solo trips july 2023

Solo Traveler

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

Group Tours Especially for Solo Travelers

Dozens of solo travel trips updated monthly.

The only list of singles group travel deals that we know of. Solo travel tours and cruises with no or low single supplements. Advertisers cannot surpass 20% single supplement on any trips advertised on Solo Traveler. In many cases there is no single supplement at all.

Also check out our Searchable page to filter tours for singles by destination, style and length of trip.

Do you have a solo travel tour to promote? Please contact Simon Constam .

Are you a tour novice? Read: Solo Traveler On a Group Tour , How to Choose a Tour and River Cruises for Solo Travelers .

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International and Domestic Group Travel Specialist

Travel Planners 4 U is more than just a travel agency. We curate travel experiences for culture enthusiasts, romantics, cruise lovers, soloists, adventurers, relaxation seekers, and everyone in between. We will deliver a trip experience that suits your travel style.

• Experience Iceland Oct. 2024: 7 day island journey see the Blue Lagoon, the Northern Lights, waterfalls & Viking World!
• Into the Word in Israel Sept. ’24: An 11-day Israel trip to educate and enlighten you in the Holy Land visiting many sites.
• 11-Day Cultural Trip thru Italy: Travel thru the most historical & romantic cities in Italy on this 11-day cultural journey

Italian Excursion Slow Travel Guided Tours

Join us to experience Italy as the Italians do through fresh, local ingredients and local wines. Live in one beautiful place for the week, unpack just once! You’ll get to know your neighborhood and your neighbors. You’ll be living like an Italian at the slow pace that enhances the senses.

• Harvest Tour: A beautiful week in Italy! 15 meals, 3 wine tastings, daily guided tours. October 13-20/25
• Spring Food & Wine of Umbria: Experience Italy as the Italians do! Local food and wine small tours. May 12-19/25
• Harvest Tour October 7-14, 2024: Slow Travel for a Beautiful Week in Italy. No single supplement fee!
• Spring Food & Wine of Umbria: Italy as the Italians do! Fresh, local food and unique wines of the region. May 14-21/24.

travelbyjude takes you where you want to go anyday

travelbyjude

Sophisticated voyages on board Small Cruise Ships.

Are you looking for a cruise in luxury without getting lost in the crowds on a large ship? Then a Boutique cruise or Small Ship Cruise is designed for you! It's just as blissful as it sounds; a combination of exploring itineraries and visiting quaint little ports with just a few fellow guests.

• UNESCO HERITAGE 2024 Cruise: 30% off Peloponnese and UNESCO Greek World Heritage sites, Nov 2-9 20% single supplement.
• Malta, Italy, Isle of Beauty: French Riviera to the Maltese capital, NO single suppl. on an 11-day Mediterranean cruise.
• Yacht Cruise Costa Rica: -20% Cruise the Costa Rican coast aboard a small yacht. Sailings April 28 – July 14

Great value small group solo holidays with Hosts

Friendship Travel offers a wide range of fun and enjoyable singles holidays for like-minded travellers. We have been in business for 26 years and know how to look after solo travellers. With departures all year we can offer a trip to suit your holiday needs. Give our friendly team a call today.

• Christmas Tenerife Island Europe: Christmas sunshine. A Canary Island with amazing walks and culture in north of Tenerife.
• Mallorca Island Sunshine – Spain: A four star hotel on this Spanish Island from only $1495. Culture & History in Palma City.
• Explore Greek Islands and more: Fly to Athens and explore Greek Islands with solo group tours each week of summer.
• Portugal painting OR sightseeing: Paint and improve your art skills OR join a trip with sightseeing included. NEW 2024 dates
• Africa Safari and Beach in Kenya: 3 nights on safari and 4 nights at the beach - a great win centre combination in Kenya.
• Saint Lucia Caribbean Luxury – 5*: All-inclusive Caribbean resort incl spa treatment each day. On the beach, upto 30 solos

Iceland challenge & adventure tours in small group

Explore Iceland with the people like you in small group with the local guide. Choose the adventure that matches your travel style! Test your comfort zone on the glaciers hiking and climbing challenge, explore the unique Icelandic nature, learn the taste of Iceland and much more!

• Greenland challenge sailing tour: Adventure beyond the Arctic Circle. Explore the wonders of the Arctic on board a yacht
• Solo explorer. Iceland: Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Iceland
• Ice Challenge in Iceland: 3 or 6 days, small group tour. Discover the magic of Icelandic glaciers in an advanced way
• Food and nature challenge Iceland: 9 days adventure with small group and private guide. Taste Iceland with us.

Cosmos is Making Solo Travel More About You

Tightening your belt doesn’t have to mean restricting your dreams. For more than 60 years, Cosmos has made worldwide travel attainable with value-centric vacations that don’t break the bank. With affordable escorted tours in 67 countries on six continents, Cosmos helps you tackle your Bucket List.

• Prague, Vienna & Budapest: On this splendid Central Europe tour, you’ll discover the former Habsburg Empire.
• Paris, Normandy and The Loire: Tour France the perfect way. See the highlights of Paris, the Loire Valley and Normandy.
• Irish Discovery: Lush landscapes, vibrant cities & historic attractions await on this guided Ireland tour.
• Lisbon, Seville & Madrid: This tour of Spain & Portugal introduces you to fascinating cities & cultural discoveries.
• The Best of Greece: On this Greece tour, discover the highlights of historical, mythical, and modern Greece.
• Rome, Florence & Venice: Your dream of visiting the shining cities of Italy on a budget can come true.

Small group tours for Solo Women Travelers.

Small group tours with concierge AND never a single supplement! Tours that are about learning, camaraderie and fun, with downtime added!! Gourmet food, local entertainment, boutique hotels, private transportation! Excited about traveling for the first time or umpteenth time? We’d love to host you

Overseas Adventure Travel: Choose Your Savings

Plan your next adventure with O.A.T., and for a limited time you can choose your savings: Save $1,000 per person on ANY 2024 departure OR Save up to $3,000 per person on July-October adventures. Call 1-800-955-1925 by 4/30/24 and mention code: SPRING SAVINGS today.

• Choose Your Savings: Save $1,000 on ANY 2024 departure OR Save up to $3,000 on July-October adventures.
• Romance of the Rhine & Mosel: 16 days, NOW starting from $3,295
• Eastern Europe to the Black Sea: 14 days, NOW starting from $2,995
• Great Rivers of Europe: 16 days, starting from $3,695
• Morocco Sahara Odyssey: 16 days—from $4395 per person, including airfare
• Aegean Islands, Athens & Istanbul: 17 days—including 7 nights aboard the 50-passenger M/V Arethusa or M/V Athena

Journeys with Purpose for Solo Female Travelers

Reignite your soul with an exhilarating conservation adventure for women in South Africa. Explore the fiery sand dunes of the Kgalagadi, embark on thrilling game drives, witness breathtaking sunsets, and later gather around campfires under starry skies. Return whole, enriched by nature's beauty.

• JWP Kingdom of the Sky 2025: Adventure through South Africa and Lesotho, exploring life in the mountains and desert.
• JWP Water and Desert 2025: Embark on adventure in Botswana, exploring life on water, in the bush, and in the desert
• Desert Solo Adventure Awaits 2024: All Female African journey ignites souls, explores wildlife, fosters conservation efforts.

Creating Life-Changing Experiences for 50+ Singles

Join FREE online Singles Travel Community Start meeting 23,000+ singles 50+ to see the world! Treat yourself for the Holidays! Book a Solo Vacay and get a valuable reward. Use Promo Code SOLOTRAVELER2023

• Vistas, Vineyards, Kangaroos Tour: Jan 2025 Enjoy gems of the southern coast, combine w/New Zealand NYE'25 for max experience
• New Zealand NYE’25 Singles Cruise: Spend New Year down under, combine w/Vistas, Vineyards, Kangaroos Tour for max experience!
• Chile & Peru Singles 50+ Cruise: Mar 2025 Boutique cruise plus exclusive flight over the mysterious Nasca Lines in Peru!
• New Year’s Eve Singles Cruise: 12/27-1/4 RING IN THE NEW YEAR with singles 50+. Leisurely explore the Western Caribbean!
• Grande Atlantic Crossing Singles: Nov 24: FREE BIZ Class Air, 2 week, luxury crossing with gourmet meals & all tours incl.

Supplement Free Antarctica Cruises & Expeditions

Embark on the solo trip of a lifetime to meet the penguins in person and become one of the few to have ever set foot on the White Continent. Book a dedicated single cabin, share to avoid paying a single supplement, or take advantage of our no single supplement deals and get a cabin all to yourself!

Join us for a fabulous week in beautiful Paris!

"The best group trip I've ever been on." "Group travel that doesn't feel like group travel." "You had me at 'no tour buses'." Whose clients come back for the same trip more than once? Ours do! Our trips are ideal for solo travelers for so many reasons. Join us in Paris for a week and find out why!

• Must-See Paris: First time visiting Paris? There's no better way than to come with Paris Personally!
• A Week with the French: An experience for all your senses, spend a very French week in Paris with us!
• Christmas in Paris: A magical Christmas in the City of Light? Join us for an unforgettable experience.

Solo Traveler Specials: All Trips 🌍

Amawaterways and Uniworld: 2024 departures with 100% waived for select dates and staterooms. Many of the popular European itineraries. Book now to combine this offer with our 2024 Cruise Savings. Message me on Instagram: @tourwithorit

• Taste of Bordeaux – Amawaterways: From romantic walks to red wine, Bordeaux is the cultural capital of all that!
• Uniworld – No supplement!: Book now to save big, with Single Supplements waived on select departures. Click on link!
• Colors of Provence- AmaWaterways: Reserve Colors of Provence by March 31st. no additional supplement!
• AmaWaterways -Flavors of Portugal: Reserve select 2024 Europe sailings and pay no additional supplemental fee.
• Douro River valley – Uniworld: The UNESCO-designated Douro Valley runs through Portugal and into Spain.

Small Group, All-Inclusive Adventures for Solos

Prefer your own room? Enjoy 50% off the single supplement with offer code: ACTIVESOLO .

• Mighty Five Adventure: Explore the beauty of Utah's Mighty Five National Parks on a 9-day small group adventure.
• Kenai Fjords Adventure: Experience the wonders of Alaska's wilderness on this 6-day small group adventure.
• Banff & Jasper Adventure: Explore wild landscapes and indulge your adventurous side on our Banff & Jasper Adventure.
• Yellowstone Adventure: Explore amongst the numerous natural wonders of America's oldest national park.
• Patagonia Hiking Adventure: Behold jaw-dropping scenery as you hike, bike, and cruise your way through Patagonia.
• Ultimate South Island Adventure: Experience an unforgettable journey on our signature 14-day New Zealand adventure.

Connect with Scotland through your creativity!

Art holidays & creative retreats in Scotland's most stunning locations. Join us on a creative adventure and connect with Scotland's locations, fellow creative travelers and yourself.

Women's Transformational Retreats in NM & England

This is a call to Women who desire to Reconnect with Themselves and Embody Their Radiant Authenticity! Join our small group retreats to reclaim and celebrate your beautiful Self while being nourished by the Land and supported by your Soul Sisters. Perfect for Solo Travelers!

Travel allows you to cultivate love and trust in yourself like nothing else. Spiral Path Journeys wants to help you experience your own Transformational Travel through heart nourishing Group Retreats and life changing Solo Travel Quests.

• New Mexico Women’s Retreat 6/2024: Embark on a heart-led journey amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Northern New Mexico.
• Women’s Retreat in England: 2025: A transformative journey to reconnect to your body, heart and soul. ALL ROOMS SINGLE

Distinct Solo Travel For Over 50's Since 1971

Travel as distinct as you. Be a traveler, not a tourist. Journey on an escorted small group tour as a solo traveler, in the comfort and ease of a group. Make new like minded friends on over 150 tours. It's all about you! SAVE up to $300 on 2024 tours.

• Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks: Utah is home to several stunning national parks, each offering their own unique landscape.
• Seine River Cruise from Paris: Culinary delights and countryside this river cruise is the perfect way to discover France.
• Pleasures of Portugal: Travel through Portugal's highlights in a small group at a relaxing pace.
• Netherlands, Belgium & France: The best of the Netherlands, Belgium & France in a small group. Time to spoil yourself!
• Grand Tour of the United Kingdom: An experience of a lifetime awaits you on this guided tour of Scotland, Wales & England.
• Gems of the Adriatic: The best small group tour featuring Croatia and Slovenia.

