New Orleans — and with very good reason. It’s a fantastic city to explore. Forget any notions of all-night parties (unless you want to), as in New Orleans you’ll find tasteful art galleries, cool gardens, acres of history, and an abundance of chicory coffee and sugary beignets. 

From there, consider a detour to Lafayette to see Vermilionville, a living museum that tells the tale of the Acadian people, refugees from French Canada and forerunners of Cajun culture and cuisine. Stop along the way for bowls of gumbo and foot-stomping Zydeco music. Just watch out for the gators along the edge of the road. 

Then follow the Old Man River and drive beside the Mississippi along the Great River Road. It’s fun to stop off at Louisiana’s state capital Baton Rouge to check out the museums and the bar that serves oysters in nearly 100 different ways. 

But the real draw is the story of those swamps and those grand plantation homes. 

It may not sound like it but a swamp tour is a serene way to spend half a day. Drift amid marshmallow and tumbling leaves on the bayous as alligators watch with glee. 

Then make sure to visit at least these two plantation homes: Oak Alley and the Whitney. 

Oak Alley is the famous one; the one with a tunnel of trees along the driveway and a feature in a Beyoncé video. 

Then there is the Whitney, a place with haunting statues of enslaved children. A graveyard for babies. Trading chains and shackles amid the Gone with the Wind era romance.

It makes for a sobering visit. And adds important context to an otherwise flamboyant and fun road trip from New Orleans.

In terms of why this road trip is great for solo travelers, you can explore the plantations at your own pace and yet there’s always company to be found thanks to the legendary southern hospitality.

-Abigail from Inside the Travel Lab

7. Death Valley To Yosemite National Park In California

Start: Death Valley, California

End: Yosemite National Park, California

Distance: 285 miles

An amazing solo road trip in the US is the drive through the Eastern Sierras from Death Valley to Yosemite. The views out your window will take your breath away, and this 285-mile trip through California features many spectacular outdoor spaces that you can explore to your heart’s content and truly enjoy solo.

Begin your solo road trip in the unique and unforgiving landscape of Death Valley National Park near the border of Nevada. This desert is the hottest place on earth, and you can visit the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin.

From there, head west to the town of Lone Pine to check out the highest point in the continental US, Mount Whitney. While you can hike to the 14,505 foot tall Mount Whitney summit in one day — if you’re lucky enough to win the permit lottery — it is a very intense hike. You can take an easier hike to appreciate this epic peak in the distance instead.

Then continue your road trip north to Bishop. This cool mountain town is a playground for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Continue your outdoor adventures by exploring all the things to do in Mammoth Lakes, where you can also rejuvenate with a relaxing soak in the local hot springs.

This awesome road trip culminates in the iconic Yosemite National Park. Enjoy the beauty of Tuolumne Meadows on your drive into the park as you head to Yosemite Valley. Here you’ll find yourself in the shadow of the grand granite walls of Half Dome and El Capitan. Be sure to spend at least a night or two in the park to cap off your Eastern Sierras solo road trip!

-Allison from She Dreams of Alpine

8. San Diego To Los Angeles California Road Trip

Start: San Diego, California

End: Los Angeles, California

Distance: 120 miles

If you’re looking for solo road trip ideas that are simple yet scenic, this one is for you.

A road trip from San Diego to Los Angeles might not win you any points for originality, but it works perfectly if you are a solo traveler looking for a convenient and safe adventure with stunning scenery and plenty of options for lodging, entertainment, and dining. 

Unlike some other California road trips, the drive from San Diego to Los Angeles doesn’t require you to spend hours on the road and go to remote areas with scarce cell phone coverage. 

Moreover, if you decide to take a 120-mile drive from San Diego to Los Angeles, you will have countless options — from the upscale La Jolla just north of San Diego where you can visit galleries and admire wildlife to beautiful Orange County famous for its surfing spots like Trestles and San Onofre and the historic mission in San Juan Capistrano. 

Another spot that is worth your attention is Laguna Beach, home to the stunning Crystal Cove State Park showcasing unspoiled beauty and rich marine wildlife. If you’re looking for a solo beach vacation , it’s perfect for that, too.

And then there is Dana Point, a small seaside town that has been dubbed “the whale capital of the west” that offers daily boat tours if you want to see these iconic animals. 

Of course, solo travel in Los Angeles also offers tons of things to do and see, from beautiful beaches to amazing shopping to world-class restaurants to epic LA hikes with waterfalls .

If you plan to do this route for the first time, make sure to spare enough time because you will have an infinite amount of places to choose from. 

-Daria from The Discovery Nut

9. Route 66 From Chicago To Los Angeles

Start: Chicago, Illinois

End: Los Angelos, California

Distance: About 2,500 miles

Route 66 is an iconic highway in the United States , originally created to connect Chicago to Los Angeles. It has since been re-routed and extended.

Moreover, it’s also known as the Will Rogers Highway or simply “The Mother Road” and has been recognized in popular culture on TV shows like The Simpsons and Doctor Who and on video games such as Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.

Start in Chicago at the “Begin” sign and see a bit of the city before heading off on your 2,500-mile adventure road-tripping from Chicago to Los Angeles while traversing eight states:

• New Mexico,
• and California.

Make your way over two weeks to Los Angeles, where you’ll be rewarded with Pacific Ocean views. Most choose to end their adventure at the Santa Monica Boardwalk.

There are many attractions along Route 66, but some of the most famous ones are the St. Louis Gateway Arch in Missouri, the Blue Whale of Catoosa outside of Tulsa in Oklahoma, and the Grand Canyon, which is one of the most popular day trips from Route 66. 

Plus, there are so many fun things to do when traveling solo in Texas .

This road trip is perfect for solo travelers because it’s fast-paced and provides many opportunities to meet other travelers on the road. While you may spend your nights in interesting kitschy motels, you’ll spend your days in diners and at roadside attractions where quirky characters abound.

-Stephanie from Oklahoma Wonders

10. Florida’s Gulf Coast

Start: Destin, Florida

End: Marco Island, Florida

Distance: 600 miles

As one of the largest states in the US, the Sunshine State of Florida has a huge diversity of culture, climates, and landscapes that’s often lost on many travelers who may build their vacation around just one place. From north to south, Florida has so many faces, making it perfect for exploring on a road trip.

The Gulf Coast of Florida in particular offers a variety of local foods, ecosystems, and some of the best beaches in the country.

Your road trip starts on Florida’s Panhandle — so named as the handle by which the entire peninsula can be carried. 

Known as the Emerald Coast, one visit to the town of Destin will show you why. The emerald green waters beg you to stay for at least a few days, and you should. Hike the dune trails at Henderson Beach State Park then spend time lounging on these gorgeous beaches.

From Destin, head east to the state capital of Tallahassee. The landscape becomes wooded and the small city is easy to navigate. Don’t miss the Tallahassee Museum and a Shakespeare performance at the Amphitheatre.

The next day set off for Cedar Key to explore one of Florida’s hidden gems. Foodies will love a visit here as the small town is famous for their clams.

This part of the Gulf coast below the Big Bend is where Florida’s Nature Coast begins. Drive south to Crystal River and Homosassa and spend a few days exploring Three Sisters Springs by kayak where you can swim with manatees in the crystal clear warm springs.

Just south of the Nature Coast is Tampa and St. Petersburg where you should visit Ybor City, the historically Cuban quarter of Tampa. The food and local culture here are worth the day trip to the city.

After exploring the many things to do in Tampa and Sarasota, the drive south reveals a landscape that’s more remote and coastal as you head to southwest Florida.

Fort Myers is a vibrant and vintage city made famous by its notable summer residents Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, who both had homes here. Plan a visit to tour their houses and spend a day swimming and sunbathing on Sanibel Island or Fort Myers Beach.

From here, wind your way to the Paradise Coast of Naples and Marco Island, the gateway to the Florida Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands, one of the most beautiful and popular destinations in Florida.

-Lori from Naples Florida Travel Guide

11. Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway In South Dakota

Start: Black Hills, South Dakota

End: Spearfish Canyon, South Dakota

Distance: 20 miles

If you’re looking for solo road trip ideas for the Midwest , this route takes you through 1,000-foot limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and stunning scenery without the crowds!

Head to the Black Hills of South Dakota for a spectacular drive through the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. This peaceful 20-mile winding drive runs through a canyon between Spearfish and Cheyenne Crossing and is filled with breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, lakes, and limestone cliffs — natural beauty you have to see for yourself!

There are three waterfalls in the canyon and all bring their own unique appeal. The first being Bridal Veil Falls, which you can see from the road, making it a convenient stop. The other two are Roughlock Falls and Spearfish Falls, both near the Spearfish Canyon Lodge. Viewing all three is a must.

If you’re up for a little adventure travel , you can rent an ATV across from the Spearfish Canyon Lodge and explore the area, ride around the trails, and jump in a cool creek.

Other than near Roughlock Falls, you likely won’t run into anyone except the free-range cows, which makes for a fun way to explore the canyon. There are also numerous hiking trails throughout the route.

As you’re probably gathering, if you want to spend the night, the Spearfish Canyon Lodge is a great place to do that as it sits along the Scenic Byway and is near two of the three falls. There’s an on-site restaurant and Little Spearfish Creek runs behind the lodge and provides a serene setting to relax. 

While in the area, you’re near so many historic sites, such as Mt. Rushmore, Deadwood, and the Crazy Horse Memorial. There’s so much to see and do! The area is beautiful any time of year, but fall is especially pretty when the autumn colors come alive. 

This route is perfect for solo travelers, too, as it’s easy to get to and traverse, and there’s a sense of solitude and calm. That being said, you’re still close to amenities and civilization. Bonus: The people of South Dakota are very friendly!

You can go at your own pace, stop when you want to stop, and take in the peace and beauty that surrounds you.

-Erica from Ericakeel

12. Solo Road Trip From NYC To Boston

Start:  New York City

End: Boston, Massachusetts

Distance : 200 miles

The drive from New York City to Boston is ideal for those searching for a quick and reasonable road trip. It’s a great choice for solo travelers since it’s not too long and there is lots to see along the way. Along the route, you’ll get to enjoy two of the East Coast’s major cities as well as the stunning coastline. 

Go on this road trip during the summer, when the weather is pleasant and great for sightseeing. This area of the US is especially beautiful during the fall when the forests are tinted orange and make a great photo subject.

With just over 200 miles this road trip takes around 3.5 hours one way — although you could drive for slightly longer and take the scenic road through Providence, a highlight of New England. Definitely make a stop in New Haven, Connecticut for some fantastic museums, beautiful architecture, and delicious thin-crust coal-fired New Haven-style pizza.

This is the perfect weekend road trip, although you could also spend an extra week if you want to explore the many fun and unique things to do in NYC and Boston .

You’ll start in New York City and head north. If you’re up for it, make a little detour to Long Island to explore the local wine country , hiking trails , and beaches that are perfect for a picnic along the way.

– Victoria from Guide your travel

13. Length Of Vermont To The Canadian border

Start : Brattleboro, Vermont

End : Canadian border near Alburg, Vermont

A road trip the length of Vermont to the Canadian border is a delight for solo travelers. Vermont locals are typically kind, friendly, and willing to help out when needed. The charm of tiny Vermont villages and their residents enhances any road trip through the Green Mountain state.

Start your journey in the south at Brattleboro. The first stop is at the West Dummerston covered bridge, one of over 100 covered bridges in Vermont.

Head up scenic Route 100 through the heart of the Green Mountain. Stop at picturesque towns with nary a stoplight. Don’t miss the Vermont Country Store in Weston for unique gifts.

The iconic town of Stowe is an all-season destination on your solo road trip. It’s a world-class ski destination in the winter and a popular foliage spot in the fall. In summer, outdoor enthusiasts have loads of choices for adventure travel , including hikes to waterfalls, biking on the Stowe Rec Path, or scaling Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont.  

The vibrant city of Burlington is your next destination. Rent a bike to pedal along the Burlington Bike Path, one of my favorite beautiful bike rides . The bike trail leads to spectacular beaches with views of the Adirondacks across Lake Champlain.

For a relaxing afternoon, take a cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen with narration about the history and nature of the Lake Champlain Valley. 

The final stage of your solo road trip is a drive through the bucolic Champlain Islands. Search for the mysterious miniature stone castles along the roadsides and sample some local agrotourism products. Apple picking and wine tasting opportunities also abound.

The road trip is just over 200 miles from Brattleboro to the Canadian border. Each mile is packed with Vermont charm and friendliness. 

-Karen from Outdoor Adventure Sampler

14. Southern Utah Solo Road Trip

Start : Las Vegas, Nevada

End: Las Vegas, Nevada

Distance: 1,049 miles

One of the best solo road trips in the US is in Southern Utah exploring the state’s five national parks and everything in between. It’s best done in 10-14 days as a loop from Las Vegas. 

In terms of distance, the route is a little over 1,000 miles in total, but I would leave wiggle room for side trips and any last-minute additions.

While the five national parks — Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands — are the main highlight, there are so many other amazing things to do and see. A few recommendations include:

• trekking the Burr Trail (of the best Utah hiking trails ),
• driving Scenic Byway 12,
• exploring Goblin Valley State Park and Snow Canyon State Park,
• seeing the giant sandstone buttes of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park,
• hiking to the Horseshoe Bend overlook,
• walking inside of Antelope Canyon,
• and swimming at Lake Powell, to name a few.

This is a particularly great road trip for solo travelers because it’s popular and easy to be around people, though it’s just as easy to get away from those crowds if you wish. 

No matter what you do, you’ll see some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. 

This is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts, no matter the skill level. Just be sure you’re prepared according to that level and always let someone know where you’re going and when to expect you back.

-Megan from Red Around the World

15. Savannah To Charleston Solo Road Trip

Start : Savannah, Georgia

End:  Charleston, South Carolina

Distance:  105.9 miles

If you’re a fan of beautiful architecture, Southern food, and coastal cities, Savannah and Charleston make an ideal option for a road trip. Southerners are known for their overt friendliness, and both cities are accustomed to hosting solo travelers.

The two cities are close to one another, so you won’t waste much time driving — which means more time for exploring.

The distance between Savannah and Charleston is approximately two hours, and the most common route is HWY 17 to I-95 and then back to HWY 17.   

The best place to stay in Savannah is the Historic District, and The Marshall House is a good centrally located hotel for solo travelers.

River Street, City Market, and the Plant Riverside District are known for being entertainment hubs. They’re packed with the highest concentration of restaurants and bars and are where you’ll find the most live entertainment — and also the largest crowds.

If you prefer enjoying lovely old architecture in a more romantic setting, try strolling along Jones Street. It’s known for being one of the prettiest streets in the city and walking it is one of the best things to do in Savannah .

A few must-see attractions include the stunning Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Bonaventure Cemetery, Wormsloe, and Forsyth Park. The Olde Pink House is the most iconic restaurant in Savannah, while ghost and trolley tours are the most popular activities.

On the drive from Savannah to Charleston, be sure to detour through Yemassee to see the Old Sheldon Church Ruins, and then stop to visit The Angel Oak, a giant 60-foot-tall oak tree estimated to be over 400 years old located on the outskirts of Charleston.

Once you’re in Charleston, the Spectator Hotel and Planters Inn are two fantastic hotel options. It’s easy to walk to numerous attractions and restaurants from either spot.

Charleston is also a great city for shopping! Visit Historic Charleston City Market to watch local Gullah artists make sweetgrass baskets by hand, and then head over to the shops lining King Street to do more high-end shopping.

If you’re a fan of architecture, be sure to stroll down Charleston’s cobblestone streets, which are lined with historic churches and beautiful mansions. The always-popular Rainbow Row makes an ideal place to snap a few selfies.

Stroll down The Battery to catch a sunset along the water before heading to Husk for dinner and then on to Babas on Cannon for an evening cocktail.  

-Erin from Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

16. Overseas Highway In Florida

Start: Miami, Florida

End: Key West, Florida

Distance: 150 miles

Driving the Overseas Highway is the perfect solo road trip for travelers that love the Florida weather and dream of visiting the beautiful Florida Keys.

This route starts in Miami and takes you all the way to Key West, the southernmost city of the United States. The 150-mile scenic drive is iconic and offers unbelievable views of the Gulf of Mexico and all of the islands in the Florida Keys.

Even though the drive can be made in only three and a half hours, the best way to do it is by taking at least two or four days to fully take in the route’s beauty and take advantage of the excellent stops along the 42 bridges that make the road. So take your time!

Some of the must-do stops on the way are the stunning Islamorada (a village of six islands), the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon, and the Seven Mile Bridge — the largest segmental bridge in the world.

Other nice places to stop along the way include the Coral Castle Museum in Homestead, Everglades National Park , Bahia Honda State Park, and Key Largo, one of the best scuba diving destinations in the country.

This is an excellent road trip for solo travelers because it is easy to navigate, has amazing weather all-year-round, and allows you to visit some of the prettiest places in Florida.

