places to travel by myself

18 Top Places to Travel Alone in the U.S.

Written by Anietra Hamper and Shandley McMurray Updated Mar 20, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Taking a solo trip can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking adventure. As long as you choose the right place to visit (one that's safe and well-suited to single travelers ), you're in for an exhilarating treat. Bonus points if the weather is great, and the travel costs won't break the bank along your journey.

Luckily, the US is packed with perfect destinations for solo adventurists, many of which have easily accessible transportation to make it easy to get around. Whether you're hoping to see the top sites in a major city, sprawl lazily on a beach, or meet new friends in an inviting community, there are a slew of places to enjoy an alone vacation in the United States.

Before you go, identify the types of landscapes and experiences that call to you. Have you always wanted to stay at a dude ranch ? Climb a mountain? Kayak through the Bayou ? Or, are you looking for an urban getaway of iconic experiences and local food?

The United States has such diverse landscapes, from the dramatic scenery of the Oregon coast and stunning California beaches to the desert Southwest, tall grass prairies in the great plains, and glaciers in Alaska . You're sure to find the place that's right for you.

Plan your solo journey with our list of the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

1. New York City

2. the florida keys, 3. the outer banks, north carolina, 4. door county, wisconsin, 5. san diego, california, 6. grand county, colorado, 7. washington, d.c., 8. nashville, tennessee, 9. portland, oregon, 10. moab, utah, 11. seattle, washington, 12. austin, texas, 13. boston, massachusetts, 14. new orleans, louisiana, 15. honolulu, hawaii, 16. san francisco, california, 17. denver, colorado, 18. saratoga springs, new york, map of places to travel alone in the u.s..

You might not immediately think of New York City when planning a solo trip, but the city of blinding lights is a great place to visit alone. It's easy to find a table for one in restaurants, the variety of museums ensures you'll find something to pique your interest, and the vast parks are beautiful and safe. That said, we'd avoid walking through them alone at night.

Speaking of night, as long as you stay on one of the major avenues (hello, Broadway and Fifth), your journey will be well-lighted and accompanied by so many other wanderers that you won't feel alone, even at three in the morning.

Getting to New York City is easy with three airports, and getting around the city by train or subway means that you don't have to take a taxi everywhere. Taxis can be expensive and super slow (New York's traffic is no joke). Ride services like Uber are astronomically priced in the city, so exploring by foot is the best way to see New York.

Plan your visit in sections by putting the main tourist attractions like Times Square , the famous Central Park , the Brooklyn Bridge , and a boat trip around the Statue of Liberty on the top of the list.

Plan at least one evening to hit Broadway with a nice pre-show dinner. There are so many restaurants in the area that you won't have trouble finding a cuisine to please your taste buds. You can pick up same-day discount Broadway show tickets in the afternoons at local kiosks, and as a party of one, it's even easier to decide which show to see at the last minute.

Round out your stay by visiting some of the ethnic neighborhoods like Little Italy, Queens, Little Guyana, Little India, and Little Odessa. And don't miss out on the shopping in SOHO.

Read More: Best Time to Visit New York City

Traveling to the Florida Keys is a breeze for people going it alone. The laid-back atmosphere means you can pack mere flip-flops, a swimsuit, shorts, and a T-shirt and be on your way.

Key West is filled with fun things to do , and it is especially welcoming to solo travelers. The southernmost key is easy to navigate, and you can walk to the beach and the Old Town to explore the small shops or the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum .

There is also a nice Shipwreck Treasure Museum in Key West. You can save a little money by bundling museum tickets if you plan to visit several.

You can also hit several islands on your Keys vacation by island-hopping to Key West, checking out the attractions in Islamorada , and visiting Key Largo . You can fill the agenda with some of the best of each island, like deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, or shopping at the local art galleries. Of course, the area's remarkable beaches are the main draws; there is no shortage of ocean, sand, and seashells.

Another plus, there are a slew of fab resorts in Key West, so there are plenty of options when it comes to luxuriously comfy accommodations that are safe for single travelers.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Florida Keys

While the Outer Banks of North Carolina is a popular family vacation destination packed with exciting things to do , it is also a delightful and safe place to visit for solo travelers. With more than 100 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean , the barrier islands are full of small villages and plenty of beautiful beaches where you can relax and enjoy the time on your own.

Some of the more popular areas include, Cape Hatteras , Nags Head , Kill Devil Hills , and Duck . It is easy to find many vacation home rentals, small hotels, and even spacious campgrounds , but you will want to book early if your travel plans are during the summer months.

You can base yourself in Cape Hatteras, collect shells along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore , visit the many local artist studios, and take advantage of the outdoor activities. The Outer Banks' beaches are spectacular , so be sure to visit at least a couple of them during your journey.

Another option is to split your trip to stay in several different areas, so that you can travel along North Carolina Highway 12 to the other towns along the Outer Banks. Some of the highlights for solo travelers are kayaking in the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge , visiting the historic lighthouses along the coast, experiencing the wild horses in Corolla , and taking a hang-gliding lesson over the 100-foot sand dunes at Jockey's Ridge State Park.

Kitesurfers will find great conditions on Hatteras Island around Waves, Salvo, and Rondanthe . Ever wanted to try your luck at deep-sea fishing ? North Carolina, and in particular the Outer Banks, is a haven for anglers.

Read More: Best Coastal Towns in North Carolina

You might be traveling alone, but once you arrive at Door County, Wisconsin, you'll feel as if you've known the locals your whole life. The warm, Midwestern peninsula of Door County is a natural paradise that welcomes solo travelers and offers them enough attractions to keep them very busy .

With 300 miles of coastline around the peninsula bordered by Green Bay on one side and Lake Michigan on the other, Door County is as exciting to explore alone in the winter as it is in the summer.

Take your pick from one of 19 communities like Sturgeon Bay , Sister Bay , Ephraim , or Egg Harbor as a base, and stay in one of the many independently owned lodges and bed and breakfasts.

Kayak along the limestone bluffs ; hike in Peninsula State Park ; taste in-season cherries or apples from the local orchards; hit one of the many public beaches; or take the ferry across Death's Door to Washington Island for a day, where you can visit a lavender farm in the summer and see the famous Schoolhouse Beach made entirely from rocks.

A solo trip to San Diego is rejuvenating. With a consistent climate throughout the year there's never really a bad time to go. Take your pick from the beaches along the 70-mile coastline as you relax in the sand or learn a new water sport, like stand up paddleboarding.

Since you are traveling alone, you can even hit a different stunning beach each day in Del Mar , La Jolla , Mission Beach , and Ocean Beach .

Spend some time in Balboa Park , the biggest urban park in the United States, with museums, gardens, music, and the famed San Diego Zoo. It's one of the best attractions in San Diego for good reason.

One of the easiest ways to explore San Diego alone is with the hop-on, hop-off trolley, which can take you to all the top points of interest, where you can spend as much time as you like before heading off to the next one.

Tip: the best time to visit San Diego for weather is from March through May and September through November, so keep that in mind when booking.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from San Diego

Little beats the fun of mixing with the locals in Grand County, Colorado. Being alone makes it even easier to break into an interesting conversation with these friendly folks.

Grand County, located less than 70 miles outside of Denver , is the dude ranch capital of the United States, and boy is it a beauty. Rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, deep valleys, and thick forests will leave you breathless. They also offer some fantastic opportunities to ski .

There are four world-class dude ranches in the area where you can experience the Wild West at your own pace. One of the best is Latigo Dude Ranch , which transports you to your private cabin by horse and wagon. All-inclusive weeklong packages make it easy for solo travelers. You pick the activities that appeal to you, from daily horseback riding in the mountains to swimming, white water rafting, and yoga.

The rest of the time, you'll feel like a modern-day rancher with home-style cookouts, cattle drives, and perfect sunsets every evening as you learn how to throw a lasso like a real cowboy. Enjoy a day trip if you have time to spare, and be sure to check out a few of the adorable small towns in the region.

With more than 17 Smithsonian museums, galleries, the National Zoo, and a host of other tourist sites to visit , Washington, D.C. is an exciting city to see at your own pace. And there's no chance of getting bored, even when you're flying solo. Head here in the fall to experience the best the city has to offer; this time of year, the weather is ideal and crowds are thin between September and November.

Many of the museums are located on the National Mall , so it is easy to stay at a nearby hotel and make that your destination for several days. Most of the museums are free, and with easy public transportation, you can visit Washington D.C. alone with minimal cost compared to some other major cities.

Take some time to wander through the city's lush parks , enjoying a picnic of take-out or a few moments spent people-watching in the sunshine.

If you are a political junkie, you can stroll around the U.S. Capitol complex and the perimeter of the White House , or take a public tour. You can also take the subway into some of D.C.'s hip neighborhoods, like Barracks Row , artsy Brookland , and Edgewood or the foodie scene in the Navy Yard district. You might also want to book a scenic boat trip along the Potomac River .

One of the perks of traveling alone in Washington D.C. is that you can more easily score a table for one at some of the popular restaurants without waiting.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Washington, D.C.

Oh, Nashville, how we love you so. You're so full of Southern charm and toe-tapping tunes that we should write a country song about you. Oh, wait...

The official "country music capital of the world," Nashville is the ultimate place to visit if you're a) alone and b) a fan of the Southern drawl and achy breaky music. The locals are as sweet, wonderful, and welcoming as you've heard. You won't feel friendless when so many strangers strike up a conversation.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , Music Row (home to RCA Studio B ), and the Nashville Parthenon top the list of unmissable attractions . And you'll kick yourself for skipping out on a show at The Grand Ole Opry . A ride on the General Jackson Showboat is another must.

Don't worry about getting around. The public transit is clean, safe, and super cheap. A sightseeing cart tour is another must, especially if you'd like to give your feet a break.

Also, there are plenty of refreshing hiking trails and enjoyable day trips to enjoy if you're up for a bit more excitement.

Read More: Best Free Things to Do in Nashville, TN

In a city of "makers" with a laid-back vibe, Portland, Oregon is one of the most welcoming communities in the United States for people traveling alone.