Culture and Cuisine for Solo Travelers and others

For curious travelers who love authentic cultural experiences, local cuisine and a little bit of comfort when they travel. Travels with Talek focuses on experiential travel with an emphasis on interaction with local people, culture and traditions. Personalized attention, I lead all tours. I’ve traveled to over 110 countries and love sharing my favorite destinations […]

Our upcoming 11-day Cuba cultural tours are 100% consistent with U.S. travel regulations. They include: Low single supplements, dedicated English-speaking guides, lovingly curated itineraries providing maximum interaction with local populations, flexible cancellation policy.

• Visit China on a Cultural Tour: An 11-day China Cultural tour visiting Shanghai, Xi'an (Terracotta soldiers) and Beijing
• Cuba Cultural Tour: See the best of Cuba. 7 cities. Approved for US citizens. 11-days, Low Single Supplement
• China Cultural Tour: Discover China. Visit Shanghai, Xi-an (terracotta soldiers), Beijing and Xitang.
• Northern Spain Culture & Cuisine: 10-day tour visiting iconic cities of northern Spain, cultural experiences

Walking holidays on the Greek island of Ikaria

Walk with us in the mountains of the Greek island of Ikaria or participate in the olive picking in November. For those who are interested in immersing themselves in the nature and local customs of Ikaria. Ikaria is known as the blue zone, an area where people live longer than average.

Encounter Travel. 'Solos Only'.

Have travel dreams come to a grinding halt because you don’t have a travel buddy? We believe sharing the journey takes 'alone' out of solo travel. Small group tours, plus resort & cruise groups. Just choose, pack and join in. Since 2006, leading the way for solo travellers.

• Scandinavia Explorer: A 20 day grand tour of the highlights, Sweden, Finland, Norway & Denmark.
• Malta Unveiled ‘Solos Only’: Captivating Malta! An exclusive small group 7 day tour.
• Wonders of Egypt ‘Solos Only’: Sights to behold, a destination like no other. Join a small group tour, solos only.
• Borneo Highlights. ‘Solos Only’: Its natural beauty leaves visitors in awe, and wildlife like no other.
• North India. ‘Solos Only’: A 14 day small group tour of Rajasthan and extension option to Varanasi
• Colours of Morocco ‘Solos Only’: A boutique adventure with all the major highlights captivating the immense diversity.

Adventure Canada

Join a fun, educational, and life-changing small-ship expedition to the Canadian Arctic, Greenland, and Atlantic Canada. Free single supplements are available on a limited quantity of cabins in categories 3 through 7 aboard the Ocean Endeavour. Shared cabin options are also available.

• Greenland & Wild Labrador: Cross the Arctic Circle. Hike in Torngat Mountains National Park. Enjoy Inuit cultural.
• Heart of the Arctic: Explore the coasts of Greenland & South Baffin Island. Encounter famous Inuit art-making.
• Newfoundland & Wild Labrador: Hike in Torngat Mountains National Park. Enjoy Inuit culture. Visit Battle Harbour.
• Newfoundland Circumnavigation: Witness sublime hospitality. Striking wildlife and scenery. Hike Gros Morne and Red Bay.
• High Arctic Explorer: Cruise at the foot of icebergs. Seek seabirds, polar bears, and walruses.
• The Northwest Passage: Explore the best of Greenland & the Canadian Arctic on this ultimate small-ship expedition

Small group walking tours & art vacation workshops

We are about experience, people, and beauty and are more like traveling with friends than joining a traditional tour. With blue skies and blue water, Blue Walk guests enjoy leisurely strolls along coastlines, village squares, and open spaces of Europe. Our art workshops are a travel artist's dream.

• Leisurely Walking in Spain: Sep 1 – 7, 2024 discover Barcelona and the Costa Brava on beautiful, half-day excursions.
• Walk the Cote D’Azur and Villages: May 27-Jun 2: Discover coastal walks, lively markets, and the colorful French Riviera
• 12-night Walking Tour in Greece: Athens, then Island Hop through Amorgos, Naxos, and Santorini. Explore authentic Greece.
• Italian Riviera and Lake Como: By foot and rail experience off-the-beaten-path Cinque Terre, Portofino, and Lake Como.
• Leisurely Walking in Switzerland: A dream vacation exploring the Lucerne and Lauterbrunnen regions by foot, ferry and rail.

Unique holidays in Egypt for Solo Travellers

Follow in the footsteps of writers, work on your own book, or dive deep into the culture of this amazing country with our unique Egyptologist-led tours. Our tours are perfect for the solo traveler: we'll meet you at the airport and make sure you're looked after every step of the way.

The lowest Solo Supplement in the industry

Our fleet of 50 ships with 2 and 3 decks accommodate only 16 to 200 passengers. Their size and cutting-edge technology allow them to sail exclusively on certain rivers and to moor in the heart of cities. We offer single cabins on most rivers. Single Cabins = Waived Single Supplement.

• Amsterdam to Vienna: Visit the most beautiful & historic sites on the Rhine. 15 days. 8/05/24.
• Cruise The Romantic Rhine: 5 Day sailings. May through August departures. FREE solo supplement or 25% off.

Pack A Fork! Unique Cultural & Culinary Adventures

Our tours focus on unique, small group immersive experiences. If you love learning about history, culture, art, architecture, food and wine, you will love our tours! Go solo or with friends. Travel with local, certified guides to amazing destinations. Our tours are unique, personalized experiences.

• Amazing Oregon: June 22-July 2, 2024, Portland, Columbia River Gorge, Williamette Wine Country & The Coast
• Treasures of Peru: October 1-9, 2024: Peru's history, culture, folklore, archaeological sites, fusion cuisine
• Peru, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca: Oct 1-12, 2024. Extend the main tour to Lake Titicaca; visit the people of Uros Islands.

Your crew is departing....

Embark on our specially curated trips designed with young professionals and millennials in mind. Dive deep into local culture, challenge yourself beyond your usual boundaries, and connect with other solo travelers with similar interests. Sign up for our one of our exciting excursions today!

Mexico Health Retreat for Solo Travelers

Health Retreat in Huatulco, Mexico, April 1-7, 2024 Active getaway perfect for solo travelers, which includes morning walks and workouts,, evening yoga, hikes to waterfalls & other tours, delicious Mexican food cooked by locals, and lots of R&R time in a stunning hillside villa.

Motivated Movement focuses on helping people move their health & life forward. A personal training & coaching focused company that offers Health Retreats - active weeks (or weekends) away in fun locations that allow you to sweat, decompress & explore. MMPT Health Retreats are focused on those who like to be active on vacation, while of course fitting in some R&R time. No single supplements are charged & single travelers are welcome & encouraged to join us!

The Leader in Small Group Active Adventures!

For 50 years, Exodus has been creating small group trips to Europe and beyond. With 500+ tours across the globe, they are the leaders in creating award-winning active adventures.

• Portugal: Walking in Madeira: Explore verdant landscapes on one of the most scenic islands in Portugal.
• Cycle the Baltics: Discover the best of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania by bike.
• India’s Golden Triangle: Enjoy a perfect introduction to the best of northern India.
• Highlights of Albania: Journey through the beautiful Albanian Riviera and discover the land of eagles.

Don’t miss out on some of our best offers -

GG2W travels in style, 4-5* hotels, wine with dinner + you always get your own private room. It’s true, you get what you pay for. Our groups are small, just 6-10 women hailing from all backgrounds, countries & ages.. Use Code SOLOJW to get $375 off all trips listed.

Activity Solo Holidays

Flavours Holidays is a specialist tour operator offering quality cooking, painting, Pilates, language and photography holidays in Italy since 1998. Set in idyllic regions you will discover new places with the inside-knowledge of our Flavours host to hand!

50+ Bicycling Tours: Fun, Safe, small groups

Senior Cycling provides fully supported, small group bike tours for folks 50+ almost exclusively on Rail-Trails in scenic & interesting sites across U.S. & Canada. Emphasis is on enjoyment and fitness at your own pace, not speed, 25-35 mi/day. Hotel/B&B lodging, meals are local, quality cuisine.

To Italy with Love

To Italy with Love is a customized, small-group, guided tour perfect for solo travelers, in the central area of Italy. We stay for 14 nights at Marconi's charming B&B in enchanting Sperlonga, which is known as The Pearl of the Mediterranean, located halfway between Roma and Napoli.

• To Italy with Love: May 2024: May 1-15 & May 15-29 - A unique intimate group of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.
• To Italy with Love: Sep 2024: Sept 10 - 24, 2024. A unique intimate group, 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.
• To Italy with Love – Sept/Oct 24: Sept 24-Oct 8, 2024. A unique intimate group tour of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.

Enjoy a cultural & culinary tour in Puglia, Italy!

Embark on an unforgettable journey to a hidden gem of Italy, Puglia! As brother & sister, born and raised in Puglia, we offer guided tours for small groups, designed to showcase the best of this part of Italy with authentic food and wine experiences! For Solo Travelers 50% OFF single supplement!

Extraordinary Small Group Adventures

Penguins2PolarBears offer sustainable and community-based travel that has a positive impact on the communities visited. Travel with like-minded individuals who want to truly experience a destination. Share a room with a person of the same gender -no single supplement. (Single supplements available).

Ocean and River Cruises for Solo Travellers

Cruising is such a wonderful way to explore, whether on the rivers of Europe, South America or Asia, or the many oceans around the world! Solo travellers are welcomed aboard many of the cruise lines with reduced, or sometimes, no single supplement. Let us help you plan your next cruise vacation!

Group Trips for Solos 30s & 40s!

In your 30s & 40s, getting friends to commit to travel plans is near impossible. We have a solution for that 😉

• 9 Days in Morocco (30s & 40s): Morocco Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Marrakech, Fes & Sahara Desert!
• 12 Days in Brazil (30s & 40s): Brazil Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Sao Paulo, Paraty, Ilha Grande & Rio
• 8 Days in Croatia (30s & 40s): Croatia Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Split, Hvar & Dubrovnik
• 11 Days in Mexico (30s & 40s): Mexico Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Mexico City, Oaxaca & Tulum !
• 12 Days in Peru (30s & 40s): Peru Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Lima, Amazon & Machu Picchu !
• Colombia All-In (30s & 40s): Colombia Group Tour for Solos 30s & 40s – Medellin, Cartagena, Bogota & Tayrona !

Unforgettable small group guided adventures

The adventure travel experts you can trust. There's a reason why 98% of our travelers say they'd book with us again. Catering to solos (around half of our travelers typically go solo), our tours are renowned for small groups of around 11, expert local guides, and solid commitment to sustainability.

• Simply Japan: Travel from super-modern cities to villages and temples that remain unchanged from time.
• Historic Baltic Republics: Journey through the capitals and countryside of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
• Ancient Sicily: Discover ancient sites and famous wine and cuisine on this two-week tour.
• Walking In Madeira: Walk along ancient footpaths and irrigation channels on this unique volcanic island.
• Inside Vietnam: Learn about ancient and modern history on this epic journey across Vietnam.
• Amalfi Coast Walking: Walk the ancient stone stairways and limestone cliff paths of Italy's Amalfi Coast.

Travel Solo, Not Alone With EF Go Ahead Tours

EF Go Ahead Tours offers 18 tours just for solo travelers. On our solo tours you'll enjoy an included private room, and your tour mates will be solo travelers, too. 2024, and 2025 dates available. Book your next adventure with us today!

• Japan: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji and Kyoto: Get to know Japanese culture—and your fellow travelers—on this immersive tour of Japan.
• Barcelona, Madrid & Seville: One week. Three vibrant Spanish cities. Explore alongside fellow solo travelers.
• Kenya Wildlife Safari: Majestic wildlife, vibrant culture, and warm locals make for the ultimate mix.
• Thailand: Bangkok To Phuket: Hop between Thailand's temples, markets, and islands with fellow solo travelers.
• Egypt & Nile River Cruise: Soak in Egypt's iconic ancient sites—and sail along the Nile—with fellow solo travelers.
• Venice, Florence & Rome: Mangia your way through Italy with fellow foodies.

Solo Travelers! Travel Safely in Authentic France

You know how overwhelming, tiring, stressful and ultimately disappointing it can be to go on a group tour or plan your own.

On this amazing trip, you'll be staying for the full trip in Aveyron in southern France in the immaculate home of Veronique. From there you'll do day trips and get into the rhythm of real French life! - No single supplement. We do not charge extra for solos.

• Experience The Authentic France!: Small, private, hosted, guided tours over 10 days: a VIP experience for solo travelers!

The Women's Travel Tribe (For Women 50+)

Join The Women's Travel Tribe! Discover the world in a small group of spirited women eager to embark on adventures taking the road less traveled. Immerse yourself in fascinating cultures with some of the coolest guides in the business. Forge new friendships and create unforgettable memories.

Okushu Tours - Experience the Difference

We tailor-make individual and group tours to Asia, South America and the Middle East. We offer authentic experiences, values and peace of mind within our handcrafted tours. Our tagline - "Experience the Difference," allows guests to enjoy their time and truly immerse themselves in the local culture.