-Camila from Travel Cami

17. Geronimo Trail From Arizona To New Mexico

Start: Douglas, Arizona

End: Cloverdale Cemetery Animas, New Mexico

Distance: 54 miles

If you are a solo road tripper and crave a drive that is totally off the grid, I have one for you. After hundreds of US road trips, my favorite remains the Geronimo Trail in southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico. 

It is one of the most unique US road trips and it is much more remote and isolated than the famous highway in Nevada that claims to be the Loneliest Road. How lonely? On a 90-minute drive on Geronimo Trail, I saw only three cars.

Geronimo Trail starts just east of Douglas, Arizona, where 15th Street turns into Geronimo Trail at the small Douglas Airport. A few miles later, the pavement ends and Geronimo Trail is a dirt road from this point. 

Note: A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended! Also, please pack solo road trip essentials like a spare tire and extra food and water just in case you run into any issues. I had no problem with a small SUV. 

About 35 miles later you will reach the Arizona/New Mexico border. About six miles into New Mexico, Geronimo Trail officially ends and turns into County Road 002—which is even more lonely. I saw only one car in 90 minutes!

The massive appeal along Geronimo Trail is rustic vibes, wide open spaces, astounding scenery, and time to be at one with your thoughts. The beginning of Geronimo Trail runs along the US/Mexico border and you will likely see Border Patrol agents and vehicles. 

As Geronimo Trail turns northeast, San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge signs appear. The refuge is an oasis in the surrounding desert and features protected fish and seldom-seen migrating birds. If you enjoy hiking, the Black Draw Trail is a great spot for bird watchers. 

Between the refuge and the AZ/NM border, there are a handful of large ranches, intense side roads (like Sycamore Canyon), one Mormon Trail historic marker, and a few small pioneer cemeteries. Basically, Geronimo Trail’s allure is miles and miles of dirt road, astounding scenery, and just you and your vehicle. Crank your tunes—or turn the radio off to let your deepest thoughts surface.

To find this approximate route on Google Maps, search Douglas, AZ to Cloverdale Cemetery Animas, NM in “Get Directions”. Note that Street View (the blue man) is not available for almost all of this road trip, which lends to its mystique.

-Charles from McCool Travel

18. Kansas City To Rocky Mountain National Park In Colorado

Start: Kansas City, Kansas

End: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Distance: 650 miles

A road trip from Kansas City to Rocky Mountain National Park is an essential trek through Americana. 

Around 650 miles separate these two disparate destinations. The craggy peaks of the Rocky Mountains are a stark contrast from the flatlands of Kansas. But both offer stunning beauty in their own rights. 

Starting in Kansas City, you do what pioneers, prospectors, and cowboys did 150 years ago; head west!

Crossing the prairie, you can imagine what those early settlers saw. So much of it remains as it was back then. 

Especially beautiful are the rolling grasslands of the Flint Hills in Kansas. The springtime is especially amazing as the fresh shoots of grass carpet the hills in a lush green blanket.

Stop into the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve to stroll through the hills of native grasses and herds of bison.

But don’t dally too long. You still have a bit of a drive to get to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Until you reach Denver, you will be covering mile after mile of this grassland. Although beautiful, you’ll likely be ready for a change of scenery.

And what a welcome sight Denver is! The Rocky Mountains set the backdrop behind the skyline to welcome you to the next part of your journey.

There are so many fun things to do in Denver for solo travelers , too. Additionally, nearby, Boulder is a smaller college town with plenty to explore. And Estes Park is right outside of your final destination. Any of these are also great stopping points for a bite to eat or to pick up supplies. 

Stop into Mountain Sun Pub in Boulder for some great food in a lively atmosphere. There are only booths along two walls with the center lined with tables. As a solo traveler, this is a great way to meet the locals and fellow visitors alike.

But don’t forget what you came for: The amazing hikes and camping in Rocky Mountain National Park. Honestly, this park has some of the best hikes in the world ! Stop into the visitors center and pick up your map. You have endless trails to choose from.

The park offers shuttle service to many of the trailheads, which makes it great for hiking as you don’t need loop trails to get you back to your car. 

Alpine lakes, streams, and trails open up plenty of ways to explore or relax. 

The long, open road and the serene mountain trails both offer solitude for the lone traveler. But there are lots of places to mingle with locals and visitors alike for the more social solo travelers. 

-Steve from Maps Over Coffee

19. Michigan’s Lower Peninsula

Start:  Benton Harbor, Michigan

End:  Mackinac Island, Michigan

Distance: 340 miles

The west side of Michigan features natural beauty, food and drinks, and fun cultural attractions worth writing home about.

This 350-mile route is great for solo travelers because the driving is easy, there are plenty of places to take breaks, and you can see the best scenery without having to venture too far off the beaten path.

Starting from the southern border, work your way up Lake Michigan along I-94 and then I-196. You’ll find tons of beach towns as well as plenty of lighthouses as you make your way to Holland. This small town is known for its Dutch heritage and features a windmill originally from the Netherlands.

Continue northeast to Grand Rapids, also known as Beer City USA. Sample drinks at one or more of its breweries and visit the larger-than-life sculptures at Meijer Gardens or the Gerald Ford Presidential Library.

Heading west on I-96 brings you to Muskegon where you’ll find even more beaches. This small town also has an amusement and water park called Michigan’s Adventure, which features a handful of roller coasters. Closer to the lake, you can tour the USS Silversides, a WWII-era submarine docked along the shore.

Continuing north on US-31 and then M-22, you’ll arrive at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is highlighted by sand dunes towering 400 feet above the turquoise waters of Lake Michigan. You can take a scenic drive to the top of one for stunning views with minimal effort or try climbing up one yourself.

Continue on M-22 around the Leelanau Peninsula through the heart of Michigan’s wine country. Stop into tasting rooms yourself or continue to the resort town of Traverse City and join a tour so you don’t have to drive.

While you’re in Traverse City, try its famous cherries and dine in the local farm-to-table restaurants. Once you’ve had your fill, continue north on US-31 to I-75.

Mackinaw City serves as the gateway to both the Mackinac Bridge and Mackinac Island. The bridge connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas and there are great spots to view it from Fort Michilimackinac and the beaches to the east. Mackinac Island is most easily reached via ferry. 

The small island in Lake Huron has no motorized vehicles, so visitors and locals walk, bike, or ride horse-drawn carriages. It’s famous for its Victorian architecture and delicious fudge and is the perfect cap for your Michigan road trip.

-Kris from My Michigan Travel

20. Montana Road Trip On I-90 & Highway 93

Start: Billings, Montana

End: Glacier National Park, Montana

Distance: 637 miles

If you’re looking to safely road trip alone as a female , I highly recommend visiting Montana.

After growing up there and taking several of my own, there are many reasons to consider a drive along I-90, including the fact that some of the most beautiful nature is located along this route. 

I recommend starting your trip in Billings, which is easy to fly into and is Montana’s largest city, before heading to Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park. You’ll need to make a slight detour from I-90 to get to the park on Highway 191.

Along the way up north on Highway 93, make sure to add stops in Butte, Missoula, and Whitefish. All offer unique reasons to visit and a different feel—Montana is more varied than you might think! 

If you have the time, also make sure to stop off at the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, which features cave formations that are millions of years old.

The remaining drive is super easy with very clearly marked signs that take you from one town to another. Most of it is highway driving with little traffic and plenty of beautiful views. 

Finally, if one national park wasn’t enough, you get to end your 637-mile trip at another national park: Glacier. I do recommend planning your accommodations in advance if you can in order to make sure you have a place to stay when you get there!

-Alex from Alex on the Map

21. California Solo Trip Along The Mendocino Coast From San Francisco

Start: San Francisco, California

End: Redwood National Park, California

Distance: 311 miles

Highway 1 from San Francisco up to Mendocino Coast and Redwood National Park is one of the most beautiful drives on the planet, maybe comparable to the Canadian Icefields Parkway in Banff and Jasper National Parks in its grandeur. One is through the mountains and the other along the Pacific, both equally fantastic. 

You can do a loop or drive out-and-back from San Francisco. The route on 101 is inland and boring but it’s a lot faster.

The route on Highway 1 is drop-dead gorgeous but very time-consuming because of the many stops, activities, and the winding road. You can do 101 going one way and loop back on Highway 1 to get both the benefits. 

The drive from San Francisco to Redwood National Park is 320 miles and takes about six hours on 101. You can choose to go further up or do a shorter route depending on your timeline. 

Some of the top attractions on the drive include Redwood National and State Parks where you can spend a few days and do many hikes and activities.

The scenic Avenue of the Giants runs parallel to the freeway and has many amazing stops. You can drive the entire road or a section as you coast through redwood trees and stop at many state parks along the way. 

Another recommended stop is at the Laguna Point Beach at MacKerricher State Park, which offers some of the most spectacular tide pools absolutely worth visiting for half a day or more.

Additionally, next to MacKerricher State Park is Glass Beach, a popular spot for finding sea glass — though note that because so many people take the sea glass it’s becoming increasingly harder to find.

There are many more attractions along the drive so you can take a day or a few days to drive. 

This is a great road trip for solo travelers because it’s an amazing way to experience natural wonders in peace. The solo road trip allows for solitude but it also offers fun beaches and mountain towns with great food and company. Moreover, the drive is very safe for the solo traveler. 

– Jyoti from Story at Every Corner

22. Skyline Drive In Virginia

Start: Front Royal, Virginia (northern entrance to Skyline Drive)

End: Rockfish Gap exit, Virginia

Distance : 105 miles

Skyline Drive is pure sky! From the second you enter this highway winding through Shenandoah National Park at Front Royal until you exit at the Rockfish Gap Entrance Station there is a big blue sky ahead. And if you’re lucky enough to own a convertible, you will feel like an eagle on your solo trek. 

No matter what season you visit Shenandoah National Park—spring, summer, fall, or winter—you’ll delight in the deep forests, curving roads, and waterfalls to be discovered. Wild creatures abound, including bats, turkeys, and black bears. 

Located within convenient driving distance of Richmond, Charlottesville, and Washington, DC, Shenandoah National Park attracts solo runners, hikers, and walkers.

This is a great getaway for city folk especially with all the Airbnb rentals available. That being said, if you want to stay at the park campgrounds or at Skyland Resort and Big Meadows Hotel , you need to book early. 

Note: Depending on what season you visit, the 105-mile Skyline Drive can turn into a traffic jam. This is also not a road built as a raceway. Skyline Drive weaves its way across western Virginia with a speed limit of 35 mph.

For Washingtonians, the best entrance is the Front Royal Entrance. 

Stop at the Dickey Ridge Visitors Center to shop for books on hiking or get a panoramic portrait. There are regular stops along the way where you can park in a lot to hike through forests, climb Stony Man or Hawksbill, check out the Appalachian Trail, or meditate at the Shenandoah waterfalls.

Expect to take three hours traveling the entire length of the park on Skyline Drive. 

Skyline Drive ends at Rockfish Gap; it is the northern entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are 200,000 acres of protected land at Shenandoah National Park for you to explore.

– Terri at FemaleSoloTrek.com

Renting A Car For Your Solo Road Trip

Need a rental car for road tripping by yourself in the USA?

Use  Discover Cars  to quickly compare your car rental options. Their comparison tool does the homework for you, so there’s no need to have up 10+ tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. Actually, you can save up to 70% using their tool!

How To Road Trip Alone

There are numerous advantages and disadvantages to traveling alone , though ultimately solo travel is an empowering experience that gives you total freedom over your itinerary.

That being said, if it your first time heading out on a solo adventure by car, the following solo road trip tips can help:

-Make sure you have good car insurance as well as roadside assistance (like AAA) in case of an emergency.

-Travel with solo road trip essentials like a spare tire, extra food and water, a sleeping bag and pillow, and sunglasses.

-Know your limits when it comes to how far you can drive, especially as nobody else will be in the car to help keep you awake.

-Keep loved ones informed of your travel plans and check in regularly. This way your absense will be noticed right away in an emergency.

-Install personal safety apps on your phone — like the Emergency App from the American Red Cross.

Travel Insurance For Your Solo Road Trip

When visiting the USA — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

What solo road trip ideas would you add to this list?

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Great article! Discover everything America has to offer from the freedom of the open road. Travel with pleasure, be free from the schedule.

10 of the Best Solo Road Trips in the USA

09/29/2022 by Emily Becker Leave a Comment

With everything going on in the world right now, a solo road trip has never sounded so appealing. Being out on the open road solo is liberating –adhering to your own schedule, moving at your own pace, and packing your OWN road snacks.

What’s not to love? So pack a bag, turn off those email notifications, and hit the road BMTM style! Here’s our list of the best road trips for solo travelers:

Table of Contents

10. Pacific Coast Highway, California

It’s no secret that California is a road trip heaven all year round with its amazing Pacific Ocean views and wide expanses of open road waiting to be traversed. Take your pick from beginning as far south as the Mexico border or as far north as the Oregon border and begin the 1,650 mile adventure as quickly or as slowly as you’d like.

Check out our  Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary  for ideas for where to stop along the journey. This road trip is great for solo traveling as there are plenty of places to take in the scenery and find the stillness that you’re craving.

➵ Check car rental prices here

9. The Oregon Highlights

Oregon has an impeccable variety of landscapes, making it one of the most interesting states to road trip through. Here you get the perks of being able to drive along the Pacific Coast, while also being able to venture deep into the mountains and find beautiful hidden gems along the way.

Start your adventure at Crater Lake National Park, where you can drive 33 miles along Rim Drive. Here there are 30 different spots where you can stop and get a look at the lake. From there, you can check out the waterfalls in North Umpqua, see peculiar rock formations at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and then at Cannon Beach, and end your trip in Portland.

Find the full Oregon road trip itinerary here .

8. Highway 95 from Reno to Las Vegas, Nevada

This is easily one of the quirkiest road trips in the USA, hands down. Starting in Reno, you’ll follow Highway 95 to a short detour leading to Fish Lake Valley Hot Well, an off-the-beaten-path hot spring. From there, you’ll go to Tonopah where you can stay in a haunted hotel . The oddities continue in Goldfield, where there is a kooky art installation involving a school bus taking a nose dive into the dirt. You really have to see it to believe it.

There are plenty of other mind-bending stops on this Highway 95 road trip , including a stop at the Area 51 gift shop and some beautiful desert landscapes. This one is great to do solo, as the solitude of the desert provides the stillness and peace that are perfect for recharging your social battery.

7. US 395 Freeway, California & Nevada

Starting in Los Angeles and stretching all the way to Reno, this Highway 395 road trip is one of the most epic adventures in the US. From your very first stop at stunning Red Rock Canyon to passing through legendary Lake Tahoe , prepare to be mesmerized by California and Nevada’s beauty.

In many ways, the Highway 395 road trip is a highlight reel of the region’s best natural landscapes. You’ll see expansive deserts, colorful mountains, alpine lakes, and even stop in some of the USA’s best national parks. This is a great road trip for any season, as there’s something special about each time of year. You could potentially knock this trip out in a week, but 2 or even 3 weeks are ideal to truly take advantage of everything there is to see here.

6. Calfornia Deserts Road Trip

For California road trippers who are just in it for the incredible desert scenes, this one is absolutely perfect. About 25% of California is made up of deserts, which are mostly in the Southern portion of the state. For that reason, it’s quite easy to hop from one California desert to the next, observing the changes in scenery that comes with each stop on this epic adventure.

On your California deserts road trip , you’ll start at the Alabama Hills National Monument where you can watch a sunset from Mobius Arch. From there, find yourself in Death Valley, one of the most extreme and fascinating places on Earth, let alone California. Then, go looking for lava tubes in Mojave National Preserve and Monument. Don’t miss out on Joshua Tree and, of course, Anza-Borrego State Park. How’s that for a thrilling solo road trip?

First Name:

5. Idaho – Boise to Coeur D’alene

Idaho? Yes, Idaho! If you are looking for a nature-filled getaway, Idaho might just be the place for you. As you drive through the state, make sure to make plenty of  stops at the beautiful hot springs .

Sometimes the best part of traveling solo is having the opportunity to intentionally connect with nature. Because Idaho isn’t necessarily everybody’s top bucket-list destination, it’s much less touristy than other destinations. That makes it a great choice for anyone looking for some true peace and quiet.

Click here for a complete Idaho road trip itinerary.

4. Arizona – Natural Wonders

It’s no secret that Arizona is absolutely brimming with natural beauty along its highways. Begin your trip in Sedona where you can take on the city alone or venture out and socialize. From there, you can enjoy a variety of short hikes in the area. These are great for solo travelers who might be intimidated by taking any longer hikes alone.

This trip is definitely not recommended to take in the summer months as the temperatures are extreme and traveling alone poses an added risk. Winter and spring are the best times to go, especially if you’re planning on getting out and exploring.

Read more about the  best road trip stops in Arizona here!

3. Utah’s National Parks

From the mind-boggling sandstone formations of Arches National Park to the astounding views of Zion National Park , Utah might be one of the absolute best states in the US for an outdoor lover’s road trip. Start your Utah National Parks road trip in Moab , which is the perfect launching point for both Arches and Canyonland National Parks.

