22 Destinations Perfect for Solo Travel

👉 Jump to: Best USA Solo Travel Destinations | Best International Solo Travel Destinations

Picking the right destination for you is the first step to having a great solo trip. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place.

I’ve traveled alone as a woman everywhere from Asia to South America. This list of destinations combines my experience plus the expertise of our talented team at Travel Lemming. Whether you want to go abroad or stay in the USA, we’ve got you covered.

You’ll get a taste of each place and why it’s so great to visit alone. Along the way, you can find links to other Travel Lemming guides written by locals and experts. Everything you need to decide on your next solo trip is right here.

Traveling solo doesn’t just introduce you to the world. It also helps you get to know yourself, makes you more self-reliant, and instills you with confidence. So, let’s dive right in and figure out where you should go on your solo adventure.

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Best Solo Travel Destinations (USA)

If you want to stay close to home, these are a few of my favorite spots in the US. You can also check out McKenna’s full guide to the best places for solo female travel in the USA.

New York City, New York

A renowned urban playground filled with culture, shopping, and iconic U.S. landmarks.

View of the Empire State Building and the skyline from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck — *View of the Empire State Building*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 See Larissa’s Guide to Where to Stay in New York City

If you ask a random person, “What’s the most iconic city on planet Earth?” there is a fairly high chance they’ll say New York City. With that level of notoriety, it makes sense why The Big Apple is such a wonderful destination for solo travelers.

Its NYC neighborhoods are filled with endless entertainment and fun things to do from morning until night. From famous NYC museums and shopping along 5th Ave to Broadway shows and delicious restaurants, you’ll never be bored on a solo trip to NYC.

While it’s true that New York is very expensive, it’s possible to do NYC on a budget if you plan ahead and stay in affordable accommodations like hostels.

Nashville, Tennessee

A country music haven with a welcoming, rich nightlife scene.

The author kayaking at a river in Nashville with the buildings on her background — *Travel Lemming Editor and Nashville local Elizabeth kayaking the Cumberland River*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 See Elizabeth’s Guides to Where to Stay in Nashville & Best Hotels in Nashville

One of the best Southern cities for solo travelers is easily Nashville, Tennessee. Music lovers will adore this city. It’s quite literally known as Music City, USA.

You can learn all about the state’s musical history at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. Or, catch a show for yourself at one of Nashville’s many music venues, like the Ryman Auditorium and The Basement. Getting to know the music scene is one of the best things you can do in Nashville.

No matter which Nashville neighborhood you visit, you’re sure to be met with a warm, welcoming spirit, which is perfect for solo travelers.

Anchorage, Alaska

A winter wonderland filled with ski trails, intoxicating landscapes, and diverse wildlife.

View of the ski-lift at Alyeska with the Kenai Mountains and Turnagain Arm behind in winter — *Ski lift in Anchorage photo captured by Travel Lemming Writer Matthew*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 See Matthew’s Guide to Where to Stay in Anchorage

Taking a solo trip to Alaska might seem a little intimidating at first, but it could be one of the most magical experiences of your entire life. While there are several towns in Alaska, the best one for solo travelers is Anchorage.

It is Alaska’s largest and most populated city, which brings a lot of needed creature comforts. Even though it offers the luxuries of a bigger city, you’re truly out in nature. There is tons to do in Anchorage — from skiing trails to gorgeous snow-covered state parks and wildlife. It’s unlike anything you’ve seen at home.

Anchorage is a top destination for outdoorsy solo travelers. Just make sure you do your research and determine the best time to visit Alaska as the weather can get intense in the winter months.

Portland, Maine

A laid-back coastal city with top-notch seafood, lots of summer activities, and a historic lighthouse.

A man with his dog in front of the Portland Head Light — *Famous Portland Head Light*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Portland Hotels on Booking

If you’re looking for a place where you can just relax and eat the days away on your next solo trip, you’ll love Portland, Maine.

Located right on the coast, Portland offers a smorgasbord of mouthwatering food and drinks. Their buttery lobster rolls, blueberry wine, and signature potato donuts are especially worth trying.

You can snap a photo of the Portland Head Light, take a whale-watching group tour, or just hang out in the charming town. I’d particularly recommend Portland for solo female travelers with minimal experience. It is a very entertaining city, but it’s still extremely safe and chill for a first solo trip in the USA.

Moab, Utah

A desert escape featuring enormous national parks with otherworldly landscapes.