Hosted Tours and Retreats for Women over 40

Solo Kiwi Ventures – Discover yourself through travel - no single supplement

Worldwide Sacred Journeys & Spiritual Travel

We provide opportunities for spiritual growth and personal transformation by visiting some of the world's most important sacred sites. We are committed to small groups, carefully crafted itineraries, and passionate tour leaders ready to share their wisdom and help you deepen your spiritual life.

Sail Solo! Waived Single Supplements

From January 9, 2023 through January 31, 2023, we’re waiving single supplement fees for several sailings aboard the Baranof Dream, Chichagof Dream, and Admiralty Dream. Call our reservations team at 1-855-747-8100 to hear the current list of availabilities. Offer valid for new bookings only and can only be combined with our military discount. *Don’t delay! This is a limited time offer with a limited number of availabilities.

Go solo but not alone with MT Sobek

Small group travel is a great way for solo adventurers to explore the world. Enjoy the leadership of fun and engaging expert guides, travel with a cool group of like-minded adventurers, and relax—knowing all the details have been handled for you! Nearly 30% of our guests travel solo on group trips.

All Staterooms & Suites with No Single Supplement

Our outstanding cruise directors and local guides, meticulously crafted itineraries, award-winning reputation, personalized experiences, luxury ships, and first-class service, are all reasons to book with Riviera River Cruises. We’ve been delighting customers for 37 years.

In Your 30s or 40s? Come explore with us!

Join other English-speaking travelers in their 30s and 40s on Indico Travels' tours to Vietnam, Colombia, Morocco & more. 95% are solo travelers! Meet the locals & dive into their culture with unique activities in a small group.

Edible Destination Offers for Solo Travelers

Special offers for solo travelers

If not now, When? Small Groups Tours for Women

Exclusive, curated, fully guided small group tours for women. Safe, inclusive, wellness & adventure tours with low single supplements & lots of unique experiences – Filling up quickly! These tours focus on wellness, hiking, yoga, culture, connection and community immersion. Come join me.

Adults Only & Solo Travelers Colorado River Trip

Experience the roaring, red heart of Canyonlands National Park via a motorless rafting trip through Cataract Canyon. Arrive on your own and depart with new friends.

Senior Discovery Tours

Senior Discovery Tours is the leader in escorted group travel for the mature traveller, proudly Canadian-owned for more than 45 years, offering 100+ international tours and cruises.

Stay Connected with Nomad eSIMs in 100+ countries!

Leave expensive data roaming behind with Nomad - we bring you local data rates with the magic of eSIM. Just visit our webstore, pick a plan, and check-out. Scan the QR code in your inbox, and your eSIM is installed in less time than it takes to order a cup of coffee.

Travel In Nepal | Nepal Himalayas Trekking P. Ltd

I would like to list my travel Packages for Solo Travelers.

Gorilla Trek/ Primate Safaris in Uganda & Rwanda

Secure your space on one of our unique African safari experiences tailored to discover the most remarkable areas, all our guests can immerse themselves in the magic of the continent, while enjoying the unique experiences and up-close encounters in the wild likecoming face to face with Mt. Gorillas

Pay No Single Supplements & Secure A Private Room

We offer solo tours to Europe, river cruises, safari tours in Africa, historic expeditions in Africa, tours to Latin America, and vacations in Asia. Whether you prefer to see powerful predators, beautiful beaches, world heritage sites, or gorgeous landscapes, the options are abundant!

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Sociable holidays for solo travelers

Solo holidays with no single supplement! The Mistral Hotel is a singles resort in Crete, Greece, which caters exclusively for solo travellers who enjoy great food, good company and a warm, natural environment.

Space-saving Vacuum Compartment Isolates Odors

Get more from a travel backpack that has a vacuum compartment to provide more space for your carry on items. With large pockets to keep your items separate so you wouldn't have to go through the entire bag to find one thing. Comes with a separate laptop compartment. - Perfect carry-on -

AWESOMIZE YOUR SOLO ADVENTURE WITH A PRIVATE DRIVE

As the world opens up again, we know that the safety of you and your loved ones will be among your top priorities. A “TravelDriver” is a safe and reliable, exceptional, high-quality, English-speaking private and personal driver-guide who is a “local” in your travel destination, and has, as his or he

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11 Amazing Solo Vacations to Take in 2024

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

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Don’t have anyone to travel with this year? That’s no reason to stay home. Solo travel is on the rise, and tour operators are expanding their offerings to meet the increasing demand. Below are the 11 best solo vacations for 2024, covering every corner of the globe. Some of these trips made the list because they’re specifically designed for solo travelers; others offer discounted single supplements or roommate matching so you don’t have to pay extra fees for traveling alone.

Note that all trips and single supplement discounts were available at the time of publication, but they could sell out at any time. If you’re interested in these solo vacations, it’s best to book early.

Explore Madeira, Portugal, on Foot

Sweeping coastal views, sleepy fishing villages, and sheltered forests await on one of Exodus Travels’ Madeira walking tour itinerary . The eight-night trip includes leisurely walks of up to nine miles a day along some of Madeira’s most breathtaking hiking trails. The trip ends with free time to explore Funchal, the island’s historic capital. Exodus will match you with a roommate, or you can pay a modest single supplement for your own room. Departures are available every month throughout 2024.

See Morocco from the Mountains to the Desert

Overseas Adventure Travel is one of the best tour operators for solo vacations, thanks to free single supplements on most trips. That includes one of its most popular tours, the 15-night Morocco Sahara Odyssey , which takes you through the narrow streets of ancient medinas, over the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert, and through the dramatic peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. Unique experiences include lunch in a Berber home and a couple of nights under the desert sky in a private tented camp. This trip has available departures in May and between August and December 2024.

Camp in Utah’s National Parks

Join REI on a stunning eight-day journey through the national parks of Utah . Hike and camp in Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks as you learn about the nature, geology, and cultural history of the region from REI’s experienced guides. The package includes access to group cooking gear and first aid kits, a tent, and a sleeping pad. Check out their gear list for more information on what to pack.

What to Pack for Hiking: 38 Essentials

Explore Northern India’s Icons

See the Taj Mahal and much more on this dedicated solo trip to India from Intrepid Travel . The seven-night itinerary starts and ends in bustling Delhi, where you’ll discover the city’s oldest mosque and have free time to explore on your own. Then you’ll head to Jaipur to visit royal palaces and soar above the city in a hot air balloon before visiting the 14th-century village of Karauli and touring the magnificent Taj Mahal. Intrepid will match you with a same-gender roommate so you can avoid paying a single supplement. This trip departs on select dates between May and December 2024.

Summit Mount Kilimanjaro

A bucket list trip for many avid hikers, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro can seem like a hefty task to undertake by oneself. However travelers partaking in World Expedition’s Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route will feel anything but alone. With dozens of experienced guides, porters, and chefs to support you on the trek and a group of like-minded adventurers by your side, travelers are sure to come out of the 10-day experience with new friends and once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Slowing Down on Kilimanjaro

Discover Ireland Your Way

Not big on group tours? Consider Great Value Vacations’ Irish B&B Getaway package , which includes airfare, a rental car, and accommodations at bed and breakfasts around Ireland, allowing you to wend your way through the countryside at your own pace. Highlights include dramatic coastal roads, lively villages, and historic castles. The itinerary can be customized for six to twelve nights, and you may depart any month of the year.

See Japan by Train

Hop on a bullet train to speed between destinations around the country on G Adventures’ Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo tour. Travelers can visit shrines in Kyoto, explore the Harajuku district of Tokyo, and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Ashino-ko where, weather-dependent, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the famous Mount Fuji. Some G Adventures tours offers a single supplement option, however on most tours travelers will be paired with a roommate of the same gender.

9 Tips to Finally Stop Overpacking

Spot Rare Wildlife in Madagascar

Keep an eye out for lemurs, chameleons, boa constrictors, and numerous rare birds as you travel with Explore! through Madagascar: The Lost Continent .  In addition to wildlife-watching treks through the island’s national parks, this itinerary also features a walk along a spectacular canyon, a visit to Madagascar’s oldest palace, and a stay in a local community guesthouse. Explore! will match you with a same-gender roommate if you don’t wish to pay a single supplement. This trip has departures between May and November 2024.

Enjoy Nature in Costa Rica

Discover the beauty and biodiversity of Costa Rica with Road Scholar’s nine-night Taste of Costa Rica package. Highlights include river rafting in the Sarapiquí River, Latin dance lessons, a walk through a cloud forest, and a visit to the Monteverde Butterfly Garden. Road Scholar is currently offering single rooms at no added cost on this itinerary. This trip has several departures between May and December 2024.

Program These Numbers Into Your Phone Before Traveling Internationally

Discover the Best of Tuscany and Umbria, Italy

There’s a reason Tuscany and neighboring Umbria are two of Italy’s most beloved regions. Discover them for yourself on Insight Vacations’ Country Roads of Umbria & Tuscany tour , an eight-night voyage to destinations such as Florence, Assisi, Siena, and San Gimignano. You’ll enjoy a pasta-making demonstration in Baschi, then learn about traditional textile weaving in Perugia and visit a family-run olive mill in Assisi. If you do not opt for a single supplement, you will be matched with a roommate of the same gender. Departure dates are available in April, May, June, August, and September 2024.

Have an Adventure with Fellow Women

If you, like many female travelers, feel safer and more comfortable in the company of other women, consider booking a trip with Adventure Women , which offers active, women-only tours to destinations around the world. Most of the company’s clients come alone, so you’re sure to find common ground with your fellow travelers. Solo vacations for 2024 with availability at press time include a biking and boating tour through Vietnam , an active adventure in Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon , a Serengeti wildlife safari , and more. You can choose to be matched with a roommate or pay a little extra for your own room.

Sarah Schlichter wants to take every one of these solo vacations. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration . Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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• Solo Travel

15 Best Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Here are the top travel destinations around the world for solo women.

Solo travel can be intimidating. Whether you're heading to a city in your own country or across the globe, traveling alone can bring up a wealth of concerns — from the awkwardness of dining on your own to more serious issues of safety, especially for women. But despite any nervousness or uncertainty, traveling solo can be one of the most freeing and rewarding experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in the community and stumble upon those moments of cross-cultural connection organically.

Choosing the right destination is key, so we've rounded up some of the best destinations around the world for women to travel solo.

Between exploring the charming streets of Reykjavik, chasing the northern lights , and driving the famous Ring Road, solo female travelers can have an unforgettable trip in Iceland and feel safe doing so. The country has consistently ranked first on both the Institute for Economics and Peace's Global Peace Index and the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report, so visitors can rest assured that safety and gender equality are prized in this naturally stunning destination. Solo tourists can head out into the wilderness via well-traveled (often busy, even) hiking trails and make friends with locals and fellow foreigners alike.

2. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is an extremely walkable city, and you're unlikely to get lost as long as you have a map of some kind. You can window shop along Las Ramblas, stroll down the beach boardwalk, and wander through the Gaudi-designed Park Güell while taking in the gardens and claiming panoramic views of the city for yourself.

The dining options are conducive to solo travel, too. Instead of sitting by your lonesome in a dining room, you can take your paella al fresco at one of the many waterfront restaurants (people-watching is built-in entertainment) or opt for a counter seat at a tapas bar.

3. Seattle, Washington, United States

Thanks to the omnipresence of Seattle's coffee culture , a solo diner (or drinker) is not an uncommon sight. Plus, the city's proliferation of cafes means there's a rest stop around every corner to break up visits to Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, or the campy Museum of Pop Culture , aka "MoPOP." The compact downtown area makes it easy for visitors to zip between attractions, restaurants, and shops on foot — and anything that is slightly farther is accessible by the easy-to-use Link light rail.

4. Munich, Germany

The jolly German mentality shines through in this Bavarian city, where tourists and locals bond over brötchen in mom-and-pop bakeries and pints in the biergartens. Although Oktoberfest happens only in the fall (and does not lend itself to a solo experience, per se), the beer halls in Munich maintain that same kind of festive ambience throughout the year. Hofbräuhaus is, hands down, the most famous and guaranteed to contain an abundance of other tourists. Fellow travelers can also be found climbing the Olympiapark tower ( Olympiaturm ), the top of which provides views extending as far as the Alps.

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

The rise in Croatian tourism has improved the ease of travel, and the country's low crime rate heightens the appeal. Protected by 6,365 feet of pristine walls, the oceanfront medieval city of Dubrovnik gives you history, culture, and beautiful beaches all in one destination. Its cobblestone streets guide visitors to artisanal shops and local eateries, while a walk along the walls offers spectacular bird's-eye views of the Adriatic coastline. Just a few minutes from Old Town, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling via tours and rentals offered right on the beach.