From Moab, you’ll head to Capitol Reef National Park where you can see the Waterpocket Fold, a literal wrinkle in the Earth, among other incredible sights. Then, you’ll go to Bryce Canyon National Park for your hoodoo fix before ending your trip in Zion.

2. New Mexico’s Gorgeous Landscapes

When you think of New Mexico, do funky western towns, white sand dunes, and the landscape that enchanted Georgia O’Keeffe come to mind?

From hot springs to incredible landscape, some dreamy white sands, and plenty of western culture, New Mexico offers something for any season.

Read more about our favorite  New Mexico road trip stops here.

1. American Southwest

If you have more time on your hands, consider taking your Arizona and New Mexico road trips a step further and exploring more of what the American Southwest has to offer. From art installations like the  Seven Magic Mountains  in Nevada to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National  Monument  in Utah, this trip is sure to enchant you the whole way through.

BMTM’s  American Southwest road trip itinerary  is full of other suggestions of places to stop along with tips to make your trip the best it can be.

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Packing up your car and taking on a solo road trip might sound daunting, but these destinations are sure to make it worthwhile. Finding stillness in nature is a great way to reset and enjoy your own company. Having the Grand Canyon or a hot spring as your backdrop doesn’t hurt, either!

READ NEXT: How to plan a road trip The best audiobooks for road trips

*Some links in this post are affiliate links for products and services we personally use and love. Any purchase you make through them supports us at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much!

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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The 18 best solo trips in the U.S.

Ready to venture out on your own? Our selection of the best solo trips in the U.S. are the perfect way to get started.

Solo travel is booming—for good reason. Sure, sharing experiences with friends, family, or your significant other is fun, but taking a trip alone is a whole other type of adventure. You can build confidence, take in moments without distraction, and, best of all,   get to do exactly what you want to do. No debates about where to eat or what to see, just you and your whims. Being solo also makes it easier to strike up a conversation with a stranger, be it a local or fellow traveler. 

Fortunately, you don’t have to venture too far to enjoy a fulfilling solo sojourn.  Whether you’ve done this before or are looking to take your first trip alone, we've rounded up the best cities to visit as a party-of-one that will provide plenty of new experiences, whether you're an art enthusiast, foodie or beach lover. From the historic streets of Boston to the mountains of Colorado to the hills of San Francisco , here are some of the best solo trips to take in the US with plenty of itinerary suggestions to boot. 

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Best solo trips in the U.S.

1.  Nashville, TN

Let your love of music—and hearty Southern cooking—guide your trip through Nashville . For a toe-tapping good time, head to the Basement and possibly catch a 'secret' show from a national headliner in an intimate setting. Before the music, fill up with some finger-licking good Tennessee pork shoulder at Jack’s Bar-B-Cue , where you’ll make friends while waiting in long lines (trust us, it’s totally worth it) or test your limit for spicy food at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack or Hattie B’s . Celebrate a successful solo sojourn by ordering a cocktail at White Limozeen , the pink-hued, Dolly Parton-themed rooftop bar atop the Graduate Nashville .

2.  Marfa, TX

Independent travelers with an artistic side need to visit Marfa, which has quickly become a top destination for artists looking for a productive retreat. Miles away from any other city and hours from the nearest airport, this teeny-tiny small town (population: less than 2,000) in the desert boasts large-scale art installations (including the Instagram-famous Prada Marfa one), the Chinati Foundation art museum, and a historic army fort . Unsurprisingly, there aren’t many hotels here; however, we recommend Hotel Saint George , a minimalist-inspired boutique hotel with a bustling lobby bar and stylish interiors.

3.  New York, NY

While being alone in a city as densely populated as the Big Apple might seem lonely, we guarantee it’ll feel quite freeing in no time. Get in a New York state of mind while heading to the city’s fabulous museums (including the MoMA , The Met , and the Whitney ), gorgeous public spaces and phenomenal performances on Broadway or at the Metropolitan Opera. Don’t forget to get a taste of the world-renowned Brooklyn food scene , and never fear going to a restaurant or bar to dine solo—in New York, that’s standard fare. Make SoHo your home base for exploring by staying at the design-centric Crosby Street Hotel , where guests and locals can mingle throughout the chic public spaces.

4.  Boulder, CO

Hiking boots are a must if you’re visiting Boulder. Skiers and snowboarders take over the city in the winter, and when the weather is good, visitors flock to Eldorado Canyon State Park , Flagstaff , Chautauqua Park , and the Flatirons . Stay in the heart of town at the historic Hotel Boulderado , which puts you within walking distance of the vibrant Pearl Street Mall . Along this four-block-long pedestrian-friendly hotspot, you’ll find a slew of shopping, drinking, and dining options .

5.  Portland, OR

Portland's laid-back vibes and numerous attractions make it ideal for a solo trip. Join fellow foodies as you sample your way through SE Division Street, including a savory breakfast at Pine State Biscuits and a creamy milkshake from Fifty Licks . Then, retreat to nature with a hike through Forest Park ; alternatively, stroll among thousands of flowers in the International Rose Test Garden . Looking to make new friends? Try hitting up a concert at local favorite Mississippi Studios or grab a beer at the city's many breweries. After an action-packed day, retreat to your room at The Nines , conveniently located downtown.

6.  Asheville, NC

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this dynamic North Carolina city is a favorite among artists and outdoor lovers alike. The tranquil waters of the French Broad River, located within the city limits, are perfect for a kayak trip, while the nearby mountains offer plenty of great hikes and look-out spots for photographers and nature enthusiasts. If you want a more refined experience, check out the palatial Biltmore Estate , America's largest privately owned house. You can even spend the night here: Three properties can be found within the 8,000-acre grounds. Beer enthusiasts will also love it here: Asheville has more breweries per capita than any other city in America.

7.  Boston, MA

While Boston might loom large in American history (it is the oldest city in New England, after all), you can walk the narrow winding streets and explore the relatively small center in a day. The nearly 400-year-old town is full of hidden treasures that can be discovered on a self-guided walking tour. Tired of trekking on foot? Try one of the trolley tours—the guides are top-notch, and you might just make some friends while aboard the bright vehicles. Also, history buffs will especially appreciate staying at The Liberty , a 19th-century-era jail-turned-luxury hotel.

8.  Bozeman, MT

Even when you're alone in Bozeman, you're never lonely. The city is beloved not just because it's the perfect home base for solo activities like hiking, skiing, and horseback riding but also because the scene in town boasts interesting museums, distilleries, breweries, and restaurants. When you've had your fill of Palisade Falls, the Gallatin Canyon, or Bridger Bowl , stroll around the laid-back town's historic brewery sector or dig into the heritage of this wild northern landscape at the Museum of the Rockies before heading back to your room at the upscale Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman .

9.  Chicago,IL

With top-notch museums and parks and a public transportation system that rivals any other across the country, Chicago is a winning bet for a vacationer still unsure about the pros of solo traveling. Indulge in some retail therapy along the Magnificent Mile (North Michigan Avenue) and visit an amazing spa for some much-needed R&R. Along the Magnificent Mile, you’ll also find a slew of splurge-worthy stays, including The Peninsula. In terms of entertainment, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Check out the city’s top comedy clubs , including The Second City and the Laugh Factory . Or, if it’s postcard-worthy views you’re after, make your way to one of the city’s many rooftop bars .

10.  Seattle, WA

Make sure to pack a comfy pair of shoes when visiting the city’s top attractions , including the Space Needle , Pike Place Market , Fremont , and Pioneer Square . Art lovers will also appreciate a stay at Hotel Max , followed by visits to Chihuly Garden & Glass , the Seattle Art Museum (SAM), and the Frye Art Museum . Before you skip town, grab a cup of the world-famous coffee from a local café (we recommend Elm Coffee Roasters ) and hop on one of the Puget Sound ferries to take in the scenic landscape, including the skyline, waterfront, and, in the hazy distance, Mount Rainer.

11.  San Francisco, CA

In a city that fully embraces free spirits, your desire to fly through local museums, restaurants, and eclectic neighborhoods solo will see you fit right in. Tourist sights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island , and hopping aboard one of San Francisco’s historic cable cars. Once you've checked those off your list, explore one of the city's charming neighborhoods, such as Hayes Valley, Noe Valley or Pacific Heights. Try the Proper Hotel, which features a swanky rooftop bar, for accommodations.

12.  Florida Keys, FL

If it’s sunny days, warm temperatures, and turquoise water you’re after, look no further than this laid-back locale. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride around the Keys, stopping at cafés and shops along the way. In the afternoons, head for the beach with a book and get ready to meet fellow travelers with a colorful cocktail in hand at the beachfront bars. If you want ultimate peace and seclusion, head straight to Little Palm Island , a private island resort about 30 minutes away from Little Torch Key via boat.

13.  Washington, D.C.

Visiting D.C . solo allows you to explore the entire city at your own pace. Many  museums are free and deserve an entire day of exploring—like the National Gallery of Art , the National Museum of African American History & Culture , and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History . In the evening, take in a transformative performance at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts or enjoy a play with a side of history at Ford's Theatre , where President Lincoln was assassinated. Prefer to shop and eat your way through vacation? Make sure to visit Dupont Circle and Georgetown , where splurge-worthy stays–including the Four Seasons –abound.

14.  Austin, TX

Young-at-heart solo travelers will find Austin’s lively spirit infectious. The city attracts creative types, many of which regularly flock to local music venues. Visit the Continental Club for fun-filled nights, take a stand-up paddleboard tour of Lady Bird Lake , and stroll down South Congress Avenue , dotted with fantastic shopping. Of course, no trip to Austin is complete without some good ol’ Tex-Mex, and options abound, including Veracruz All Natural , Gabriela’s , and Matt's El Rancho . Once you’ve hit food coma status, head back to your room at the trendy LINE hotel and hop into bed.

15.  Philadelphia, PA

Whether you’re a history buff looking to delve into our nation’s past, you want to eat your way through vacation, or you simply need some time by yourself, Philadelphia is the place for you. Stay near Center City (you can’t go wrong at The Loews ) and the whole shebang will be easily accessible: Gorgeous Rittenhouse Square —and the surrounding shopping area—is a stroll away, as is Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell . Art enthusiasts should visit the magnificent Barnes Foundation and the sprawling galleries at the Philadelphia Museum of Art . Foodies, on the other hand, will appreciate the city’s booming culinary scene , including top restaurants like Laser Wolf and Vernick Food and Drink—just be sure to save room for a cheesesteak or two.

16.  Detroit, MI

Formerly down-and-out Detroit has experienced quite the renaissance in recent years. Today, the city is a dynamic canvas for art, music, and thought. Hoof it around the Grand River Creative Corridor , the Dequindre Cut Greenway , and the so-called Guggenheim Ghetto to take in some incredible street art at your own pace, or head to landmarks of Tha D's Motown heritage like the Motown Museum and the homes of hitmakers Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Aretha Franklin. When you've worked up an appetite, follow your nose for some Detroit-style pizza at Loui's or Polish dumplings at Pietrzyk Pierogi . Finally, rest your head at the chic, centrally located Detroit Foundation Hotel , so you’re never too far from all the action.

17.  San Diego, CA

San Diego is all about the beach, surf, and California burritos. The 1,200-acre Balboa Park deserves a full day (or two) of your attention. Here, you’ll find gardens, hiking trails, museums, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo . After a day of museum hopping and wildlife spotting, you’re sure to work up an appetite. So, make your way over to the Gaslamp Quarter neighborhood and take your pick of eclectic eats, including American Junkie for pub grub, the Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse for top-notch chops, Asti Ristorante for Italian fare, and Bang Bang for fresh sushi. Stay close to all the action (or, in this case, incredible eats) by booking a room at the Andaz San Diego .

18.  Phoenix, AZ

Excellent eats, stunning desert surroundings, and gorgeous sunny weather: Expect all this and more in Phoenix. While visiting Arizona’s capital city, take advantage of the plentiful hiking opps, including Papago Park, Camelback Mountain  and Phoenix Mountains Preserve . Later, bar-hop your way through downtown Phoenix ( Khla , Barcoa Agaveria  and Baby Boy are a few of our favorites). Finally, catch up on some R&R at the tranquil Royal Palms Resorts & Spa , where you can lounge by the pool, people-watch in lush courtyards, hit the spa, and take cocktail-making classes—all while admiring beautiful flora and Camelback Mountain in the distance.

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25+ Top Tips for a Solo Road Trip You NEED To Know

Planning a solo road trip but don’t know where to start? I’ve done loads all over the world, so here’s my tried and tested advice for enjoying a road trip by yourself…

I like being by myself, and judging by the fact you’re on an article about doing a solo road trip, I’m going to assume you do too. Solo road trips can be so much fun – they give you freedom to explore without restraint. No more having to accommodate everyone else needs, instead focusing on what you enjoy and taking breaks when you desire.

Going on a road trip by yourself comes with some unique benefits and challenges. This is why I have come up with the ultimate tips for the best solo road trip experience! 

Where to go on a solo road trip 

Taking a road trip by yourself is a great way to explore the world. Whether you prefer to stick closer to home or go international, there are many incredible solo road trips to choose from.

When choosing a destination it is important to consider the area.

Is it safe?

Does it have fun solo activities?

What are the road conditions?

Based on experience and knowledge gained on my travels, here are my top destinations for solo road trip adventures. 

The Lake District

Located in Northwest England, the UK Lake District is a great 3 to 7-day road trip. Voted as one of the best road trips in the UK, the UK Lake District is filled with wild swimming holes, quaint towns and breathtaking mountain views. If you are looking for an epic hike, then Scafell Pike, Helvellyn and Helm Crag are popular excursions for the adventurous at heart. 

You could also try a Devon road trip , a Cornwall road trip , drive along the Jurassic Coast , or try driving along the Norfolk Coast . You can check out all my recommendations for UK road trips here . Oh, and can’t forget the time my friend and I did a wild camping road trip in the Outer Hebrides !

Iceland Ring Road

Iceland is a beautiful destination and fantastic for solo travellers. Safe, beautiful, and with plenty of activities, the Ring Road allows you to drive around the entire country of Iceland in one trip! Although you can technically complete the entire road trip in 13 hours, it’s best experienced over 10 days. This allows you to stop at all the amazing sites and villages along the way. 

If you’re looking for solo road trip ideas, this is a great one.

Vancouver to Banff, Canada

The Canadian Rocky Mountains are a stunning site to behold, with a road trip being the best way to experience their wonder. Start your journey in the 2010 Olympic city of Vancouver, and end your trip by relaxing in a Banff hot spring. Along the way, there are many sites to explore, such as Johnston Canyon, Lower Falls, Lake Louise, Peyto Lake and Emerald Lake. 

New Zealand

New Zealand is a relatively safe country, with a stunning landscape and little to no dangerous wildlife. This makes New Zealand perfect for solo road trippers! Although you can explore most of the Island of New Zealand in 2 to 3 weeks, there are many smaller road trips you can plan. If you have less time, try to focus on either the North or the South of the island. In the North, you have cities like Auckland, the Bay of Islands and Wellington to explore. While in the South, you will find Christchurch and Queenstown. 

Route 66, USA

If you are looking to take a road trip across the USA, then Route 66 is perfect for your next solo road trip! At 3665km long, Route 66 starts in Chicago, Illinois, transversing 8 states and ending at the Santa Monica pier in California. With amazing stops along the way, such as Blue Hole, Calico Ghost Town, and the Petrified Forest National Park, Route 66 is calling you!

Take a look at this guide for the LA to Grand Canyon road trip for more route tips.

I’ve done quite a few road trips in America , including driving from Miami to Key West , road tripping along the Pacific Coast Highway in a Mustang and driving from Vegas to Yosemite.

READ MORE: All the Road Trip Essentials You’ll Need

What to take on a solo road trip

These are the most important solo road trip essentials you should consider taking with you.

• Solar charger: Charge your phone while you drive, but instead of a car charger, use the sun! Solar chargers are a great way to power up, while being more eco-conscious. Plus they allow you to charge your devices almost anywhere!
• Dash cam: Dash cams have become extremely popular, due to the extra level of security they provide. They can also capture exciting events on your solo road trip, you may miss otherwise. 
• Satellite phone: Are you an extreme adventurer? Are you planning a multi-day hike in the wilderness? Then you might benefit from a satellite phone. A satellite phone can be a great way of staying connected when in remote areas. Especially if you plan to venture out of mobile phone range for days at a time. 
• Roadside emergency kit: A roadside emergency kit is very handy, especially in extreme weather. Check out the RAC website for information on what to pack in your roadside emergency kit.  
• Powerbank: Although a car charger is a great way to charge your device on the go, just in case your car breaks down, invest in a power bank. There are many variations available, with some powerful enough to charge your cell phone, tablet and even laptop. 
• Bucket with a waterproof seal: Did you know that you can wash your clothes as you drive? All you need is a bit of laundry soap, water and a bucket with a waterproof seal. Make sure to only fill the bucket 3 quarters of the way, to allow for movement. As you drive the water and detergent will slosh around the clothes, removing dirt and debris. After an hour or two of driving, switch out the liquid with clean water to rinse. Voila! Clean clothes, without the laundry mat.  
• Carjack: No one wants a flat tyre, but it’s good to plan for one. Sometimes cell signals can be spotty on remote roads, making calling roadside assistance challenging. Having a carjack can make life easier, if you happen to get a flat.  
• First aid kit: A first aid kit is always handy, no matter where you are. Pop a first aid kit in your vehicle, just in case an itchy bug bite or scraped knee tries to infringe on your fun. 
• Paper map: Phone dead? No internet access? Although paper maps are not as popular as they used to be, they still are very handy in case of an emergency or even just for fun.
• Pack snacks : What’s a road trip without an epic snack fix? Sweets, chips, soda, and cookies are always fun, but try to pack healthy alternatives for the road, as they’ll be more difficult to find along the way. Nuts, canned fish, fruits and veggies can be great alternatives that do not require refrigeration. 

