The 23 Best Destinations for Solo Travel

The idea of traveling alone can be daunting, but once you've checked into your hotel and hit the streets looking for your first meal, any nerves will give way to the thrill of being somewhere new. But there’s an art to planning the perfect solo adventure ⁠– and choosing the right destination is the key.

Whether you're embarking on an epic cross-country tour or taking an impulsive city break, some places are better for a solo traveler than others. Certain destinations are suited for solitude, while in others, travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people. Whatever you’re looking for, a dream trip awaits if you're ready to go alone.

We asked our expert writers to share their favorite solo travel spots worldwide; here are 23 of the best.

The best places for solo travelers in Europe

1. Iceland

Recommended by John Garry

Iceland has previously been named the world’s safest country and the third happiest place on earth. Base yourself in Reykjavík, the country’s capital, to see why Iceland deserves both superlatives. The walkable old town mixes cosmopolitan and cozy with its hodgepodge of history museums, excellent restaurants, cozy cafes and corrugated-iron homes dipped in cheery colors that brighten winter’s darkness. Then there’s the natural surroundings. Unlike many adventure destinations – packed with predatory animals and venomous insects – you have little to fear on Iceland’s hiking trails. And if your summer hike runs later than expected, you won’t contend with darkness thanks to 24-hour sunlight. As Icelanders say, “If you’re lost in the woods, stand up,” due to the country’s sparse forests of tiny trees.

Take day trips from Reykjavík to see the Golden Circle’s powerful waterworks, drive along the south coast for black sand beaches or spend a few hours soaking in a thermal pool, as much a social scene as a place to plunge (try tourist-packed Sky Lagoon, local favorite Laugardalslaug or and sleeper hit Vesturbæjarlaug). You could even spend a week circling Iceland on the easily navigable Ring Road.

Safety: One challenge will be driving long distances alone, especially if there’s not much light. Look at tours to get from A to B.

Budget: US$150-$240 per day.

Where to Stay: The Exeter Hotel puts on live music, has a sauna plus quiet spots to sit and relax.

Where to Eat: Pósthús Mathöll is a lively, central food hall with loads of options, including popular Funky Bhangra: think burger meets Indian. 

Transportation: Get to know Reykjavík on foot. Take the bus or rent a bicycle if you’re heading across town or to a farther-flung neighborhood.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

Recommended by Kerry Walker

Some capitals feel standoffish and so ungraspably huge that you’re instantly out of your depth as a solo traveler. But not so in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, where the welcome is as warm as a friend’s abraço (hug). Sitting astride the broad blue arm of the Tagus River, Lisboa lifts moods instantly, with its painterly light, Atlantic breezes and vintage trams rollercoastering through narrow, azulejo-tiled streets. Knockout looks aside, Lisbon is a relaxed, good-natured, sociable city. Its hilly topography breaks it down into bite-sized, village-like chunks, giving it an intimacy many big cities lack. While you’ll be drawn to big-hitter sights like the high-on-a-hill Moorish castle and UNESCO-listed, fairy-tale monastery in riverside Belém, you would be wise to stray into less touristy territory, Lisbon is all about the little details. Get up early to wander the cobbled, alley-woven Alfama before the crowds arrive. Bite into an oven-warm, cinnamon-dusted pastel de nata at a cozy bakery like Manteigaria, toast strangers with a ginjinha (sour cherry liqueur) at a cubby-hole bar like A Ginjinha, and hang out with guitar-strumming students and loved-up couples at Miradouro de Santa Catarina as the sun sets over the river and Ponte 25 de Abril bridge. Join a backstreet food or street art tour. Walk, talk, make amigos – Lisbon is a city of solo travel dreams.

Safety: As in any city, be mindful of your possessions when walking through crowded areas, but otherwise this is a safe place to travel.

Budget: US$80-150 per day.

Where to Stay: Inside Rossio Train Station, Lisbon Destination Hostel is a top choice, and popular for its winter garden, dorms and private rooms.

Where to Eat: Mercado da Ribeira is curated food-court featuring the best of Lisbon's cuisine, and the only place in town where you can taste Portuguese cuisine from more than 20 restaurants, all under the same roof. 

Transportation: Lisbon is compact, covered by a relatively reliable network of public buses, short-distance trains, trams and metro. The narrow, hilly streets of the historic center are best explored on foot.