The author Abigail Bliss and her friend, under the Delicate Arch — *Travel Lemming Editor Abigail and her friend at Arches National Park*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 See McKenna’s Guide to Where to Stay in Moab

Solo travelers on the hunt for a memorable, photo-worthy outdoor adventure should book a trip to Moab, Utah. There are miles and miles of unique landscapes to wander and photograph.

Some of the most famous national parks in the western United States are located right here, including Arches, Canyonlands, and Dead Horse Point State Parks.

When you’re done snapping photos, there are plenty of other fun things to do in Moab, too. You’ll want to be careful about the season you visit though because the weather varies throughout the year. For more, read McKenna’s guide on the best time to visit Moab.

San Francisco, California

This foodie’s paradise offers endless activities, history, and tasty morsels to explore.

The author Laura McFarland, posing for a photo in front of the Painted Ladies in Alamo Square Park — *Travel Lemming Writer and SF local Laura at The Painted Ladies*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 See Laura’s Guide to Where to Stay in San Francisco

San Francisco, California is one of those cities that has something for nearly every kind of solo traveler.

You don’t need a travel buddy to have fun in San Francisco. You’ll be too busy snapping photos of the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting Alcatraz, and getting into the downtown SF food scene.

Not to mention San Francisco’s world-famous museums, like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Exploratorium. The general appeal and endless opportunities for things to do in San Francisco give the city a razzle-dazzle that’s hard to find in many places.

Big Sky, Montana

This snow-covered city has almost 6,000 acres of skiable land to glide through the Rocky Mountains.

View of a man at the Big Sky Ski Resort — *The Famous Big Sky Ski Resort*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Big Sky Hotels on Booking

Are you a skier or snowboarder who craves a solo retreat to the slopes? Big Sky, Montana might be the place you never knew you needed. Located in the Rocky Mountains, Big Sky is a resort town that’s home to some of the longest ski runs in the entire country.

While Big Sky is mainly known for its exceptional skiing, it’s really a mecca for all types of outdoor activities year round. Hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and even rafting are all popular in Big Sky.

Savannah, Georgia

A southern gem on the coast with some of the best-preserved architecture in America.

Aerial view of a neighborhood in Savannah — *Aerial view of Savannah*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Savannah Hotels on Booking

Sometimes, the best places to travel alone are simple, pretty destinations that you just feel comfortable lounging in. If this sounds like a slice of heaven to you, Savannah, Georgia should be a top destination on your solo travel bucket list.

With its tree-lined streets, peaceful squares, and the massive Forsyth Park, Savannah’s Historic District alone is a sight for sore eyes. Savannah is also a great fit for solo travelers hoping to meet new friends along their journey.

A guided tour or pub crawl to join is always easy to find in this fun city, such as this Savannah haunted pub crawl. It’ll bring you to all the city’s best nightlife spots and provide insight into Savannah’s spooky history. Plus, you’ll probably meet fellow travelers along the way.

Miami, Florida

A party hub featuring year-round perfect weather, long stretches of beach, and varying cultures.

The author and her wife posing for a picture in William Powell Bridge with their bike on their background — *Travel Lemming Writer Andrew and his wife, who used to live in South Florida*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 See Andrew’s Guide to Where to Stay in Miami

It probably comes as no surprise that there are a lot of things to do and see in Miami, Florida. The parties will get your heart pumping and it’s just the social gathering you need if you’re catching a case of the solo travel blues. When you need to recover and relax, Miami provides beaches that span as far as the eye can see.

Miami has stuff for tamer solo travelers, too. There are interesting museums to peruse, like Wynwood Walls and The Vizcaya Museum, along with plenty of tempting shopping at Bayside Market. Or, you can get in touch with southern nature at Everglades National Park.

Plus, there are plenty of cool day trips you can take from Miami as well.

Boise, Idaho

A nature-heavy city that’s filled with a vibrant cultural scene and outdoor activities.

The author Taylor Ramsey, admiring the scenic view around Pettit Lake on late fall — *Travel Lemming Writer and Boise local Taylor at Pettit Lake*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 See Taylor’s Guide to Where to Stay in Boise

You may feel the urge to scroll right past Boise, Idaho, but don’t be so hasty. It’s secretly one of the top destinations in the U.S. for solo travel.

Attractions in Boise range from the Old Idaho Penitentiary and the World Center For Birds of Prey to the Freak Alley Gallery and Idaho Botanical Garden. Plus, there are many parks to soak up some vitamin D, like Camel’s Back Park, Julia Davis Park, and Boise River Greenbelt. If you need a heavier dose of nature, there are endless places to hike and camp, and lakes to enjoy.