There are so many interesting attractions and free things to do in the city, from perusing through Powell's City of Books , the largest independent bookstore in the U.S., to hiking in Forest Park , a large preserved natural area in Portland. You can spend an entire day or two just going to local galleries and meeting artists who are turning their ideas into a reality with products that are unique to the Portland area.

There are many areas for outdoor recreation, like biking or leisurely strolls through the International Rose Test Garden . Portland is also close to some of Mother Nature's most incredible creations— thundering waterfalls and soft, sandy beaches entice solo travelers to spend more time outside.

Transportation is simple in Portland. It's a walkable city, but you can hop on the Portland Streetcar to get to the various neighborhoods. Do not end your solo trip to the city without planning some time to hang out at a local café (it's a thing in Portland) and trying a Captain Crunch doughnut from Voodoo Doughnuts.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Portland, OR

In need of some fresh air and visual inspiration for your solo vacation? Few places can scratch that itch like Moab, Utah, where the outdoors is the centerpiece of attention.

This area is a top destination for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and camping , which is surprisingly fun as a single. Outdoorsy types are destined to find other solo travelers here looking for life perspective among the stunning rock formations and nighttime constellations.

There are two national parks in Moab to explore: Arches National Park, which is famous for its hikes , and Canyonland National Park . There's also Dead Horse Point State Park , which has some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes to photograph 2000 feet above the Colorado River .

How you choose to experience the parks is up to you. From mountain biking and hiking to white water rafting, fishing, and golfing, there's no end to the fun things to do in Moab.

Seattle, Washington is an easy city to visit alone. The people are friendly, the scenery is inspirational, the vibe exciting, transportation easy, and lodging plentiful in a wide range of price points. It is easy to get from point A to point B in the city on the Metro system or Monorail system.

Start your solo Seattle sightseeing at the city's most popular point of interest, the Space Needle , where you can go up to the observation deck for a phenomenal 360-degree panoramic view of the city. If you like the view then you might want to check out the observation deck at Columbia Tower , where you can get a high view of the Space Needle.

Stop for some famous Seattle coffee at a local café or take a cup of Joe to go as you stroll through the pretty parks and along the waterfront. Then peruse the local produce at the Pike Place Market . Don't miss out on a visit to the city's top museums ; Seattle Art Museum , the Museum of Pop Culture , and Chihuly Garden and Glass are worthy of a few hours.

You will probably see a lot of people in Seattle dining alone or doing solo activities, so if you're looking for conversation, why not spark one?

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Seattle, WA

If you are a music lover traveling alone, one of your top considerations should be Austin, Texas . Music and festivals are a way of life in this Texan wonderland, and you won't be able to walk a block without hearing a tune of some kind following you down the street.

This Texas capital has more than 250 music venues to enjoy and a host of other tourist attractions and activities to fill your solo agenda in between. Hunker down for some famous and memorable Texas barbecue to fuel up for your adventure.

There are lots of outdoor activities to enjoy alone in Austin. Barton Springs in Zilker Park is one of the largest springs in Texas and a great way to cool off with a swim to beat the heat. You can enjoy a morning swim or paddleboard outing at Lady Bird Lake , a popular reservoir located in the heart of downtown .

You can also plan walks around the lake on Schoal Creek Trail , a 4.4-mile trail that takes you through several parks. In fact, hiking is a popular activity in Austin , with many trails frequented by solo travelers.

For some social interaction, you can sign up for one of the many tours available around town to local museums and attractions.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Austin, TX

The historic city of Boston, Massachusetts is great for solo travelers . Museums, parks, waterfront tours, and cruises provide endless ways to stay entertained. The best part: you can walk to most of the attractions and things to do in this palatable city.

Start your visit on the Freedom Trail , which winds its way past some of the most significant historical landmarks in the city. Take time to enjoy the gorgeous parks along your tour, stopping to enjoy a picnic or just a shady respite on a hot, sunny day.

If you visit during baseball season, plan a night at Fenway Park to take in a Boston Red Sox game and gape at the infamous Green Monster. Spend one evening getting a different perspective of the city with a sunset boat tour of Boston Harbor .

As we mentioned, there are multiple tours and museums in Boston. Since many require admission, you may want to prioritize some of the best, like the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum , Plimoth Plantation, and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum .

One of the best ways to hit a number of attractions while giving your feet a break is by taking a hop-on, hop-off trolley tour. If visiting Boston in winter , you'll definitely want to take advantage of touristy transportation like this.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Boston

While the city of New Orleans has a reputation for having an extravagant and wild scene, it is also known as one of the friendliest cities in the United States. This makes it an ideal place to visit for people traveling alone. Hit the Bourbon Street jazz clubs to soak up the music scene of the city, or plan a day trip to the Jazz Museum for some historical perspective. There's no lack of fun tourist attractions to enjoy .

Sign up for a New Orleans City Tour for a new perspective on the city, or plan your own walking tour through some of the neighborhoods to see old Victorian homes and visit some of the unique cemeteries.

Be sure to carve out extra time for visiting the famed French Quarter , where you can shop at the local boutiques and indulge in iconic New Orleans cuisine. Stop for a taste of beignets at Café du Monde and try some of the local Cajun cuisine.

Tip: If you're hoping to enjoy the excitement of Mardi Gras , the best time to visit is between February and the end of May . That said, be sure to book a stay at one of New Orleans' resorts early, as the rooms fill up quickly at this time of year.

Hawaii is a bucket list destination for many people, and while it is usually associated with honeymoons and couples' travel , there are several places, like Honolulu, that are great destinations for solo travel.

Located on the main island of Oahu , Honolulu is more touristy and less remote than other Hawaiian destinations. That makes it ideal for visiting solo. Another plus: the public transport system is geared towards tourists, so you should find it easy to get around to the area's most interesting attractions and to Oahu's beautiful beaches .

Waikiki Beach is a must-visit that should top your holiday agenda. Don't miss having a meal (or many) on the waterfront. While you're in Waikiki , plan a trip to climb Diamond Head on your own, or take a guided tour. Pearl Harbor's attractions shouldn't be missed , and taking in a luau, even alone, is an experience you will never forget.

If you want to plan a snorkeling adventure, it is best to take a guided trip or hit one of the populated snorkeling spots, like Hanauma Bay , where there are other people to keep an eye on you in the water.

It's easy to feel the love in San Francisco. A Californian city that seems to accept everyone for who they are (yay!), this welcoming spot should grace your list of the best places to visit alone in the US.

One of the most ideal ways to see the sights is by lacing up your comfiest shoes and taking a walking tour of San Francisco . Sign up for a guided tour at your hotel if you're hoping to make friends. Or, make use of the Bay Area Bike Share to borrow a set of (two) wheels for the day.

Speaking of San Francisco sights , the Golden Gate Bridge is unmissable (literally), as is Alcatraz (you'll want to book your ferry ride well in advance), and the somewhat kitschy, very touristy Fisherman's Wharf .

If you're hoping to take transit, you're in luck. The BART (subway), Muni (buses, cable cars, and streetcars) make it super easy to get around. And they're super safe and affordable.

A note: While the city is safe, we'd suggest avoiding wandering around the Tenderloin alone after dark.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from San Francisco

Denver, Colorado (a.k.a. the Mile High city) has it all: giant ponds, lush parks, farmers markets, live music, eclectic shops, top restaurants, and a backdrop of majestic mountains. Luckily, it's also a very welcoming city for solo travelers.

Denver's downtown core is incredibly palatable and well populated, so visitors will feel safe walking along the streets as they window shop, pop into the iconic Tattered Cover bookshop, or grab a bite in one of the many fab eateries.

Don't miss the historic Union Station , and you should definitely catch a show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts . Downtown is a pedestrian-friendly area, so you won't have to be worried about being hit by cars. That said, keep an eye out for bikes.

Getting around the city is easy, clean, and safe. You can join the masses and bike, or hop on the RTD light rail or bus. Rent a motorized scooter if you're feeling especially adventurous (we'd suggest renting a helmet as well).

One of Denver's best attractions is located 15 miles from its center, and it's more than worth a visit. The incredible Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater hosts concerts set between captivating giant red sandstone rock formations.

It's easy to fall in love with Saratoga Springs. One of the most charming small towns in New York State , this stunning beauty is an idyllic place for outdoor lovers to explore.

Traveling alone is particularly enjoyable in this pretty locale, which is peppered with enough attractions to keep visitors occupied in any season, and enough charm to fill their cameras' SD cards.

Soak in the mineral baths at The Roosevelt Baths and Spa , hike the forested trails of the captivating Saratoga Spa State Park, or head to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame to learn all there is to know about horse racing.

There's no chance you'll be bored when touring this safe and beautiful town on your own.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Upstate New York

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More Solo Travel Ideas : If you need more ideas for solo trips, you can review our articles on weekend getaways in Massachusetts , Ohio , and Alabama . If you are looking for outdoor adventure ideas that you can do alone, you might consider white water rafting and kayaking in Washington or white water rafting in West Virginia . Another great solo destination, especially for peace and relaxation is Sedona , Arizona. Here, you can enjoy a yoga retreat, wander through new age shops, or tackle the scenic hiking trails .

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The Best Solo Travel Destinations in the United States for an Unforgettable Adventure

Whether you're looking for activity or relaxation, your dream trip awaits.

Whether you're planning your first adventure on your own or are a solo travel veteran, choosing a destination can be overwhelming, especially if you still have a lot of places to check off your bucket list . The good news is, you don't have to go far for the adventure or relaxation you crave, because there are plenty of options across the U.S.

Weighing variables such as walkability, safety, self care opportunities, number of historic sites and museums and access to nature, we've come up with a list of the best places in the U.S. for solo travelers — ranging from mountain and beach destinations to small towns and large cities. Time to book your ticket for one, plan your itinerary (or don't, remember, it's your trip!) and answer to no one except yourself for a few days.

Saratoga Springs, New York

This beautiful upstate New York town is a short Amtrak ride from the city, so it's ideal for NYC residents looking for a quick solo escape. Watch a horse race at the historic Saratoga Race Track, jam out at a concert at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center and enjoy the mineral spring baths (where the city gets its name!) at the Saratoga Spa State Park. Oh and don't miss the fabulous dining and shopping up and down Broadway.