3. Alonissos, Greece

Recommended by Kerry Walker

There’s no denying the cinematic beauty of Skopelos of Mamma Mia! film fame, but its crowds belting out ABBA hits are not for everyone. If you’re solo tripping, you’ll find the same Aleppo pine-cloaked, cove-sculpted, turquoise sea-splashed loveliness one boat over on the wilder neighboring island of Alonissos in Greece’s Northern Sporades. The lack of day-trippers and big holiday masses gives Alonissos a delightfully welcoming vibe, where you can tune into the Greek siga, siga (go-slow) rhythm of moving from cliff-wrapped cove to taverna as cicadas strike up their dusk drone and grills fire up. Go on foot, by boat, by bus or on a moped, and you’ll unravel the lovely layers of this island: the cat-prowled alleys, white-blue houses and ­pavement cafes of the old capital, Chora, trails weaving through vine, olive grove and orchard to time-forgotten villages and icon-filled chapels. There's also a National Marine Park (one of Europe’s biggest), home to turtles, dolphins and rare Mediterranean monk seals, and Peristera Underwater Museum, where you can dive down to a classical-era shipwreck. Getting here? Easy. It’s just an hour’s high-speed ferry ride from Skiathos.

Safety: Don’t go hiking in the sun alone, that’s probably the most dangerous thing you can do here. Some beaches have steep drop-offs or strong currents especially in the wake of a ferry passing.

Budget: US$80-120 per day.

Where to Stay: A welcoming hostess and buffet breakfasts await at Hotel Liadromia, above the Patitiri port,
or head to Paradise Hotel wherestairs lead down to a rocky swimming cove.

Where to Eat: Book a table with a view at the family-run Astrofegia, a 10-minute drive from Patitiri.

Transportation: Patitiri on Alonnisos has ferry links to mainland Volos, nearby Skopelos and Skiathos and, from mid-June to mid-September, to Kymi (Evia) and Skyros.

4. Copper Coast, Ireland

Recommended by Kerry Walker

The Copper Coast? Say what? If you haven’t heard of this gorgeously rugged swath of coast in the south of Ireland, you aren’t alone – but you are missing a trick. A quieter, less-raved-about, equally lovely alternative to the increasingly busy west-coast Wild Atlantic Way, this 25km stretch of shore between Kilfarrasy and Stradbally in County Waterford is pure drama. It’s battered by booming waves, defined by the tides, shaped by 460-million-year-old rocks and dotted with historic copper mines (all the focus of a UNESCO Global Geopark).

For solo travelers, its beauty lies in its compact dimensions – even if you don’t drive, you can see the lot by bike or on foot. Tourists here are comparatively few, so everywhere the welcome is as warm and comforting as a bowl of Irish stew on a chilly winter’s night. The mellow, walkable city of Waterford ⁠— located on a gentle curve in the River Suir and just a whisper away from the coast ⁠— makes a cracking springboard for exploring, with its chilled atmosphere, Georgian architecture and rich Viking heritage. Raining outside? Head to Waterford Treasures, a series of quirky museums that include the Museum of Time, the Medieval Museum and the Irish Wake Museum. Waterford is also a place where you can tap into the craic, with a cracking food scene, a sprinkling of old-school pubs and a roster of upbeat festivals. From here, take a deep dive into the coast, edging west to hike to cliff, cave and rock stack, and visit Iron Age hillforts and Celtic saintly sights.

Safety: Ireland’s small size, mild climate and relative safety make it an easy place to explore on your own.

Budget: US$160-200 per day.

Where to Stay: For comfortable rooms and live music at the downstairs bar try Dooley’s.

Where to Eat: Street-food stalls spanning traditional Irish fare like bacon and cabbage to vegetarian dishes
can be found at Phoenix Yard Market or pull up at the bar at The Reg for food, drinks and live music.

Transportation: Buses will get you a long way. The app-based bike-share scheme TFI Bikes has stations around the city. The Waterford Greenway cycling trail links riverside Waterford with Dungarvan.

5. Munich, Germany

Recommended by John Garry

Everyone makes friends while slurring Schlager songs during Munich’s annual Oktoberfest, but Bavaria’s epicenter offers much more than clinking beer steins. You could spend an entire trip bingeing the city’s 80-plus museums, scanning centuries of art at the Pinakothek trio, walking royal halls at the Residenz München or going full throttle at the BMW Museum. You might also spend your time outside – biking along the Isar, crafting picnics from goods sold at the alfresco Viktualienmarkt, then dipping into Englischer Garten’s Eisbach on summer’s hottest days. And, of course, there are plenty of beer gardens where you might meet local lager lovers.

There’s also plenty to do on day trips outside the city – and thanks to Germany’s fast, efficient train system, you don’t need a rental car to get there. Take a mountain rail to Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak, or chug to the bucolic lake town Tegernsee for swimming, cycling and savoring local cheese. Cross the border to Salzburg, Austria, to practice your best Maria von Trapp yodel – or zip to Schloss Neuschwanstein and pretend you’re German royalty.

Safety: Normal city precautions like being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas but otherwise this is a very safe city to visit alone.

Budget: US$100-250 per day.

Where to Stay: Around for as long as there have been backpackers, Wombat’s is professionally run with en-suite privates and dorms, a coffee shop and bar, a short walk from the main train station. 

