There is something undeniably special about embarking upon a solo travel adventure. Travelling alone offers a unique sense of liberation, freeing you from the constraints of compromise and the organisation of group plans and giving you a chance to tailor your trip entirely to your preferences. While solo travel can seem daunting, particularly on your first time, it is also an opportunity to explore new places on your terms, meet interesting people from a variety of cultures, and experience a whole host of new things. The joys of travelling on your own are unparalleled, even to a seasoned traveller, as is the sheer freedom the experience affords you.
This guide will explore some of the very best destinations for people set to embark upon their own solo journeys. These places are not only safe and welcoming but also full of possibility and excitement. From vibrant cities to tropical islands, these destinations carry the promise of adventures filled with connection and personal growth.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali in Indonesia, the perfect introduction to Southeast Asia, is widely considered one of the best destinations for solo travellers. Colloquially called the “Island of the Gods,” Bali is renowned for its warm hospitality and welcoming environment that manages to cater to travellers without losing the essence of Balinese charm.
The island offers a dynamic range of activities that accommodate every type of traveller. There are yoga retreats and a monkey forest in Ubud as well as the cascading Kanto Lampo waterfall and Mount Batur hike that are perfect for nature lovers. Balinese beaches are pristine havens for surfing, particularly the beaches in Canggu and Seminyak with their lively cafes and bars. Bali also boasts vibrant nightlife complete with beach bars like Mr Potato Head alongside busy nightclubs, like Motel Mexicola, making the island a diverse and popular destination.
English is widely spoken across the island, and the volume of tourists makes finding other solo travellers incredibly easy, particularly in the south of Bali. There is even a Balinese version of Uber, called Gojek, that makes travelling across the island quick and easy. Solo exploration of Bali is full of unique and enriching personal experiences and the island has a charming ability to inspire connection through culture, nature, and adventure.
New Zealand
As a country with stunning natural landscapes, endless adrenaline-filled activities, and friendly locals, New Zealand is a longstanding favourite destination among backpackers and solo travellers. Despite its relatively small size, New Zealand is home to a staggeringly diverse range of natural environments across both its north and south islands. The north island boasts beautiful beaches at Cathedral Cove, bungee jumping into Waikato River, and the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall in Rotorua. On the south island tourists can go whale watching in Kaikoura, visit Twin Glacier, and hike some beautiful trails including a trip to Roys Peak where you can enjoy breathtaking views over Lake Wanaka.
The well-established infrastructure of New Zealand makes solo travel through the country both seamless and enjoyable. Public transport is excellent and there is an abundance of organised excursions that assist first time travellers in their exploration of the country.
From the serene geothermal pools of Hobbiton to the Auckland Harbour bridge, New Zealand is a country that promises endless adventure and self-discovery.
Budapest, Hungary
Bustling with activity both day and night, Budapest is one of the best cities in Europe for solo travel. Offering the ideal mix of enriching activities and popular hospitality venues, Budapest is simultaneously a party hotspot and a story in Hungarian history. Some of the city’s most famous attractions include the thermal baths at Széchenyi and Gellert, the stunning St Stephen’s Basilica, and a relaxing river cruise along the Danube. The city offers an abundance of day trips but it truly comes alive at night, boasting some of the most renowned bars and nightclubs in the continent including the Ruin Bar pub crawl and the unique Bath Part and Sparty Széchenyi.
Hungary’s capital offers gourmet cuisine, river cruises, and cultural performances that are all connected by the city’s efficient public transport network. With its combination of old-world appeal and modern vibrancy, Budapest offers travellers a unique opportunity to experience culture, history, and incredible nightlife all in one city.
Portugal
Renowned for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and thriving café culture, Portugal is quickly becoming a popular destination among solo travellers. The country is safe, easily accessible, and full of exciting and enriching opportunities tailored perfectly for tourists. One of Portugal’s most popular regions is the Algarve which is home to Lagos, Albufeira, Carvoeiro, and a whole host of things to do. There are surf lessons and dolphin-watching excursions available in Albufeira, boat trips along the Algarve coast and through the famous Benagil sea caves as well as hiking trails, water parks, and luxury spas.
Despite its status as the country’s capital, Lisbon is walkable and accessible, making it one of Portugal’s best destinations. Like the Algarve, Lisbon offers numerous sunset boat trips as well as the Time Out Market which brings together the very best restaurants in the city.
With its golden sands, breathtaking coastlines, and diverse array of unique experiences, Portugal is an excellent choice for any solo traveller.
Thailand
Much like Bali, Thailand is another perfect introduction to the vibrant culture and rich history of Southeast Asia. Many of the friendly locals speak excellent English meaning that Thailand offers tourists the chance to immerse themselves in the local culture without feeling isolated or overwhelmed. Frequent and reliable ferries, trains, and buses connect all of the county’s major cities and islands including Bangkok where visitors can experience a lively street food tour as well as Chiang Rai which houses three major temples and a deep historical resonance.
One iconic event in Thailand is the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan which is a beautiful celebration of life on the beaches of Koh Phangan, often frequented by more than ten thousand visitors. The islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi are also very popular among beachgoers with crystal-clear waters, lively nightlife, and the opportunity to meet with other travellers.
Thailand is an endlessly diverse country, offering peace and tranquillity in the lush mountains of Chiang Mai whilst simultaneously providing entertainment and nightlife in cities like Bangkok and Phuket. It is the perfect destination for every kind of solo traveller.
Solo travel is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the wonders of the world. Destinations like Bali and Budapest showcase the diversity of experiences available to people on their solo adventures. Relaxing on a beach in Thailand or hiking across New Zealand, these destinations represent safe havens for freedom and self discovery.