6. Austin, Texas, United States

Austin's festival culture makes it easy to get pulled in multiple directions, but it's also a great way to meet new people. There's plenty to see and do, whether you're checking out live music or eating your way through Tex-Mex and BBQ restaurants and food trucks. When you need a little quiet time, head downtown for a walking tour, or find a spot to watch the Congress Avenue Bridge bats soar.

Austin is often ranked as one of the safest big cities in the U.S. Note, though, that the ubiquity of booze here can be a blessing or a curse. While it keeps the streets populated (and therefore generally safe) at night, alcohol can lead to crime even within tourist circles, so exercise caution while participating in Austin's lively bar scene.

7. Salzburg, Austria

Overlooked by the Hohensalzburg Fortress and bisected by the Salzach River, Mozart's hometown has storybook allure. After reliving scenes from "The Sound of Music" at Mirabell Gardens and Nonnberg Abbey, relax with a coffee on the terrace of Cafe Tomaselli or a pint in the 1,400-seat outdoor area of Austria's biggest biergarten, Augustiner Bräu . Cyclists should take note: While the entire city is walkable, Salzburg is also one of the country's most bike-friendly cities. More than 100 miles of cycle paths mean you can pack way more into a day and get around more efficiently (and economically) as a solo traveler.

8. Taipei, Taiwan

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The capital of Taiwan offers an ideal mix of history and modernity. You'll find temples and skyscrapers, contemporary malls and traditional night markets — perfect for making a meal out of snacks while shopping for accessories and souvenirs. Taipei has the bustle of a major Asian metropolis but with important urban comforts as well. Street signage and public transportation all have names in English — and even though crime is overall low in the country, the metro system has " Safe Waiting Zones " marked on the platforms, which are monitored closely by video feed to protect passengers at night.

9. Copenhagen, Denmark

In the quirky Danish capital, you'll find plenty of centrally located hotels offering single rooms, each providing the perfect jumping-off point for Copenhagen adventures. Must-visit spots include Nyhavn, the iconic canal lined with multicolored houses (opt for a tour for a closer look at the city's waterways), and Tivoli Gardens, a historic amusement park. Stop for a quick solo bite at the TorvehallerneKBH food hall. With Danish culture valuing the importance of community dining, solo travelers should never feel alone.

10. Melbourne, Australia

This Australian metropolis is one of the most livable cities in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit. Throw in a free tourist tram that reaches the major sights — including the Queen Victoria Market, Carlton Gardens, and Federation Square — and Melbourne's got simplicity and safety all rolled up in one. Because Australia offers a Working Holiday visa allowing visitors between 18 and 35 to work in the country for a year, the city is especially popular with young expats.

11. Stockholm, Sweden

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Sweden's safe, accessible cities are ideal for solo-traveling women. The cobblestone streets of Stockholm's Old Town, or Gamla Stan, are home to coffee shops, restaurants, stores, and even a castle, prompting hours of exploring on foot. The modern areas surrounding it are also easy to navigate through a string of metro stations, which double as art exhibits with their over-the-top murals, mosaics, and sculptures.

12. Okinawa, Japan

For a taste of Japan without the overwhelming hustle, head to Naha, the capital of the Okinawa islands. The monorail is super accessible, linking the airport to the city center as well as the popular Shuri Castle. And within walking distance of the city center are the Naminoue city beach, Tsuboya pottery district, and Makishi Public Market, where the pull-up-a-chair stands are primed for solo dining.

13. Norway’s Fjords

Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

There's no better environment for self reflection than the soothing blue-and-green canvas of the Norwegian fjords. In Bergen, you can ride up the Fløibanen funicular or embark on a daylong journey on the Bergen Railway. Head to Gudvangen and take a cruise through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Equally impressive as the waterfalls-at-every-glance boat ride is the Flåm Railway trip, with views outside the window changing from seascapes to snow-capped mountains. This trip is for the solo traveler seeking peace in nature rather than busy biergartens and the like.

14. Washington, D.C., United States

The manageable size and easy layout of the U.S. capital make it an ideal stomping ground for solo travelers. In addition to exploring the memorials along the National Mall, you can take in the exhibits at the many Smithsonian museums (plus the zoo), all walkable and offering free admission. If you want to explore further, it's easy to get on two wheels at one of the hundreds of Capital Bikeshare stations, which extend to Arlington, Alexandria, and Montgomery County. Alternatively, take advantage of the efficient D.C. Metro for day trips to nearby areas.

15. London, England

For European charm without the culture shock or language barrier, there's London. Visitors could spend days just roaming along the River Thames, snacking in Borough Market, and admiring the eclectic houseboats, or strolling through the Royal Parks and eyeing luxury items at Harrods. After dark, grab a seat alongside locals at a pub or catch a show in the West End, then enjoy a late-night bite in nearby Chinatown. The endless sights and entertainment are easily connected via the London Underground, better known as the Tube.

Solo travel

The best way to travel solo? With us. On our solo tours, you’ll enjoy a private room at no extra cost—and your tourmates will be solo travelers, too. By the time your tour ends, we’re pretty sure your group will feel more like family.

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Adventures (and new friends) await

Been waiting for the perfect travel companion to come along? That’s us—and the friendly, up-for-anything solo travelers you’ll meet on tour.

Whatever your reasons for traveling solo, you’re not alone: More and more travelers—1 in 4, to be precise—are choosing to set out solo. Watch our video to see what going solo’s all about.

Friendship. Flexibility. Full planning support.

These are just a few advantages you’ll enjoy on our solo group tours.

You’ll become part of a close-knit community

Explore alongside other solo travelers who share your curiosity about the world and your craving for meaningful connections.

You can go where and when you want

Fancy seeing Ireland at its lush, summertime best? Or maybe a year-end trip to Egypt’s more your speed. It’s 100% up to you.

You’ll have a room all to yourself ( ahhh )

At the end of each day, you’ll wind down, stretch out, and rest up in your own private room, and it won’t cost you anything extra.

You won’t have to sweat the details

We’ll plan hotels, meals, activities, and transportation . You? Focus on new sights, sounds, and flavors—and friendships taking shape.

We’ll have your back every step of the way

On your trip, you’ll be accompanied by one of our best-in-the-biz Tour Directors. Plus, our global staff will be here to support you 24/7.

Solo travel’s always in season

The beauty of traveling solo? Taking off whenever you want to—summer, winter, or anytime in between. We offer Solo Tours around the world and all year round. So, whenever you’re ready to go, a just-right tour will be, too. Here are just two ways to experience your dream solo escape.

Thailand for Solo Travelers

Escape the chill at home—and avoid Southeast Asia’s rainy season—with a wintertime Thailand tour. Bond with other solo travelers while market-hopping in Bangkok, snorkeling off the coast of Phuket, and more.

Central Europe for Solo Travelers

The best time for a solo sojourn through Central Europe? Summer, when green Alpine trails, sparkling Swiss lakes, and stately palaces from Bavaria to Vienna beckon with full-on fairytale charm.

Your solo adventure starts here

History buff? Outdoor enthusiast? Architecture admirer? We offer Solo Tours for all interests in more than 20 countries, from Austria to Egypt and beyond.

Solo travel made easy

With lots of options—and ways to connect with fellow solo travelers—at your disposal, this is how simple (and fun) solo travel can be.

We offer Solo Tours to Portugal, Peru, Egypt, and beyond. Need help deciding? Chat with us or schedule a call . We’ll help narrow down the choices as we get to know you.

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour when you sign up for AutoPay —a hassle-free way to make interest-free, monthly payments leading up to your tour.

Once you’ve booked, download our free mobile app and connect with your fellow travelers before tour. You can also check out your itinerary, scope out your hotels, and more.

As a member of this supportive online community , you can swap travel tips and inspo with other solo travelers. (And who knows? You might even meet a new travel pal.)

On tour, you can explore even more in depth during sunset cruises, cooking classes, and other excursion options. Want your trip to last a little longer? Add its extension.

The moment has arrived—and so have you. Meet your group in your arrival destination, and spend the next several days soaking up culture and newfound friendships.

What travelers are saying about their Solo Tours

Even more tours to choose from.

In addition to our solo trips, you can join any of our 200+ group tours as a solo traveler. Check out some of our most popular trips.

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FAQs and benefits of traveling solo with a group

Solo travel can offer you a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, gain independence, and have an adventure. Plus, going on a guided tour as a solo traveler comes with great perks—including, private rooms in handpicked hotels, local experts and a Tour Director to handle all the details, and the company of equally curious travelers to share your journey. Here are a few other compelling reasons to go solo:

• Take the guesswork out of exploring someplace new. Need tickets to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna? Want to dine like a true Italian at a local’s home in Rome? Wondering how to hire a boat to float down the Nile River? Our experts will help you securely and easily navigate a destination you’ve only dreamed about exploring.
• No need to find a travel partner. Perhaps the biggest reason people  travel solo  is not having someone with matching travel interests. Traveling solo opens up a whole new world of possibilities. You get to go where you want, when you want, chasing your dreams without waiting for someone to come along for the ride.
• Enjoy adventures beyond your comfort zone. Traveling solo isn’t just exhilarating, but easy on one of our small-group adventure trips . You’ll find yourself learning and trying new things, from what you do (hands-on activities) to where you’ll go (roads less traveled) to how you'll get around (think outside the bus). All you need to get started is an open mind, a good pair of walking shoes, and a passion for taking the side streets.

Discover more reasons why people choose solo travel  →

Thanks to its mix of culture, history, natural landscapes, and centuries-old culinary traditions, Europe is an ideal destination for travelers who book solo vacation packages. Individual countries and regions of Europe also make great choices when you go solo. For the best solo travel experiences, we recommend the following:

• Greece .  Explore the best of the Greek Islands alongside fellow solo travelers as you hop from Athens to Crete and over to Santorini.
• Portugal .  Sampling Portugal’s signature pastel de nata, a flaky and flavorful custard tart, is much more fun when you have new friends to share in the excitement of taking that first bite.
• Peru .  Make your way from cosmopolitan Lima to historic Cuzco to the sweeping Sacred Valley—and mystical Machu Picchu—alongside fellow solo travelers.
• Central Europe .  Whether you’re excited to see Bavarian castles or sample Swiss chocolate, there’s no better way to tour Switzerland, Germany, and Austria than with like-minded travelers.
• Egypt .  With fellow solo travelers by your side, you’ll decipher hieroglyphics at towering temples, stand in the shadows of the Pyramids of Giza, and take to the Nile by boat.
• Ireland .  Green landscapes and frothy Guinness await solo travelers on the Emerald Isle, where making new friends comes naturally.
• Thailand .  Visit an elephant sanctuary and hop between Thailand’s temples, markets, and islands with fellow solo travelers.
• United States .  You don’t need to go international to go solo. America’s majestic  national parks are a great choice for solo travel tours.
• Japan .  Be dazzled by Japan’s natural beauty, rich history, and distinctive cuisine—and bond with your fellow solo travelers over hands-on activities, such as cooking classes.
• Kenya .  Majestic wildlife, vibrant culture, and warm locals make for the ultimate mix when you join fellow solo travelers on an epic journey across Kenya.
• Spain .  Spain charms from Catalonia to the Costa del Sol with its mix of cosmopolitan, coastal, and cultural treasures on solo travel tours.
• Italy .  Travel solo (but never alone!) as you eat your way through Italy with fellow foodies, while taking in the classic sights and delicious cuisine.

For more inspiration, check out  eight of the best places to travel solo →

Consider your interests, budget, and comfort level in a foreign environment. Depending on factors such as language barriers and cultural differences, some destinations may be better suited for solo travel than others. Research your options and read reviews from other solo travelers. 

For more inspiration, check out  eight of the best places to travel solo  →

Embrace new experiences, be open to meeting new people, and step outside your comfort zone. Take time to reflect on your journey and enjoy the freedom that comes with traveling solo. Remember to take plenty of photos and keep a journal to capture your memories. And take advantage of the Tour Director and local guides who’ll accompany you during your travels. They can recommend places to eat, sights to not miss, and things to do in your free time on tour.

Explore our favorite free-time activities for solo travelers →

Yes, if you’re looking to get out of your comfort zone. There’s free time to explore on your own, so you can be as social as you want. Traveling solo within a group can be a great way to break out of your personal space and meet others who share your passion for exploration. And there’s no easier way to find a new friend than on tour!

Tips for breaking the ice with fellow travelers on a solo tour →

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and connect with fellow travelers; they’re going solo, just like you! Here are a few tips and tools to help you feel confident when you travel solo:

• Check out our Go Ahead Difference page. You’ll discover all the perks of traveling with us, including unrivaled safety and support. Learn more about our Go Ahead Difference .
• Involve your friends back home. Let all your friends know about your travel plans and get their tips and tricks. Have them follow you along on your journey.
• Download our free mobile app . It puts everything you might need for your trip on your phone on one easy-to-navigate platform. Our app has not only the itinerary but also the addresses and contact details you need for your trip. Plus, we even include a list of your  fellow travelers  there. That way, you can connect with them before you leave for the tour and start building friendships you’ll strengthen when you’re finally on the road.
• Join our Facebook page. You’ll find lots of helpful info on our private Solo Travelers Facebook page , including answers to frequently asked questions.