Where to Eat: Head to one of Munich’s traditional beer halls, like Schneider Bräuhaus, for Bavarian fare and a seat at a communal table.

Transportation:  Munich has an easy-to-use public transport system with buses, trams, the U-Bahn and the S-Bahn.

The best places for solo travelers in Asia

6. Sikkim, India

Recommended by Akanksha Singh

Perhaps it’s because the Kingdom of Sikkim only joined India in 1975 after its monarchy was abolished, but it’s equal parts tragedy and treasure that the state of Sikkim isn’t as well-known as it should be. After all, Sikkim offers solo travelers that perfect mix of safety, culture, adventure and affordability. But then again, so do many places. What makes Sikkim unique is how much it fits into its borders: snowcapped Himalayan peaks and glacial lakes, Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, a slew of unspoiled hiking trails, and a habitat for the endangered ⁠— and adorable ⁠– red panda.

Plus, it offers a sort of urban life that’s uniquely Sikkimese: Sikkim’s hill station capital, Gangtok, has that usual blend of shopping, clubs and pubs, but it’s not unusual for people across the capital to know each other. You’ll make a friend at a pub, talking about the local football team and sipping the local Dansberg beer, then head to a club and bump into your new friend’s cousin, and end the night with sha phaley (bread stuffed with meat and cabbage) and momos (dumplings) with yet another coincidental bump-in.

Safety: Opportunistic theft is a risk in India; be cautious with your valuables. Monitor the media and government travel advisories for travel warnings. Politely decline offers of food or drink from strangers on public transport.

Budget: US$40-100 per day.

Where to Stay: The Hidden Forest is a tranquil retreat set amid a blooming garden 2km out of the center, with a communal library.

Where to Eat: Eat breakfasts, sandwiches, fried rice or ramen in the window seat at the cosy cafe beneath the excellent Rachna Bookshop. Cafe Fiction.

Transportation: MG Marg in the center of town is partly pedestrianized and flat, but to reach anywhere else, expect a steep hike. Shared taxis shuttle along the main roads.

7. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Recommended by Aydan Stuart

As a country already well-ingrained on the backpacker trail, Thailand has a fair share of solo-friendly destinations, with Chiang Mai topping that list. Finding your tribe in the Old City couldn’t be easier, with an endless selection of guesthouses, hostels and hotels – each with its own style and social events. There’s also a vibrant digital nomad scene, with places like Alt_Chiang Mai designed to help newcomers make friends and find their feet. In between, a plethora of temples, cafes, bars and restaurants down every street leave you both spoiled for choice and safe in the knowledge that there’s always someone around.

Get to know yourself better by chatting with a monk at Wat Phra Singh, make friends over a wok at one of the many Thai cooking schools or meet fellow travelers at the backpacker haunt Zoe in Yellow. If you’re feeling adventurous, find the company of locals and practice your Thai in the Nimmanhaemin area – a buzzing and trendy hub of art, modernity and vibrant Chiang Mai nightlife.

Safety: Danger comes in the form of biking accidents or insect-borne disease not the locals.

Budget: US$25-100 per day.

Where to Stay: With old-style northern-Thai decor and spacious rooms, Buri Suri also has a ground-floor pool and a co-working cafe on-site. Out of town, head to Baanpong Lodge for natural escapes with a social energy around the pool and bar.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a fun mix-and-match style menu of meat and vegetarian toppings at Kao Soy Nimman.

Transportation: Beyond walking in the city, the best way to explore Chiang Mai is on two wheels. If you head into the mountains, modern scooters have enough power to get you most places, but beware of overzealous police and dangerous drivers.

8. Vietnam

Recommended by James Pham

Vietnam has long been a top stop in Southeast Asia for solo travelers, and it’s easy to see why. Vietnamese people are hospitable and friendly, so striking up a conversation isn't hard, especially with many young people eager to practice their English. There's also a strong social drinking culture, and it's not unusual for a group of friends to spontaneously invite solo travelers to join in a round of ice-cold beer. If you're in Ho Chi Minh City, head to Bui Vien St (or Ta Hien St in Hanoi's Old Quarter) where plastic stools spill out onto the street and there's a steady flow of freshly brewed beer being downed to some version of "cheers" in multiple languages. With a vibrant street food scene, solo diners will be spoiled for choice. And Vietnam is also budget-friendly for singles ⁠– larger cities offer cheap dorm rooms, and a private room in a humble guesthouse won't break the bank.

Safety: One potential issue is drive-by theft, don’t use your phone out in the open.

Budget: US$25-120 per day.

Where to Stay: M Village Ho Guom in Hanoi is budget-friendly with a shared kitchen, lounge and free laundry facilities.

Where to Eat: You can’t miss the viral cafe Note Cafe in Hanoi, a cute cafe specialising in heartfelt sticky notes.