Great apps for solo road trips 

How to stay safe on a solo road trip? Use these apps!

My SOS Family Emergency Alerts: Planning a mountain hike or going to a remote area? When solo travelling it can be smart to set up a contingency plan in case something goes wrong. My SOS Family Emergency Alerts can notify your friends or family if you do not access your device in a set period of time or if you need to send out an SOS notification.  

ICE – In Case of Emergency: As a solo traveller it is important to have safety measures in place in case of an accident. ICE allows you to display your essential personal information, such as name, birth date and allergies, on your phone lock screen. This way, if you are unconscious or unable to respond, the first responders still have access to vital information required to keep you safe.  

Spotify: Every solo road trip requires an epic playlist and Spotify can help with that! Create your custom playlist or choose one of the many popular premade playlists available. For an ad-free experience, you only need to pay £9.99 / per month, making Spotify an affordable way to access all of your favourite artists and podcasts on the go. 

Google Maps: An amazing thing about Google Maps is that you can access maps offline for free. No more worrying about finding a cell signal or WIFI, when you can just open the app and check your location live via GPS. You can also start a journey and add stops along the way, such as bathroom breaks or quick excursions. Label your must-see attractions with a green flag so you won’t forget or flag the restaurants you visited, so you can remember them for next time. 

Headout: The Headout application allows you to book tickets for shows, concerts, excursions, tours and attractions. Explore activities available at popular destinations around the world and book your ticket straight from your device without waiting in line. Available for free on Android and iOS. 

Make sure you get your travel insurance sorted before you go on a solo road trip. HeyMondo offer 24/7 worldwide assistance with travel cancellation and interruption cover. They also have tailor made policies and cover medical expenses up to $10 million. Click here and you’ll get 5% off your travel insurance with HeyMondo.com too. Check out their App for more details. 

Good knowledge for a solo road trip

Schedule breaks: Solo road trips typically take longer, as you will be the only person driving. Driving for 12 hours straight is unrealistic, so make sure to schedule frequent breaks and stops to rest. 

Sort your car shipping: If you’re planning on shipping your car out to your destination to drive, you can get car shipping quotes online here .

Driving permit: Depending on the country you visit, you may be required to hold an international driver’s licence, like I had to get when I drove round Jeju Island in South Korea solo . To confirm, check the destination’s government website or contact the local consulate. 

Prep your vehicle: Before venturing out on a long solo road trip, make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape! Check the oil levels, wind wipers, gas level and tyre pressure. You may also want to wipe the interior down and do a quick vacuum. Nothing better than starting your trip off fresh. 

Morning start: Beginning your day early is the best way to start a road trip . Not only will you get most of your driving done early, but you’ll also be more alert and well-rested, making your drive safer and easier. 

Check your insurance: Not all car insurance covers driving excursions, so make sure to double-check with your insurance provider. It’s also a good idea to sign-up for roadside assistance, in case of a flat tyre or sudden car trouble. I actually get mine through my bank with my account which is pretty sweet.

Solo road trip tips

Have these solo road trip tips inspired you? Where would you like to go on your next solo road trip adventure? Let me know in the comment section below. 

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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This Rare Earth

A travel resource for the adventurous and often-solo female

Essential Tips for Planning a Road Trip Alone

Blog , North America , Solo Travel , Tips & Resources , USA / November 29, 2023 by Monica / 2 Comments

Taking a roadtrip alone can be a daunting experience if you don’t know where to start. How to prepare, what to pack, and how to stay safe are all valid concerns. Luckily, I’ve been taking solo road trips for years and have TONS of helpful tips to share, and a road trip checklist, too.

Road trips are the ultimate freedom. Whether you are road tripping solo or with friends , the undeniable feeling of independence is unparalleled.

You aren’t forced to operate on an airline’s schedule. You don’t need to sit in cramped bus seats next to strangers. And, you are free to stop and detour anywhere you like along the way.

Planning a road trip alone takes things one step further. You don’t need to compromise your schedule, stops, or how many hours you’ll drive in a day with any other human being.

Not to mention that all that time alone on the road offers some great time for reflection. That’s just one of the great benefits of solo travel .

It’s all up to you. And that is amazing.

Solo road trips are hands down one of my favorite ways to travel.

I have now completed a total of nine road trips across the United States (six of them solo), as well as in Lithuania , Mexico , Aruba , and more. At this point, I am pretty confident in my road trip skills and know exactly what my “essentials” are for any climate.

Here I will share some helpful tips on driving long distances alone, as well as how to prepare before you hit the road. By the end, you will feel ready to hit the road solo.

Bonus, I’ve even included a printable checklist to help you on your way. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Planning Your Trip

This section will cover how to plan and prepare for your trip.

1) Determine the length of your road trip.

Before you do anything else, you need to identify how many days you plan to be on the road. Are you taking a two week vacation from work? Are you setting out for a month? Or just for a weekend?

Identifying your time frame is an obvious but important step. You need to be able to realistically plan how many hours you are able to drive (especially alone) in one day.

You won’t have anyone to swap places with so be honest about how tired you get, how uncomfortable you get, and how far you need to get.

Which brings me to the next step.

You May Also Like: An Epic Road Trip from California to Arizona

2) Choose your destination.

Do you have a specific national park or city that you are ultimately heading toward? Or are you going out for simple exploration?

Oftentimes we have a goal or a place we want to reach at the end of the line. For instance, I’ve recently traveled from southern California to see the unbelievable Seven Magic Mountains art installation and the Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada.

And, separately, I’ve driven from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and then Joshua Tree to Death Valley .

But, if you have the time, you may want to plan a larger trip with multiple destinations along the way, spanning multiple states and multiple sites. Pull out the map and start your research.

This is important to think about up front because it will help you configure how many hours you will need to drive in a day.

If you are planning a long road trip, you will want to gather a fair idea of what sights you want to see along the way and how far apart those places are.

You don’t necessarily need to evenly split your drive time hours between days. In fact, that rarely works out, because some parks or sites might call for several hours of exploration and hiking , while others warrant a quick 15 minute photo stop.

3) Prepare Your Car.

If you are taking your own car on the trip, I highly recommend making sure everything is in top shape before you go.

Is your tire pressure correct? Do you have enough windshield wiper fluid? Are your brakes in good shape? Do you have a spare tire?

If you know how to do these checks yourself, great! Absolutely do it!

If you don’t, you should definitely book an appointment to have these quickly checked out at your local auto shop before you go. Your safety is important.

Taking an hour out of your day for a quick car checkup might save you hours of trouble later on. Being broken down, or stuck by the side of the road, possibly with no cell service, is not a great situation to be in.

4) Know where you plan to sleep.

Will you be camping along the way? Will you need to book hotels ? Where do you plan to sleep?

This could also determine how many hours you need to drive in a day, particularly if you need to reach a certain campsite or hotel before nightfall.

There are some pros and cons to consider, too.

If you are a planner, you can book each of your stays before you even leave the house. But then you won’t have much wiggle room in terms or your location goal each day. If you want to go where the wind takes you, and not book any hotels in advance, that’s also fun to do.

Pro Tip: be mindful if you plan to go camping alone that you are reaching the sites before sundown. It’s pretty annoying to try and pitch a tent in darkness.

5) Be ready for emergencies.

Have you ever run out of gas in a deserted area? Or blew out a tire and didn’t have a spare? If so, learn from it! Or if you haven’t, learn from me.

Here are a few solo road trip essentials for a roadtrip alone:

• A Spare Tire
• A Tire Pressure Gauge
• An Extra Canister of Gas (if you are in a truly deserted spot)
• A Paper Map (or a downloaded one). Don’t rely on cell signal alone.
• An Extra Set of Keys
• A Car Battery Jump Box
• License / Insurance / Registration (and/or car rental papers and passport)
• CASH for tolls
• Share Your Itinerary With a Friend (particularly if you’re feeling nervous or it’s your first time road tripping alone)

On The Road

Now that you have determined your trip destination, length, route, and prepped your car, it is time to hit the road.

While the information above will set you up for safety and help you prepare, there are also a number of things you should keep in mind while on the road.

1) Pack some entertainment.

While on some of my solo road trip adventures I prefer listening to great music, there are also many trips nowadays that I’m more interested in podcasts.

Podcasts and audiobooks are a great way to go. They can make the time fly between sightseeing, and I like to get wrapped up in whatever the topic of choice may be.

Pro Tip: Check out my full list of the best travel apps here!

I recommend downloading a few podcasts and audiobooks in advance, because you will probably hit areas with no reception. Check out the linked apps list above for the best podcast and audiobook options.

2) Don’t forget cables and chargers.

Nowadays we have all kinds of electronics we carry, from cell phones to cameras to iPods to tablets. Be sure to bring the correct cable for each item you plan to bring.

If you’re camping, keep these plugged in while you drive so that when the car is off overnight, you already have a full battery.

If you are staying in hotels, it’s less of an issue. No matter if I stay in a tent or some other accommodation, I always carry a portable power bank . It is a complete “must” for me.

3) Definitely pack your hiking gear.

You probably know by now, I love the outdoors. I’m always ready for outdoor exploring in any climate and on every trip. I simply pack my favorite hiking gear and keep it in a separate day pack on the go.

Pro Tip: The following articles can help you plan your hikes:

• The Best Hiking Gear for Women
• How To Plan a Hiking Trip
• 23 Hikes in Southern California
• 100 Hiking Captions and Quotes
• Health Benefits of Trekking and Hiking

4) Have camping gear handy in the trunk.

If you plan on camping (and perhaps even if you don’t intend to!) you will want to stash your sleeping bag and tent in the trunk.

Make sure that you know how to pitch that tent solo, too! If you’re feeling rusty, absolutely go through the process before you leave home, silly as it may seem.

You’ll also want to pack a flashlight or a headlamp whether you are camping or not. This can come in handy both inside the car and out, and is lightweight and barely takes up any space. I even recommend leaving one in your glovebox permanently.

5) Bring your own snacks!

What’s a road trip without some good car snacks?

You need some tasty fuel for your body while on the road! In my opinion, gas station food just doesn’t cut it for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

I recommend to pack a cooler with your favorite drinks and portable food before you leave, and replenish at the grocery store as you go. This is what I always do myself.

Pro Tip: make a road trip food list and go shopping the day before you hit the road.

I’m a huge fan of packing my own food because I know I’m giving my body something healthy, which will keep my mind alert and focused. It will save me money, too.

Some great options for food on the go are: carrot sticks and hummus, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, apples, and trail mixes. I even sometimes pack full meals in jars and tupperware.

Finding this list helpful? Sign up below to get a free PDF copy sent straight to you inbox!

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6) Pack all the basics.

You obviously will need to being your necessities like clothing and toiletries. Be sure to pack either enough clothing items to make it to the end of your trip or bring a small travel batch of laundry soap with you.

I like to use a bag for dirty laundry that I keep separate from my clean clothes, and a plastic bag for your dirty hiking shoes. I also recommend flip flops no matter the season, particularly if you will be in a public shower at the campsites.

Be sure to check out my travel essentials to see my top-used items.

7) Leave room for spontaneity.

Last but not least, be sure to leave some room for spontaneity on your trip.

Even if you are a meticulous planner, don’t try to micromanage every second of your trip. Some of the best adventures I’ve been on were due to accidental finds, spur of the moment stops, and purposely driving off-course.

Do something just slightly outside of your comfort zone so that you have the opportunity for happy accidents. Some “happy accidents” I’ve experienced:

• I met another girl while hiking a volcano in Nicaragua, and our friendly chatting resulted in attending her father’s birthday weekend in their San Juan del Sur beach house.
• A spur of the moment decision in United Arab Emirates allowed me to sit in the VIP section (with the sheiks!) at a camel beauty contest.
• A spontaneous boat ride in Sri Lanka resulted in an invite to a local’s house for tea, where he lived with his wife and granddaughters.

And so on. You get the point.

If you pre-pay and pre-book too much, you actually might end up counting yourself out of spontaneous adventures just trying to meet too many deadlines.

It’s all about balance. Plan enough to make you feel comfortable, and leave open enough for chance.

Where will you be headed on your solo road trip? Let me know below!

Pin Me For Later!

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About Monica

Monica has been a solo female world traveler for over 15 years. She is an expert on outdoor adventures, solo female travel, and off the beaten path destinations. She is the founder of This Rare Earth and is a firm believer that the world is not as scary as the media might have you think! Learn more about her here . Connect with her on Instagram .

Reader Interactions

February 2, 2021 at 7:07 pm

Bravo Monica!

Happy Trails!

With love, Dana

February 3, 2021 at 8:39 am

Thank you so much Dana! I appreciate the support and love. Hope you are planning some amazing adventures this year!

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for Solo Travel Over 50

The Expert Tips for Planning a Solo Road Trip

Planning a trip by car cross country alone but have no clue where to start? Here are the expert tips for planning a solo road trip across the U.S. from the female solo traveler who’s driven about 40 thousand miles across America. No joke.

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Is it Weird to Take a Road Trip Alone?

Where can i go for a solo road trip in the u.s., is it safe to drive cross country alone, how do you do a long road trip alone, planning for a solo road trip: my expert tips.

Not at all.  I’ve done solo road trips for decades and clocked just about 40,000 miles across my country.

Road trips aren’t just for taking a vacation. There have been numerous reasons I have taken solo road trips across America, or just across a state.  Mainly because I wanted, or needed, to see family or friends, go to concerts, get back and forth from college, or relocate permanently (I’ve lived in more than one city within eight states).

Anywhere.  We don’t have check points between states so it’s easy to road trip by yourself.

I’ve been to 46 states, so using any of the above reasons to travel alone in the U.S. has also been a great opportunity to see and do new things, like visit national and state parks or go to an annual music festival or holiday celebration in a new city.

Being solo has never stopped me from road tripping in the U.S.

More USA Solo Travel Ideas

• 3 Days of the Best Hiking in Southwest Virginia
• Best of New York City in 4 Days
• Top San Francisco Sights in 1 Day On Foot
• How to Tour the Hoover Dam
• Amazing 4 Days in Maui Solo
• How to Spend a Long Weekend in Alaska Solo
• US States Travel Guides

Yes, just as long as you are smart about it.

You do a long road trip alone successfully with very good planning. The more time you have to plan, the better. 

If you don’t have much time to plan, focus on the items involving safety first, like planning your route and making sure your vehicle is up to snuff. 

More Solo Travel Tips

• Top 10 Tips on How to Do a Solo Beach Trip
• How to Plan Your First Solo Trip:  Step 1
• How to Choose Your First Solo Trip Destination
• How to Create a Solo Travel Budget
• How To Save Money for Solo Travel
• How to Travel Carry-on Only
• 6 Tips on How to Avoid Airport Lines

Here are my tips to plan a long solo road trip (more than one day), but they can also apply to shorter road trips (less than a day).

These are tried and true tips I still use today. If you are a female or novice road tripper, this post is ideally for you. If you are not, these are still good solo road trip tips to know.

Picking Your Road Trip Destination

This post is not about giving you solo road trip ideas. You’ve done that. This post is here to help you in plan road tripping alone. If you still need assistance on a location explore how to choose your first solo trip destination . 

Or, you can use some of my expert tips to work backwards to find a road trip destination.

Build a Solo Road Trip Itinerary

It’s important to do as much research in advance as possible for a long road trip. Safety is always your first consideration. Top things to consider in planning your route and itinerary are:

Stop Locations

Weather / time of year, accommodations.

Once you know where you want to go to, find overnight stopping points by knowing you’re not driving too much in one day. You want to stay fresh and alert for continual days of driving.

Within each driving day, calculate how many times you’ll need to stop for gas. If you want to make good time, it’s best to incorporate bathroom and eating breaks in your fueling breaks.

Always check your fluid levels, including oil, every time you stop for gas and never let your car get below a quarter of a tank.

If you’re feeling uber-cautious, document your mileage covered at each fueling stop so you know your car’s gas mileage is consistent. I do this when I’m driving really long distances.

Depending on time of year, it’s best to route your travel to avoid routes that will be more impacted by weather (i.e., avoiding extreme heat the South or summer and avoiding the extreme cold or snow in the North or winter).