Waco, Texas

Ideal for the Fixer Upper fan looking for a low-key getaway, the heart of Chip and Joanna Gaines's Magnolia empire is a fun Texas town that's a short drive from both Austin and Dallas. Stop at Magnolia Market for tasty treats and farmhouse chic shopping. Beyond Magnolia, there's boutique shopping, wine and beer tastings and an impressive nightlife downtown. For more fun, tour the Dr. Pepper Museum, check out the Mammoth National Monument or visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.

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Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

You'll feel like the main character in a storybook in Carmel-by-the-Sea — but in addition to marveling at the fairytale-like village, there's plenty to do. You'll find the famous Pebble Beach golf course, the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and the white-sand Carmel Beach all nearby. Pro tip: Carmel Bakery and The Cottage of Sweets are great treat-yourself stops.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a prime destination for art lovers, as it's home to both the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and the original Meow Wolf (an experimental, immersive art exhibit that doubles as something of a psychedelic escape room). Art galleries, antique stores and craft shops line picturesque downtown Santa Fe, which is also a great place to try New Mexico's famous red and green chiles. Don't forget to book a spa day at the Inn & Spa at Loretto .

Burlington, Vermont

If relaxation is what you crave, Burlington is a bucolic little town with a laid-back atmosphere. Saunter through the lovely Church Street Marketplace, tour the Ben & Jerry's factory, grab a cold drink at a craft brewery or take a cooking class at Essex Resort & Spa (just a short 20-minute drive away). When the weather's warm, partake in all of Lake Champlain's fun — from boating and sunbathing at the beach to hiking along the shore. Or visit during the fall, when the foliage is nothing short of superb.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff has as many activities as a big city, but with a small town vibe. It's close to natural and historical wonders, like the Grand Canyon, Walnut Canyon and the Wupatki National Monument, but you won't need a car to see them — plenty of tour operators are located in Flagstaff. If you're into space, the famous Lowell Observatory — a.k.a. where astronomers first discovered the ex-planet Pluto — is just outside of town. The city's downtown is a destination in its own right, with restaurants and bars to fill your time between adventures in the desert.

Portland, Maine

Ranked one of the 25 safest places to live by U.S. News , Portland is a pristine New England seaside city with beautiful lighthouses, an art museum and opulent Victorian mansions. Stop by any of the waterfront restaurants for the fresh catch of the day, or pop into a local brewpub for a pint.

New York City, New York

Big city energy seekers, this one's for you! Solo travelers will never run out things to do in the city that never sleeps. Visit some of the world's best museums, catch a Broadway show or join the hunt for the "best" slice of pizza or bagel in the city — both matters of some dispute. You'll need the extra carbs to explore the vast city by subway, from Central Park and Battery Park to the hipster enclaves of Brooklyn and the multi-cultural offerings of Queens.

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

The Poconos, a mountainous region in northeastern Pennsylvania filled with ski slopes and charming small towns, is a great option for adventure and relaxation seekers alike. You'll need a car to get around, but driving through the scenery — especially in the fall — is one of the area's highlights. Hit hiking trails, like the one to Bushkill Falls, and stop at local gems, like Callie's Candy Kitchen. If you're seeking relaxation (and a spa) more than action, stay at one of the many resorts in the Poconos, like Skytop Lodge.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is best known for its historic district, filled with beautiful architecture, museums, art galleries and lush green squares — all ideal for solo exploration. Plus, the "Hostess City of the South" is a foodie paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants and cafes serving all sorts of delicious cuisine. But don't forget to make time for Southern food while you're there!

Boise, Idaho

Another one of the U.S.'s 25 safest places to live , Boise is surrounded by mountains, making it a scenic location and hiker's paradise. The city itself has quite a few green spaces, including the Idaho Botanical Garden and Camel's Back Park. On Saturdays from mid-April to mid-December, it hosts the Capital City Public Market, filled with local food and craft vendors. If you happen to visit in late summer, don't miss the magical annual Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic held in Ann Morrison Park.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor is an under-the-radar town perfect for museum lovers, thanks to the University of Michigan. Worth a visit are the institution's Museum of Art, Museum of Natural History and Museum of Archaeology. We also suggest strolling through the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and catching a show at the Hill Auditorium. Off campus, visit the Nickels Arcade for shopping and eats.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

To put it simply, Oklahoma City is an underrated destination. Between its boisterous Bricktown neighborhood, unique Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens and whitewater rafting and kayaking facility, you might be surprised by how much there is to do. For food and accommodations, check out the newly-opened National Hotel, housed in a former bank (psst, there's a cocktail bar in the old vault).

Reno, Nevada

Sure, Las Vegas might get most of the attention in Nevada, but Reno is a more approachable destination for a solo trip. Yes, there are casinos here, but you'll also find impressive art and automobile museums, a lovely rose garden and the Nevada Historical Society. In the winter, skiing is nearby, and in the early fall, Reno hosts the world's largest free hot air balloon event. "The Biggest Little City in the World" certainly lives up to its moniker.

Tampa, Florida

Most travelers are familiar with South Florida's hotspots, but Tampa to the west (also considered one of the safest cities to live in the U.S. ) is rightfully drawing attention. Its most famous attraction is Busch Gardens, but the city has more to offer than roller coasters. Head to the Tampa Riverwalk for waterfront dining, or visit Ybor City for lively nightlife, classic cigar lounges and the original 118-year-old Columbia Restaurant — home to one of the tastiest house salads you'll ever eat and a must-see flamenco show.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville has an impressive range of offerings for all types of interests. Are you a fan of history? There's the Biltmore Estate.Shopper? Head for the Grove Arcade. Hiker? The Blue Ridge Mountains are yours to explore. Art Lover? Stroll through the River Arts District. Oh, and did we mention the local breweries and exceptional Southern comfort food?

Boulder, Colorado

Before you hit the ski slopes or hiking trails (depending on the season), check out the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, filled with quirky shops and tasty eats. You might not expect it, but Boulder is also home to a landmark tea spot called the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse (a solo afternoon tea sounds divine to us), a contemporary art museum and the Shelby American Collection of classic cars.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago may be a big city, but it's easy to navigate on foot — or on the "L" train system. There's no shortage of activities, whether you're interested in taking an architectural history boat tour, visiting the Art Institute of Chicago or Field Museum or taking a selfie with the famous "Bean." This should go without saying, but make sure to take yourself on a deep-dish pizza tour, because you deserve it (and you'll have the whole pie to yourself).

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

If you're interested in hiking part of the Appalachian Trail, hit the region around Harpers Ferry. The visitor center is considered the "psychological midpoint" of the trail, and there are a number of scenic day hikes in the area. The town itself — which boasts small-town charm — is part of the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and has an antique shop (called The Gilded Flea) and a historic candy shop.

South Bend, Indiana

College towns make for perfect weekend getaways for solo travelers, with lively downtowns and impressive museums — and South Bend is no exception. There's a three-story automotive museum, two art museums, a gorgeous neo-Gothic church, the Morris Performing Arts Center and a scenic riverfront park to fill your itinerary. It also has several chocolate shops, the Indiana Whiskey Company for tastings and restaurants serving cuisine from all around the world.

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

Plan an independent getaway to suit your own personal travel style.

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  ]

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

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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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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20 best places to travel alone to and go on a solo adventure

Travel Travel Inspiration Solo Travel Solo Vacation 2022

2021 is finally behind us and things are looking up in the new year. The COVID-19 vaccination drive is in full effect and many countries are opening up their borders to welcome tourists. If you’ve been cooped up at home in the last year and are waiting to explore new places, discover exciting cultures, and have fulfilling experiences that satiate your soul, you finally can! Solo travel is amongst the most satisfying ways to travel to a new place and we have put together an all-inclusive list of the best places to travel alone in 2022.

There’s nothing quite like being by yourself while traveling and exploring new places with no expectations and the stress that comes with planning a trip accommodating different personalities. With this handy list, you’ll learn more about some of the best solo travel destinations and effective insider tips and tricks to planning a solo trip.

Solo Travel Destinations 2022

20 Best Places To Travel Alone In 2022

• Best Places To Travel Alone In 2022 - Asia
• Best Places To Travel Alone In 2022 - Europe

Best Places To Travel Alone In 2022 - Americas

Best places to travel alone in 2022 - africa, best places to travel alone in 2022 - oceania.

• How to choose the best solo travel destination?
• Secret Tips for Solo Vacations
• FAQS about Solo Vacations 2022

Note: All currency exchange data is as of November 11, 2020 from XE Currency Converter .

Best Places To Travel Alone In Asia

Average daily budget.

Solo travel is one of the best ways to experience the astounding and vibrant cultural goldmine that is Japan. From Kanazawa to Kyoto, the country is home to quite a few exciting solo travel destinations that offer a good mix of safety and interesting things to do. Some places in Japan you can plan a solo trip to include Osaka, Matsumoto, Seto Inland Sea, and more. Each of these destinations offers a singularly unique experience designed to enthrall and delight you. From historic Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines to fascinating museums like the Kyoto Rail Museum, Osaka Museum of History, and Kyoto Kyocera Art Museum, Japan’s best solo travel destinations are packed to the brim with remarkable experiences you can enjoy by yourself. Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, another reason why you should plan a solo trip to this fantastic county.

A sovereign country located on the southern slopes of the Himalayas is a solo traveler’s paradise. With abundant natural beauty and welcoming and gentle locals, Nepal is a great place for a solo trip. Your solo trip to Nepal can begin at its capital Kathmandu where you can visit the famous Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Monastery. Bhaktapur and Patan are also both great destinations if you’re looking to explore authentic Nepalese architecture and culture. While in Nepal, you also need to visit Pokhara, home to the magnificent Phewa Lake and a host of water-based activities and adventures. If you’re looking to experience the majesty of Mount Everest, head over to the South Base Camp and embark on the Everest Base Camp trek. Good food, friendly people, and plenty of gems of nature await you in Nepal!