Transportation: Train, bus or plane. The islands are accessible by ferry. Observe how local pedestrians navigate crossing the street before having a go yourself. Grab is Southeast Asia’s answer to Uber.

9. Singapore

Recommended by Winnie Tan

A compact metropolis with rich local culture and iconic sights woven into a vibrant city, Singapore is one of Asia’s most popular destinations for a reason. For solo travelers, discovering the city’s nooks and crannies on one's own is a joy. Journey on foot and take in all the sights, sounds and scents of neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little India and maybe find a cool ice-cream parlor or speakeasy to escape the tropical heat; or spend a quiet afternoon marveling at the city’s museums and breathtaking icons like Gardens by the Bay. Singapore is also famous for its incredible food scene, and solo diners will fit in perfectly as they grab a seat among the hawker stalls. Sightseeing and experiencing the city aside, Singapore’s reputation as one of the safest countries in Asia makes it a secure choice for solo travelers, and with cheap and well-connected public transport, getting around the city is a breeze. The multicultural nature of Singapore also makes communication easy whenever you find yourself in a pinch – English and Mandarin are widely spoken on top of other Southeast Asian languages and dialects.

Safety: Singapore has one of the world's lowest crime rates due to strict laws, harsh punishments, a swift justice system and a comprehensive CCTV network monitoring practically every inch of the island.

Budget: US$100-250 per day.

Where to Stay: Wink @ Upper Cross Street is popular, thanks to its numerous room types and large public yard for meals and socialising.

Where to Eat: Sample the dishes of next-generation hawker markets like Amoy Street Food Centre on  Maxwell Road or Timbre+ One North.

Transportation: Navigating the city is a breeze, thanks to its sleek and widespread public transport system, which includes an extensive network of trains (MRT) and buses.

10. Uzbekistan

Recommended by Daniel James Clarke

For centuries, the old Silk Road was the stuff of solo traveler nightmares. Bandits blighted the route, and traders crossed in camel caravans for security. Fast-forward to today, and traversing Uzbekistan's legendary trading posts is safe and seamless thanks to the high-speed Afrosiyob rail service. Hopping between the Silk Road's big hitters, such as Samarkand's turquoise tile-adorned madrassas flanking the Registan or Bukhara's mud-built, 5th-century Ark, has never been easier.

And like the caravansaries of old, modern-day Uzbek guesthouses ooze with hospitality en route. Sure, there's an ever-growing hostel scene, but traditional homestays offer family-style feasts and more local connections. And nowhere is the camaraderie and conversation more forthcoming than on the overnight, former Soviet-era sleeper trains. And while a 54-bed platzkart (open carriage) might sound like a modern-day travel nightmare, these epic desert-crossing odysseys often evolve into unforgettable shared spreads and chitchats with families pouring fresh tea. The reward to this hostel-on-wheels setup is the chance to explore far-flung Karakalpakstan on an intrepid and affordable off-road group tour, bedding down in a yurt at the edge of the fast-receding Aral Sea. Add all this together, and Uzbekistan is arguably the finest solo Silk Road experience Central Asia affords.

Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded bazaars or bus stations, and don't get into a taxi at night with more than one person in it.

Budget: US$60-120 per day.

Where to Stay: In the city, Art Guest House is a sociable hostel, or organise homestays through a guide.

Where to Eat: Tashkent has been serving shashlyk to Silk Road travelers for centuries; sample some of the best at Pakhta Ko’chasi Kebab.

Transportation: Use the taxi app Yandex Go for short taxi hops.

11. Kōchi Prefecture, Shikoku, Japan

Recommended by Daniel James Clarke

Japan is synonymous with solo travel. Society celebrates dining alone, capsule hotels abound and safety is of little concern. But if going solo in a metropolis of 37 million sounds overwhelming, trade Tokyo for Kōchi, Shikoku's least-populated prefecture. Edged by the Pacific, sprinkled with weathered-wood temples, and bragging a river so luminous it anointed a color – Niyodo Blue – this is perennial Japan. Seeking spiritual solitude? Don an ajirogasa (bamboo hat) and embark on the Ohenro, an 88-temple, 1400km pilgrimage, often ambled alone. Herculean to complete, bite-size legs like coastal, cape-rounding Muroto Sanzan are an indelible taster. At night, sip regional tosa tea and share stories with fellow wayfarers in a minshuku: these family-run, affordable ryokans are usually priced per person, avoiding solo supplements.

Safety: Japan is a safe travel destination, natural disasters aside, but solo women can also look out for women-only train carriages on big city train lines.

Budget: US$80-180 per day.

Where to Stay: Kōchi Youth Hostel is a short walk from the JR station and has private rooms as well as shared facilities and sake-tasting sessions.