I definitely plan my trips around the weather, not just for safety but also for enjoying activities and sites along the way.

Keep an eye on the weather report, in advance and while traveling, of your upcoming locations so you can mitigate being stuck in bad weather, or traffic, and cause problems for your vehicle.

Remember, time of year impacts how much daylight you have. It’s always safest to drive during the day. These days, on long solo road trips, I stick to driving only during day light. I didn’t always use to do this.

My record stretch of solo driving is 17 ½ hours from Boulder, Colorado to San Antonio, Texas. Straight. Only stopping for gas. Yah, I don’t do that anymore. I get up earlier if I know I have a particularly long day of driving.

Will you be driving across terrain you are unfamiliar with, like the desert or mountains?  If so, it is a good idea to brush up on the rules of the road and tips for the area you’ll be in. 

When mapping out your route, you could consider smaller highways than just traveling on the interstate. Interstates have the advantage of getting you to your destination quicker and usually provide many rest stops, gas stations, restaurants, and the like.

Smaller highways, however, provide more opportunity to see more of the countryside, quaint towns and off the beaten path attractions you may not initially consider.

The smaller the highway, however, the more of a chance you could be without any services close by. They also require longer the drive times – you could constantly be slowing down for town speed limits and lights – so, take that into consideration when planning your itinerary.  Google is a great way to calculate this.

Make your hotel reservations as soon as you know your itinerary to get the best deals.

I personally would not bother with Airbnb to get to my final destination. I recommend getting a hotel reservation that includes late check-in and a free cancellation option just in case you have an emergency or decide to take do a diversion that delays your hotel arrival.

If you’re traveling with a pet, definitely make a reservation. Not all hotels or motels will allow a pet. Even if they take dogs, they may not take cats.  You must specify your pet and get the confirmation in writing (email).

Before you book your accommodations, review the establishment’s images and do a Google street view to get a better understanding of the building and its surroundings. This will help you know if you need to request a room on a higher floor (which is always safer), or nearer the street, which is more important in an establishment in a sparsely populated area than in a city high-rise hotel.

If you’re unloading a lot from the car, you may want a room closest to the main door and your parking spot. Always try to park in a well-lit area of the hotel.

Remember how I said I only drive during the daylight on long road trips?  That daylight time includes arriving to my hotel, checking in, unpacking the car, and eating dinner before it gets dark. As a female solo traveler, it’s just safer than doing all of that in the dark in a strange location.

Also, try to pick a room that’s quieter where you’ll be apt to get a good night’s sleep. Driving long distances can be tiring.

Share Your Itinerary

When your details are nailed down, share your full itinerary, with all contact information, with family and/or friends.

Make a plan on how you’ll contact them daily so they know you’re on schedule.

If traveling in the U.S. is a domestic trip, there is no need to copy your ID or anything for your family and friends. 

If the U.S. is an international trip , provide your loved ones a copy of all of your travel documents and ID in case of emergency. Also see my USA Travel Guide if you’d like more travel tips.

Road Tripping with Pets

If you have a pet, pack all pet essentials as if you could not make a stop to buy more.

Consider planning your stops for them to take a pee break as well.

Budgeting for a Solo Road Trip

Budget for all hotel, gas/oil, food necessities, and attractions you’ll see along the way, if any.

Build in at least a 10% emergency fund , bring a back-up credit card, and ensure you have a card you can get cash from. You never know if you run into one of those places that don’t take credit cards.

Know Your Car Insurance Coverage

I’ve been with the same car insurance company ever since I bought my first car at the age of 20. I’m fully knowledgeable on what my policy provides and doesn’t. 

Make sure you know your policy well.  Have full 24-hour roadside assistance that includes long-distance towing.  If you’re in the middle of nowhere, coverage for towing 100 miles is not going to help you if it takes 200 miles to get the closest mechanic.

If your car insurance does not cover such things, consider getting AAA for your solo trip.

Of course, have your car insurance policy and car registration in your car.

With the appropriate car insurance coverage, I’ve NEVER purchased travel insurance for a road trip in the U.S., no matter how long it is.  Over the past 30 years, I’ve never needed it.

Using a Rental for Solo Road Tripping

It’s possible your vehicle is not long road trip worthy or you just don’t want to put the miles on your vehicle. In any case, you do have rental options that can take your long road trip to a whole new level.

Camper Vans, RV’s and Motor Homes

These are a great way to do more off the beaten path road tripping and enjoying state and national parks, especially if you don’t like sleeping in a tent.

I loved traveling in my VW bus that I could sleep in. It was very convenient.

If you do decide to rent one of these larger vehicles, ensure you get the full vehicle review with the rental professional so you know how to use it.  You may want to also practice driving it a bit before your trip if you’re unfamiliar with such a large vehicle.

Regular Vehicle Rentals

No matter what type of vehicle you rent, check that your car insurance policy covers the vehicle no matter what your destination. This avoids unnecessary rental insurance through the rental company and saves you money.

If yours doesn’t, you’ll have to get rental insurance through the rental company. 

Use a credit card that covers any damages to your rental. This saved me when someone hit my rental car. I didn’t have to pay a dime to get it fixed nor have a ding on my car insurance premium.

Get familiar with the vehicle before leaving the rental lot.  Know how to pop the hood; how to operate the mirrors; know where the owner’s manual, spare tire and jack are; and, know where all of the basic fluids go. 

Can you get satellite radio and online roadside assistance? Great. Get them.  These options can make or break a long solo road trip.

Last, don’t forget the full inside and outside check of any rental with the rental agent, and get a signed copy of the inspection before you drive away.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Your Solo Road Trip

Get your vehicle inspected.

If you haven’t had your oil changed or car serviced in a few thousand miles, do it before you go to be better safe than sorry.

At minimum, I always get my tire tread and pressure, fluids, windshield wipers, and lights checked.

Prepare Your Roadside Emergency Kit

I keep the following car kit items in the back of my car, which I also recommend for your long road trip.

Solo Road Trip Packing Essentials

If you already have these items in your car, go through them to make sure nothing’s too old or inoperable.

If you don’t already know, get your mechanic to help you identify where all fluids go, how to check your tire air pressure, and, by all means, how to change your own tire.

In-the-Car Essentials

With your travel gear and roadside emergency kit safely tucked away in the trunk (or in the back covered by your luggage visor), keep only the essentials in the vehicle cabin with you on your road trip.

When I set off, I only have my day bag, phone, phone charger, packed cooler, pocket knife, water bottle, coffee mug, reusable utensil set, maps, itinerary, and entertainment in the cabin.

Road tripping with out-of-state plates and a lot of belongings in view inside the car screams, “Hi, I’m not from here!”, and can invite quick grab-and-go break-ins, which can be a huge bummer. 

Also, always bring your purse/day bag and other non-replaceable essentials with you when you stop at a restaurant, gas station, rest stop, national park, or other attraction. It doesn’t matter if it’s well populated or not.

Navigating Solo

For navigation, I will use GPS on my phone periodically, but I find it’s best to write down (or take screenshots of) the main travel roads and directions before I take off to have as a back-up in case I don’t have cell phone/GPS service.

Always pull off the road if you’re fishing for directions. Best not to do that at high speeds road tripping solo.

Solo Road Trip Entertainment

One time driving from Washington, DC to Colorado with a roommate, we had a Cosmopolitan magazine that got us through three states. Alas, when you’re solo, you don’t have anyone to read you good articles or love quizzes.

Like directions, having your road tripping entertainment picked out and handy is a must before driving alone long distances.

Whether you choose the radio or satellite radio, CD’s, a play list on your mobile device, or an audio book, just have it ready. Again, it’s possible to lose cell service in isolated areas so have a back-up so you’re not digging around for entertainment while driving.

Know the Driving Rules and Etiquette

I’m not going to preach here but simply point out some key driving issues I have seen, and still see, when road tripping. This is for your safety. If you already know this, just ignore it.

Be Prepared

The last thing you want to do is be involved in an automobile accident simply because you didn’t know the road rules or weather conditions of any terrain you’re unfamiliar with. If you have to, peruse a DMV handbook before your solo road trip.

Be Alert at High Speeds

Use your mirrors at all times.  Don’t just always look ahead – always be looking around you.  You never know when that crazy person appears out of nowhere driving 100 miles an hour and weaving in and out of lanes to pass slower traffic.

“Slower Traffic Keep Right”

Contrary to popular belief, they do not make these signs because they’re pretty. They make them for a reason.  Especially when going up steep inclines. 

Nothing can cause an accident more than by people driving slower than the flow of traffic in the left hand (i.e., passing) lane causing others to have to pass them in the righthand lane (where the on and off ramps are).

Driving slowly in the left lane also causes traffic congestion, which can increase risk of accidents. For the love of all that’s holy, if you must drive slower than others, do it in the righthand lane.

Emergency Stops

Always try to stop in a public, well-lit area for safety. If you are being pulled over by a cop, here are some good safety tips for solo female drivers to know .

If you can’t wait for a rest area or highway exit, pull off as far to the right of the road as possible, even if it’s in the grass.  You do not want your vehicle to be near that white line.

Do I Pick Up a Stranger?

Let’s talk hitchhikers and emergency assistance.  My advice on this will always be do not pick up a hitchhiker for safety reasons pure and simple. 

Driving alone, I would also advise not pulling over for road side assistance. Now that we have cell phones, make note of the nearest mile marker and call to 911 so a professional can provide them assistance.

That’s it. Now that you have my expert tips on how to plan for a solo road trip, you should be set to hit the open road.  Happy trails.

Let Me Hear From You

I would love to hear if my expert tips for planning a solo roadtrip were helpful to you. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comments section below. Thank you!

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Solo Vacations: The 29 Best Places to Travel Alone in the U.S.

These destinations make traveling solo easy — and extra fun.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Stephanie Granada is a writer and editor focusing on travel, beauty, home, and health. Her bylines have appeared in Sunset , Outside , Southern Living , Woman's Day , Brit + Co. , National Geographic Traveler , and others.

Traveling alone is all about freedom and independence — freedom to go where you want, when you want, and independence in your ability to visit new places and meet new people without the crutch of a travel companion. It's not for everyone, but those willing to venture off on their own are rewarded with a compromise-free vacation and unforgettable experiences. Exciting things just seem to happen when you're traveling solo.

But where to go? If you're just testing the waters of solo travel, you might want to stay close to home, which is where these U.S. destinations come in handy. Whether you dream of a spa vacation with plenty of time to relax and reset, a trip packed with activities, or a soul-searching expedition, these U.S. destinations cater to the solo traveler, thanks to their ease of transportation and large selection of things to do.

Ready to book your next solo trip? Read on for the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

Naples, Florida

If you have your heart set on a beach vacation, consider Naples, a relatively small community in southwest Florida. There are plenty of ways a solo beach traveler can occupy themselves in Naples. You can check out the beach at Naples Pier, go kayaking in the mangroves , or hit the links at one of the area's 90+ golf courses. If you're looking for an activity that will leave a big grin on your face, book a dolphin watching cruise from Marco Island , just 30 minutes south of Naples. Plus, the city was ranked number one in a recent list of safest places to live the U.S. , thanks to its low crime rates.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston may be a big city, but it can often feel like a small town. Thanks to its walkability, you'll be able to explore the city's historic center on foot and can take the T, the local subway system, across the Charles River to Cambridge. In Boston, you'll find a wellspring of history and culture in museums like the fun Boston Tea Party Museum and the impressive Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , the site of one of the world's most famous art heists.

Boulder, Colorado

Those looking for quiet solo travel in the U.S. can spend their days exploring the mountains and hills surrounding Boulder. Eldorado Canyon State Park is just 20 minutes south of downtown, the approximately two-mile trail up Flagstaff Mountain is just 15 minutes to the west, and the iconic Flatirons (red sandstone formations) are less than 10 minutes away by car. And If you're feeling social, head to Pearl Street Mall , a bustling pedestrian-only street with some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and bars.

Portland, Oregon

Not everyone feels comfortable eating out at a restaurant alone, especially when traveling solo, but Portland makes mealtime a nonissue, thanks to its bustling food cart scene. There are many food cart parks scattered about the city where you can go and peruse a diverse offering of cuisine, from pizza to Senegalese, and enjoy your meal in a atmospheric and fun shared space. Food aside, Portland's reliable transportation, great parks, and community vibe make this city an easy choice for people traveling alone. Between the good meals, you can also enjoy the tranquility of the Japanese Garden or browse the shelves at the famous Powell's Books .

Asheville, North Carolina

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

If your perfect vacation includes hiking and biking during the day and gulping down beers with new friends at night, there's arguably no better place than Asheville, a city situated in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. Bikers will want to tackle the Blue Ridge Parkway , while hikers can head to the Craggy Pinnacle Trail (an approximately one-mile hike with serious views) or climb Mount Pisgah (2.6 miles round-trip). After a day in the mountains, reward yourself with a beer on the pup-friendly patio at Wicked Weed Brewing .

Sedona, Arizona

Traveling solo may be the only time you're able to truly check out from the grind and relax. That's why spa destinations like Sedona are so perfect for solo travelers. In addition to beautiful scenery, Sedona is packed with spas and wellness offerings. For a full resort experience, book a stay at the Amara Resort and Spa , or test out a few of the city's plentiful day spas: A Spa for You and Sedona's New Day Spa are long-standing favorites.

Charleston, South Carolina

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Art lovers will find themselves in their element in this colorful coastal city in South Carolina. The small city of Charleston is home to over 35 fine art galleries and hosts an Art Walk on the first Friday of every month. If you're hoping to make some art yourself, the French Quarter is sure to inspire, while the city's warm southern hospitality will make you feel right at home. If the temperature is right, you can even take a trip out to Isle of Palms to enjoy some quality time on the beach.

Nashville, Tennessee

If your idea of a dream solo trip is getting out and meeting new people, book a ticket to Nashville and let the city of music connect you to others. The Basement​​ , a live music venue known for its cozy vibes and spacious patio, is a must, as is 3rd and Lindsley . Just don't leave the city without trying the spicy fried chicken at Hattie B's . A trip to Nashville is also a chance to try out one of its best hotels like the classic Hermitage Hotel.

Portland, Maine

This may be the second Portland on the list, but this one has a coastal advantage. From the seaside city you can hop on a ferry or boat charter, or eat your way through the city's best lobster rolls at Luke's Lobster . When you're not out enjoying the water or stuffing your face with deliciously fresh seafood, you can meander in and out of the shops and boutiques at the historic Old Port.

San Francisco, California

When you're traveling solo, public transportation is key (no one wants to foot the bill for a weekend full of Uber rides). That's where cities like San Francisco shine. Between Muni buses, trains, streetcars, and cable cars, you can get to every corner of the city without hopping in a cab. Surrounded by beautiful bay views and offering easy access to experience a Redwood forest in Muir Woods , there are plenty of things to do in and around San Francisco.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, and home to quaint B&Bs and beautiful Victorian homes, Bayfield is a warm and welcoming coastal destination and one of the loveliest small towns in the U.S. Solo travelers can roam the intimate downtown or head to the nearby Apostle Islands National Lakeshore , best known for its series of caves that freeze during the winter months.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Just off California's iconic Highway 1 is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small beach city on the Monterey Peninsula that will capture your heart the moment you see it. Traveling solo is no problem here, as the city offers plenty to do — surfing, sea animals, and a village-style center that feels like it belongs in a storybook. However, solo travelers may feel most at ease exploring the many art galleries like the Carmel Art Association and Bennett Sculpture .

Boise, Idaho

Boise is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Solo travelers will find riverside walking and biking trails that run right through town, skiing (in the winter) and hiking (in the summer) at the city's Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area , and easy access to mountain towns like McCall and ski areas like the rapidly growing Tamarack Resort .

Savannah, Georgia

 Marje/ Getty Images

Savannah's welcoming nature makes solo travel a breeze. If you're feeling social, join a haunted pub crawl through town or book an architectural tour . And if you're looking for a quiet escape, rent a bike and explore the history-rich city on two wheels. The best time to visit Savannah is in the fall and winter, when the temperatures are cooler and you can embrace the spooky spirit during Halloween when the city goes all out with on-theme activities .

Hot Springs, Arkansas

As you might guess, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is known for its natural hot springs, which have drawn visitors since the early 1900s. For solo travelers, there's nothing like a serene soak in the natural thermal waters found on the historic Bathhouse Row, followed by a refreshing drink of spring water and a lazy hike through the dense woods at Hot Springs National Park . In addition to the gorgeous scenery of the park, you can also discover it's unique history as a wellness destination .

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole may be home to a world-renowned ski area , mouthwatering cuisine, and high-end galleries, but you'll still find Old West-style bars where cowboys throw back PBRs (check out the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar ). It's the perfect place to throw on a Stetson and dress the part for a night or two. The town itself offers plenty to do when you're not drinking or skiing, like rodeo nights at the Jackson Hole Rodeo and incredible pastries at the James Beard-recognized Persephone Bakery .