3 South Korea

A fascinating, travel-friendly country, South Korea offers a bouquet of enriching and fun experiences designed for solo travelers. Koreans are extremely friendly people and even if you go to remote parts of the country where locals might not know English, they’ll do your best to help and guide you in any way possible. The cheap public transport and general affordability in terms of food and stay make South Korea the perfect solo travel spot. Some solo travel destinations in South Korea are Seoul , Jeonju, Samcheok, Jeju, Gangeung, Busan, Gapyeong, and Boseong. From tours of the Korean DMZ and visits to quirky coffee shops to Korean cooking classes and stays at Korean Temples, you’ll find plenty of solo-travel friendly experiences waiting for you in beautiful South Korea. You can also visit the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Bukchon Hanok Village, which is located right next to the palace.

One of the best beach destinations in the world, Thailand has a lot more to offer, particularly for solo travelers. The Land of the Smiles is home to beautiful destinations like Ayutthaya and Sukhothai that feature stunning temple ruins, Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai where you can embark on glorious treks and visit colorful hill tribes, and Khao Sok National Park and Erawan National Park where you can witness breathtaking waterfalls and engage with an array of native wildlife. Solo travelers can also visit Kanchanaburi, located on the banks of River Kwai, and get enlightening insights into the county's recent war history. Apart from the many destinations that grace Thailand, the county's food is another reason why it's a must-visit for solo travelers. The street food scene in Bangkok is truly marvelous and you can explore the colorful streets while munching on local delicacies.

Vacation 2022 Guide: Plan Your Perfect Holiday Destination Post-COVID

Pest places to travel alone in 2022 europe.

With a robust train infrastructure and generally acceptable safety levels, Germany has many beautiful destinations perfectly suited for solo travelers. You can visit Hannover for its beautiful churches and museums, visit Martin Luther's hometown in Eisleben, explore the old-world charm and architecture of Munich, experience peak Germany at Berlin with its fabulous art scene and modern landmarks, stroll through wooden parklands at Dresden, and much more. Effectively, there are countless destinations in Germany suited for solo travel and you can do a lot in a week from hiking tall mountains to witness majestic castles to attending thrilling techno parties. Germany also happens to be amongst the more budget-friendly tourist destinations in Europe.

Top Recommended Experiences in Germany

Often ranking high in the list of best solo travel destinations, Iceland is the perfect place to visit on your own. Boasting an intoxicating blend of the adventure associated with the wilds and our peaceful connection with nature. The island destination is home to calming hot springs, waterfalls adorned with rainbows, glorious wild horses, and a general sense of wonder encapsulating everything you set your eyes on. Apart from its many natural treasures, what makes Iceland the perfect solo travel destination is the people. According to numerous reports, Iceland is home to some of the friendliest people in the world and they do great work to offset the cold temperatures with their warmth and kindness. You can also meet loads of fellow solo travelers in Iceland and form genuine connections with like-minded people. Iceland also features a Ring Road which connects to most of the spots in the country, making travel seamless.

Top Recommended Experiences in Iceland

Pints of Guinness, the greenest grass you've ever seen, rolling hills, and breathtaking architecture are some of the elements that define the beautiful country of Ireland. Amongst the best places to travel solo, Ireland offers everything you would want out of a solo trip and more! You'll find a great choice of accommodations in the city for different budgets, a well-developed public transport system featuring both buses and trains, and the iconic pub life that's come to being associated with the country. There are plenty of options for pocket-friendly day trips in Ireland including Wicklow and Glendalough, Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands, Connemara and Kylemore Abbey, and the general Northern Ireland area. What makes Ireland a great destination for your solo trip is the fact that locals are easy to talk to and generally a friendly bunch.

Spain is a great solo travel destination for a variety of reasons. Thanks to its robust transportation system, getting around in the country is easy. And with plenty of visitors heading to Spain throughout the year, you won’t ever be alone, especially if you visit some of the popular cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville . If you’re planning a classic backpacking trip, you can head to the bigger cities in Spain including Barcelona , Valencia, and Madrid , or head over to the southern part of Granada which brings together Moorish architecture and fantastic historic sites boasting a unique culture. If beaches and a killer nightlife are what you’re looking for in your solo trip to Spain, make your way to the Balearic islands. Want to experience the local food of Spain? The northern cities are where you should be for some of the best food in Europe. Apart from being budget-friendly, Spain also boasts a well-connected network of rail and buses.

Top Recommended Experiences in Spain

If you love the outdoors and want a safe and friendly place to travel to by yourself, Canada is the country to be in. In Canada, you can experience a variety of different cultures at once, at any time of the year, making it the go-to destination for solo travel. In Canada, you can visit Banff and Icefields Parkway in Alberta, explore the many lakes of Winnipeg, Manitoba, the cafes and European charm of Montreal, the museums, art galleries, and parks of Ottawa, the breathtaking Killarney Provincial Park in Ontario, the calming and relaxed Sunshine Coast in British Columbia, and many more. Add to it the impossibly friendly people that call the country home and the budget-friendly accommodation and travel options, Canada is the perfect destination for solo travelers.

One of the most popular solo travel-friendly countries in South America, Chile is the perfect destination for a solo adventure. Boasting breathtaking mountains, enormous glaciers, and vast deserts, Chile is a traveler’s paradise and you’ll find plenty of fascinating experiences waiting for you here. It’s not just pretty sights and natural beauty in this country though and Chilean cities are cosmopolitan and vibrant, with the capital Santiago featuring a kicking nightlife and decadent food. Apart from being a generally great place to visit, what makes Chile a great country for solo travel are warm and hospitable people. Some of the places you can visit in Chile as a solo traveler include Torres del Paine National Park, San Pedro de Atacama, Puertos Varas, Easter Island, and Patagonia, and many others. Each of these places offers a unique experience making your trip to the country truly remarkable.

3 Costa Rica

A solo trip to beautiful Costa Rica is the perfect introduction to Latin America and allows you to experience authentic Latin American culture and traditions without any distractions. The country features transportation, accommodation, and tours designed for every type of budget. Costa Rica is believed to be amongst the safest countries for tourists and boasts of sustainable wildlife tourism as well. Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Puerto Viejo, Nosara, and La Fortuna are all solo traveler-friendly destinations in Costa Rica. You can also try whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, head to the Osa Peninsula and venture deep into the beautiful rainforest, and make a stop at San Jose to embark on a fabulous culinary tour. During your solo trip to Costa Rica, you’ll get to explore an exciting variety of locations, including jungle, cloud forests, and beaches, and even volcanoes!

The United States of America is a haven for solo travelers and offers an exciting array of destinations, each one wildly different from the previous. You can visit New York City and experience it in all its glory including the iconic Times Square and Manhattan Bridge! You can also attend an iconic Broadway performance if you’re looking for the authentic New York City experience. Orlando, Florida is another great city for solo travelers in the USA. Home to numerous theme parks and beaches, this sunny city is perfect for you. If you want something cute and quirky, make your way to Portland. From Japanese gardens to bookstores and unique boutiques, Portland will keep you engaged throughout your trip. The USA is home to numerous other cities offering solo traveler-friendly experiences and attractions and with a robust transport network, you can easily travel around the country.

Top Recommended Experiences in USA

Kenya is one of the best countries for solo travelers looking for a safari experience or hitting the coast. The beautiful country is home to some of the most iconic reserves in the world including Masai Mara, Laikipia, and Amboseli. Solo travelers looking for a coastal adventure can visit Malindi for its social and integrated vibe and friendly locals. If you’re hoping to learn more about the diverse culture and traditions of Kenya, head to the Rift Valley and experience authentic Kenyan cultures. Craving some peace and solitude? Explore the little-visited Kenyan coastal town of Kilifi for a fun break away from the crowds that head to Mombasa and Diani. What’s great about a solo trip to Kenya is that even when you travel alone, you’ll find plenty of friendly travelers from around the world willing to share their experiences with you.

An African kingdom founded in the 15th century, Malawi was once part of the Maravi Empire and is located in Africa’s Great Rift Valley. Boasting a diverse terrain, Malawi is long and thin and a majority of the tourist attractions are located around towns and villages on the shores of Lake Malawi. Offering the perfect balance of peace and liveliness, Malawi is amongst the best solo travel destinations in the world. While in Malawi, you can visit Mount Mulanje, officially the highest mountain in Central Africa, Nyika National Park, and Makuzi Beach in Northern Malawi, and the bustling capital city of Lilongwe. If you’re looking for an exciting backpacking experience, you can also visit Mushroom Farm in Livingstonia. Malawi is home to an interesting blend of activities and experiences designed for solo travelers and is quite safe to visit as well.

The crowning jewel of North Africa, Morocco attracts visitors across a wide spectrum. From solo female travelers to families, luxury seekers to budget travelers, the beautiful country brings in travelers of every ilk. Boasting a blend of desert light and beautiful riads, authentic cultural experiences, decadent food, and budget-friendly prices, Morocco is amongst the best solo travel destinations in the world. Marrakech and Fez are the two classic Imperial cities of Morocco and also its most popular tourist destinations. Marrakech features an exciting medley of experiences from the narrow streets of the old medina and the offbeat activities at Djemaa el-Fna to the bars and clubs in Gueliz. Fez is home to the Al-Attarine Madrasa, the Mosque and University of Al Quaraouiyine, the Merenid Tombs, and the legendary Jewish Quarter.

A solo trip to Tanzania is the best way to experience and engage with the rich culture of the country and meet fabulous, like-minded travelers along the way. For solo travelers looking for some solace, Zanzibar, Mafia, and Pemba are some of the best Indian Ocean island options. You can explore the northern region of Tanzania via the expansive safari circuit which is both safe for solo travelers and an engaging and interesting way to explore the country’s beauty. During your solo trip to Tanzania, you can also visit iconic landmarks including Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Safe, affordable, and easy to navigate, Tanzania makes for the perfect solo trip adventure in Africa.

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1 Australia

One of the most visited countries in the world, Australia is a classic tourist destination that attracts everyone from backpackers, world trippers, and everyone in between. From Sydney 's wild nightlife to the marvelous Great Barrier Reef, Australia is packed to the brim with exciting things to do for solo travelers. First-time visitors to Australia, in particular, will enjoy the solo trip experience as it allows them to explore and discover everything that makes the country special without any distractions. Some of the must-visit places during your solo adventure in Australia are Sydney for the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach, Melbourne for its food and culture, Queensland for the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays, Fraser Island, and of course, the iconic Ayers Rock in Uluru. Getting around in Australia is possible with a mix of flying between states and taking the bus for shorter journeys.