Looking for an event when you travel to Boise alone? Visit during Labor Day Weekend to see the Spirit of Boise hot air balloon festival go down. During this Boise classic, multi-colored balloons fill the sky every morning.

Bellevue, Washington

A serene alternative to Seattle packed with activities that range from adventure sports to blueberry picking.

The author admiring the sunset from Meydenbauer Bay Park — *Travel Lemming Editor Chelsea at Meydenbauer Bay Park in Bellevue*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Bellevue Hotels on Booking

When most solo travelers think of a place to go in Washington, their mind immediately jumps to Seattle. However, the nearby neighbor of Bellevue just 15 minutes away should be a contender for your solo trip destination. Similar to its Washington cousin, there are heaps of things to do in Bellevue.

Walk around the Bellevue Downtown Park or pick blueberries at Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm to experience a bit of nature in the heart of the city. Go shopping in Bellevue Square or Old Bellevue for a more intimate browsing experience. If you’re hoping for more adrenaline, Bellevue has ziplining, indoor rock climbing, and paragliding.

It’s still just a quick trip across Lake Washington if you want to see the Seattle staples, too.

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Best International Solo Travel Destinations

Iceland

A paradise of jaw-dropping natural wonders from volcanoes and glaciers to hot springs and the northern lights.

Travel Lemming Author Betty posing for a photo near the Gullfoss Waterfall — *Senior Travel Lemming Writer Betty at the famous Gullfoss Falls in Iceland*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Iceland Hotels on Expedia

The natural beauty of Iceland will leave your jaw on the floor.

Refreshing hot springs, gigantic glaciers, rushing waterfalls, black sand beaches, piping volcanoes, and whale watching out on the seas are just a few of the best activities in Iceland. Did I mention the Northern Lights, yet?

Every day spent in Iceland is a full-blown adventure and tons of tours will help you experience all of it. This Golden Circle, Kerid Volcanic Crater, and Blue Lagoon day trip from Reykjavik will take you to several of the country’s most well-known spots in just one day. Or, if you want to tackle things on your own, just follow Betty’s 1-day itinerary of Iceland’s Golden Circle.

Iceland consistently ranks as the #1 safest country in Europe, too. Making it a great choice if you’re a fresh solo traveler who wants to step out of your comfort zone and see amazing things without pushing the limits too far.

See Betty’s guides to renting a car in Iceland and what to pack for Iceland to start planning your visit.

Australia

A utopia of tropical beaches and playful wildlife that offers tons of visas for solo travelers.

Author Laura and her partner smiling brightly at Whitehaven Beach — *Travel Lemming Senior Writer Laura and her partner at the Whitsunday Islands*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Australia Hotels on Expedia

Solo travelers from the United States find traveling in Australia a bit easier than other international destinations. There’s no language barrier, and although Australia can be expensive, the country offers social accommodations that can bring down costs and help you meet new friends.

Australia provides plenty of natural spectacles, including islands, beaches, swimming holes, national parks, and more. For more of a city trip, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane all have that metropolis feel without being too far from all the nature adventures. But if you want to go off the beaten path, there are plenty of lesser-known Australian destinations worth exploring.

It is a prime destination for people who want to assimilate into local life and travel for months at a time. The country extends a working holiday visa for travelers aged 18 to 30 that allows you to stay up to a year. On this visa, you can work and make money for your travels along the way, so it’s a great option for budget travelers.

📚 Related Reading: 10-Day Tasmania Itinerary

Thailand

A friendly, easy-to-travel country with exceptional temples, and incredibly affordable prices.

Travel Lemming Founder Nate on the beach near the long boats at Koh Phakbia — *Travel Lemming Founder Nate at Koh Phakbia near Phuket*

📍 Google Maps | 👉Where to Stay in Bangkok, Where to Stay in Chiang Mai, Where to Stay in Phuket

Traveling solo in Thailand never really feels like you’re alone because there are so many other solo travelers there. It’s probably harder to not make friends than it is to pick up travel buddies along the way. Solo travelers are attracted to Thailand for good reasons — it’s affordable and high-quality.

The food is so good you’ll be thinking about it for years after. There are a diverse array of destinations in Thailand — everything from big cities to mountains, islands, and beaches. There are also incredible food markets, colorful ancient temples, and chances to hang out with elephants (who are much more dog-like than you might imagine).