Seattle, Washington

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

If you want access to nature without sacrificing big-city amenities, Seattle offers an ideal balance. Spend a couple of days checking out Pike Place Market (don't miss a cup of mac n' cheese from Beecher's ), going to the top of the Space Needle , and visiting the Museum of Pop Culture before hopping aboard a ferry and getting away from it all. From the heart of Seattle, you can take a boat across Elliott Bay to Bainbridge Island and onto Olympic National Park , home to both glacier-capped mountains and 70 miles of wild coastline.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

It's been said that one can hardly be called an architect if they haven't designed something in Minneapolis — the city showcases work from Jean Nouvel, Herzog & de Meuron, César Pelli, and Frank Gehry, among others. The city's love of design is also noticeable in the hotel scene, where sophistication meets Midwestern hospitality. So, while it's perfectly acceptable to wander through the city looking up, you don't want to miss a cruise on one of the famous bike paths, which wind past lakes that are perfect for a dip in the summertime.

Salt Lake City, Utah

It may be Utah's largest city, but Salt Lake City doesn't feel like a giant metropolis. Maybe it's the fact that it's surrounded by mountains or the open expanse of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island State Park to the west. Either way, this friendly city has everything a solo traveler could want — great food (check out Feldman's Deli ), plenty of sun-drenched days, and easy access to both the mountains and water. Among the many things to do in town, you will also have your pick of exciting day trips to nearby state parks, or you can use the city as a launchpad to explore Utah's stunning geology at national parks like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon .

Fort Collins, Colorado

dlewis33/E+/Getty Images

If you're a beer lover, head to Fort Collins, a Colorado town with plenty of heart and really good beer. Start your tour of the city in the taproom of New Belgium Brewing (the company behind Fat Tire) and follow it with a pint at a few lesser-known breweries — we recommend Zwei Brewing Co. , Maxline Brewing , and Black Bottle Brewery . By the end of the day, you'll have your own beer-loving posse to explore the city with. Solo travelers will love the atmosphere of the downtown area, which is so charming it was the inspiration for Walt Disney when designing Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland.

Austin, Texas

The quickest way to bond with a stranger? Shared musical taste. Austin has plenty of opportunities to bump into fellow music lovers. Stay on or near South Congress Avenue, where trendy properties like the Hotel Magdalena provide the ideal base for visiting the street's iconic venues. Other ‘hoods you can easily get to include East Austin, booming with hipster bars and food trucks; South Lamar with its great shops; and Rainey Street, beloved among college students. Visit March through November to see the bats flying under the Ann W. Richards bridge — it's one of the best things to do in Austin , as is indulging in the city's incredible food.

Islamorada, Florida

Of all the towns in the Florida Keys , Islamorada has the homiest feel. Locals are happy to regale you with tales of family squabbles and fishing exploits at any of the seaside watering holes. For an elevated dining experience, snag a barstool at Chef Michael’s and order the whole lionfish. It's a big but manageable dish, made from an invasive species that Floridians pride themselves on removing from local waters and serving as a tasty dinner instead. When you're done, rest your head at one of the cozy cottages at Moorings Village.

Louisville, Kentucky

Kentucky is known for its hospitality and Louisville for its bourbon , meaning solo travelers can find good friends and good drinks while exploring this Southern city. NuLu is the most happening neighborhood, but Old Louisville is the place to hunker down if you’re a sucker for history and architecture. Downtown offers new hotels and inventive restaurants, while Butchertown and Germantown pair up-and-coming bars and businesses with impressive vintage architecture.

Marfa, Texas

Artists in search of a solitary life have been drawn to Marfa for decades. Today, the population hovers just under 2,000, but there’s enough art, food, and quirk for a city many times that size. El Cosmico offers outstanding glamping and communal spaces, while art houses like the Chinati Foundation keep visitors entertained. Though it's more than three hours from the closest airport, this flatland village offers progressive galleries, mystifying desert skies, and a sparse beauty that makes it one of the best small towns in Texas .

New York, New York

New York City might be full of crowds, but it’s also a welcoming hub for parties of one. There are sleek hotels with bars that draw worldly travelers and locals, some of the best art and shopping in the world, and more food and drink options than you can fit into a month-long trip. If you need help deciding what to do on your visit, take a look at our three-day weekend guide .

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

New Hampshire is one of the safest states in the country — and solo travelers wanting to enjoy that security will find a great home base in Portsmouth. This waterfront town is one of the state's most pedestrian-friendly communities, and with a colonial heritage that dates back to the 1600s, it's fantastic for history buffs. Portsmouth knows its food, as is perhaps best showcased in the dozen oyster farms active offshore in the Great Bay. Sample their best bivalves at The Franklin, an upscale seafood joint run by James Beard-nominated chef Matt Louis.

San Diego, California

San Diego combines the laid-back vibes of SoCal with the multicultural energy of a city located right on the Mexican border. From mild weather and great surfing to vibrant West Coast sunsets, it has lots to offer, making it a great place to spend a few days. Opportunities for hiking and watersports abound, while coastal areas like La Jolla and Del Mar offer a bevy of chic hotels where a solo traveler can catch some oceanside R&R.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Solo travelers in search of spiritual healing should look no further than Santa Fe . Book a night at Ten Thousand Waves, an upscale lodge inspired by Japanese hot spring resorts and decked out with secluded soaking tubs. Downtown, you’ll find historical landmarks, handmade tchotchkes, and restaurants serving delectable Southwestern food. Beyond the adobe architecture and unique attractions, the best thing you can do in Santa Fe is meet its colorful characters.

Washington, D.C.

Museums are best explored alone, and in Washington, D.C. , you have more than 20 to choose from—many of which are free. The District also has a hot food scene, and as a solo diner, you'll have the best shot at getting into the most highly coveted spots. To get far away from D.C.’s political crowds, head to a hip residential neighborhood like Shaw, where you can imbibe at Maxwell Park Wine Bar or catch a show at the Howard Theatre.

Protect Your Trip »

Solo vacations: the 36 best places to travel alone in 2024.

These fun destinations make traveling on your own simple and spectacular.

(Getty Images) |

From beach retreats to artsy escapes, take your next solo trip to somewhere spectacular.

Perth, Australia

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Asheville, North Carolina

Tuscany, Italy

Santa Barbara, California

New York City

Seville, Spain

Naples, Florida

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Portland, Oregon

New Zealand

Galápagos Islands

Charleston, South Carolina

Athens, Greece

New Orleans

Austin, Texas

San Francisco

Munich, Germany

Florianópolis, Brazil

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18 Tips for a Solo Road Trip Out West

By Julianne Will

There’s always that one moment. 

You reach the crest of a hill. You round a bend. And suddenly, the landscape laid out before you literally takes your breath away.

You might argue that this is exactly the time when you’d want someone with you to share it. But there’s an extra intensity — a sense of being totally present — when you experience a moment like this alone.

Taking a solo road trip out west is iconic. The vistas are truly expansive, like a landscape painting that breathes. And there’s a sense of being a pioneer all over again, exploring places that you’re sure no one has ever passed — mostly because you’re completely alone. 

I promise I’m not anti-social. In fact, one of my favorite parts of taking a solo road trip out west is meeting people along the way, which happens differently than when you road trip in a more dense part of the country, such as the South or the East. But I find a road trip in wide-open spaces to be a fantastic way to travel solo. That may sound counterintuitive, but it’s easy to feel lonely in a crowd of happy couples and families.

It seems as if the expectation to be alone is more natural out west. Could it be because these areas are often home to rugged individualists who want to escape the grid? Perhaps. Lower population levels in states west of the Mississippi are likely part of it too. 

Whatever the case, a solo road trip out west is ideal for meditation, for healing, for exploring thoughts and feelings. Places where Mother Nature demands your attention but little else does are especially good for someone experiencing a transition in life. Or for someone who simply wants to get away from it all. 

Going it alone in regions where gas stations are few and far between, however, does require you to be super smart about a few things.

1) Before you ever plan a solo road trip out west, be sure to check out my blog on what to pack in a road trip emergency kit . I feel so much more confident knowing that no matter what comes, I can survive for a few days in my car. I also tend to go hiking along the way during a solo road trip out west, so I bring my backpack, which includes gear to help me survive for a few days as well . 

2) For a solo road trip out west, I recommend packing a cooler and a bag of food. Restaurants, even fast food joints can be few and far between. And because of the ongoing staffing shortages, sometimes they’re closed even if they exist at all. A cooler full of drinks, breakfast foods and other favorites can tide you over. 

Be sure that bag of food goes beyond the typical road snacks. In my last solo road trip out west, I packed turkey jerky, some salt-free tortilla chips, some nut and raisin mixes that I made at home and plenty of peanut butter and jelly. In my cooler, I included some mini packs of mashed avocado and a big bag of baby carrots, some yogurt, and some kombucha, sparkling water and Coke Zero. You do you, of course, but think about some healthy additions to your typical road trip snacks that can serve as balanced meals.

And don’t forget the water. Be sure you have plenty of reusable water bottles filled with drinking water. I always have extra in my car emergency kit, but I fill a few Nalgenes every day that I’m on the road — more than I’ll drink in a day — just in case I get stuck somewhere.

(I was really glad that I took a bowl of precooked rice and a can of tuna, too. By the time I arrived at my Microtel in Vernal, Utah, after a long day of driving and hiking, nearby restaurants were closed. but there was a microwave in my room. And that was a great dinner.)

3) Don’t leave that food in your car overnight! Bears have been known to rip doors off of cars and destroy the interior trying to get at food — and they can smell incredibly well. Take your food into the hotel with you. If you’re camping, use a bear canister ; depending on where you’re staying, rangers may ask you to also string up the canister and provide a means to hang it, or place it in a locker at the campground.

4) If you’re taking a solo road trip out west, I highly recommend both travel insurance and a roadside assistance plan. I have the Allianz annual plan as well as AAA. It’s reassuring to know that someone will come fetch you and make it all better if you run into a real problem.

5) When you take a solo road trip out west, gas stations can be sparse. And the last thing you want to do is run out of gas miles from anywhere. Even with roadside assistance, you could end up waiting a long while. If I’m down to half a tank. I’ll stop and top it off, just because I don’t always know how far it is till the next gas station. Of course, you can do a pretty good job of figuring that out by using the plethora of road trip apps listed in this blog that I wrote for Airsteam. 

I make good use of the rest area app, because on my last trip through northwest Colorado I stopped to find a potty six times at various places in one day, and only lucked out twice. One gas station was locked up; another didn’t have working restrooms; a visitor center was closed for Juneteenth…you get the idea. Thank God for rest areas.

6) On that note, another tip for a solo road trip out west is to take along a potty kit. I keep one in my glove box and several in my hiking pack. It’s nothing special — just a compostable sandwich bag with a single-use amount of toilet paper stuffed inside, paired with a small bottle of hand sanitizer. This way if I’m truly desperate I can find some shrubbery and make do without littering — I just toss the baggie when I see a trash can. (Though finding shrubbery can be as difficult out west as finding a restroom.)

7) In my work for Airstream, I recently interviewed several women who are solo female travelers. They had all kinds of ideas for safety and protection, including keeping an air horn handy. One travels with a gun, but I personally abhor guns and would never use or own one, so I carry pepper spray in my purse, and I have bear spray in my hiking backpack. Both will buy me some time in an emergency. 

I have a whistle, though that’s not as effective if you’re in a truly remote space. I also have an app on my phone called UrSafe that lets me push a button and send for help, as well as alert my emergency contacts. But again, that’s not always helpful if you’re in a remote area without cell service. 

So I also carry a sat phone. A satellite phone can be a bit of an investment upfront and does require a monthly service plan, but if you’re going to be hiking, biking or traveling in remote spaces, it’s a fantastic investment in your security. 

8) Sometimes when traveling on a solo road trip out west, you’ll pass through Native American lands. Many of these spaces have unique requirements: Sometimes you’re not permitted to take photos. Sometimes you have to provide identification upon entry and tell tribal representatives when you’re planning to leave the reservation. I know that as a Journey Here traveler, you’ll be respectful of customs and cultures. 

But what you might not know is that these lands often lack services. No restaurants, no gas stations and no cell service, sometimes for hours. Driving through a Native American reservation is a stunning experience, because you’ll get dark skies like no other, and it’s a rare glimpse into what the western part of the United States might have looked like centuries ago. But all of the tips is this blog are truly essential here.

9) Keep your gadgets charged, and consider including a solar charger in your lineup. I keep all of my communications devices topped up when I’m traveling on a solo road trip out west. My phone is always plugged in, because it’s my navigation. But I also top off my spare battery, and I carry a solar charger so that, worst case, I can use the power of the sun to get a few sips of juice. Mine is small and light enough to strap on the back of my backpack so that every time I go hiking, it’s picking up energy.

10) If you’re not from these spaces out west, be prepared for a bit of culture shock. Those used to a more urban or suburban environment might be uncomfortable. I’ve found that if you can overlook some of the obvious differences and be friendly and relatable, people will be friendly and relatable in return. Having grown up out in the country in the Midwest, I learned that sometimes the barrier is a bit of insecurity. Some people in more rural spaces anticipate that a person who looks differently or dresses differently or has different license plates might be condescending. So being open and friendly when it seems appropriate knocks down a lot of those walls. 

Of course, some of these spaces really aren’t friendly to women traveling alone, people of color or people of different races, ethnicities or practices. So listen to your gut. Use all those skills that you use when you’re traveling in any foreign environment. Pay attention, try to assimilate as much as possible and be aware of prevailing practices. 

I find that national and state parks are often friendly environments. It means there’s a better infrastructure for and expectation of tourists and visitors. And the people who visit the park systems come from all over to explore and see new things, so diverse experiences and perspectives are baked in.

11) Stay organized. This is a good tip for any road trip, but when you’re in places with dust, sand and rocks, where opportunities to offload trash and especially recycling are rare, a few extra steps could save your sanity.

• I built a little trash bin for my backseat out of the box that formerly held a case of almond milk from Costco. A small trash bag fit perfectly inside and was sturdy and stable. I put it within arm’s length of my driver’s seat. I tossed trash at gas stations but kept my cans in there until I could recycle them. 
• I chose biodegradable and compostable servingware and dishes to lessen my impact while eating away from home. My sandwich and snack baggies are biodegradable and compostable too. I carry dish soap with me so that I can wash out my reusable water bottle each night.
• I have an old rug over my floor mat so that as I’m getting in and out of my car with filthy shoes or hiking boots, cleanup is a little easier. I can grab the rug and shake it out along the way, then toss it in the washing machine on hot when I get home. 
• I always keep a pretty big bottle of hand sanitizer in my center console. But I also have hand sanitizing wipes there, because sometimes you’re just dirty, and liquid sanitizer is only going to smear it around. I also have some Seventh Generation cleaning wipes handy so that I can wipe up spills like coffee or yogurt or bugs that find their way onto the dashboard and die. My car may be pretty cluttered during a solo road trip out west, but I don’t like it to be really grubby.

12) Stay comfortable. A road trip can be good for the soul, but it can be hard on the body. These are the ways I take care of myself.

• The sun is much stronger in many parts of the west, especially at elevation, so I keep sunscreen in my center console. I always put it on my hands and wrists, as well as on my shoulder if the sun is coming through the side window.
• I tore my hamstring at the connection to my hip this spring, and I’ve always had piriformis syndrome, so I put a custom cushion on my seat. That makes my lumbar support all wonky, however, so I also put a cushion behind my lower back. Yes, I very much feel like an old lady. I suppose maybe I am. But the ache is intolerable otherwise.
• Being in the car puts me right to sleep. Literally, if I’ve been going hard, I can doze off at a stoplight driving across town. So I give myself plenty of time to sleep at night, in case my insomnia kicks in, and I try to avoid driving more than five to seven hours a day.
• I also break up a long drive with a short hike. I use the pro version of the AllTrails app to find hikes along my route. I can think of no better way to restore blood flow while seeing unique gems, and an hour doesn’t put me too far behind. 

13) Prep your entertainment. Speaking of staying awake: You might not have cell service during your solo road trip out west, which means you also might not be able to make phone calls or listen to music. Download a lot of podcasts, audio books or language lessons. You can feed your brain from point A to point B. 

You can also download the Otter app and do some writing while you’re driving. Not literally, of course, but the Otter app allows you to speak into your phone and get a rough transcription of your thoughts, which you can send to email and clean up later. That’s actually how I wrote this blog. It was composed while I was driving from Vernal, Utah, to Salt Lake City amid some of the most gorgeous but remote scenery you’d ever hope to see.

14) Stop at the rest areas. They tend to be a little bit cleaner than gas station bathrooms, and there are often interesting tidbits or brochures about the region inside. Iowa has some of the best rest areas along I-80, with fascinating facts about the wind power turbines that you can see in motion all around you as you drive.