Where to Eat: In Kōchi City, head to Hirome Ichiba, where shared seating means you can make fast friends. Claim a spot first (shop staff will want to know where to find you to deliver your dishes) and then line up and order from whichever stalls take your fancy.

Transportation: The Tosaden streetcar (tram), starting at Kōchi Station, is the most convenient way to travel between most points of interest in central Kōchi City.

The best places for solo travelers in North America

12. San Francisco, USA

Recommended by John Garry

Forget expensive car rentals and ride shares, San Francisco’s temperate year-round weather makes strolling its neighborhoods delightful – and a trip on the Muni (the city’s network of buses, trains, streetcars and historic cable cars) takes passengers almost anywhere worth going. Hike along the coastal Lands End trail from Golden Gate Bridge, nosh sweets from Tartine while admiring the Mission’s murals – and if solo travel feels isolating, take a ferry to Alcatraz for perspective on what "solitary confinement" really means. The options don’t end there: find solitude among soaring redwoods at Muir Woods, take a trip to Angel Island for San Francisco views, or consider what Rodin’s The Thinker is pondering in the Legion of Honor Museum.

For solo LGBTQ+ travelers, SF shines particularly bright. The City by the Bay has the highest percentage of LGBTQ+ residents in any US metro area and multiple rainbow-splattered gayborhoods to show for it. Flit between Castro bars, hang with SoMa’s leather daddies or sun on Dolores Park's southwest corner, known as “Gay Beach." You could visit for a queer-forward event too, be it June’s Pride or September’s Folsom Street Fair – when visitors explore their inner kinkster without judgment.

Safety: San Francisco’s well-documented social issues with unhoused people and addiction is unlikely to cause you any personal safety issues.

Budget: US$90-220 per day.

Where to Stay: You get million-dollar waterfront views in this ex-army barracks hostel, which also has private rooms and a communal kitchen.

Where to Eat: The Ferry Building is SF's locavore landmark with standout restaurants and artisanal food purveyors.

Transportation: Walking is great but there are hills to consider. Beyond that, there’s Muni bus, streetcar and a metro.

13. New York City, USA

Recommended by John Garry

NYC won’t let you get bored. Choose from more than 150 museums – including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the largest museum in the western hemisphere. Sidle into speakeasies around the East Village or dance until dawn at a warehouse in Queens. See chorus kids kicking at a Broadway matinee, catch an avant-garde evening show Off-Broadway, then cap it off with late-night burlesque at the Slipper Room.

If you’re craving company, join a meet-up group with like-minded locals. There’s something for everyone: feminist birders, LGBTQ+ runners, word nerds who like reading together, and food enthusiasts willing to dine in a stranger’s apartment. And if you ever get homesick, the city’s glut of global cuisine – representing more than 150 countries – is ready to serve your comfort food of choice. NYC might get a bad rep for being expensive – and it can be – so take advantage of solo travel hack and free spots like the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park and the Staten Island Ferry.

Safety: Big city rules apply, but otherwise NYC is pretty safe for solo travelers.

Budget: US$80-200 per day.

Where to Stay: For an affordable hotel try Pod Brooklyn.

Where to Eat: The beauty of dining solo in NYC (or any big city) is that you can usually get into all the top spots without a reservation and sit at the bar. For vibes, Ha's Snack Bar on the Lower East Side serves fun Vietnamese plates. In Williamsburg, Cozy Royale has the best happy hour and seats at the bar.

Transportation: Getting around is a breeze. The 24-hour subway system is always ready to usher you home after a long day.

14. Puerto Rico

Recommended by John Garry

San Juan, Puerto Rico’s Spanish-speaking, English-friendly capital combines Viejo San Juan’s stately colonial architecture with graffitied Santurce’s laid-back Caribbean cool. It’s relatively easy to get around via Uber – so you can zoom safely from sugar-sand shores near Condado’s hotels to the old city’s historic fortresses and beyond. Once night descends, boogie Boricua-style with locals at La Factoría, a six-room cocktail bar where friendly salsa dancers set the floor aflame with fancy footwork.

Most of Puerto Rico’s top sites are no more than an hour from San Juan, making adventures outside the city easy to reach by car. Hike along the well-marked trails of tropical rainforest El Yunque, join a group tour through the caves of Río Tanamá, or you could simply set up camp on one of the island’s many free-to-visit beaches. Who needs human friends when you can swim with tropical fish and sea turtles?

Safety: Pay attention to natural hazards when hiking or swimming. If unsure, join a guided expedition.

Budget: US$80-200 per day.

Where to Stay: Spend a night at El Pretexto – a food-forward lodge where everyone sidles up to the same table for farm-fresh dinner.

Where to Eat: Miramar Food Truck Park in San Juan has plenty of options for dining solo with seating areas. 

Transportation: Walking is often the best way to get around. Taxis are ubiquitous in the capital, and Uber is accessible, but not beyond it when you’ll need your own wheels.