Thailand carved a special place into my heart as the first place I ever traveled alone. It sounds like a huge undertaking as it takes nearly 24 hours of flights to get there from the USA. However, soon after the plane lands, you realize Thailand is by far one of the best countries on the planet for solo travelers.

📚 Related Reading: You don’t want to be held back by worry when you’re exploring Thailand. So, save yourself trouble (and money) by getting solid travel insurance for Thailand.

Italy

Italy is more than just a romantic destination for couples, it’s also a beautiful place to explore as a solo traveler.

The author, Sky Ariella admiring the Lake Como — *Me looking out over Lake Como during a solo trip in Italy*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Where to Stay in Milan, Where to Stay in Florence, Where to Stay in Naples.

When people think of traveling to Italy, most imagine it as a honeymoon or a family vacation destination. But Italy can be great for solo travel, too.

The locals are notoriously friendly and it’s easy to meet other travelers. Plus, there are so many unique and varied Italian destinations to explore no matter what time of year you visit.

Of course, food is one of the main draws of Italy. Many solo travelers worry that they won’t be able to enjoy this aspect of the country without a dining companion, but this is completely untrue. On my recent solo trip to Italy, I learned to embrace solo dining and really loved it. For more on why, check out my list of tips for traveling alone in Italy.

Japan

A picturesque island country with unbelievable nature scenes and delectable restaurants.

The author Sky Ariella posing for a photo with the Mount Fuji in the background — *Me during my Mount Fuji tour in Japan*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Where to Stay in Tokyo, Where to Stay in Kyoto, Where to Stay in Osaka

Any sushi lover yearns to go to Japan and try it straight from the source. Beyond sushi, Japan is home to some of the fanciest, strangest, and coolest eateries on the planet, including the infamous snacks from 7-Eleven. There is far more to Japan than just a full plate, though.

For an island that’s smaller than the state of California, Japan is packed with enticement. It has buzzing cities like Tokyo and small towns depending on your preference. Polished gardens, the famed Mount Fuji, and shopping are all worth adding to your Japan itinerary.

Overall, I think Japan is one of the best solo destinations. Between the safety, cuisine, attractions, and excellent public transportation – Japan has everything I’ve ever craved in a solo trip.

Portugal

A safe, beachy European country loaded with Port wine, fresh fish, and Medieval castles.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Where to Stay in Lisbon, Where to Stay in Porto, Where to Stay in Sao Miguel Island, Azores

Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe. It’s tiny, but there are oodles of things to do and places to visit.

Portugal’s wild beaches surrounded by cliff landscapes will blow you away, and its palaces and historic buildings will leave you in awe of the architecture. The entire time, friendly locals will welcome you with open arms.

The great thing about a compact country like Portugal is that it’s possible to explore the whole thing in just a week and a half, as long as you budget your time properly. Take the work out of planning and give my 10-day Portugal itinerary a read to learn more. It includes one of my favorite solo travel cities: Porto.

Spain

A culturally-rich country famous for its scrumptious tapas, festivals, and boisterous party scene.

The author Sky Ariella posing for a photo and the city of Ronda on her background — *Sky in Ronda, Spain*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Where to Stay in Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, Zaragoza

Right next door to Portugal is the equally entertaining destination of Spain. It’s a much bigger country though with its own distinct culture. Every place you visit in Spain, you’ll get a slightly different flavor.

In the south, you’ll find the White Towns and miles of coastal paradise. In Central Spain, you’ll have access to Madrid and its attractions. In the north, you’ll find wine regions and adorable fishing villages. A well-planned Spain itinerary can introduce you to many ways of life on a single trip.

Spain is excellent for budget travelers as it’s easy to get around on its affordable public transportation system. If you can splurge on it, I’d recommend renting a car though. I took a road trip from the Andalusian region all the way up the coast to Barcelona and it was even better than expected.

Costa Rica

A rainforest escape with tons of outdoor adventures, bountiful biodiversity, and delectable coffee.

The author Ashleigh Bandimere on a full gear snorkeling suit in Playa Hermosa at sunset — *Travel Lemming Writer Ashleigh snorkeling at Playa Hermosa*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Costa Rica Hotels on Expedia

Costa Rica’s beautiful scenery pulls in solo travelers from all over the world and makes them fall in love. It’s the destination for solo travelers who want to tap into that “pura vida” lifestyle. There are beautiful destinations all across Costa Rica that will help you experience it.

Costa Rica’s snorkeling scene, lush rainforests, beaches, and of course, its exotic animals, make it a great place for solo travelers who love the outdoors. It’ll quell the heart of any former nature kid who wants to get back in touch with their roots.