Top Recommended Experiences in Australia

Amongst the most breathtaking countries in the South Pacific, Fiji is an archipelago hosting over 330 islands and 540 islets spread over millions of square miles. Boasting luxurious accommodations, a rugged landscape, beaches lined with palm trees, rainforests, exotic coral reefs, clear lagoons, and fascinating culture, Fiji is a great solo travel destination. While the primary islands of Fiji, Vanua Levu, and Viti Levu, offer stunning resorts and hotels, you can head to Yasawa Island, Saweni Beach, Suva, and Coral Coasts if you want more budget-friendly accommodation. If you're planning a solo trip to Fiji, make your way to Beachcomber and Bounty islands in Mamanucas for the perfect experience. If you want to relax on an island by yourself, choose the likes of South Sea Island or Tivua Island.

3 French Polynesia

French Polynesia is an island nation made up of several archipelagos in the glittering South Pacific. The French Polynesia region is divided into many different areas, with each offering a unique reason to visit. Looking for something mountainous and green-heavy? Head to the Marquesas Islands. Want a luxurious break away from the routine? Bora Bora and Tahiti feature stunning overwater bungalows. You can also swim with whales at Moorea and Tahiti and trek glorious mountains at Moorea and the Marquesas. Diving enthusiasts will also find plenty to love in the French Polynesia region. Getting to French Polynesia can be expensive though since the only international airport in the area is Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti.

4 New Zealand

While couples and groups of travelers visit New Zealand for its abundant natural beauty, it's an attractive destination for solo travelers due to being one of the safest countries in the world. New Zealand is smaller and cheaper than Australia, and generally easier to get around. The country is tailor-made for tourists who love adventure and being in the outdoors. If you're hoping to socialize with fellow backpackers during your trip to New Zealand, make your way to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Some of the destinations in New Zealand you must visit during your solo trip are Auckland, The Coromandel, Rotorua, Wellington, Taupo, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Nelson, and many more. New Given its small size, New Zealand features a collection of easy-to-navigate highways and clear road signs ensuring you get around the country without even needing Google Maps!

How to choose the right solo travel destination?

• Keep your budget in mind while picking the place to travel. Make sure it is affordable and something you will look back at without regrets.
• Pick the right seasons when you would want to visit the destination.
• Travelling today is all about putting your safety first. Make sure the destination you pick is safe and open for travellers. Check out our guide on how to travel in 2022 .
• Your interests must align with what the destination has to offer. On the contrary, you might also stumble upon activities that you’ve never experienced before and begin to love it. Either way, keep a tab on what you can do and see in the location.
• Every country has its own rules and regulations. Ensure that you can abide to them before picking your destination to solo travel in 2022.

Best Places To Travel Alone in 2022 - Tips

• Depending on the type of trip you want, you should engage in different levels of planning. For instance, if you like knowing exactly what you’ll be doing during your trip, making the necessary bookings in advance is recommended. But if you’re planning a backpacking trip, you don’t need to plan too much. A general idea of where you’re headed, the transportation, food, and accommodation options available, and any other basic information is all you need.
• For solo trips, packing light is always recommended since you’ll be on your own and will have to carry the luggage by yourself.
• A solo trip doesn’t have to be lonely. Mingle with fellow solo or group travelers you meet along the way and be open to new possibilities and experiences.
• Traveling alone gives you ample time to explore new places in detail. A major aspect of this is getting to interact with locals and learning fascinating details about the place you’re visiting directly from them.
• As a rule of thumb, spend as little time in your hotel room as possible. Go out whenever the opportunity arises and discover local places to eat and shop at.
• When you travel alone, there are certain things you will end up doing by yourself like having meals. Don’t shy away from the experience and if you’re feeling awkward, try asking a local to order for you to start a conversation.
• Guided tours are perfect for solo travelers who don’t have the time to explore new places and attractions at their own pace.
• Carry all the essentials you might need when you’re out and about in a new place. Also, write down the name and address of the hotel you’re staying at and the contact details of your emergency contact.

Best Place To Travel Alone In 2022: FAQs

Where should i go for my first solo trip.

There are numerous places around the world perfectly suited for solo trips. For your first solo trip, you can visit Seville in Spain, Bangkok in Thailand, Paris, Buffalo in New York, Redding in California, Belgium, Tokyo, Siargao in the Philippines, and Coffee Bay in South Africa.

Where can a single woman travel alone?

Some places a single woman can travel alone include French Polynesia, Lombok in Indonesia, Galapagos, Tofo in Mozambique, Sunset Beach in Zanzibar, Tokyo, Reykjavik in Iceland, Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, Hawaii, and many more.

What should I carry along on my solo trip?

Some essentials you need to carry along on your solo trip include a sturdy and comfortable backpack, reusable water tumbler, a multi-purpose knife, first-aid kit, universal adaptor, multi-purpose shoes, cash hidden away in different pockets of your backpack, airtight waterproof bags, an emergency information card, and a couple of padlocks.

Where is the safest place to travel solo in 2022?

Some of the safest places to travel solo in 2022 are Thailand, Nepal, Iceland, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Peru, Australia, Botswana, Canada, Denmark, and Portugal.

Are solo vacations fun?

Yes, solo trips are loads of fun, especially if you’re the kind of person who enjoys their own company. All you need to do is choose a destination that aligns with your travel goals, do a little bit of research, and have a positive attitude about new experiences.

Where can I go alone to relax?

Some of the places you can go alone to relax include Seville in Spain, Costa Rica, Stockholm in Sweden, Belfast in Ireland, The Maldives, Langkawi in Malaysia, Phuket in Thailand, and Casa Palopo in Guatemala.

Where can I go alone for a cultural experience?

Places you can go alone for enriching cultural experiences include Japan, Malaysia, Iceland, Germany, Thailand, California, New Zealand, Peru, Botswana, and Hawaii.

Where can I go alone to try out adventure activities?

Some of the countries you can go to alone to try adventure activities include Brazil, Greece, Spain, Thailand, Portugal, Italy, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Argentina, Australia, Vietnam, and Norway.

What are the best places to travel alone in Europe?

The best places to travel alone in Europe are Amsterdam, Munich, Lake Bled, Tresco, Budapest, Aarhus, Ericeira, Palma de Mallorca, Copenhagen, Vienna, Edinburgh, and Paris.

What are the best places to travel alone in Asia?

The best places to travel alone in Asia include Kuta Lombok in Indonesia, Pai in Thailand, Siem Reap in Cambodia, Tioman Island in Malaysia, Phong Nha Kw Bang in Vietnam, and Gili Air in Indonesia.

What are the best places to travel alone in Africa?

Some of the best places to travel alone in Africa are Northern Senegal, Mauritius, Malawi, Meknes in Morocco, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Sossuvlei in Namibia, and Serengeti in Tanzania.

What are the best places to travel alone in North America?

The best places to travel alone in North America include Orlando, New York City, Portland, San Diego, Austin, Charleston, Washington DC, Seattle, Big Sur in California, Bayfield in Wisconsin, and New Orleans.

What are the best places to travel alone in South America?

Some of the best places to travel alone in South America are Rio de Janeiro, Machu Picchu, Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, Easter Island in Chile, Zona Cafetera in Colombia, and Galapagos Islands in Ecuador.

What are the best places to travel alone in Oceania?

The best places to travel alone in Oceania include Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Bora Bora, Tasmania, Tahiti, Fiji, and the Marshall Islands.

Born and brought up in Bengaluru, Preetha is an introvert living amidst the toil of the metro, chasing her dreams. She is a movie buff, a bibliophile and is fond of old school music. She has an eye for aesthetics and can draw and paint as good as a ten-year-old. She has been passionate about writing since her teen years and is currently exploring herself and the world, one word at a time.

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25 Best Places To Travel Alone In the US – An Epic Bucket List

The US is one of the best destinations in the world for travelling solo . Some of the reasons being – easy to meet travellers, safety is not an issue, and the connectivity is excellent. In this post, globetrotters and travel bloggers have shared  the best places to travel alone in the US  – a mix of cities, each uniquely offering plenty of experiences for solo travelers.

In the United States, you will find megacities encompassing skylines adorned with multi-storeyed buildings coexisting with beautiful national parks, home to abundant wildlife, gorgeous waterfalls, alluring valleys and dense forests, making it one of the most diverse, culturally and historically rich countries in the world. 

From hiking in the spectacular mountains to camping under the stars to road-tripping across the country – there is nothing that you can’t enjoy in this part of America!

So go ahead and get to know more about this beautiful country to add cities to your solo travel bucket list!

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Best Places to Travel Alone in the US

Denver, colorado.

When it comes to solo travel, picking a destination where you feel safe and welcome is paramount. Luckily, many United States destinations fit the bill.

But if you are looking for one of the best places to travel alone in the US that also comes along with a healthy dash of Midwestern friendliness, then a  trip to Denver, Colorado , is an option you must explore.

When it comes to things to do in the “Mile High City” (as Denver is known), there are tons of fantastic options.

Popular attractions in the downtown area include the new and improved  Union Station , Denver’s famous  16th Street Mall , and standing precisely one mile high at the  Colorado Capitol Building . 

Recommended tour: Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Tour from Denver

Colorado is also well known for being an outdoor recreation lover’s dream .

So, if that describes you, then you will love all the incredible hiking trails, mountain biking, skiing/snowboarding, or even getting a workout in at one of Denver’s many city parks .

They are all fantastic activities to do solo, while still allowing you to mingle with like-minded people.

Where to stay in Denver?

As you are planning your trip, a solid hotel recommendation is  The Westin Downtown Denver .

It is located smack dab in the middle of the 16th street mall, is reasonably priced, has an incredible rooftop pool, and is under the reliable Marriott brand.

Or, if you are looking for a more local option,  Courtyard Downtown Denver  is Denver’s original boutique hotel.