5. Tulum, Mexico

Recommended by Luke Waterson

Chilled-out party town Tulum sits on one of the Riviera Maya's loveliest stretches of beach ⁠— and is easily reached, with convenient flight connections to the US and Europe. Here, solo travelers can sunbathe, marvel at one of Mexico’s most photogenic Mayan ruins perched on the Tulum clifftops or explore Parque Nacional Tulum nearby, an enticing expanse of mangrove with cenotes (limestone sinkholes) where you can take a dip in delightfully blue-green freshwater.

Should you be inclined to meet fellow adventurers, Tulum’s well-developed hostel scene obliges, while the atmospheric open-air restaurants and bars both in town and at the beach can be great places to meet people. It’s easy to be sociable and solitary at the same time, too. Make some friends on a group trip out to the best-preserved tract of the Yucatán Peninsula’s coastline, the isolated Reserva Biósfera de Sian Ka’an, a wildlife-replete tract of tropical forests, mangroves and coves. There, appeal to your introverted side as you float quietly by boat on the lookout for dolphins and turtles, listen to the haunting soundtrack of howler monkeys, and snorkel the northern hemisphere’s largest coral reef.

Safety: Don’t fall asleep at the beach, or your valuables may disappear. Join a group tour for swimming adventures.

Budget: US$80-150 per day.

Where to Stay: Mayan Monkey is social, with a swing bar, giant terrace, swimming pool, and activities (yoga, salsa classes, live music).

Where to Eat: If you’re into healthy eating, La Hoja Verde is Tulum’s best vegetarian restaurant. Plus, it’s open late. 

Transportation: Colectivos frequently pass along Av Tulum for Playa del Carmen. Hiring a bicycle or scooter is a good way to make the 5km trip between the town and beach. 

The best places for solo travelers in Central and South America

16. Quito, Ecuador

Recommended by Sheri-Kae McLeod

You don’t need companions on a trip to Quito, Ecuador, as flying solo will allow you to truly immerse yourself in the city’s historical allure, breathtaking landscapes and tapestry of diverse cultures. The UNESCO-designated Old Town is a testament to this rich heritage, adorned with colonial architecture, charming plazas and revered landmarks like the Basílica del Voto Nacional and Plaza Grande. Wander along its cobblestone pathways, delve into museums and soak in the city's captivating history.

Quito is enveloped by natural splendor, and it’s easy to join a group tour to nearby wonders such as Cotopaxi National Park, the equator line at Mitad del Mundo, or the awe-inspiring TelefériQo cable car ride, treating you to panoramic vistas of the city and its encircling mountains. Take a solo stroll to explore markets like Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs, or venture into La Ronda St, famed for its artisanal shops, cozy cafes and live musical performances.

Safety: The areas around La Mariscal and Plaza Foch can be sketchy after dark. Visit and enjoy, but travel by licensed taxi or take an Uber at night.

Budget: US$100-200 per day.

Where to Stay: Community Hostel bills itself as the most social in Quito. Secret Garden also has a rooftop bar for meeting fellow travelers. For a more upmarket experience, Carlota has single rooms plus shared spaces.

Where to Eat: Head to Calle La Ronda, but leave by 6:30pm to catch a rideshare or taxi, as the last couple of pedestrian-only uphill blocks above La Ronda’s stone archway are dark, shuttered, and empty at the end of the day.

Transportation: Exploring the Centro Histórico on foot is the best way to navigate and acclimate to this high-altitude capital. Hop on the Quito Metro from Plaza San Francisco in the heart of the Centro Histórico to travel further.

17. Belize

Recommended by Bailey Freeman

Bite-sized Belize is an excellent place for you to get a taste of Central America with a dash of Caribbean flavor. Why is this friendly country good for solo travelers? For one, its size: you can drive from the Mexican border to Belize’s southernmost town in less than 6 hours, and from the coast to the Guatemalan border in two. You’ll be treated to incredible historic Maya sites, biodiverse jungles teeming with fauna and gorgeous coasts home to culturally rich towns. More interested in Belize’s famous cayes? Water taxis and puddle jumpers abound, so you won’t have any trouble making the hop to your island paradise. Solo travelers will enjoy the accessibility of so many different kinds of travel experiences, and those who really like to go it alone will also enjoy the lack of resort culture compared to other similar destinations — things are small and local, perfect for a party of one.

Safety: Some neighborhoods in Belize City are best avoided; although tourists are not the target of crime, it's best to seek up-to-date advice.

Budget: US$90-200 per day.

Where to Stay: Hostel staff tend to go above and beyond when making recommendations and arranging tours, even hosting. If you’re staying in Belize City, check out Harbour View Boutique Hotel & Wellness Retreat.

Where to Eat: For local food and happy hour cocktails, try Bird’s Isle Restaurant & Bar.