Eight reasons to go guided as a female solo traveler →

The first thing to know is that even though you’ll be traveling solo, you won’t be traveling alone. You’re about to go on a trip with 14–20 people who will be solo, just like you. Plus, you’ll have your expert Tour Director to guide you along the journey. Solo travel is one of the most exciting ways to see the world. When you travel on one of our solo trips, you may not be with a friend you already know, but you’ll join equally curious travel lovers on the adventure of a lifetime. More important things to know before you go:

• Your Tour Director will meet you at the airport when you arrive in your destination
• We curate these tours with solo travel in mind
• Experiences are made for solo travelers to come together as a group
• You’ll make friends whom you could travel with in the future

We specially design our Solo Tours for solo travelers. When you join one of our solo travel groups, you’ll get your own included, private hotel room. Each day, you’ll be able to explore your destination alongside your tourmates, who are solo travelers, too. And you’ll have free time to explore your own interests at your own pace.

You’ll never be alone when you book one of our solo travel packages, even though you’re traveling solo. Our worldwide presence gives solo travelers the safety and security to discover the world with confidence. Here are just a few reasons to travel on our solo guided tours:

• Security of the EF global network
• Assistance from our On-Tour Support Team (they’re on-call 24/7)
• Getting the local’s perspective from your Tour Director and other guides
• Meeting equally curious travelers
• Enjoying the perfect balance of sightseeing tours and time to explore each locale at your leisure

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Best for solo travellers - cruise critic's 2023 editors' picks awards.

The best experiences last a lifetime - solo travel is one of them. The ability to explore, take chances, meet new people and do what you want when you want. To trade stories, and cocktails, with like-minded travellers from around the world. Or to sail with a group, on your own terms. Now when you cruise solo with Norwegian, you'll enjoy more freedom and choice than ever. We've doubled the number of Solo Staterooms across our fleet by adding Solo Balcony and Oceanview rooms, in addition to Inside rooms and Studios. The best part? The savings! Traditional double occupancy rates do not apply. So come aboard with friends or family - or take time to meet new people, then watch the sunset from your private balcony. After all, you're pretty good company.

Exclusively for one

Studio staterooms.

Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for the single cruiser. Our Studios are the perfect sized room for solo cruising and the Studio Lounge is a great way to meet other single cruisers.

The choice is yours

Additional staterooms.

Prefer a room with a view or with additional space to unwind? We offer Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travellers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge* where you can unwind and meet other solo cruisers. And save money when you book - these rooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers!

* Studio Lounge and accessibility varies by ship.

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The Solo Trip: Explore at Your Own Pace

By Julie Weed

Solo travel has the power to transform: Think of the memoirs “Eat Pray Love” or “Wild.” But you don’t have to circumnavigate the globe or hike 1,100 miles to see why some people choose to go it alone. The freedom to explore at your own pace, open to connecting with people you meet along the way, can feel as intoxicating as a tropical breeze. But solo travel can be daunting, too, especially when problems arise. And of course, solo travelers need to keep certain safety considerations in mind.

So, are you ready to plan your adventure for one? Here’s how to get the most out of it.

Start off easy

“Keep your first trip simple,” said Carolyn Ray, who runs JourneyWoman , a website for solo travelers, and has visited more than 40 countries on her own. Overcome your trepidation by picking a destination in your own country or at least where people speak your language, she advises. Also, choose accommodations with communal spaces where you can meet others and that are close to the sites you want to see.

Wield the power of one

At even the hottest restaurants, solo diners without reservations can sometimes squeeze in at the bar. And singles can often snag discounted seats at shows and performances by looking for just one ticket close to showtime, says Kat Fleischman, 36, an American public relations professional who has been taking international solo trips since she was 18. She also advises travelers to inquire about single-occupancy discounts at hotels. Travelers on their own can also hop into faster-moving singles lines at amusement parks, filling in spots left empty by groups. Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain , near Los Angeles, and Disney World, in Orlando, Fla., all have a handful of rides with singles lines.

Join group activities

Websites like Meetup and Fun JetSetter can help break the ice with others who share your interests. An internet search can reveal an array of options: Book dinners with locals and other travelers on the website Eatwith . Find fellow nature lovers through local groups like Alaska Outdoors , in Anchorage, which organizes hikes. Find new places to enjoy your favorite activities through sites like Pickleball NSW in New South Wales, Australia . Facebook groups devoted to people living abroad, like Spain’s Expats of Málaga group, can offer local advice and people to meet.

Some hostels and guesthouses also organize outings. You might find yourself going to a kayaking lesson, a singalong, a drag show or a dance club. The hotel chain Selina , for example, offers co-working spaces along with group outings in more than 100 locations in countries such as Peru, Israel and Thailand.

Talk to the locals

If you are eating alone, sit at the bar, where you are more likely to strike up a conversation with those around you. One trick: “Sit with an English-language book to attract other English speakers,” Ms. Ray said. Some dating apps have “friend” settings that solo travelers can use — take the usual precautions, of course, by meeting in a public place and telling others where you’re going and with whom.

Don’t overshare, and use a financial ‘safe word’

Be cautious about sharing personal information, accepting invitations or leaving your belongings with someone you just met. And consider packing a rubber doorstop to add an extra layer of security to your hotel room or Airbnb, and a loud key chain alarm, Ms. Ray said.

If you’re lost, Ms. Fleischman advises, instead of standing on the street to consult your phone, step into a cafe or a store. And rather than looking at your route on your phone as you’re walking, use your earbuds to get directions from mapping apps.

Come up with a term that only you and a chosen few people back home know, so that if you are genuinely in trouble and need money, they’ll know it’s not a criminal impersonating you . Leave an electronic copy of important documents like your passport, health or travel insurance, and itinerary with those people, too. You may also want to share your location with them using a cellphone app.

Leave space for spontaneity

“Stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unusual can lead to some of the most memorable experiences during your solo travels,” Ms. Ray said. Make plans that you can choose to change.

Keep a journal

Solo travel is an opportunity to “foster and cultivate your own sense of empowerment,” said Ms. Ray, and it will help to understand what you’ve learned if you keep a record — written, audio or video — of your goals, setbacks and triumphs.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

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

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

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

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

South America: best for solo adventures

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

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

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

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

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

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

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

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

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

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

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

East Africa: best for a group tour

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

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

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

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

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

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

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

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

Rome, Italy: best for culture

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

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

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

Portland, Oregon: best city break

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

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

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

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

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

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

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

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

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

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

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

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

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

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

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

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

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

This article was first published November 2017 and updated December 2021

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No kidding! I spent a weekend glamping with goats in Tallahassee and it’s just what my soul needed.

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Best solo travel destinations for 2023

Abigail Connor | Posted on December 22, 2022 |

2022 has seen travellers dust off their backpacks, dig out their passports, and return to the bunkbeds. With borders reopening across the world earlier this year, we saw adventurers both flock back to backpacker hotspots and head to pastures new, with solo travel in particular seeing epic growth over the past 12 months. Whether it’s full-time travellers spending their hard-saved pandemic pennies, or digital nomads enjoying a new kind of work-life balance, solo is the only way to go. You read it here first, folks- 2023 is officially the year of the solo traveller, and these are the best solo travel destinations for 2023 that you NEED to get on your bucket list.

Best destinations for solo travellers- South America

Capurgana, colombia.

@martailovi

What used to be seen as little more than a stopover to Panama, Capurgana on Colombia’s Caribbean coast is becoming a solo travel gem in its own right. Think sneakily stunning beaches dotted around crystal coves, some real foodie gems, and hikes galore. You might be heading over to Panama, but Capurgana is worth lingering for.

Rurrenabaque, Bolivia

El Lobo Hostel, Rurrenabaque

Thought you had to go to Brazil to find the Amazon? Think again! Rurrenabaque is Bolivia’s Amazonian gateway and, as Brazil’s budget-friendly cousin, is a real draw for solo adventurers on a shoestring. More and more hostels are popping up in the town, and whether you hit the Pampas Wetlands or Amazon Basin, you’ll be guaranteed to meet other solo wildlife enthusiasts to share a beer with after a long day’s exploring.

Mexico City, Mexico

Photo by Andrea Leopardi on Unsplash

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Best destinations for solo travellers- Central America

David, panama.

Bambu Hostel, David, Panama

David has grown in popularity over recent years as more and more intrepid explorers discover the jewel in the Panama crown- the Gulf of Chiriqui. David is the perfect jumping off spot from which to explore this unexplored paradise and all it has to offer. Surfing, whale watching, turtle spotting, scuba diving, cliff jumping, and some jaw-dropping hikes are all yours for the taking. Just round up your hostel buddies and get adventuring!

La Ceiba, Honduras

Known as Honduras’ “good-time town”, it’s no wonder that La Ceiba is gaining a reputation on the Central American solo travel circuit. Despite its party hotspot status, La Ceiba is also considered the ecotourism capital of Honduras. It’s home to 4 different national parks and is perfectly situated along the rapids of the Cangrejal River. A city where you can go white water rafting in the morning and then stay out ‘til sunrise? Sign us up.

Popoyo, Nicaragua

If you’re looking to brush up on your wave-riding skills in 2023, then Popoyo should be top of your list. This laid-back beachside paradise is a peaceful stop, where surfers come from all over the world to meet other salt water enthusiasts and ride the epic a-framers. If surfing isn’t your bag, you can still enjoy some R&R here, with plenty of yoga, hot springs and even turtle watching on offer.

Best destinations for solo travellers- USA

Truro, massachusetts.

2022 has been a bit hectic, right? If you’re craving some space- both headspace and literal space- a trip to Truro may be just what the doctor ordered. This small town up in Cape Cod has long been a mecca for artists and writers, and for good reason. Its dramatic sandy cliffs and wild natural beauty are enough to blow the cobwebs out of any chronically online brain, and its and relatively low prices mean it’s becoming increasingly popular with budget backpackers.

Silverthorne, Colorado

Photo by Zach Lucero on Unsplash

If you’re tired of city life and want to explore the USA’s wilder side, head up to Silverthorne, where the wilderness awaits. Perfect for skiing in the winter or lakeside wandering in the summer, Silverthorne is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains and is a hub of outdoor adventure. There are plenty of hostels dotted around, and the opportunities to meet other solo explorers are endless.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

To get a true taste of Native American history, it’s time to hit up Santa Fe. The oldest capital city in America, Santa Fe is a vibrant melting pot of art, culture, and unbelievable natural beauty in the New Mexican desert. In 2005, Santa Fe made history as the first designated UNESCO Creative City in the USA, which is reflected in the many galleries and museums dotted around town. Nature-lovers can head through the desert to the rapids of the Rio Grande, and for the partiers amongst you, there’s the city’s infamous margarita trail. Someone pass us the tequila!

Best destinations for solo travellers- Europe

Kilkenny, ireland.

Often overshadowed by larger backpacker hotspots Dublin and Cork, Kilkenny is a gem on Ireland’s south-eastern side. Alongside its many medieval haunts to explore year-round, Kilkenny comes alive at its annual arts festival in the summer. Why not take your new hostel buddies to get a bit boozy on the famous Smithwicks brewery tour? You can recover with a spot of kayaking the day after in the glorious Irish countryside.

Arnhem, The Netherlands

Photo by Martijn Baudoin on Unsplash

If you’re tiring of Amsterdam’s party scene and want a bit of a reset, head to Arnhem for a breather. Once famed for its ties to WW2, Arnhem now draws backpackers looking to chill, refresh their wardrobes and be at one with nature. The city’s shopping district is packed with boutiques, but if shopping isn’t for you, head over into the Hoge Veluwe National Park where you can pick up a free bike and take a whizz around.

Ehrwald, Austria

Photo by Santosh Ghimire on Unsplash

For solo travellers craving some outdoor winter adventure, Ehrwald has not one, not two, but THREE ski resorts. If snow isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to do in the summer, too, with the mountains offering a challenge to even the most experienced crag-climber. If you want to take it slower, the epic hiking trails will help you get your steps up, and whether you’re at the top of the mountains or down in the valley, the sunsets must be seen to be believed.

Best destinations for solo travellers- Southeast Asia

Nusa penida, indonesia.