– Kara Patterson, Destination Live Life

Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City is one of the best places to travel alone in the US for many reasons. At the top of the list, Utah’s capital is one of the safest cities for solo travelers to wander around alone.

It’s also a picturesque place that sits in a valley surrounded by mountains. The biggest city in Utah has a friendly small-town vibe, and it’s a comfortable place to meet locals. 

Among the  things to do in Salt Lake City  are visiting museums, admiring the unique architecture, and learning about its history which dates back to the first settlers who came in 1847. 

If you love history, the landmarks in Salt Lake City are well preserved. Start at Temple Square , the headquarters for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), which has grand buildings and lovely grounds.

Other unusual things to do in Salt Lake City are skiing or hiking at Park City (20 minutes away), and visiting the quirky Gilgal Garden to see giant body part sculptures and biblical scriptures.

Recommended tours: Salt Lake City Big City Loop Bike Tour

Take an Instagram shot of the “Up” house , which is a replica of the Disney and Pixar movie. For the best view, hike up to Ensign Peak behind the State Capitol building. 

Where to stay in Salt Lake City?

The best place to stay is in the city centre, within walking distance of many of Salt Lake City’s sites. Two hotels are the Hilton Salt Lake City Center and Salt Lake City Marriott City Center .

-Christina Pfeiffer, Travel2Next

Recommended for you – 45 Gorgeous Destinations In Europe For Solo Travel

Mobile, Alabama

The Southern states of the US are famous for their hospitality, and nowhere is that more true than in the charming coastal City of Mobile, Alabama .

It is one of the best places to travel alone in the US as you won’t have any trouble making friends with the locals here because it’s quite common for Mobilians to say hello and even strike up a conversation with strangers they pass on the street.

Mobile is a calmer, quieter alternative to New Orleans and offers many of the same attractions, without so much raucous partying and with significantly less violent crime.

Even though it’s now part of Alabama, Mobile was founded by the French and was the original capital of the French Louisiana Territory.

It means you’ll see similar architecture with beautiful wrought-iron balconies and antebellum mansions built by plantation owners. 

Recommended tour: Evening Food Tour of Old Mobile’s Culinary History

They celebrate Mardi Gras here too! Parades run day and night for about two weeks in the leadup to Fat Tuesday, usually in late February or early March. Then a bit later in March is another local celebration, the Azalea Trail Festival.

Local high school girls dress up as Southern belles and welcome visitors to the City to see the pink and white azalea blooms.

At other times of the year, you can visit the USS Alabama battleship or the historic Fort Condé. And be sure to try the local specialities in  Mobile’s restaurants . 

Where to stay in Mobile?

As for where to stay in Mobile, The Malaga Inn is a beautiful antebellum townhouse in a great location downtown.

-Wendy Werneth, The Nomadic Vegan

Miami, Florida

Arty and cultural Miami in Florida is one of the best cities in the United States for solo travel.

Whether you like street art, food, or relaxing on the beach, there’s plenty to keep you busy in this refreshing and colourful City.

The surrounding neighbourhood of South Beach is perfect for a beach day. Even if you’re alone, it’s safe to leave your belongings on the sand while going for a dip.

Recommended tour: Miami Sightseeing City Tour

For a tasty but cheap eating in the area, head to Sriracha House for delicious Asian food. Afterwards, eat an indulgent rainbow doughnut at Happy Place Donuts.

Other exciting areas in Miami include Little Havana, the most prominent Cuban neighborhood outside of Cuba.

For the  best food in Little Havana , start with a Cuban sandwich at Old Havana Restaurant, then finish with gelato at Azucar Ice Cream.

The other excellent place to check out in Miami is Wynwood Walls .

This area was once run-down but is now one of the city’s most colourful and vibrant parts, with static art galleries to check out and colourful murals all around the neighbourhood.

Recommended: Miami: Little Havana Walking Food Tour with Lunch

Where to stay in Miami?

The best place to stay in Miami for solo travellers is South Beach , in particular, Beds’ n’ Drinks Hostel which, despite the name, is a relaxed place to stay with a beautiful outdoor seating area.

With a hearty breakfast buffet that will keep you full all day, it’s also a good place for meeting other travellers.

– Rose Munday, Where Goes Rose

Honolulu, Hawai

One of the best places to travel alone in the US is Hawaii . With a melting pot of different cultures and nationalities living on the islands and visitors traveling from all around the world, Hawaii is welcoming and really offers Aloha to everyone that visits, including solo travelers. 

The main hub for visitors to the islands is usually Oahu and Honolulu airport – a busy metropolitan area that contains world-famous Waikiki and the lovely beach areas. 

Honolulu is a vast area of the urban oasis and green tropical zones that combine city and cultural treasures, lovely nature, beautiful landscapes and stunning vista points, making it one of the best travelling cities.

There are plenty of  things to do in Honolulu . The City is easily accessible and walkable too.

You can take public transportation everywhere or catch Uber rides to more outlying areas worth visiting, including  Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor . 

Visit the historic district in the downtown area encompassing  Chinatown , museums, the  Lolani Palace , the Capitol building , and other historic sites. 

If you are an outdoors and adventure lover, you can have your choice of Kayaking, Snorkelling , sailing, scuba diving to on-land pursuits like hiking, biking, mountain climbing to more extreme adventure sports.

Recommended tour: Oahu Submarine Scooter Adventure

Foodie lovers can visit farmers markets , food truck venues, food courts, and even fun oceanside bars and beautiful dining venues to choose an international variety of dishes along with favourite local dishes to choose from.

If you want to see the rest of the island with visits to scenic coastlines and views, gorgeous beaches, and western towns with a tropical vibe, rent a car or take a guided circle island tour to get a flavour of the real part of Oahu and the beautiful landscape around the island .

Where to stay in Honolulu?

One of the best areas to stay in Honolulu is Waikiki, which has plenty of hotels and guesthouses in all budget ranges. I’d recommend Marine Surf Waikiki 17th Floor , close to the beach with excellent views.

-Noel Morata, This Hawaii Life

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is a great place to dip your toes in on solo travel in the United States. The city has a vibrant downtown but it’s also a big road trip destination since it’s one of the  major cities on Route 66.  

For solo travelers who love driving alone, OKC is the perfect destination since it’s one of the largest cities in the US by land. 

Make sure to visit the  Lake Hefner Lighthouse ,  Bricktown , and the  Wheeler Ferris Wheel .

A really popular thing to do in OKC during the season is to go to an  Oklahoma City Thunder basketball game  and then go out in Bricktown afterward. 

Other fun but more off-beat things to do in Oklahoma City include heading down to the  Paseo Arts District  or  Automobile Alley  as well as eating at one of the city’s great restaurants in the Asian District.

There are also tons of great OKC Instagram spots you can visit to get gorgeous travel photography, including lots of great views and cute cafes to explore. 

If you love museums, check out the  Oklahoma City Museum of Art  and the  National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum . 

Where to stay in Oklahoma?

Check out The Skirvin Hilton Hotel Oklahoma City , one of the best historic hotels in the city of Oklahoma.

-Stephanie Craig, Oklahoma Wonders

Recommended: 25 Incredible Destinations in South America for Solo Travellers

Phoenix, Arizona

Located in the middle of the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix , AZ is one of the coolest places to travel solo in the United States.

The City has a little bit of everything from delicious eats to picturesque hikes, beautiful architecture and cool art. 

Hiking  is a pastime in the Phoenix area, just remember to start early during the warmer months, and you’ll love it. 

Recommended – 21 WEEKEND TRIPS FROM PHOENIX FOR A FUN HOLIDAY

Papago Park  is known for its Hole in the Rock hike where you can climb the rock; it’s also a great place to view the sunset.

Recommended – 25 Best Beaches In Arizona For a Weekend Getaway

Plus there’s even a fishing pond! If you’re into more strenuous hikes,  Camelback Mountain  also offers a fantastic view of the Phoenix valley. 

Phoenix also has a great art and architecture scene. You’ll find beautifully painted murals throughout the City as well as museums and renowned architecture.

Recommended tour: Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Phoenix

Visit  Taliesin West , once Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and architecture school, today it is still a school, but it’s also a museum for architecture lovers.

You’ll love  spending a few days in Phoenix , and you’ll want to return over and over again. 

As a Southwestern state, Arizona and Phoenix specifically, are well known for their Southwestern cuisine. You’ll find Mexican food everywhere, including tacos, Menudo, Sonoran hot dogs, and so much more. 

Where to stay in Phoenix?

The AC Hotel Phoenix is a fantastic place to stay. The rooms are luxurious for the price. It is so close to Papago Park that you can see it from the pool area!

Constance, The Adventures of Panda Bear

San Diego, California

San Diego is one of the perfect Cities for Solo Travel in the US. Why? It is incredibly safe, and there is a ton of things to do in San Diego.

The crime rate in San Diego is extremely low, despite being such a large city. In most tourist areas, it is no problem to walk around at night and feel safe.

Recommended – 11 Top Places To Watch a Stunning San Diego Sun Rise

I have lived here for many years and here are some of the highlights that you can’t miss: 

Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter:  Just in Downtown San Diego, there is so much to do and explore. If you want to party, go to the  Gaslamp Quarters for fun bars and clubs and some of the best restaurants in San Diego .

If you are interested in museums, head to the countless museums in  Balboa Park  or visit the  USS Midway aircraft carrier . For animal lovers, you can go whale watching. 

Recommended tour: San Diego Harbor Cruise

Beach towns:  The beach towns in San Diego have a very laid back and casual vibe.  Pacific Beach  is the party beach town,  Ocean beach  is famous for its laid back Hippie vibe, and Mission Beach is beautiful for vacation rentals and families. 

Recommended – 15 Beautiful Waterfalls in San Diego You Should Add To Your Itinerary

Where to stay in San Diego?

I would recommend staying Downtown , especially if you don’t have a car. You can explore a lot on foot or use public transport. The ITH Hostel in San Diego Downtown is a great budget-friendly option in a perfect location. 

If you want a hotel, but are still budget-friendly, take a look at the Urban Boutique Hotel , which is just slightly more expensive and also in a great location. 