Transportation: After dark, always take taxis and don't go anywhere alone. Your hotel or hostel can help coordinate splitting a shuttle or taxi with other solo travelers. Buses and water taxis are plentiful for getting around Belize.

18. Cuzco, Peru

Recommended by Luke Waterson

The beauty of Cuzco is that it can feel like the most ancient, tradition-rich city in Peru's Andes and still offer up all the contemporary comforts you want. The mind-boggling variety of must-do trips that begin in the historic hub of the Inca Empire ⁠— from that obligatory visit to the continent’s most fabled set of ruins, Machu Picchu, through to forays into Peru’s most stringently protected swath of jungle, Parque Nacional Manu ⁠— mean you’re sure to encounter a greater mix of other travelers than anywhere else in the country. Every Peru-bound backpacker stops by, and often for weeks at a time, so you’re likely to bump into the same folks several times, increasing opportunities for bonding. Cuzco’s DNA reflects this in the eclectic assortment of hostels, bars, and clubs scattered throughout the fetching city center, each of which provides further chances to meet like-minded adventurers. And it’s in every solo traveler’s interest to do just that, given the savings you can make on excursions as part of a group to Manu or the myriad photogenic Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley nearby.

Safety: Peru is a conservative Catholic country. Family is important, as is dancing, food, and football. Leave valuables either at your accommodation or out of sight.

Budget: US$80-120 per day.

Where to Stay: There are many great hostels to choose from. Casa Tunki has a co-working space in the covered courtyard and dorm rooms as well as private rooms, and Black Llama Hostel organises cultural activities for guests. 

Where to Eat: Picanteria Mamatrini is a friendly family-run restaurant in the historic center, where you can try traditional dishes. Fuego is another good bet, vibing and has bar stools and gigs.

Transportation: Cuzco’s central area can be wandered on foot. Taxis are everywhere, and Uber is widely available. Combis (shared vans) to the surrounding areas leave from Pavitos if you want to leave the city.

The best places for solo travelers in Africa

19. Réunion

Recommended by Victoria Gill

As you travel off the coast of southern Africa, past Madagascar and deep into the Indian Ocean to arrive at Réunion, prepare to be welcomed with views of volcano-backed crêperies that show off the island’s curious hybrid of tropical paradise and French savoir-faire.

Solo travelers will be welcomed in the sprawling city of Saint-Denis, which is a fantastic jumping-off point to the waterfall-filled interior, where trekking, river bathing and canyoning will keep visitors very busy. The most incredible experience may be reaching the peak of Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. It’s a 2-hour hike to reach its magnetic caldera, with subterranean lava tunnels to be explored.

The impenetrable marine waters ringing the island – Réunion’s seas are so shark-infested that swimming and surfing beyond reefs are banned – tend to corral visitors towards the Riviera-esque restaurants, beach bars and street markets of this French overseas territory’s coastal towns. Holiday rentals and mountain resorts are nestled throughout the undulating, lush UNESCO-protected interior wilderness of pitons, forests and cirques.

Safety: This is a fairly socially conservative place, so be mindful. Also be aware that drug use is a significant problem here. Don't leave valuables in cars or on the beach.

Budget: US$250-350 per day.

Where to Stay: Head to Les Baroudeurs, just outside St-Pierre. It has private rooms as well as dorms and plenty of shared spaces for meeting people. 

Where to Eat: Tuck into a Creole buffet on the terrace or in the garden at Le Caritologue in St-Pierre.

Transportation: Buses let you enjoy the journey, as traffic can be bad in the cities, but bus routes don't cover the whole island. 

20. Taghazout, Aourir and Tamraght, Morocco

Recommended by Helen Ranger

The coast north of the city of Agadir on Morocco's Atlantic shores is booming. The once-sleepy villages of Taghazout, Aourir and Tamraght now sport dozens of places to stay, from simple hostels to five-star hotels and hole-in-the-wall coffee spots to fancy barista-style cafes, cocktail bars and concept stores. The attraction? Superb, easily accessible surf spots, sunshine and long sandy beaches.

It’s the ideal environment for solo travelers to relax in the friendly vibe and even take a few surfing classes. With surfing comes yoga, and several places offer yoga retreats or surf-and-yoga combinations (try Surf Berbere or Surf and Friends). Getting around is easy, too. Take the No. 32 bus from Agadir that calls at Tamraght, Aourir and Taghazout, hire a bike to cycle between villages or take the Souk to Surf shuttle. But it’s not all about surf and stretch. Check out the artisan shops at Bab Taghazout in Aourir, indulge in a massage at La Petite Palmeraie (women only) or the Tamraght Spa House, take a camel ride on the beach or even try out the outdoor gym equipment along the promenade.

Safety: Avoid wearing anything too revealing when in town. Pack a large scarf to throw around yourself if you’re experiencing any discomfort. 