There’s usually some green space, if you need to get out and stretch your legs a little bit. Or If you need to close your eyes for 15 minutes, you can pull off at a rest area, park in one of the spots a little further toward the edge, lock your doors and put your seat back

And I’ve seen some amazing scenery from rest areas. Driving back to Idaho Falls from the Tetons during a solo road trip out west, I stopped at remote rest area along the Snake River. The sunset was so stunning that I went back to my car and grabbed my phone to take photos. The rest area in Glenwood Canyon, in Colorado, is right beside the sparkling Colorado River. And a rest area that I visited in Utah on my way to Salt Lake City had a path to the top of the hill at the edge of the parking lot where you could see a massive lake, plus whole eras of paleontological history in the bluffs behind it. 

So stop at every rest area that you see. You never know when you’re going to get another chance to go potty, and the views can be phenomenal.

15) Stop at the viewing areas. My someday dream is to endlessly road trip with enough time to stop at every scenic pulloff. Getting out of the car is different than seeing the scenery at 65 mph. The air will smell different from place to place, depending on the flora and fauna. It might feel warmer or cooler or drier. You can hear the sounds of native birds and animals. Getting out and appreciating the detail of a place from the viewing area off the highway is a sensory experience. Most highways have signs at least a mile in advance so you can make your way over. 

16) When you set out on a solo road trip out west, you need to understand how to drive up and down big hills … aka mountains. Please don’t freak out when I encourage you to learn how to drive in the mountains. Believe me, I didn’t know how to for a long, long time. I grew up in very flat northeast Indiana. A little bit of time with Google or YouTube can help teach you how to use your gears and your brakes on steep inclines and declines and hairpin curves.

You also need to be aware that wild animals could cross your path, especially at twilight when deer are more active. And in certain parts of the country, you’ll encounter a lot of bicyclists riding on the shoulder. So you should watch not just the road, but also the sides of the road. 

17) Knowing how to handle things like a massive rainstorm, hail or an encounter with an animal is really important too. I didn’t grow up knowing this either. (Except deer. It was an unfortunate and expensive rite of passage to hit a deer driving alongside woods and fields every time you went anywhere, growing up in the rural area where I did.) I lived for three years in Chicago, so I’m comfortable in spaces that are dense, noisy and heavily populated — places without falling rocks or moose. But I promise you that this is something you can learn. 

If you really want to be empowered, try taking a wilderness first responder course — graduates are called “woofers.” While it’s intense, and it’s not necessary for a solo road trip, it will help you prepare for any eventuality and make you aware of things you should avoid or do in the outdoors.

18) And before you embark on a solo road trip out west, you should read our general solo travel safety tips . Among the important considerations here: 

• Don’t tell people that you’re traveling alone.
• Don’t tell them where you’re staying.
• And be hyper-vigilant about the cars around you or the people hiking around you on a trail.

As with hiking, you should always tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be there, so that if something happens, people know where to begin the search. I also share my location on my iPhone with a loved one. I may be traveling solo, but I have a whole support team back home.

One of the things that I love about a solo road trip out west is the sense of openness and awe and wild. I feel as if there are endless new vistas around every corner or at the top of every hill, and wide open spaces where I can think and explore forever. 

I also love the challenge that comes with being alone in these wide-open spaces where Mother Nature is in charge and you have to play by her rules. You have to be smart, savvy and aware. You have to have a plan A and plan B and a plan C.

The good news is that just about anyone on a road trip is happy to share their tips and advice. So many people going in the other direction have told me about their favorite spots in the town I’ll be passing through next, or a majestic view on the highway ahead. So many people have been willing to share information or ask questions. They call it trail magic when you’re hiking. I’m sure there must be a similar name for the kindness I’ve found during a road trip.

A solo road trip out west can be an incredibly moving, empowering and stunning experience. You’ve heard of Eat Pray Love , right? For me, it’s Drive, Think, Hike . I don’t always have someone to travel with, but I’d never want to give up those experiences. So pack well. Fuel up often. And get ready to see things that blow your mind and crack your heart wide open.

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

Road Trips: Tips and Itineraries for Solo Travelers

Throughout our road trip category we have suggested itineraries for various destinations with maps showing the route. This map shows a route with suggested stops for circumnavigating Nova Scotia, Canada.

We have a lot knowledge and experience to share about road trips.

Below you'll find a number of posts that amount to a complete guide to taking a road trip alone along with many solo road trip stories.

A solo road trip requires a bit of extra planning and care but it can also be a thrilling experience as you can wander the highways and bi-ways according do your own whims. Stop at quirky roadside attractions. Choose a different destination on a dime. Take a break for a swim at that welcoming lake.

The open road. A road trip is good for the solo traveler's soul.

Table of Contents

Why Road Trips are Good for the Soul

A road trip is good for the soul in so many ways, especially if you're traveling solo. On a solo road trip you can;

The road may be winding but it is in the twists and turns of a road trip when the real fun happens.

Top 5 Posts for Road Trip Tips

In our last reader survey, 26% of respondents said they plan to take more road trips. We're here to help with lots of tips and advice about how to enjoy a successful solo road trip.

Top 5 Road Trip Tips Posts

Road Trip Stories

We love solo road trips. Our readers do as well. Here's a few snippets for road trip stories that we took and some by our readers as well.

"Last year in June I went for my very first solo road trip around the northern tip of Scotland, the North Coast 500. Five hundred miles of dramatic landscape, narrow roads, lots of Highland cattle and sheep, and above all – lots of heartwarming Scottish people." Northern Scotland Road Trip

"This summer, I sublet my apartment for a month and used the money to pay my rent and rent a car. I decided to drive east from Toronto, visit as many people as I could, and see all the sites I felt like stopping at along the way. It was the first time I’d taken an extended solo road trip and I covered 7,539 kilometers in 30 days." Eastern Canada Road Trip .

"As someone who grew up in Southern Alberta, I've gained a lot of appreciation for how beautiful this province is the more I've traveled abroad. In fact, one of my favorite drives in Alberta is one that your average tourist probably hasn't considered – specifically, because it omits Calgary, Edmonton, Banff, and Jasper."   A favorite road trip in Alberta .

"On July 25 th , 2016 at the age of 49, I received my driver’s licence. Two weeks later I flew to Halifax, Nova Scotia, picked up a rental car, and embarked on my first solo road trip. It. Was. Awesome. First Road Trip for a Solo Traveler.

"I don't think I've ever met a culture so fiercely determined to celebrate its history and so modern in how they do it. The Acadians of New Brunswick are fully present and not to be missed. This New Brunswick road trip is a perfect introduction to Les Acadiens." New Brunswick Road Trip .

That's just a smattering of the road trips that solo travelers have shared on the site. Scroll down to see them all.

Share Your Road Trip Stories

As always, if you've taken a solo road trip that you'd like to share with other solo travelers, please use this form to Submit your description here .

Below Are All the Posts in our Road Trip Category

How to plan a solo trip 2024: trends, checklist & budget spreadsheet.

January 23, 2024 by Janice Waugh

From checklists, resources, and tools to how to use ChatGPT for itinerary creation, here’s how to plan a solo trip in 2024.

The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide: Travel Alone & Love It

January 4, 2024 by Janice Waugh

Travel alone and you travel on your terms. Here’s the ultimate guide with our best tips and advice to help you travel solo and love it.

Driving Tips for Europe: Essential Rules You Need to Know

March 26, 2024 by Janice Waugh

Driving in Europe is fabulous but there are some differences. Here are my top driving tips for Europe including some surprising rules of the road.

A Winter Road Trip Alone: Essential Tips for Survival and Enjoyment

November 28, 2023 by Janice Waugh

Solo winter road trip tips for planning, packing, and preparing your car, driving in challenging conditions, and enjoying the ride.

How to Plan a Fantastic Road Trip Around the Adriatic

July 5, 2023 by Janice Waugh

A 14-day itinerary for a road trip around the Adriatic, including Italy, Croatia & Slovenia with stops in Rome, Florence, Venice & more.

Road Trip Alone with Confidence: 10 Tips for a Great Trip

April 11, 2023 by Janice Waugh

Ah, the open road. Taking a road trip alone is a lot of fun but it requires planning. Here are our top tips for a solo road trip.

Acadian Shores Road Trip: How to Enjoy 4 Days of Sea and Sky

October 27, 2022 by Janice Waugh

Four days of deep seas and dark skies, of maritime life and Acadian history. This Acadian Shores road trip itinerary offers so much.

Solo Road Trip: You Can Do It & You Will Love It!

July 14, 2022 by Janice Waugh

A solo road trip may sound challenging to some but here’s why you can do it, why you would want to, and the tips you need to make it safe.

Road Trip from Toronto to Winnipeg via Northern Ontario

May 23, 2022 by Janice Waugh

This is the first post in a series on a 10,000 km RV trip. This post covers the road trip from Toronto to Winnipeg by the Canadian route.

How to Plan a Road Trip: Route Planning, Scheduling & Budgeting

May 31, 2021 by Janice Waugh

Itching to hit the open road? Here’s how to plan a road trip well from budgeting to scheduling and especially route planning.

A Prairie Road Trip: Exploring Manitoba and Saskatchewan Solo

April 23, 2021 by Tracey Nesbitt

For those looking for something a little different, doing a solo road trip in the Canadian prairies can be a magical experience.

15 Great Solo Road Trips: All Solo Traveler Tested

August 31, 2020 by Janice Waugh

Looking for breathing space? A bit of freedom? A car and an open road will deliver. Here are 14 great solo road trips to choose from.

50 Road Trip Songs: The Ultimate Solo Playlist

March 11, 2020 by Tracey Nesbitt

With input from readers and friends, along with my own favorites, here are 50 road trip songs to add to the soundtrack of your next solo journey.

A Road Trip Through Iceland

May 8, 2019 by Janice Waugh

The most diverse landscape and the best scenery in the world. Iceland is a spectacular destination for a road trip that you will never forget.

A Solo Canadian Maritimes Road Trip

October 24, 2018 by Tracey Nesbitt

This solo traveler logged 7,539 km on a one-month solo Canadian Maritimes road trip. Enjoy her story and photos from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and PEI.

Glaciers, Mountains & Lakes: Driving the Icefields Parkway

April 30, 2018 by Janice Waugh

The Icefields Parkway between Jasper and Banff, Alberta is one of North America’s great drives. Here’s a bit of what you can expect to see.

Solo Travel Destination: North Coast 500 Road Trip, Scotland

April 20, 2018 by Tracey Nesbitt

This Solo Travel Society member recommends a road trip on the North Coast 500 to anyone who loves nature and remote places with a bit of a rough spirit.

Border to Border in Alberta: A Western Canada Road Trip

December 13, 2017 by Tracey Nesbitt

A professional travel photographer maps out a route for a fascinating Western Canada road trip, with lots of great photos of southern Alberta.

Taking the Scenic Route: Road Trip through Medieval Germany

September 27, 2017 by Guest

Castles and gardens and bears in surprising places. All this and more was found on this road trip through medieval Germany.

Travel Plan vs. Reality: European Road Trip

July 10, 2017 by Janice Waugh

Travel plan vs. Reality. This is how my two-week road trip around the Adriatic was planned and how it actually went – budget and all.

My First Solo Road Trip: Nova Scotia

November 23, 2016 by Tracey Nesbitt

From Kemptville to Argyle, from Wolfville to Lunenburg and Halifax, here are the twists and turns of my first solo road trip in beautiful Nova Scotia.

The Great Acadian Road Trip: Itinerary, Tips and Lots of Pics

September 28, 2016 by Janice Waugh

Follow this itinerary for the Acadian Coastal Route in New Brunswick for Acadian joie de vivre, beaches, delicious cuisine, festivals, a national park and more!

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The 10 best countries for solo travel – and top tips for travelling alone

W hile travelling with friends, family or a partner can be a great way to spend quality time with loved ones, embracing alone time can open the door to a wealth of new cultures and experiences .

Solo holidays can range from short-haul city breaks to bucket-list backpacking adventures and active excursions closer to home.

But where to start? Holidays for a party of one are more popular than ever in 2024, though inconsistent pricing and solo supplements can be discouraging for those new to lone adventuring.

And, while solo travellers may end up  paying more  for holidays thanks to single occupancy rates, the freedom of choice without the burden of compromise is thrown in for free.

From dining with the locals in Vietnam to guided tours of the Golden Circle in Iceland , there are myriad destinations well-suited to travellers looking to go it alone.

Here are some top countries for solo travel, plus tips to plan and execute a successful trip of self-discovery.

Read more on solo travel :

• The solo holiday destinations in the UK for a singles getaway
• The best US cities for solo female travellers you might not have considered
• Why Greek island-hopping is a gentle way to ease back into adventures

Best for: Singles city breaks

What better way to kick start a solo adventure than with a long weekend in a city that embraces the essence of  hygge  (a feeling of comfort and contentment)? Alfresco summers meet cosy winters in Denmark and, while Scandinavian prices can be eye-wateringly expensive, it’s not impossible to pull off a city break on a budget.

Eastern capital Copenhagen is consistent in its happy atmosphere, low crime rate and world-renowned cuisine. From budget hot dog stands laden with pickled condiments to the tasting menu at three Michelin-starred restaurant Geranium, gourmet food joints pepper the candle-lit streets. Experience “faellesspisning” or communal eating – affordable bites in the charming company of strangers – if you’re a solo traveller looking to socialise.

Make your money go even further by joining in with laid-back Scandi culture and renting a bike, staying in buzzing hostels such as the central Danhostel and purchasing a Copenhagen Card to get money off attractions, including a boat tour of the city’s canals.

Free activities such as walking along waterfront neighbourhood Nyhavn and catching a summer sunset from the opera house are also facilitated by an efficient ‘S-tog’ train network and buses.

And there’s more to Denmark than its effortlessly stylish capital. Visit Odense for a Hans Christian Anderson literary experience fans of The Little Mermaid will love, and take in the multitude of architecture in the old Viking fishing village-turned-second city, Aarhus, for an insight into to Danish history.

Best for: Solo island hopping

Thailand is a welcoming haven for single party animals or beach bums travelling the well-trodden backpacking trail through  southeast Asia .

A solo slice of Thai comes with an affordable price tag once you’re there. Trains, buses, long-tail boats and tuk-tuks transport travellers to the street food of lively night markets and cooking schools well versed in pad Thai and gaeng daeng for just a few pounds, while there are plentiful cheap and cheerful hostels to stay in, helping solo travellers meet new people and save in accommodation costs.

Culture-stacked cities like  Bangkok  meet jungle-clad interiors in a fusion of thrilling nightlife, rejuvenating yoga ashrams and authentic Buddhist temples.

Island hopping across isolated archipelagos is also often a staple of a tourist’s Thailand itinerary. With 1,430  islands  to choose from, including  Phuket  and the Phi Phi on the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea, try Koh Samui for safe, sociable hostels including  The Rock Samui  and catch the ferry to Koh Phangan to experience festival-style nights at a bucket-list full moon party.

Best for: Personal safety

Find peace of mind travelling alone in clean, safe cities as you experience first-hand the Japanese culture of kindness and respect. Crime and harassment are rare and the efficient train network even features women-only carriages .

Master of hi-tech and hub of creative fashion, Tokyo is the ideal place to start your first solo trip to Japan, but its glitzy tapestry of skyscrapers and all-night karaoke isn’t the only bit you should experience.

Venture to Kyoto via the revolutionary bullet trains to regroup in the ethereal landscapes surrounding Mount Fuji. In spring, the city is awash with pink as the cherry blossoms bloom and rural temple tours tempt visitors into serene Japanese gardens to experience customary tea ceremonies. Ski slopes in Hokkaidō are also great for snowsports enthuiasts.

While not the cheapest destination for holidaymakers on this list, travellers can save on expenses by picking up food from Japan’s extensive variety of vending machines, 100-yen stores and Japanese Rail passes . Capsule hotels like the Nine Hours chain and traditional ryokan rooms with hot springs offer classic Japanese zen in rural areas and the city at affordable prices.

What's more, eating alone is celebrated as the norm at casual restaurants familiar with seating tables for one, while language difficulties are usually met with polite patience.

Best for: Short-haul travel

Swerve language barriers and long stints in the air with a holiday to visit our  Irish  neighbours. The Emerald Isle has forged a reputation as a home from home for British travellers, whether they get there by hopping on a ferry or a flight.

Crumbling castles, rambling countryside and live music await; from  Dublin  to Cork and Limerick, cosmopolitan cities sit side by side with verdant landscapes blessed with an abundance of  walking  and cycling routes that are fun to explore as a lone ranger.

Dublin houses more cultural wonders than the famous Guinness Storehouse – nurse a  proper pint  in traditional old-stone Dublin pub away from tourist favourite, Temple Bar, and discover why the Irish capital is the Unesco city of literature.

Eslewhere, solo day trips can include the beauty of the Cliffs of Moher and the busy shops of Graton Street. The best way to get around is by car, and hiring your own is advisable for road trips to more remote areas such as  Galway  and the Aran Islands.

Best for: Social travellers

A favourite with backpackers,  Vietnam’s  well-established tourist route takes the hassle out of planning for solo travellers eager to buddy up along the way.