– Maria Haase,   San Diego Explorer

Recommended: 25 Things to Know Before Your Solo Trip!

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is one of the best cities to travel alone in the US. The Pacific Northwest is an extraordinary region, and Seattle represents that well.

It’s surrounded by mountains and water on all sides with a delicious food scene and outdoor activities in every direction. 

Seattle offers so much to a solo traveller. From food and drinks to outdoor activities and museums. If you’re wondering  what to do in Seattle  besides eat and drink, there’s a lot for you to discover.

Recommended – 29 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SEATTLE AT NIGHT

One must-visit attraction is Seattle’s primary market –  Pike Place Market . It’s catered to tourists but is still a great stop with a diversity of food stalls and vendors throughout the market.

Recommended tour: Premier 3-Hour Seattle City Tour

Another excellent solo trip is heading to the  Museum of Pop Culture . It’s a quirky museum designed to be a tribute to all things pop culture from the past. The museum will bring back some good and cringe-worthy memories. 

If you’re more into true art, then the  Chihuly Garden  and  Glass exhibition  may be more your speed. It’s a display of glass sculptures from artist Dale Chihuly.

The sculptures are all sizes and shapes and will take your breath away. 

Another great idea is to book a ride through Puget Sound  using the Washington State ferry or a private company.

It’s easy to take the ferry to  Bainbridge Island , where the natural wonder of the region is amazing to explore first-hand.

Where to stay in Seattle?

One of the most interesting neighborhoods in Seattle is Capital Hill .

It’s the perfect area to stay if you want to meet other travellers because it’s the center of the City’s nightlife scene and full of coffee shops, boutiques, and eateries. 

The Downtown is full of great hotels, but if you want to be in the middle of it all, State Hotel is close to all the action.

-Derek Hartman, Robe Trotting

San Francisco, California

If you’re longing to visit America but are worried about traveling alone, San Francisco is a great place to start as the lively, vibrant city is a wonderful place that welcomes solo travelers.

The arty, laid-back vibe of San Francisco makes it a safe place to travel, and unlike visiting LA or New York, you’re much more likely to be able to strike up a conversation with someone in a coffee shop or museum!

San Francisco has a whole host of epic tourist attractions which are must-sees –  The Golden Gate Bridge , Fisherman’s Wharf , Alcatraz Island , riding the cable car , Lombard Street , and Chinatown . 

Recommended tour: San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise

There are also some more offbeat attractions such as unique museums and galleries,  the wave organ at the Marina ,  poetry evenings in the City Lights Bookstore , the sculptures along the  Embarcadero boulevard,  and enough quirky coffee shops and restaurants to keep you entertained for years!

Where to stay in San Francisco?

If you’re traveling to San Francisco solo (and want to meet new people), I suggest staying in one of the city’s cool hostels such as Hi San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel in Marina District or the more upmarket FOUND Hotel/Hostel . 

They always have such a range of people (all ages and nationalities) so you’re bound to find someone you connect with, and if you still want your own space then FOUND offers private Superior Queen Rooms too.

Chrysoula Manika, Travel Passionate

Boston, Massachusetts

The Oldest City in America, Boston , has many feathers on its cap.   It is one of the biggest cities in the country, but it is among the most walkable cities – thanks to its large town-like ambience.

Rich in history and many things to offer, Boston is also one of the best places to travel alone in the US. 

Recommended – 40 FUN THINGS TO DO IN BOSTON AT NIGHT

You have plenty of things to do in the City – Be it just gorging on food from local markets, going on a heritage trail, sailing at the waterfront, or just lazing at the park, Boston gives you multiple options to choose. 

If you are a history lover, then  Boston’s freedom trail   is for you.

The trail takes you through prominent landmarks and talks of the American Revolution that took place to throw British colonies out of their land.

Remember the Boston tea party which we studied in our history classes? So you get to see all that. It is a pleasant 3km walk, and the trail is marked by red tiles running around the City. 

A little away from the trail’s end lies the  Prudential Tower , the top of which gives you a 360-degree view of the City. On a clear day, you get to see flights taking off the Boston airport, and other far off islands. 

Recommended tour: Boston Duck Boat Sightseeing City Tour with Cruise Along Charles River

Walk into the  Boston Public Market  to see local producers selling fresh veggies and all kinds of groceries.

And for some good food, walk along the pier and fine dine. Or there is always  Faneuil Hall Marketplace  for a variety of American and Mexican food. 

When in Boston, never forgot to have chunky juicy Lobster, for which Boston is known, and even just a sandwich with it is heavenly. Boston is well connected by the subway and has buses.

Where to stay in Boston?

Some of the best neighbourhoods in Boston are near Back Bay Station, The North End, The South End, Harvard Square, and Brookline, each offering a different experience. In Back Bay, the recommended hostel is Hi Boston Hostel .

If you prefer a single bedroom apartment, Cozy & Stylish Newbury Street Studio, #9 and Stylish Newbury Street Studio, #11 are excellent.

Chittra,  Masala Box

Washington DC

How could you travel to the United States without discovering its famous capital? Washington, DC is so much more than just the White House.

One of the best places to travel alone in the US, the City is full of exciting culture, fascinating history, and breathtaking architecture.

In general, Washington, DC, is a safe and easy-to-discover city and, therefore, perfect for solo travelers.

When I arrived in Washington, DC, I was surprised at how easy it is to walk to many of the City’s attractions. 

When visiting Washington DC , don’t miss the National Mall, which is located in the centre of the City.

You can also discover the  Lincoln Memorial   here. Not only known from Martin Luther King’s famous speech but also in the movie Forest Gump.

Recommended tour: Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour

Also, there are a lot of impressive museums to discover, which cover almost every subject. Many of them are even free of admission.

But a visit to the  Georgetown district  is also worthwhile. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the fantastic view.

You could easily forget that you are actually in the capital of one of the world’s largest countries. In the popular  Park Dumbarton Oaks , you will find plenty of rest.

Where to stay in Washington, DC?

If you are traveling alone as a woman, you can book accommodation near the centre so that you don’t have to rely on public transport.

One of the most popular areas for travellers is the neighbourhood around the National Mall. Some of the recommended places to stay in Washington in this area are Hotel Harrington and Luxury Rentals National Mall DC .

-Vicki Viaja,  Sweet Vida Home

Best Places to travel alone in the US – Offbeat Cities

Milwaukee, wisconsin.

Milwaukee typically is not the first place people think to travel to as it’s often overlooked because of its proximity to the more famous Chicago.

However, it’s actually one of the excellent cities for solo travelers in the US because there are so many things to do, prices are dirt cheap for a major city, and Milwaukeeans are very friendly and welcoming.

Milwaukee is a great solo travel destination, especially if you’re into summer festivals, beer, and friendly locals. 

Recommended: Discover Iconic Milwaukee Tour

While traveling solo in Milwaukee, one thing you’ll want to do is go  brewery hopping .

Milwaukee is known for being built on beer, so check out a bunch of the local breweries. Some recommendations are  Lakefront Brewery for the tour  and Dead Bird for delicious vegan food and beer. 

You should also check out all the festivals if you’re visiting Milwaukee in summer, and go for a walk downtown around the Riverwalk. 

Great day trips from Milwaukee are  Lapham Peak, Madison, and Green Bay  if you’re looking to get out of Milwaukee for a day.

Where to stay in Milwaukee?

If you are traveling solo to Milwaukee and want to stay at a hostel, check out the newly built Cream City Hostel in the eclectic Riverwest neighborhood. It will help you visit the real Milwaukee at a confluence of different neighborhoods. 

If hostels aren’t your thing, go for The Iron Horse Hotel in Walker’s Point, just south of downtown . Both are located in wonderful spots to see the city with plenty to do and see within walking distance. 

Mike and Becca ,  MY Travel BF  

Flagstaff, Arizona

The walkable historic Downtown makes Flagstaff in Arizona one of the best US cities for solo travel. Flagstaff’s proximity to the Great Outdoors pulls those looking for solo outdoor adventure from around the world.

The surrounding  Ponderosa Pine forest —the largest on Earth—can be reached via hiking and mountain biking trails that begin right inside the city limits. 

Recommended – 10 PRETTIEST LAKES NEAR FLAGSTAFF FOR A PICNIC

Besides the  Grand Canyon ,  Wupatki National Monument  (NM),  Sunset Crater  NM, and  Walnut Canyon  NM are within a 30-minute drive from the bustling Downtown. 

Take the  Amtrak train  or  historic Route 66  into the town that earned its stripes in railroading and lumber. Now a lively university town with a tempting foodie scene, the City has an easy-to-navigate airport (FLG).

Recommended tour: Grand Canyon Sunset Tour from Flagstaff

Meetup with other solo travelers at chill places like Nomads Global Lounge or Macy’s European Coffeehouse & Bakery. 

The  Flagstaff Brewery Trail  and mellow live music venues render this mountain town a safe place to meet other international travelers who come to experience Grand Canyon National Park . 

Antelope Canyon, the Navajo Nation ,  and the Instagrammable Horseshoe Bend   are a day trip away.

Where to stay in Flagstaff?

Stay at the new Residence Inn by Marriott right in historic Downtown, so convenient to craft breweries and the Orpheum Theatre’s live concerts.

-Stacey Wittig , Unstoppable Stacey

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh might not have a big reputation as a tourist spot, but recent changes are making ‘The Steel City’ one of the best places to travel alone in the US. The city has gained a reputation for being one of the most livable cities in America. 

Pittsburgh can offer a lot when it comes to travel and photography. What was once purely an industrial town has now blossomed into a fun place to go and visit.

One of the more quirky activities for the solo traveller is the self-guided scavenger hunt .

Work your way through a 15 clue scavenger hunt by yourself or with a team of newly found friends while also exploring the history and sights of Pittsburgh.  

Pittsburgh is set between the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers and where the two rivers intersect the beautiful  Point State Park . The park has walking routes alongside both rivers. 

Recommended tour: Essential Pittsburgh Experience – The One Tour to Take

Across the Allegheny River sits  Heinz Field , home to NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers.

