There are many reasons to travel solo, from not having to coordinate with others’ schedules to get to spend time doing only what interests you most!
Plus, many destinations offer easy transportation, lots of activities and relatively safe environments that make them ideal for exploring alone. Here are some of the most solo-friendly locations around the world to consider for your next getaway.
Beaver Creek, Colorado
For those who love the outdoors, this charming village in the Rocky Mountains offers plenty to do in both winter and summer. Hop in a Colorado Mountain Express shuttle at Denver International Airport and travel about 130 miles west to your hotel. Beaver Creek Resort offers free shuttle service for travel anywhere within the resort, so you’ll have no trouble getting around. Ski and snowboard to your heart’s content in winter, or enjoy solitary hiking, mountain biking or sitting by a peaceful mountain stream during the warmer months.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Known for its friendly locals and outstanding cuisine, the latter of which has led many to call this island the culinary capital of the Caribbean, Grand Cayman is easy and affordable to reach on airlines. It’s also simple to get around using taxis or public buses and offers plenty of solitary activities. Other must-dos include snorkeling or scuba diving with one of the 40-plus operators like Ocean Frontiers and unwinding at luxury resorts like the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa on Seven Mile Beach.
Paris
Paris is an extremely walkable city, ideal for individuals exploring on their own. Mass transit, including the Métro and bus system, is also easy to navigate, and a Paris Visite travel card covers unlimited trips for a set number of days in its fee. Grab a Paris Museum Pass and admire the amazing artwork at the Musée du Louvre (try Friday night when it’s less busy), the Centre Pompidou and the Musée d’Orsay, or make like a local and find a spot along the Seine to enjoy a baguette and cup of coffee.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Solo travelers looking for clear skies should consider visiting Santa Fe. Offering an average of 325 days of sunshine per year, this southwestern city, which is the oldest capital in North America, is known for its art scene and beautiful scenery. Visitors can go hiking or skiing or check out more than 20 museums, such as iconic Canyon Road’s Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Travelers can then get around on foot, by bike or via the city’s bus system.
Tuscany, Italy
For the ultimate solo getaway, consider walking along the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route that runs through much of the Tuscan region, including popular hill towns like Siena and San Gimignano. Bicycling and Walking Vacations also recommends Tuscany to solo travelers, as English is spoken widely and many types of experiences are available. Plus, each town’s plethora of Italian trattorias is likely to welcome anyone with open arms and ample pasta.
Iceland
Iceland is a great destination for solo travel. Most locals speak English and are warm and friendly, and the company notes that Wi-Fi access and cell phone reception are both very good. The country is often called the Land of Fire and Ice because of its abundance of natural wonders, from glaciers to volcanoes to waterfalls and hot springs. Consider a visit during the summer months to enjoy nearly 24 hours of sunlight while participating in outdoor activities like ice climbing, caving, cycling, and hiking.
New York City
The Big melting pot of cultures makes it a popular option for solo travelers with varying interests. With three airports, two major train stations and a subway system that takes you nearly anywhere you want to go, New York is easy to reach and explore. To escape the crowds, avoid Times Square and instead wander around quieter areas like the hip Meatpacking District, the charming West Village and trendy Brooklyn, which is accessible by ferry from Manhattan. After sightseeing, sit for a slice of New York-style pizza at a local joint like Joe’s Pizza before bedding down for the night
Vietnam
If you want to visit Asia on your own, tours recommend vacationing in Vietnam. Describing it as a safe destination with friendly locals and outstanding cuisine, Vietnam is ideal for solo travelers, though it is suggested that you travel with or meet up with an English-speaking guide to help you get your bearings and plan activities. Try popular dishes like pho (a rice noodle soup with beef or chicken), and nem (a fried spring roll). For attractions, explore the capital, Ho Chi Minh City, and its museums, temples, pagodas, and parks by foot, city bus or local train.
Morocco
The solo traveler-only Best of Morocco itinerary includes hiking the Atlas Mountains, riding a camel in the Sahara Desert, wandering through the spice markets of Marrakech and admiring Casablanca’s breathtaking architecture. While much of the country can be welcoming to foreigners, this tour is ideal for individuals who feel more comfortable traveling in a group with other solo travelers rather than completely on their own.
Sri Lanka
Located off the southeastern coast of India in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka appeals to individuals who enjoy nature. The island is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, as well as stunning beaches, botanical gardens, waterfalls, national parks and almost 500,000 acres of tea estates. To get from point A to point B, the country has trains, taxis, and air taxis. Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, also offers double-decker buses for sightseeing tours.