@writehostel

Once you make it past Kuta’s bucket cocktails and the hipster crowds of Canggu, you’ll find Nusa Penida- a welcome oasis off Bali’s southeastern coast. Its location makes it slightly trickier to get to, but that means it’s lesser-explored and reminiscent of the Bali of backpacking trips past. There are plenty of hostels dotted around, with more popping up as the island draws travellers once again, and with Nusa Lembongan just next door, the two together make the perfect island escape.

Cat Ba Island, Vietnam

@3_on_the_road

No visit to Ha Long Bay is complete without a trip to Cat Ba. This rocky and jungle-covered island is a great base from which to explore the surrounding bays of the famous archipelago. Once you’re away from the main hub, you can expect lush mangrove forests, freshwater lakes, and untouched sandy beaches to explore. As a popular stop on the Ha Long Bay tour, there’s no shortage of hostels, and you’re guaranteed to meet other backpackers looking for some Vietnamese sunshine.

El Nido, The Philippines

It’s been a quiet few years for El Nido, but with The Philippines back open to tourists as of February this year, this backpacker hotspot is sucking in visitors like a sunscreen and sand-covered magnet. And what’s not to love?! Stunning weather, postcard-perfect beaches, more hostels than you can imagine and solo travellers galore. Come for 3 days, stay for 3 weeks… it’s that kind of place!

Wherever you’re heading on your solo travel adventures, don’t forget you can download our Hostelworld Travel App to connect with other travellers before, during and after your stay!

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The best solo travel destinations

By Anna Prendergast and Anna Hart

2024 is set to be huge for travellers who want to break away from the beaten path, or simply explore it on their own terms. Typically thought of as a student’s game, studies suggest that senior travellers are starting to take up more space in the  solo travel  sector. Whatever age, stage or vintage, solo travellers tend to take their time and embrace slow travel and research suggests that holidays are deemed more essential than ever for mental health, marking a shift towards carefully curated trips that have a big personal impact and a smaller environmental one. Solo travel is also increasingly accessible, with innovative tour operators such as  Planet Abled  and  Halal Tours  providing tailor-made trips to under-served communities. According to  Skyscanner , over 50 percent of travellers chose to book trips alone in 2023 if their travel interests didn't align with those of their friends – and why compromise? Whether you want to pick up a new skill, immerse yourself in a new culture, take the scenic route or make new friends on a group tour, these are the best solo travel destinations for 2024.

The French Alps

Best for: nature-first escapes

Ski holidays have long been known as group events, with rowdy aprés and jam-packed chalets, but going on a solo trip to the Alps can reap a whole host of rewards. Rise with the sun to be the first to carve through pristine blankets of snow without having to wait for anyone else, avoid boisterous bars in lieu of elegant eateries with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the slopes, and retreat to your serene hotel to cosy up by a roaring fire with a good book. For serious sophistication in Les Trois Vallées, book into Six Senses Residences Courchevel for the ultimate sleek ski experience, while Aman Le Mélézin has a cosseting spa (the deep tissue is guaranteed to re-energize tired legs). If you'd rather travel in the summer months, there are plenty of hiking tours with routes all across the French Alps offering community-led holidays for solo travellers.

Seoul, South Korea

Best for: fashion-forward travellers

There are few things quite as gratifying as a solo shopping trip, and where better to embark on a sartorial adventure than Asia’s most stylish city ? The South Korean capital is known as the home of some of the world’s best-dressed people – and Seoul ’s recent pop culture boom has had a helping hand in highlighting exactly that. Behind the glitz and glamour of Seoul’s sky scraping buildings and futuristic stores, delve into the neighbourhoods that provide the backbone to the city’s fashion-forward reputation. You’ll find artisanal havens that have been operating for generations, from shops dedicated to the ancient craft of ceramics to all-natural skincare brands pairing centuries-old traditions with the latest research. You’ll return home with a suitcase full of secrets.

Best for: safety-first solo travellers

With low crime rates and a harmonious Buddhist culture,  Bhutan  has long held a reputation as a super-safe destination for solo travellers, which is understandably a priority for many, particularly women, Black people, LGBTQ+ or minority communities. In 2022, the Trans Bhutan Trail reopened after 60 years, making this year the perfect time to follow in the footsteps of monks, traders and pilgrims on the 250-mile route. Pass through the folklore-filled Dochula Pass, visit Trongsa’s high-altitude dzongs, and hike up to the sacred cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro Taktsang – the route offers direct access to  Bhutan’s  culture and cuisine, with homestays dotted along the way and local life at every turn, with profits being redirected back into the trail and the communities that support it. The country’s spiritual heritage is somewhat infectious, with outlooks that are grounded in gratitude and see nature as a blessing – the dramatic Himalayan mountainscape, deep green valleys and pristine lakes, rivers and glaciers make it impossible to disagree.

The Galapagos, Ecuador

Best for: upmarket adventure

Few  bucket-list destinations  provide the chance to see quite so much extraordinary wildlife all in one go, but this archipelago of volcanic islands off the coast of  Ecuador  has an awe-inspiring, goosebump-giving roster of blue-footed boobies, Galápagos tortoises, sea lions, and flamingos to see in their natural, protected habitat. And that’s just above ground: scuba divers will find white-tip reef sharks, bottlenose dolphins, scalloped hammerheads, black-nosed butterflyfish, king angelfish and manta rays under the surface, especially around Darwin’s Arch and Gordon’s Rock. Liveaboards and dive boats are a super social way for solo travellers to experience somewhere like the Galapagos, which is usually pigeon-holed for large groups, but forward-thinking tour operators are starting to identify a gap in the market for those that want the option of drinks on the deck or a quiet in-room cocktail. Small charters are targeting a more upmarket crowd, such as G Adventures’ new Reina Silva Voyager, which took to the waters in April 2022 with two solo cabins, saving customers money and preserving their privacy.

Bavaria, Germany

Best for: fly-and-flop (face down on a massage table, preferably)

With health – both physical and mental – at the forefront of our consciousness more than ever before,  wellness retreats , spa holidays and treatment-focused trips are no passing trend. And whilst a couples massage sounds lovely in theory, self-care is one of the few spaces in which you’re meant to be entirely self-focused, without anyone else’s expectations, time restraints or itineraries being imposed upon you. But it needn’t feel clinical, either – Bavaria’s many baths are drawn from naturally medicinal hot springs and are often surrounded by glassy lakes, snow-topped mountains and fairytale forests deep in  Germany’s countryside . Traditional spa towns such as Bad Tölz (whose mineral-packed mud baths are credited with relieving back pain and rheumatoid arthritis) are just under an hour from Munich, whilst results-driven Alpine retreats like  Schloss Elmau are 45 minutes from Innsbruck. Flights to both are extremely affordable and take less than two hours from the UK.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Best for: once-in-a-lifetime wildlife

Sustainable  tour operator Intrepid Travel launched its Premium range this year, and it quickly became their most popular product, particularly with the 50+ solo age group seeking out high-end experiences that both step outside their comfort zone and support local communities along the way. According to both Journey Woman and Overseas Adventure Travel, demand has never been higher for women in their 50s, with  safari trips  to destinations such as  Kenya , Tanzania and Botswana leading the trend, indicating that a bucket-list approach to travel in later life is on the rise once again. Botswana brims with breathtaking sights and sounds, as well as being a ‘big five’ destination: herds of elephants gather at waterholes; the great zebra migration takes place cross-country; lions, hippos and giraffes all call the Okavango Delta home. With blue waxbills and woodland kingfishers, it’s a birdwatcher's paradise, too. Depending on whether you’d rather see baby antelopes or take a mokoro canoe trip (for example), be sure to book the right time of year so you don’t miss out. For younguns, EcoTraining runs a variety of courses in Mashatu Game Reserve where you can learn to track animals, navigate the bush, identify species and more – from week-long workshops to year-long qualifications.

Western Australia

Best for: slow travel on your terms

Whether you’re breaking in a new driver’s license or breaking away from the nine-to-five,  Australia’s  appeal is ageless and enduring (and there’s no language barrier for those that speak English). Movements embracing travel by road and rail show no signs of slowing down, and this country’s vast open road and impressive landscape are ideal for both. Being behind the wheel provides total freedom and means you’re in control of your itinerary – if you like a place, stay a while – whilst moving around by train can take the stress out of a solo trip: your route is pre-planned and you can sit back and enjoy the ride. The Ghan is one of Australia’s – and the world’s – most iconic trains, but the transcontinental route from  Sydney  to Perth on the Indian Pacific is a great alternative. Many Aussies use the service, so it’s a fun way to eavesdrop on – and meet – the locals, and the three-day sleeper train means you can gaze out the window at the rugged Blue Mountains and endless expanse of the Nullarbor Plain.

The Dolomites, Italy

Best for: high-energy hikers

A 10-day hut-to-hut stomp through  Italy’s  stunning limestone landscape provides solitude scenery and a sense of achievement in spades – perfect for restless adventurers and those that want a physical challenge that reaps major rewards. Alta Via 1 is around 75 miles and takes about 10 days to complete, and whilst some solo travellers book a mountain leader or group trek, it’s perfectly manageable if you invest in a good guidebook and pack appropriate supplies. Depending on the route you take, there are campsites available, so many take a one-man tent (and lots of layers), but the most immersive experience comes from the traditional rifugios, simple mountainside huts with running water and shared bedrooms set among the wildflowers and evergreens. Since everyone you meet here will be on roughly the same adventure, it’s a lovely way to share stories, trade tips, reflect on the experience and even make friends.

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Best for: beaches

It’s hard to imagine a coastline more abundantly blessed than Costa Rica ’s, and nature’s generosity is warmly extended to travellers. The hubs of Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Puerto Viejo, La Fortuna and Nosara are particularly solo-traveller friendly places to start, and at friendly hostels such as Tamarindo Backpackers , lone travellers land here and immediately place themselves within a tribe of other yogis or surfers, or simply find their crew while clambering through bat-bedecked caves or scaling volcanic peaks.

One of the world’s most biodiverse nations, Costa Rica prioritises wildlife preservation with a string of outdoor adventures on the menu and development balanced by green energy such as hydro and wind power. This makes it a mecca for a particular breed of eco-minded adventurer, a true feel-good destination.

Whether you fancy hiking, mountain-biking, kayaking or even jungle ziplining your way around the country, navigating Costa Rica is made easy for you, a real bonus when you’re doing the schlep solo. Expect to rub up against reassuringly familiar trends from home including farm-to-table dining, an emphasis on sustainable travel, and achingly hip cafés – but Costa Rica remains both tantalisingly exotic and tirelessly surprising.

Stockholm, Sweden

Best for: Scandi cool

Spread across 14 islands connected by bridges, with a cobblestoned old town ( Gamla Stan ) and a smattering of elegant parks, Stockholm combines fairytale good-looks with the functionality of a Scandinavian metropolis, and the safety and slickness of this city makes it a particularly great city option for solo females.

Culture comes easy in Stockholm, so start at the Moderna Museet on the central island of Skeppsholmen, or take things shamelessly pop at the ABBA Museum Hall of Fame . Berns Hotel is the chandelier-draped grand dame with a legendary bar and restaurant, at the geographical and figurative heart of Stockholm, but the stylish young upstart is Miss Clara . This sleek 92-room Nobis hotel is housed in the former Ateneum girls school, with original art nouveau decor and herringbone parquet flooring, swirly bentwood bedheads and arched windows that overlook Sveavägen Boulevard.

Stockholm won’t snatch the crown for cutting-edge-cuisine off Copenhagen’s head anytime soon (the Danish capital has 15 Michelin stars against Stockholm’s nine), but at Mathias Dahlgren's airy, informal Matbaren brasserie on the waterfront you can pick up a Michelin starred lunch for £24.

You haven’t been to Stockholm until you’ve been on the water. Get a break from the city by taking the boat out to the idyllic harbour town of Vaxholm for lunch at the Waxholms Hotel.

Best for: adventure

Canada ’s cities are famously civilised, cultured and classy, but it’s the outdoorsy assets within easy reach of Toronto , Montreal, Vancouver or Ontario that make Canada such a mecca for solo travellers. As the globe's second-biggest country, Canada offers a vast menu of landscapes, from soaring mountains, remote beaches and wild tundra to lush rainforest, all spread across six timezones.

Adventure highlights include kayaking or rafting the South Nahanni River in the Northwest Territories or navigating the swells and surf of Nova Scotia, but the outdoors is also stamped firmly on Canadian cities, so for outdoors-obsessed solo travellers, even the cities deliver. Vancouver’s Stanley Park is that rare thing, a city park that really does feel a little rugged, but spits you out a short cycle from one of the world’s greatest food markets and streetfood scenes at Granville Island .

Heading north out of Vancouver, the quirky town of Dawson in the Yukon Territory offer a rich taste of Canadian smalltown culture, with a music festival that should belong on the list of any culture-craving solo traveller. Dawson is also the launchpad for snow-based activities in the winter months, and hiking and biking in the summertime.