Hue’s imperial citadel, capital  Hanoi’s French colonial villas, wartime relics including the Cu Chi tunnels, blissful beaches on Phu Quoc Island and rainbow lanterns at Hoi An’s monthly full moon festival all make Vietnam a compelling destination.

Solo tourists can hop on the back of a motorbike with a local for a tour of the chaotic  Ho Chi Minh City , or cruise to the limestone islands of Unesco-listed Ha Long Bay on targeted excursions for like-minded travellers.

In this wallet-friendly southeast Asian country, easy-to-navigate transport networks, overnight buses that take you down the otherworldly coast, and a sociable, hostel-heavy accommodation scene with bargain price tags add up to a destination that’s ideal for lone travellers keen to make friends.

Best for: Self-discovery

Canada , famed for its friendly people with a knack for warm hospitality, is the ideal place for a lone globetrotter to switch off and get back to nature.

Th world's second biggest country balances cosmopolitan cities with unspoilt, remote wilderness. You’ll be greeted with trendy bars in Toronto and the urban oasis of Stanley Park in waterfront Vancouver , while road trips across the North American giant take you through expansive landscapes, mountain peaks and dazzlingly blue lakes.

A treasure trove of outdoorsy activities can be enjoyed year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in Whistler to kayaking, ice hockey and hiking amid the enchanting glacial lakes and grizzly bears of Banff National Park and the vast Rocky Mountains.

Best for: Off-grid adventures

Iceland is guaranteed to squash any feelings of boredom with its extensive menu of outdoor activities, from snowmobiling to horse riding and hikes in the rugged volcanic landscape.

Aptly nicknamed the “Land of Ice and Fire”, Iceland is a playground for nature enthusiasts to go off-grid solo. Black sand beaches, waterfalls, sapphire glaciers and the geysers of the Golden Circle ring road are all natural thrills in this largely safe and friendly country.

Think whale watching during the midnight sun, hunting the colourful waltz of the Northern Lights and the famous milky waters of the Blue Lagoon spa on a solo city break to the capital, Reykjavik .

Best for: Female solo travellers

In the heart of Europe, Slovenia’s small size and charming spirit make it a hit with female solo travellers.

A fairly priced public transport network facilitates travel between cities and English is widely spoken, enabling easier exploration of Slovenia’s beautiful scenery.

Leafy Ljubljana , the capital, is a tangle of terracotta riverside cafes, markets and family-owned restaurants offering sheep cheeses, struklji rolls and orange wines.

But Slovenia’s crowning jewel is its famous lakes fringed with traditional, pretty villages. Lake Bled, for example, is home to medieval castles, wild swimming opportunities and traditional plenta boat rides.

New Zealand

Best for: hiking holidays.

There’s nowhere like  New Zealand  for a hiking holiday off the beaten path, and it’s ideal for solo adrenaline seekers, thanks to its peaceful and safe reputation.

The English-speaking Pacific paradise offers working holiday opportunities for those looking to secure a travel visa, plus bucket-list activities such as helicopter rides, whale watching and bungee jumping fill a prolonged stopover.

From the home of  hobbits in Rotorua to cruising to the waterfalls of Milford Sounds by boat and exploring the Maori culture of vibrant Christchurch, New Zealand is well worth the ultra-long journey.

In between days spent amid its film-worthy natural landscapes, head to Auckland to climb Mount Eden and the Sky Tower for panoramic city views, or visit the fine wine regions of Waiheke Island, known for their Sauvignon Blancs.

Best for: Culture and cuisine

An unspoiled country closed to tourists until 1974,  Bhutan  is a surprisingly popular destination for a solo holiday.

With a confection of cultural wonders in lush green valleys, fortresses and traditional villages, the Himalayan country appeals to single travellers lusting to step back in time.

Find Bhutanese-style red-roofed houses in the quiet capital of Thimphu, yak herding in Laya and the cliff-hugging Tiger’s Nest Monastery at home in harmonious Paro – not forgetting delicious momo dumplings.

The landlocked nation is ideal for trekking after the 403km long Trans Bhutan Trail reopened in 2022; the mountain kingdom can be explored on private tours with a local guide.

Bhutan’s Buddhist culture has a focus on sustainability that permeates all levels of life, particularly in strict tourism regulations. Factor the country’s steep  tourism tax , designed to deter budget travellers and preserve Bhutan’s heritage, into your trip costs –now $800 (£627) for a traveller staying eight days.

Top 10 tips for solo travellers

• Do your research: take your time to plan ahead before leaving for a solo trip
• Be safety conscious: don’t share your specific location online while you’re still there, be aware of your surroundings and stay connected with people at home about your travel plans
• Be flexible: spontaneous plans are sometimes the best kind and things going “wrong” often lead to the most memorable experiences
• Try something new: whether local cuisines or a new activity, push yourself out of your comfort zone to get the most out of travelling solo
• Stay in a hostel: this can be the best way to meet new and likeminded people for social butterflies
• Learn to love your own company: there’s a freedom to alone time
• Practice local phrases: a “please” and “thank you” in the local language go a long way
• Utilise public transport: don’t blow your budget on Ubers and taxis if you don’t have to
• Bring back-up: printed documents, portable chargers, emergency cash and travel insurance are solo travel essentials
• Don’t overpack: don’t fall at the first hurdle by bringing your entire wardrobe

Read more of our best Copenhagen hotel reviews

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Solo traveling basics: Expert advice for your first trip

Boarding the plane to head to another country alone is often an emotional experience – there’s the excitement, the anxiety, the anticipation.

It can also be totally nerve-wracking.

When Angie Orth made the bold choice to leave her job and embark on a solo yearlong journey around the world in 2011, her friends and family cautioned her about safety concerns. “Everyone was horrified,” the Florida native told USA TODAY. “The fear was all I heard.”

The then New York City-based Orth kicked off her 12-country solo trip in Fiji before making her way to New Zealand, Australia, and Southeast Asia. Then she trekked through Europe, including Greece, Spain and England, and stopped in Turkey and Egypt before ending in Kenya and South Africa.

Stay safe while traveling: Here are 17 CIA tips, advice to think like a spy on vacation

It wasn’t always smooth traveling. At times, Orth said she survived “by the skin of my teeth.” Orth was in Egypt during the Arab Spring , got unbelievably sick in Thailand, and had a bike accident in Bali. She was also robbed of 400 euros. “I was in Greece for a half an hour and had already been pickpocketed,” she said. 

Still, to Orth, the solo journey was invaluable. “It’s a confidence that I don't think there’s any other way to get that confidence than by solo travel,” she said, referring to the problem-solving that inherently comes with navigating travel on your own. Then there’s also the compassion you gain from meeting and experiencing other cultures. 

Now more than ever, more people are deciding to forgo travel companions and embark on their trips alone. Solo vacation package searches on Google shot up by more than 200% over the past 90 days as of Feb. 2.

Increased connectivity on our phones makes it easier to feel secure and social media shows more people – especially women – traveling the world alone. 

“Women are not waiting for permission or their 401(k) to mature. If my husband doesn’t want to go, fine. Women are having more confidence,” said Orth, who is also the author of the upcoming book “Flirting with Disaster,” which chronicles her yearlong solo trip. 

Here’s everything you need to know about solo travel. 

How to safely travel alone

Safety is always top of mind when traveling, and it’s especially important for solo travelers who have to look out for themselves. 

'It's like your local bestie': This startup helps make solo travel as a woman feel safer

“Isn’t it fun to meet a person in a hostel and say yes, let’s go hiking right now? That’s fun, but it’s risky,” Orth said. “It’s about balancing it out and researching ridiculously.” 

◾ Start your research by heading to the State Department website to see if there are any travel advisories for the destination you’re interested in. These advisories are based on changing conditions and also inform you about the specific region you’re visiting.

For the most direct updates, enroll in the agency’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service that sends you the most up-to-date information on the destination. It can also help connect you to the nearest U.S. embassy and consulate if traveling and something happens.

◾ One thing Orth always searches for is “the destination plus scams” to see what she has to look out for when in that place. Many European cities are notorious for petty theft, like pickpocketing in popular tourist hotspots like the Trevi Fountain or public transportation.  

When doing research, it may feel like an information overload. "There is so much information now, you could read 1,000 reviews and get so many sources of conflicting information," Orth added. "It’s hard to wade through all that and find trusted sources."

◾ To help sift through everything, Orth recommends reaching out to others who have traveled to your ideal destination. She also recommended cleaning out your feed and only following travel content creators who “give you the good and the bad.”

“You don’t want the glossy, glossy, oh, it’s so magical because travel isn’t always so magical,” she said. 

◾ At your destination, you’ll also need at least a basic understanding of the language used there. “Translation plays a big role in safety, just being aware of your surroundings,” said Craig Ewer, Google Communications Manager for Search. 

Besides direct translation between 133 languages, the Google Translate app offers pronunciation help – “such a lifesaver,” according to Rose Yao, vice president of product management at Google. You can also snap a picture of a menu and have it translated in real time. 

The Google app also has a feature called Lens that allows users to search using a picture of something like a sign. “You’d be surprised at what you can Lens: menus, what is that building or what is that statue,” Yao said. You can also capture a screenshot of your social media feed and then search for it on Google to incorporate it into your travel plans.

Staying healthy on your travels

◾ To safeguard yourself and others against preventable illnesses while exploring new places, look up any recommended vaccinations for the countries you plan on visiting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website is a good starting point, with in-depth travel health notices and recommended vaccines and medicines posted. 

The CDC website also offers travel advice on managing nonpreventable illnesses, like preventing bug bites to reduce the risk of contracting diseases like dengue or Zika.

◾ Typically, you’d want to give yourself at least a month before departing on your trip to get everything you need from your doctor. And if you don’t know who to go to, the CDC can help you find a clinic as well. 

Orth recommends having a doctor help you put together a medical kit with some necessities and medications, such as for food poisoning. “It’s helpful to have some things on hand so you’re not scrambling on a remote island and no one knows what you’re talking about,” she said. 

◾ As you’re making the big purchases for your trip, don’t forget about travel insurance for the unexpected. Orth said she never travels without this layer of protection. Travel insurance not only helped with her medical costs from her bike collision but also replaced her camera, which was smashed in the accident. She also recommends a service called  MedJet , which offers worldwide security crisis and medical transportation assistance for its members.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What are the most popular solo travel destinations?

According to Google, the top-searched destinations for American solo travelers are: 

◾ Puerto Rico

Tips for solo travelers

◾ The Google app’s generative AI search allows you to “ask really detailed questions like you would ask a friend,” Yao said. “Ask what’s off the beaten path, what’s not crowded. What’s a great time to visit the Louvre that’s not super crowded?” 

◾ For your first trip alone, it’s OK to start small and dip your toes in the solo travel pool. “Start in an easier destination, something more familiar where you speak the language or you don't have to fly far away,” Orth said. “A lot of folks see ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ and travel content creators trekking in Borneo for it to count but it doesn’t.” 

◾ It won’t always be rainbows and butterflies, despite what you see on social media. Expect decision fatigue from having to make many micro-decisions, like if this taxi driver seems safe. “I think this probably hits women a lot harder than it hits men because we are never not thinking about our safety, and that’s if we’re going to Target in our hometown or hopping on a plane to a remote island,” Orth said. 

◾ Make an itinerary for yourself with at least one thing planned every day, so you don’t feel aimless but still have space for flexibility, said Madison Pietrowski, U.S. brand director at GetYourGuide, a marketplace for travel experiences, where each company listed is thoroughly vetted. It can be as casual as wanting to eat at a certain restaurant for dinner or more intensive like a whole-day tour. (On that note, make sure to read the fine print and be aware of cancellation policies for your excursions.)  

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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• 11 Epic Road Trips Across...

11 Epic Road Trips Across Russia

A nation as immense and diverse as Russia beckons a traveller to get on the road and explore as much of it as possible – as well as rugged coastlines and ancient mountains, there are vast plains, lakes and open steppes to discover. Here’s our pick of the most epic road trips across Russia.

Driving across lake baikal.

Driving on a lake sounds like an idea that defies all logic, however in the middle of a cold Siberian winter, it is a totally plausible concept. Lake Baikal ‘s waters are completely driveable when frozen through, although it can be slow going over uneven passages. Many vehicles travel across the UNSECO World Heritage listed lake each year to get to Olkhon Island. In fact, for a window of time every year, when the temperatures plummet to a consistent -30ºC (-22ºF), a hovercraft or a well-equipped car is the only way to get there.

The Mongol Rally

The Golden Ring to Finland

The Golden Ring is the name given to a string of historic and picturesque towns north east of Moscow. Spend a couple of days exploring idyllic places like Suzdal, Vladmir and Sergiyev Posad, the heart of Russian Orthodoxy, and then drive north. If you want to take your time and enjoy the scenery, give yourself a week or so to get from Suzdal to Helsinki . Pass through Moscow, Russia’s awe-inspiring capital, and spend a couple of days in St. Petersburg to take in the major sights and enjoy Russia’s most European city, before you cross the border into Scandinavia.

The Chuysky Trakt

This 1,000-kilometre (621-mile) stretch of road meanders through Siberia, into the Altai Republic towards the Mongolian border. It is also the Siberian leg of the ancient trader route, the Silk Road, which connected Europe to Asia, via Russia, through a network of paths. Journey through sleepy mountain villages and across breathtaking backdrops of snow capped mountains and sweeping open plains. Take in the republic’s rugged, remote beauty, and make sure you don’t miss out on Teletskoye Lake .

Black Sea to the Baltic

From one stunning seaside spot to another, this route ambles through Russia, around Belarus, into Latvia, Lithuania, and back into Russia’s green westerly enclave, Kaliningrad. From Sochi to Kurshskaya Kosa, Russia’s national park on the Curonian Spit, is around 36 hours of straight driving, so definitely breakup the long journey with all the many stops along the way. Highlights on the way are: Sochi’s beautiful azure waters and seaside air, Rostov-on-Don’s cossack heritage, Voronezh’s architecture, Moscow’s Soviet significance, the lush countryside and European stylings of post-Soviet states Lithuania and Latvia. And then, finally, Kaliningrad’s spectacular ruggedness.

St. Petersburg to Vladivostok

This is essentially the Trans-Siberian train route, but with an extra bit tacked on, so you get the full Russian experience. The roughly 9,000-kilometre (5,592-mile) journey will take you from the nation’s most European city, across Siberia to Vladivostok , a sometimes overlooked destination, but charming port town nonetheless. On this epic drive, you’ll discover places steeped in religious, Soviet, and imperial importance. The journey is almost seven days straight on a train, so this is a road trip for when you have time to spare.

St. Petersburg to the Kola Peninsula

The roads can be a bit treacherous above the Arctic Circle , so you’ll want an off-road vehicle for this trip, even though around St. Petersburg they are well maintained. Take a day to make the journey up to Murmansk, the largest city above the Arctic Circle. Once you’ve finished looking around there, head up towards Rybachy Peninsula at the top of the Kola Peninsula, and stop off at Titovka River to enjoy the rapids and waterfalls. If you go in summer you can catch the glorious midnight sun.

Astrakhan to Elista to Lagan

A comparatively short trip that will take you into the the Buddhist Republic of Kalmykia from Astrakhan, one of Russia’s most culturally diverse cities that sits upon the Volga River . Amble through rustic villages and rolling plains until you arrive at Lagan, via Elista. In both towns check out all the Buddhist temples that have been built since the fall of the Soviet Union. Off the beaten track, Kalmaykia is one of the most underdeveloped areas in Russia, and the republic’s people, the Kalmyks, suffered heavily during the Soviet regime.

Sochi to The Republic of Adygea

From the Black Sea to Caucasus mountain wilds , this road trip is still epic without being too time-consuming. Drive along the coastal road and then up into the mountains. Once you arrive in Adygea, stay near the Belaya River Canyon for an easy trek out to the Rufabgo Falls. The next day drive across to the Lago-Naki plateau, where you can look out on snow-capped mountains and sweeping vistas of pristine nature, before you take a slow drive back to the coast.

Moscow to the Golden Ring

Another great road trip that won’t take a month out of your life, the picturesque towns that make up the Golden Ring are an easy weekend trip from Moscow . Set in idyllic countryside, this cluster of towns is covered in history. There is Vladmir, an old medieval capital, and the charming Suzdal (which is also the probably the best for sleeping options) as well as Sergiev Posad, a place of religious pilgrimage since the 14th century. Magnificent gold-topped domes on top of centuries-old cathedrals hulk over sleepy village life, and the drive between the towns is through lush green fields and dacha holiday homes.

Chita to Irkutsk

The Amur Highway between Chita and Irkutsk is flanked with imposing mountains. Chita boasts one of the largest Lenin statues in Siberia , and Irkutsk is a popular stop on the Trans-Siberian railway, and so each city is worth an explore either side of the journey. Buddhist temples and rustic villages are scattered between them, and the highway takes you along the southern perimeter of the impressive Lake Baikal, which offers plenty of picnic opportunities. Drive through the heartland of the Buryat people, Russia’s largest indigenous population, and break up the 15-hour journey by stopping off at the capital of the region Ulan-Ude for a few days.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.