Budget: US$80-150 per day.

Where to Stay: Try DFrost Almugar, a bougie surf and yoga retreat in Taghazout; it also has shared bunk rooms. Or Mint Surf in Tamraght offers single rooms as well as surf school packages.

Where to Eat: Grab a seat at Lets Be cafe for some delicious vegan dining and more.

Transportation: Taxis and local buses are inexpensive, or get around on foot or by bike. You can also ask drivers to wait at attractions for you (for a fee).

21. São Tomé and Príncipe

Recommended by Marisa Paska

Off the coast of West Africa, the tiny island of São Tomé and its smaller sister island, Príncipe, form one of the safest, most lush and least-visited African nations – one that's perfect for solo travelers looking for a different sort of adventure. São Tomé and Príncipe offer naturally fertile landscapes where everything grows in abundance. Development may be slow, but life is leve-leve (easy-easy), the beaches are quiet and pristine, and there are enough dirt roads to keep you traveling sunset after sunset.

Spend your days relaxing on the gorgeous sands that ring the islands, sampling fabulous seafood dishes with swordfish, spider crab and octopus. Stare in awe at the needle-like spike of Cão Grande and hike through the islands’ lush interiors. Travel lightly, move slowly, and you're sure to find joy in the people you meet along the way.

Safety: Crime against tourists is extremely rare, but keep an eye on your personal belongings (smartphones may be worth an annual salary).

Budget: US$120-200 per day.

Where to Stay: Check out Sweet Guest House, or consider booking a bungalow at Mucumbli on the São Tomé north coast.

Where to Eat: Treat yourself to a meal at the hotel restaurant at Omali São Tomé for fresh seasonal ingredients and chilled vibes by the pool. 

Transportation: Local operators, hotels, and resorts will arrange a vehicle with a guide-driver for you, which is much easier than self-driving.

Best cities for solo travelers in Australia and New Zealand

22. Gold Coast, Australia

Recommended by Jessica Lockhart

Some Australians will try to convince you that the Gold Coast is a tourist trap for two types of travelers: kids begging their parents to take them to amusement parks like Wet’n’Wild or Dreamworld; or the tanned-and-toned hens and bucks (bachelor and bachelorette) party attendees that spill out onto the Gold Coast’s oceanside streets. But there’s a softer, decidedly more solo side to the Gold Coast that often gets overlooked.

The wellness capital of Australia, it’s home to several award-winning spas and lifestyle retreats hidden high in the lush hinterlands. For example, travel through the gates of the 200-hectare Gwinganna (famously co-owned by Hugh Jackman) and the world will melt away as you start your mornings practicing qigong while wallabies hop past. Your afternoons will be spent at the spa (the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere), where treatments include all the standards (massages and facials) plus the innovative (equine-assisted therapy and tarot card reading). Affordable day-spa versions also exist, including the Bathhouse at Ground at Currumbin. One of the biggest benefits of solo travel is having the time to reflect and reassess – and there’s no better place to do it.

Safety: Especially if you're on your own, always swim between the red-and-yellow flags at the beach. If you’re heading on a bushwalk, let someone know where you're going.

Budget: US$100-175 per day.

Where to Stay: In town, challenge a fellow hostel resident to a game of pool or join a trivia team at Bunk Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast.

Where to Eat: Grab breakfast at one of the garden tables at Paddock Bakery and make your plan for the day.

Transportation: Public transport is reliable and safe for getting around on the Gold Coast.

23. Queenstown, New Zealand

Recommended by Jessica Lockhart

New Zealand (Aotearoa) regularly ranks as one of the top countries globally for solo travelers. It’s easy to navigate and incredibly safe; locals are friendly, and the scenery changes frequently enough that there’s always something new to capture your attention. But if you only have time for one spot, the South Island’s adrenaline epicenter of Queenstown is hard to beat. A hot spot for backpackers and working holiday visa holders, solo travelers are the rule, not the exception.

You can save coin by booking into a private room in one of the city’s flashpackers and grabbing a takeaway meal to eat by the lake. Longing for a bit of company? Jump on a day tour to the Gibbston Valley’s wineries, Lord of the Rings filming locations, or further afield to the waterfalls and dramatic peaks of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Adventure and solo travel aren’t mutually exclusive – and Queenstown proves that’s the case.

Safety: Just don’t leave valuable items in a car (including at trailheads).

Budget: US$75-150 per day.

Where to Stay: Sherwood is a mid-range hotel with a community vibe and group activities. Tahuna Pod Hostel has shared kitchens and common areas to meet fellow visitors.

Where to Eat: Join the queue for Fergberger on Arrow St (then stay for drinks next door).

Transportation: Many top things to do are are beyond town. If you hire a car and self-drive, but be very mindful of fatigue (distances are further than they seem due to long windy roads).