New York, USA

Best for: a city break

If there is a solo travel equivalent to grabbing the bull by the horns, it is this: jetting off to the world’s most high-octane city alone. But you’re never alone in this big anonymous city, you’re never bored, and you’re never conspicuous. New York doesn’t give a damn who you’re with; and such insouciance is infectious.

Every traveller lands in New York clutching a lengthy do-do list, and solo travellers make better progress, so go eat that pretzel in Central Park, wander the art-lined walls of the Metropolitan Museum, stroll wide-eyed along Broadway, catch a world-class show, shop the big brands of Fifth Avenue and the vintage boutiques of Williamsburg and soak in a swish urban spa such as Aire Ancient Baths in Tribeca.

The city’s long-established bartop dining scene makes dining solo a relaxed affair, and with urban wineries in Brooklyn, classic Jewish delis in Manhattan and virtually every national cuisine represented in some corner of the city, your tastebuds are in for an adventure. One of the joys of Manhattan is that so many of the city’s prime cultural and artistic attractions are moments away from each other, but it’s also just a breezy subway ride to any other neighbourhood. Perhaps make a music pilgrimage to the iconic jazz joint Minton’s , where Southern-style soul food like smoked praline pork chops and bourbon-loaded cocktails is served to a soundtrack of former Minton’s players like Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis and Charlie Parker.

Best for: responsible travel

The Caribbean might not seem like an obvious choice for solo adventurers, but Dominica is a world away from the pricey honeymoon resorts on neighbouring islands. A ferociously geothermal island around the same size as Anglesey in Wales , Dominica’s volcanic craggy coastline and lack of white-sand beaches has deterred swanky multinational hotels and package tourists for decades – and Dominica is so much richer for it. With a thrilling menu of adventures on offer – treks to bubbling lakes, caving through gushing gorges, rafting up mangrove swamps – and the promise of genuinely affordable accommodation alongside stylish splurges, it’s a genuinely backpackable island, with a fascinating British colonial heritage, vibrant cultural scene and disarmingly caring local community.

2017’s Hurricane Maria took its toll on the island’s infrastructure and the island is keen to welcome back travellers, so this is a genuinely responsible way to spend your tourist dollar and help rebuild the island. The smart way to experience the island is to veer between affordable quirky B&Bs such as Cocoa Cottage and swanky eco-lodges including Secret Bay . An unspoiled, unknown gem, Dominica is set to re-emerge as a destination for eco-minded adventure travellers.

Best for: learning new skills

Thailand is where it all started for travellers the world over, but this South-east Asian idyll is still hard to beat when it comes to transformational solo travel, with courses in everything from Thai cookery to massage to yoga to scuba-diving, and a well-trodden route that makes Thailand particularly safe for solo female travellers.

Chiang Mai makes for a more chilled urban Thai experience than Bangkok , as well as being a springboard to Thailand’s waterfall-studded, rainforested north, and hippy hubs such as Pai. For a treat, book into 137 Pillars for 1880s Lanna architecture, but the warm Thai welcome extends to quirky, charming and more budget-friendly flashpacker joints like Mo Rooms .

Then head south to match with your own dream beach, whether it’s diving with whale sharks off Ko Tao, combining health with hedonism on Ko Phang Nguan, or kiteboarding and kicking back in Hua Hin. The serene spirituality of Thailand as well as the fact that dining well is a gloriously democratic and informal pleasure only adds to the country’s charms for solo adventurers; it’s genuinely hard to feel stressed in Thailand.

Austin, Texas

Best for: eating and drinking

Texans are famously, some would say notoriously, friendly, and Austin is a city where you’ll never be short of a smile, whether it’s across a shared plate of streetfood, across a grimy dancefloor, or across the water of one of the steamy city’s cherished swimming holes. Dining out is a thoroughly relaxed affair in Austin, as much of the best eating in town is dished out of food trucks – where solo travellers join other diners at bar-style seating and never really eat alone. There are over 1,000 food trucks rolling around town, but Gourdough’s doughnuts are cult dishes in Austin, served out of a vintage Airstream; go big and go for grilled banana and bacon.

Hip hotelier Liz Lambert runs the sleek Hotel Saint Cecilia and the more affordable San Jose Hotel around the corner on South Congress, which teems with organic grocery stores, vintage stores, coffeeshops, taco shacks and music venues like the legendary Continental Club .

If South Congress is the city’s hipster thoroughfare, the up-and-coming creative neighbourhood is the East Side, best seen after an afternoon touring and tasting the local brewery, Hops & Grain Brewing . Make pilgrimage to Rainey Street , a residential street turned urban phenomenon, where bars and cafes are housed in converted bungalows. In the morning, leap out of bed early to cycle the steamy 10-mile circuit of Ladybird Lake along the new hike and bike track’, perhaps cooling off at beautiful Barton Springs pool (free before 8am; £2 after), a vast spring-fed swimming pool hewn out of rock.

An expert's guide to Austin

Belfast, Ireland

Best for: making friends

Shunned by travellers for decades because of sectarian violence, in recent years Belfast has emerged as one of the most culturally vibrant and friendly city break destinations in Europe . This a big-hearted town where a lone traveller can turn up alone at a Cathedral Quarter bar like The Spaniard and find a few new friends before they’re halfway through that pint of Guinness. The Merchant remains the city’s smartest hotel, but there are a smattering of stylish and oddly affordable boutique joints, of which the Bullitt Hotel is an exemplar. Meanwhile, on the food scene, mainstays like Mourne Seafood rub up against innovative upstarts like the Muddlers Club .

The newly-minted Titanic Quarter is the city's number-one tourist draw, and the museum centrepiece is well worth a visit, as is the MAC Belfast and the Ulster Museum, which sits in the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Before the Troubles, Belfast was a relatively wealthy Victorian centre of shipbuilding, and leafy parks like Lady Dixon and Lagan Meadows provide a reminder of the city’s gentile past, all too often overlooked by visitors

Best for: surfing

In need of a short-haul sunny destination where you won’t be surrounded by families and couples? Portugal’ s enviable surf camp scene gives its coastline an altogether different vibe, where solo travellers can easily turn up alone and be clinking bottles of Sagres with new friend that evening.

With over 800km of coast, you can choose between melodramatic cliffs, stellar surf breaks, dune-covered beaches and serene sandy islets; Portugal can afford to be generous with its coastline, so no stretch feels entirely dominated by families, or couples, but a healthy mixture. Beyond the beaches, solo travellers hike the granite peaks of Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês or explore the traditional villages in the lesser-explored Beiras, increasingly on the map for wine-loving or retreat-craving travellers.

On top of the natural scenery, Portuguese cities like Lisbon and Porto are fiercely unconventional and informal compared to their Spanish, French or Italian counterparts. And festivals dominate Portugal ’s calendar, so consider planning a solo jaunt around Lisbon’s Festa de Santo António or Porto’s Festa de São João, or find a smaller jazz or rock festival down the coast.

But at any time of year you can hit the bars to hear the mournful strains of fado music, and in Portugal you’ll never dance alone.

Surfing holidays for women | How surf school can change your life

Best for: culture

It used to be fashionable to dismiss Singapore as a sterile stopover city, but frankly, those travellers weren’t trying hard enough. 21st-century Singapore is a cultural and culinary melting pot, with world-class cultural institutions, space-age green spaces and a thrillingly diverse hotel and restaurant scene. What travellers invariably love most about Singapore are the dramatic contrasts; historic Hindu temples sit at the feet of soaring skyscrapers, world-class museums have rainforest as their back garden, and crumbling 19th century shophouses now house vintage boutiques and speakeasy-style cocktail dens. Thanks to a long history of migration, Singapore is one of Asia ’s most ethnically diverse, and racially integrated, cities, with significant Malay, Indian and Eurasian minorities alongside the 74% Chinese Singaporean majority. This enables travellers to explore countless colourful cultures and cuisines without leaving the island. And one major bonus: English is the principal spoken language, so there is zero language barriers, adding to the friendliness and security of an already welcoming and ultra-safe city destination.

Step into Hong Kong in Chinatown, where the smell of sweet cured pork intermingles with the smoke from the Hindu temples at neighbouring Little India , whose Tekka Market is one of the most vibrant and colourful (and frequently Instagrammed) sights on the island. Meanwhile, in Kampong Glam, the Arab quarter, Haji Lane is lined with independent boutiques, retro barbershops and - the ultimate badge of hipster pride - a Tokyobike store, positioning Singapore alongside Copenhagen , Berlin , Melbourne and Shoreditch . Singapore is a place where European influences comfortably rub up against Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions; no other destination so successfully celebrates the marriage between East and West.

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Do you yearn to travel, but don’t want to travel alone? What if you knew that you could join a group just for solo travellers? Would this take the sting out of leaving home alone? Taking the first steps of planning a trip solo can feel daunting. But, join a ready-made trip, and you’re good to go. Enjoy the perks of group travel – hassle free travel when someone else does the planning for you. And even better, when you join a solo travel group, there’s new travel buddies waiting to share the journey. You’ve found us now. Get excited - starting searching .  Whether you are a first time solo traveller, or returning to solo travel that you know and love, find your fit from 7 travel styles , including Solo Luxe ® To travel alone is one thing. To travel solo, but not alone is something else. ©

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Superb small group touring visiting Ireland, England and Scotland

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Swoop up a saving when you book early.

A deluxe tour of the stunning South Island

BY TRAVEL STYLE

Because not all travellers are the same, choose from 6 styles - find your travel match! There's something for everyone - leisurely touring, walking and adventure trips, cruising the high seas and resort packages..

HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

Discover our own backyard - or across the waters, the contrasting lands of New Zealand, and the paradise of the islands of the South Pacific.

From the bustle of the cities, to serenity of the landscapes, the diversity is far and wide. Small group tours including Sri Lanka, Vietnam, India, Thailand, Singapore, Borneo Malaysia, and Japan.

Europe has something to offer every season of the year. Bursting with colour, culture, cuisine - first timers or well travelled; you'll want to come back.

Africa impresses like a place no other for it's animal kingdom, and its grandiose ancient history of the north.

From the north to the south, The Americas are an immense travel destination - from unspoiled landscapes to cosmopolitan cities.

TESTIMONIALS

"I felt comfortable travelling with a group of like-minded solos. It was great to have company for pre-dinner drinks and dinner. It was also great to have my own company at other times."

"Great cruise on Resilient Lady with a great group of Solos! The best way to cruise!"

'I thoroughly enjoyed my Encounter Travel holiday on Virgin Voyages maiden cruise from Melbourne to Tasmania.  That a group of strangers could meet up and all get on and enjoy themselves was amazing. Our tour guide Megan made sure everyone was included.  I highly recommend Encounter Travel and would definitely use them again.'

LATEST NEWS

There is so much to say about Virgin Voyages and what is special. There’s a twist to this one – a great twist too. Cruise fans should pay attention – especially if you’re loyal to another cruise company.

Morocco, a captivating display of colour, tradition, culture, delicious food and immense landscapes. Out now for 2023

We celebrated 17 years recently. Since 2006, leading the way for solo travellers.

MEET THE TEAM

Match a face with the name and meet the travel team taking care of solo travellers.

Encounter Travel

Two time award winner of the Global Solo Travel Awards, 2017 and 2018. Read more  

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Tasmanian Highlights, Australia

From Hobart to Launceston via the West Coast. Bay including a superb day cruise & rail journey.  Find out more.

Virgin Voyages Inaugural Season, Australia

Join our first group onboard Virgin Voyages departing Melbourne 11 December 2023. Find out more.

Danube River Cruise, Mega Savings

A 'Solos' group onboard a deluxe European River cruise.  Find out more.

Summer In New Zealand

A big favourite for touring New Zealand - The Ultimate NZ tour.  Find out more.

AUSTRALIA'S LEADING SOLO TRAVELLER SPECIALISTS

Australian owned.

100% Australian; we 'get' the Australian travel style. And, better still, our arms are open to welcome our friends from other countries around the world, who'd like to travel with friendly Aussies. ©

Solos 40 years+

Travel solo, not alone when you join one of our small group tours created with solo travellers 40 & over in mind.  Share your journey, without the drawbacks of big coach tours or the solitude of being alone. ©

We've been creating and delivering the best ever holidays for solo travellers since 2006. As a boutique tour operator, we delight in detail, delivering personal service and finding your next best memory. ©

Age-Matched

Our Solos Only trips are age-matched - it's more likely you will travel with other like-minded single travellers. Popular age groups include 40 to 59 years and 45 years & over.

Under 49's

A new addition to our line up; small groups Under 49's Trips are packed with all the essentials.  It's is for everyone 30 to 49. Solo, with or with a buddy  - it is for travellers looking to explore with their age group.

