Exploring the world on your own can be exciting. You have the freedom to go where you want, when you want, and no one can tell you otherwise. That said, solo travel can also be challenging, and at times can certainly get lonely. Here are the top 10 most romantic destinations for solo travellers to help connect you with other wanderlust-filled explorers as you travel the world, and maybe even find romance along the way.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast in Italy is the perfect setting for a romantic adventure. Picture yourself zooming through the Italian countryside on the back of a moped, arms wrapped around a gorgeous local. Imagine indulging in the world’s best pizza, pasta, and gelato beneath the sparkling lights of a terrace overlooking cliffs dotted with colourful towns.
For the solo traveller in search of a bit of romance, base yourself in one of the towns along the coast, perhaps Sorrento or Positano, and take local buses to explore a different town each day. Don’t be afraid to venture away from the tourist sites and head to the public beaches where you can strike up a conversation with a local, and get them to show you some lesser-known destinations.
Veer off the beaten path and take a stroll through residential neighbourhoods: Sant’Agnello, just outside of Sorrento, is a charming option. The most exciting things happen when you wander outside your comfort zone – you never know what you’ll find or who you’ll meet!
Cuzco, Peru
There are few things more enchanting than the mystery of a remarkable ancient city laden with age-old history and a rich local culture. In Cuzco, Peru, you will find yourself transported backwards through time in one of South America’s most exotic destinations.
Climb the hilly cobblestone streets of Cuzco to a charming bar and enjoy a traditional pisco sour as you take in panoramic views of the city by night. Book a day tour to nearby Rainbow Mountain for a breathtaking hike through the stunning Peruvian landscape and bond with fellow solo travellers making the trek.
Just a stone’s throw from Cuzco is one of the most incredible sites on earth, Machu Picchu. Located on a lush mountaintop surrounded by clouds, otherworldly Machu Picchu is the perfect destination for solo travellers seeking adventure and romance.
Bali, Indonesia
If your solo travels bring you to Bali, one of Indonesia’s most popular islands, be prepared for a dreamy experience. Between vibrant rice terraces, gorgeous cliff-side temples, lush rainforests, and fantastic beaches, there are endless opportunities for solo travellers to enjoy a romantic encounter.
If surfing is your thing, head to Canggu to catch some waves with sun-kissed travellers and locals alike. For a more laid back vibe, spend your time in Ubud, a yogi’s paradise, where you will inevitably meet like-minded travellers and maybe even split a nasi goreng or organic acai bowl. Find your lover on the dance floor in Seminyak’s La Favela nightclub or spend the day drinking Bintang beers at the W Bali hotel’s sultry poolside bar.
Paris, France
Is there a city on earth more romantic than Paris? From world-class wine to the Eiffel Tower, it’s no question that the City of Light is one of the world’s most alluring destinations. With infinite features to explore, solo travellers will effortlessly discover romance in Paris.
Meet expats and fellow travellers by signing up for a French language class or attending conversational meetups throughout the city. Experience the culture of Paris on a group tour of the Louvre or attend a wine and cheese tasting event to meet others in a more intimate and relaxed setting. Take a bike tour through this dreamy city or spend the day on a small-group tour of the nearby picturesque Palace of Versailles.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Among the most stunning cities in South America is sensual Buenos Aires. Renowned throughout the world for its passionate tango, fine wine and world-class beef, this city is an ideal destination for solo travellers looking for love.
A great way to make this massive metropolis a bit smaller is to visit a puerta cerrada (closed door restaurant) for dinner. Here you will dine in the home of a porteño (local) chef alongside other adventurous travellers and members of the city’s expat community. This unique experience is a great way for solo travellers to make friends abroad, and what’s more of an aphrodisiac than an intimate dinner with Argentine Malbec and fascinating company?
Queenstown, New Zealand
There’s no question that a perfect location to fall in love with a stranger is against the gorgeous backdrop of Queenstown, New Zealand. From nearby natural attractions, scenic hikes, and exciting nightlife, you'll never be lacking for ways to meet new people no matter what your interests.
There's no better way to inspire romance than to share an adventure together, and as Queenstown is renowned as the world's adventure capital, a thrilling skydiving or bungee jumping experience might be the push you need to bond with your fellow thrill-seekers.
Stockholm, Sweden
What’s more romantic than bundling up and strolling through a true Scandanavian winter wonderland? Stockholm is a fantastic city for solo travellers to meet the locals, as Swedes are known for their striking looks and overall friendliness.
If you don’t speak Swedish, not to worry; the majority of the population is well-versed in English, making Stockholm a great destination to try CouchSurfing, a platform to meet locals and stay with them in their homes. Local hosts will often also act as your own personal tour guide and show you the city from their insider perspective.
Miami, USA
An undeniably sexy city, solo travellers should head to Miami to experience romance mixed with a bit of Latin flavour. From white sandy beaches to high-end clubs, Miami is the perfect place to get out there and meet new people while travelling solo.
Attend one of the city’s many festivals and events, such as the world-famous Art Basel, the South Beach Wine and Food Fest, or Ultra Music Festival to meet international travellers from every corner of the globe.
Tel Aviv, Israel
A bustling metropolis in the heart of the Holy Land, Tel Aviv is filled with gorgeous locals, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and a vibrant nightlife.
Head to the beach and strike up a game of matkot with Israelis you meet at one of the charming beach bars, or visit the bustling Carmel Market in the heart of the city. In a country as compact as Israel, it’s hard to avoid running into the same people time and time again, making Tel Aviv a great destination to link up with other solo travellers and continue your adventure from there.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
In Northern Thailand lies the eclectic city of Chiang Mai, with its traditional Thai markets and ornate temples. This unique destination is one that solo travellers will not want to miss.
Sign up for an early-morning tour and watch the sunrise from a majestic hot air balloon over the expansive countryside. Visit or volunteer at an elephant sanctuary, such as the humane Elephant Nature Park, to get close to these marvellous creatures in a fulfilling and responsible way. In Chiang Mai, you will have the chance to meet like-minded travellers and locals while enjoying once in a lifetime experiences, and what’s more romantic than that?
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