Caffeine lovers will also be in good hands with the famous Costa Rican coffee.

Vietnam

A coastal country with motorbikes, cheap accommodations, beautiful scenery, and endless tempting food.

Beautiful landscapes of the Ha Giang region — *Dreamy landscapes of the Ha Giang region*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Vietnam Hotels on Expedia

I would be remiss not to mention the fabulous country of Vietnam on a list of the best places to travel solo. I can’t help but gush about how much fun this insanely affordable Southeast Asian country can be.

Vietnam solves the age-old solo traveler’s struggle of paying for everything alone because of just how cheap the country is. My favorite hostel in Hanoi only cost a mere $3 per night (with an included breakfast!)

From intense motorbike adventures through the Ha Giang landscapes in the north to party cruises, ancient pagodas, and markets on trains, solo travelers will have a full schedule when visiting Vietnam.

Colombia

A lively Latin American country with nature and nightlife that’s quite safe for experienced solo travelers.

Overlooking view from a hostel in Minca — *Sky* *and a travel friend at a hostel in Minca, Colombia*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Colombia Hotels on Expedia

When I traveled to Colombia alone as a woman, I knew I was stepping pretty far outside of my comfort zone.

The truth is, Colombia is definitely more of an advanced travel destination. English speakers are hard to find and there can be some seedy areas. Despite its dubious reputation, Colombia is an incredible destination for experienced solo travelers.

There are plenty of hostels or private accommodations if you prefer. You can dance the night away at local Colombian clubs, climb to the top of mountain peaks, or take a tour through the country’s coffee plantations.

Nature in Colombia varies from tropical to desert. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind destination that will leave an impression on any solo traveler.

📚 Related Reading: 20 Essentials to Pack for Colombia

United Kingdom

A perfect destination for newbie solo travelers who are worried about language barriers, but still want a wealth of places to explore.

The author Sky Ariella on the Dean Village in Edinburgh — *Sky at Dean Village in Edinburgh, UK*

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Where to Stay in London, Manchester, Bristol; Where to Stay in Wales, Cardiff; Where to Stay in Scotland, Edinburgh, Glasgow

To be completely frank, the United Kingdom was never a high contender on my list of places to visit. After spending six months living in the country, however, I can’t recommend it enough to people who are curious about traveling by themselves.

One of the main reasons it’s such a fantastic starter destination is because English is the dominant language throughout the territory. So, it’ll be very easy to acclimate as an American. While the UK is different from the U.S., it’s similar enough that you won’t be overwhelmed with culture shock.

Another quality that makes the United Kingdom an alluring destination for solo travelers is that there is a huge range of places to explore. You can check out all the iconic attractions in London or explore tons of gorgeous places in Wales and so many fun things to do in Glasgow.

The ease of traveling through the United Kingdom coupled with its many unique locations makes it a world-class destination for newbie solo travelers.

🎙️ Listen to the Podcast: Looking for more travel inspo? Check out Episode 6 of the Travel Lemming Podcast on YouTube. You’ll learn about the best places to travel in 2025 and hear directly from our creators! You can also tune in on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

FAQs

Where is a good place for first-time solo travelers?

A good place in the United States for first-time solo travelers to visit is Portland, Maine. It’s a very welcoming city with plenty of activities, places to stay, and absolutely delicious food. Iceland is a good international destination for first-time solo travelers for its safety, stunning natural attractions, and availability of guided tours.

Is solo travel safe?

Traveling solo is safe if you take the proper precautions and plan your solo trip appropriately. Solo travelers should do ample research into their destination of choice, including specific safety precautions, travel advisories, and necessary vaccines.

Is solo travel good for introverts?

Solo travel can be an excellent activity for introverts. Solo traveling allows introverts to stick to things they want to do without needing to constantly engage with a travel companion. Introverted solo travelers also have lots of chances to get out of their shells and meet new people if they want to.

How do I travel alone with confidence?

The easiest way to travel alone with confidence is being very well-prepared. Create a solo travel packing list, map out an itinerary, and read articles and watch videos of other people traveling alone. The trick to building up confidence as a solo traveler is practice. The more you learn about a place and prepare yourself, the more comfortable you’ll be when the day comes to get on the plane.

***

By now, you’ve likely added several new locations to your solo travel bucket list.

If it’s your very first trip alone and you’re getting jittery, have no fear! Just check out my guide on how to travel alone next and you’ll be plenty prepared. Safe travels!