Solos Only or Solos Mix?

Take your pick! Join our 'Solos Only' groups, exclusively for solos travellers. Or, join 'Solos Mix' - tours we've hand picked, popular with solos but mixing it up couples also.  ©

Six Unique Solo Trips for Women for 2023 That Blend Adventure, Learning and Exploration

by Carolyn Ray | Jan 11, 2023

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Last updated on April 1st, 2024

Featured image: A panoramic view of Barrea in Abruzzo, Italy | Phot0 by essevu on Shutterstock

Six solo trips for adventurous, curious women

As we look to our first solo trips of 2023,  what better way to make travel more meaningful than with experiences that blend adventure, exploring and learning?  These women-only trips in the South of France, Italy, Israel, Jordan, Mexico, and Morocco, are designed to reshape our perspective, strengthen our connections and deepen our conviction about the role of women in the world.  Even better, all are easily reachable from North America or Europe. 

If you’re new to solo travel, joining a group tour with other women is a great way to take that first step into solo travel.  The tour operators featured understand that women over 50 have unique requirements including value for money, sustainability, safety, and mobility and accessibility.  

Need more inspiration? Look for more  JourneyWoman Verified trips from our Women’s Travel Directory .

Photo provided by Jan Cornall, Writers Journey

1. Morocco: A Creative Retreat in the Sahara  (February 2023)

Using the Moroccan star as her map and guiding light, Jan Cornall of Writers Journey has created an inspiring trip called “Moroccan Caravan: A Creative Retreat in the Sahara.”

This guided itinerary women through creative explorations using the eight-pointed star and meditative techniques to take creative explorations to new and unexpected places. With the shifting Saharan landscape, daily workshops begin in Tangier, followed by two days in the blue city of    Chefchaouen and the ancient city of Fes.  The destination is an artist’s  retreat   in the Saharan village of Tissardine  owned and run by Australian artist Karen Hadfield.

“Travel and creativity are perfect partners —both require courage and curiosity. When you put yourself outside the predictability of your nine-to-five life and open yourself to new experiences, new cultures, new ways of thinking — your creative self is immeasurably stimulated. But the best way to open to the journey is to explore the inner landscapes as well. The stories we gather on our travels become precious stepping stones to a new creative self.” – Jan Cornall, CEO, Writers Journey

Moroccan Caravan runs from February 3 – March 8. Learn more here.

Photo provided by Deb Zaluda

2. Israel: A Creative, Culinary, and Spiritual Journey  (February 2023)

In this trip just for women, Deb Zalubda from Via Sabra combines the special energy generated by a group of women and the spiritual, culinary, creative, and natural abundance of Israel.

This unique experience, called ‘Shefa’ provides women the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Israel in the company of like-minded travellers, while meeting those who are making a difference in this eclectic country, all while supporting small business vendors, local tour guides, charitable causes, and environmental efforts.

“Led by Chef Shawna Goodman, [Shefa] has become a legacy for women all over the world, and fosters a unique connection to Israel,” says Deb Zaluda, Chief Growth Officer, Via Sabra.

Shefa runs from February 14 to 23, 2023. Learn more about Via Sabra here.

Photo provided by The Voyagiste

3. Italy: Celebrating Menopause and Perimenopause (April 2023)

This weeklong trip with Founder of The Voyagist Natasha Muslih and Jenn Salib Huber, a Registered Dietitian, Naturopathic Doctor and intuitive eating advocate,  is all about food joy and body joy in perimenopause and menopause. It includes two nights in Rome and the rest in beautiful Abruzzo, moving, exploring and eating together, leaving women renewed, inspired and ready to thrive.

While acknowledging the downsides to midlife, Muslih and Huber believe that this time in our lives can also be an opportunity to find food freedom and body  confidence. Why not start that journey in a gorgeous villa in Italy, with a group of kindred souls.

“This trip is designed for people who are in perimenopause and menopause and is all about body joy and food joy: loving the way we feel in our bodies and eating the way we love. We’ll spend a week moving, exploring and eating together, while learning to understand the hormonal changes that are happening within us and redefine our relationship with food leaving us renewed, inspired and ready to thrive.” — Natasha Muslih, CEO, The Voyagiste

Looking for more women-only solo trips?

Visit the JourneyWoman Women’s Travel Directory for women-only tours to Jordan, Italy, Spain and more, all with departures in 2023.

4. France: Connecting to Your Divine Energy in the South of France (June 2023)

The Divine Destination Collections eight-day journey in France traces Mary Magdalene’s fabled footsteps to little-known Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site and enchanting Aix-en-Provence. Mary Magdalene is said to have arrived in France after the crucifixion and lived and worked as a teacher and healer. Although the truth and origins of these accounts are unprovable , her life in the South of France is fascinating and intriguing, making her an archetype of the divine feminine .

“Exploring the lore and mystery of Mary Magdalene in the beautiful surroundings of the South of France is an extraordinary journey that will encourage our travelers to open themselves up to self-discovery and new possibilities,” says Deb Niven, Visionary and Connection Maker, The Divine Destination Collection.

Sacred South of France – The Mystery of Mary Magdalene exclusive trip runs on June 5 – 12, 2023. More information can be found here .

Carcassonne Cité médiévale / Photo by Paul Palau

5. Jordan: Share in the culture of Jordanian women (March – June, September and October 2023) 

On this women-only adventure from Intrepid Travel, travellers are granted access to a side of life seldom seen by tourists while developing a deeper understanding of Middle Eastern women – with full respect for their traditional cultural values. This eight-day women’s expedition breaks the barriers of traditional tourism and creates sisterhood in this inspiring desert nation.

Learn the art of henna, relax at a female-only beach, float in the Dead Sea and visit stunning Petra. Learn about traditional marriage from a professional matchmaker, pick up local cooking tips from unsung experts, enjoy afternoon teas and chit-chat with local women.  

Learn more about Intrepid Travel here.

Petra, the UNESCO world heritage city in Jordan

6. Mexico: Women’s Work in the Oaxacan Highlands (October 2023)

Corazón Journeys crafts social justice-focused travel experiences to help travelers understand the issues impacting the world while providing financial support and service to communities in need. Led by founder Debbie DuPey, this innovative tour celebrates Oaxaca’s Indigenous cultures, including the Zapotecs and the Mixtec people, who proudly preserve their traditional dance, arts, cooking, and festivals.

“My heart-felt belief is when like-minded people around the world come together we can create a more beautiful, compassionate global community!” Debbie DuPey, CEO, Corazon Journeys

On this trip, women will meet women activists and artists who are challenging the patriarchy, determining innovative ways to design and market their traditional arts, and building their communities through sustainable farming. There will be also visits to museums, galleries, artists’ studios and community festivals.

Learn more about Corazon Journeys and this unique experience here.

Oaxaca, Mexico, the gateway to Indigenous villages 

More on Solo Trips for Women

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The Top Once-in-a-Lifetime Travel Experiences Every Woman Should Have, Including the Northern Lights, Camino de Santiago and More

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When faced with loss or grief, we intuitively turn to travel for wellness and healing, as shown in these inspirational stories of renewal.

Rediscover Toronto with the Honourable David Crombie, Former Mayor of Toronto

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Former Toronto Mayor, the Honourable David Crombie, shares his insider tips to rediscover Toronto’s ravines, waterfront and green spaces.

Malta, the Fascinating Mediterranean Island You’ve Never Heard Of

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Malta’s Megalithic Temples Make You Wonder: Did Giants Once Live Here?

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Decluttering in Midlife: Erica Ehm Makes Space for Her Next Chapter

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Erica Ehm has found that decluttering can help clear space, both emotionally and physically, for the next chapter of our lives.

Carolyn Ray

As the CEO and Editor of JourneyWoman, Carolyn is a passionate advocate for women's travel and living the life of your dreams. She leads JourneyWoman's team of writers and chairs the JourneyWoman Women's Advisory Council and Women's Speaker's Bureau. She has been featured in the New York Times, Toronto Star and Zoomer as a solo travel expert, and speaks at women's travel conferences around the world. In March 2023, she was named one of the most influential women in travel by TravelPulse and was the recipient of a SATW travel writing award in September 2023. She is the chair of the Canadian chapter of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), a member Women's Travel Leaders and a Herald for the Transformational Travel Council (TTC). Sometimes she sleeps. A bit.

We always strive to use real photos from our own adventures, provided by the guest writer or from our personal travels. However, in some cases, due to photo quality, we must use stock photography. If you have any questions about the photography please let us know. Disclaimer: We are so happy that you are checking out this page right now! We only recommend things that are suggested by our community, or through our own experience, that we believe will be helpful and practical for you. Some of our pages contain links, which means we’re part of an affiliate program for the product being mentioned. Should you decide to purchase a product using a link from on our site, JourneyWoman may earn a small commission from the retailer, which helps us maintain our beautiful website. JourneyWoman is an Amazon Associate and earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you! We want to hear what you think about this article, and we welcome any updates or changes to improve it. You can comment below, or send an email to us at [email protected] .

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

05/07/2023 by Kristin Addis 28 Comments

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Maui, Hawaii

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

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

Book your stay in Maui here.

Book guided tours in Maui here .

2. The Big Island of Hawaii

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

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

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

-READ MORE-

The perfect Hawai’i Big Island itinerary

The best beaches on the Big Island of Hawai’i

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

3. Alabama Hills, California

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

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

The ultimate Alabama Hills, California guide

4. San Francisco, California

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

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

Book your stay in San Francisco here.

5. Big Sur, California

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

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

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

Book your stay in Big Sur here.

6. Lake Tahoe, California

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

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

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

7. Mendocino, California

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

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

8. Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington

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

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

9. Seattle, Washington

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

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

Book your stay in Seattle here.

10. Portland, Oregon

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

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

11. Las Vegas, Nevada

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

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

12. Reno, Nevada

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

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

13. Page, Arizona

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

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

Book your stay in Page, Arizona, here.

See tours available in Page here .

14. Moab, Utah

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

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

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

Book your stay in Moab here .

15. Sun Valley, Idaho

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

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

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

16. Glacier National Park, Montana

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

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

17. Santa Fe, New Mexico

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

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

18. Bayfield, Wisconsin

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

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

Book your stay in Bayfield here.

19. Chicago, Illinois

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

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

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

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

20. Detroit, Michigan

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

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

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

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

21. New Orleans, Louisiana

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

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

Book your stay in New Orleans here.

22. Austin, Texas

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

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

23. Big Bend, Texas

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

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

24. Nashville, Tennessee

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

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

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

25. Islamorada, Florida

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

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

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

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

26. Miami, Florida

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

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

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

27. Savannah, Georgia

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

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

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

28. Washington, DC

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

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

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

The Northeast

29. cape cod, massachusetts.

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

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

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

Book your stay on Cape Cod here.

30. Hudson Valley, New York

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

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

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

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

About Kristin Addis

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

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Ijana Loss says

01/21/2018 at 7:31 am

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

Kristin says

01/22/2018 at 2:22 am

Which is a rarity back home, but I agree!

01/21/2018 at 3:32 pm

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

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

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

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

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

I’d love to visit the Keys

02/27/2018 at 6:25 am

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

04/25/2019 at 3:58 am

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

Brittany Quaglieri says

01/22/2018 at 11:37 am

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

03/15/2018 at 11:08 am

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

JD White says

03/23/2018 at 10:46 pm

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

03/25/2018 at 8:20 pm

Feel free to add them here!

Alissa M says

05/28/2018 at 4:17 pm

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

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

05/29/2018 at 12:51 am

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

03/28/2019 at 11:46 pm

Hi Kristin,

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

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

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

Thank a lot advance. Leu

04/01/2019 at 5:14 pm

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

George Fox-Edwards says

04/30/2019 at 5:49 am

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

05/01/2019 at 6:23 pm

Moab is soooo awesome!

Solo Female Traveler says

09/13/2019 at 8:29 pm

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

09/16/2019 at 1:37 am

John Harper says

01/11/2020 at 4:42 am

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

01/12/2020 at 9:32 pm

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

02/07/2021 at 6:36 pm

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

02/09/2021 at 9:43 am

Denise says

09/12/2021 at 10:57 am

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

Mikaela says

03/02/2022 at 8:54 pm

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

03/07/2022 at 10:09 am

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

Chrish Smith says

03/02/2022 at 9:55 pm

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

03/07/2022 at 10:07 am

12/01/2023 at 6:13 am

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

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

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Solo Travel for Women

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

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

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

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

Barcelona, Spain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Read: The Top Italy Tours .]

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

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

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

[Read: The Top Iceland Tours .]

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

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

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

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

New Zealand

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

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

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

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

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

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

Dubrovnik, Croatia

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

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

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

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

Svalbard, Norway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Netherlands

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

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

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

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bali, Indonesia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New York City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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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!

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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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