Almost right next to it is PNC Park home of baseball’s Pittsburgh Pirates. Both are among the prettiest sports stadiums in the country

No visit to Pittsburgh would be complete without a trip to one of the cities stunning viewpoints.

The easiest one to reach is  Grandview Overlook  across the Monongahela River. It affords a complete panorama of the whole of the downtown skyline. 

Where to stay in Pittsburgh?

While there a plenty of hotel options within Pittsburgh more affordable options can be found in the township of Moon just outside of the city.  

-Rob, Roam Yonder

Scottsdale, Arizona

One of the best places to travel alone in the United States would have to be Scottsdale, Arizona.

Located just outside Phoenix , there’s almost an endless list of  things to do in Scottsdale , a small but growing city.

With so many museums and guided adventure activities, Scottsdale is a great, safe place to visit as a solo traveler.

Scottsdale is a vast art-centric city with loads of public art, art museums of all types, art “experiences” like Wonderspaces and the Cosanti studio, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site architectural landmark of  Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West . 

Recommended tour: After Dark Desert Tour and Navigating the Night Sky

Additionally, Scottsdale has an extensive network of outdoor preserves with a long list of outdoor activities that would be perfect for solo adventurers:  Kayaking, light hiking trails , guided mountain biking, horseback riding excursions  and so much more.

Where to stay in Scottsdale?

One great place for a solo traveller to stay in Scottsdale would be the Civana Wellness Resort & Spa .

Whether or not you’re into spa life, Civana is excellent for solo travellers because they have an extensive menu of free activities that include guided hikes in nearby deserts, cooking demonstrations, sports and fitness classes, swimming, art classes, and so much more.  

-Ashley Smith,  My Wanderlusty Life

Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman is one of the best places to travel alone in the US. Bozeman is an excellent stop on a Montana road trip or as its destination thanks to the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport.

It is one of the  best places to visit in Montana  due to its city attractions, nearby nature sights, world-class skiing a short drive away, and a friendly vibe that is extended to visitors .

Within the city limits, you’ll find a wide range of things to do, from tastings at craft breweries and distilleries to tasting some of Bozeman’s fine farm to table cuisine to checking out one of the best dinosaur museums in the country:  the Museum of the Rockies.

At night, head to Main Street in downtown Bozeman for some drinks and dancing and the chance to meet some new people or just head to your accommodation for a good night’s rest before waking up early to hit the trails or slopes. 

Recommended tour: Best of Yellowstone Full-Day Private Guided Tour from Bozeman

Solo travelers will find amiable locals to strike up conversations with or the chance to seclude themselves on a remote hiking trail (just bring your bear spray) or while skiing down the slopes at nearby  Big Sky Resort .  

Where to stay in Bozeman?

An excellent option for a place to stay for solo travelers in Bozeman is the Treasure State Hostel , which has both private and shared dorm rooms. 

-Gina Tarnacki, Travel Montana Now

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit is one of the best places to travel alone in the US. The City is an unexpected addition but is a worthy destination for travelers.

Once America’s 5th largest City and widely derided following decades of economic decline is starting to emerge from its dark shadows.

While there remains a long road of progress ahead, a period of mutual investment has seen several of the City’s landmark buildings renovated. A renaissance of this great Michigan city is upon us.

Just a short walk north lies District Detroit, the City’s midtown sports and cultural hub home to all four of Detroit’s major league sports teams and the ornate  Detroit Opera House . Its contemporary and unpretentious bars and restaurants perfect for a refreshment or two.

While Detroit is witness to increased investment and regeneration; it is often the ad hoc  areas of street art and murals  that best reflect a city’s cultural heritage and experiences. Detroit is certainly no exception with colourful paintings spread across the City.

Check out the Eastern Market district or ‘The Belt’  in a former downtown garment district as compelling examples. These are just a fraction of Detroit’s attractions.

Recommended tour: Explore undiscovered beauty of Detroit

For instance, the Motown Museum, the oldest Thanksgiving Parade in the US, its own Pizza and Hot Dog variations, and the addictive feather bowling and you have a city unlike any other.

Just ensure you book your visit before it becomes common knowledge!

Where to stay in Detroit?

Nowhere is this more exemplified than Woodward Avenue in the centre of Detroit where home town watch manufacturer and lifestyle company Shinola has recently opened its first hotel. 

Demonstrating style and quality craftsmanship synonymous with their brand, this has quickly become Detroit’s go-to hotel.

– Paul, The Two That Do

Portland, Oregon

If you want a weird, nature-loving, and trendy experience, Portland, Oregon is one of the best places to travel alone in the US.

Portland is one of the best cities to head to as a solopreneur, considering it’s well below the national average for crime rates compared to other US cities.

While I would personally say that Portland is less of a site-seeing city and more of a town to experience – that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do there! This City’s vibe is off the charts. 

When you first arrive, head over to  Forest Park   – the City’s most prominent. Walk around the miles of trails in beautiful evergreen woods before finishing at the Pittock Mansion for one of the best views of Portland and Mt. Hood. 

When you’ve walked yourself hungry, you can head to any of the great food truck pods (or take a food tour!) around Portland’s trendy neighbourhoods.

The  Pearl District, Mississippi, Hawthorne,  and  Alberta  are all great areas to just walk through and appreciate the weird but awesome (and very different) vibes. 

After this, you can head to the local brewpub for one of the best craft beer scenes you can come across. Also, if you come during the summer, definitely check out the  local farmer’s markets .

Where to stay in Portland?

There are plenty of great accommodation options, but I’d recommend staying in the Pearl District at the McMenamins Crystal Hotel . When you get up the next morning, be sure to walk the three blocks to get your classic Blue Star Doughnuts.

Ashley, Impact Winder

Bayfield, Wisconsin

A town in Northern Wisconsin that is often overseen is Bayfield, which is one of the best places to travel alone in the US.

Bayfield is the gateway to one of the most scenic National Parks in Wisconsin:  the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore .

Also, home to  Madeline Island  and the  Apostle Islands , Bayfield is known as the crown jewel of the Bayfield Peninsula. Bayfield is thus mostly a city for solo travel if you are an outdoor lover.

From here you can set out and explore the beaches of the area, discover the sea caves, rent a kayak or do one of the endless hikes. The City is entirely safe, and thus it’s perfect for solo travelers.

Other things to do here are camping, fishing, visiting pristine orchards and fine dining. No wonder that visiting Bayfield is often considered as one of the  best things to do in Northern Wisconsin .

Don’t forget to do a city walk through Bayfield and fall in love with the historic character of the town. A number are listed on the National Register of historical sites.

Where to stay in Bayfield?

There are plenty of excellent places to choose from in Bayfield. Some of the recommended options are Old Rittenhouse Inn and Pinehurst Inn Bed & Breakfast .

-Paulina, Paulina on the Road

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS IN BOULDER, COLORADO

If you love adventure, one of the best places to travel alone in the US is Boulder, located in the beautiful state of Colorado.

We discovered Boulder on our  Colorado road trip , and it quickly made an impression on us as a hip mountain town with lots of things to do.

Do you know? Boulder is also the home of over 45,000 acres of  designated trails, perfect for hiking or cycling . Just a short while away is the iconic  Rocky Mountain National Park, perfect for Ziplining   and many ski hills.

You could spend a lifetime exploring the mountainous regions around Boulder – it’s truly a one-of-a-kind area.

It is one of the best places for solo travelers in the USA as they can enjoy the plethora of tours Boulder has to offer , the abundance of entertainment options, great hiking, and shopping.

Pearl Street Mall  is where the centre of the action happens in Boulder. It is a hub of restaurants, shops, and street performers.

If you are visiting Boulder for the first time, I highly recommend joining this private guided tour of the highlights of Boulder , where a local expert will show you the best of the city, including Pearl Street Mall, Hotel Boulderado, and Boulder Theater.

Tours of the craft beer scene often descend on the Pearl Street Mall and are a great way for solo travelers to meet other visitors.

Where to stay in Boulder?

We stayed in an RV while exploring Boulder but can suggest Briar Rose Bed & Breakfast for their sustainable practices and great value if you are looking for a low-key place to stay.

Oksana & Max, Drink Tea & Travel

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville in North Carolina is one of the best places to travel alone in the US. Downtown Asheville is busy, arty and bourgeois bohemian.

Pedestrians bump against each other along narrow sidewalks past fair-trade and organic clothing boutiques, crowded cafes, a Three Dog Bakery, and street performers including the ‘World’s Most Okayist’ poet.

The printed page beckons at the  Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar  – three levels of towering stacks, a coffee counter, cheeseboards at tables among the books, and brunch on the patio. 

Dog friendly too. Want to see it all without walking? Greyline Trolley Tours offers a hop-on-hop-off 75-minute round-trip tour of Asheville . 

Recommended tour: Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour

Downtown is cool, but the crowning jewel at Asheville’s edge is the  Biltmore Estates , a six-story castle, built in 1895 by George Vanderbilt. It took six years to construct.

With indoor plumbing, electricity, heating and 43 bathrooms (all unheard of at the time), it was the most technologically advanced house in the country.

Biltmore Estates isn’t only a historic house – it’s a destination. Property around the house is massive: acres of gardens, riding trails (yes, horses on-site), a tourist village with shops and taverns.

Two hotels and a winery complete this entrepreneurial endeavour. In the 1930s, the Vanderbilt family opened the property to visitors (to finance the upkeep), and it’s still owned by family members living somewhere onsite.

Where to stay in Asheville?

One of the best places to stay in Asheville would be Red Roof Inn Asheville West located conveniently.

Sherri Telenko, Dogtrotting

Moab is a city in southern Utah full of adventure and perfect for the nature lover or adrenaline junkie.

It is also one of the best places to travel alone in the US as the City is small, and even a great base to explore the nearby national parks.

One of the best things to do around Moab is to go hiking.

There are hikes in Moab that are outside the national parks (and free) or you can go hiking in  Arches National Park  which is about 10 minutes away or hike in  Canyonlands National Park  which is about 30 minutes away.

This part of Utah has some fantastic scenery, and the best way to see it is to get outside and go for a hike.

Also, visit Corona Arch, which is right outside of Arches.

This hike is a three-mile round trip hike on a trail that also visits Pinto Arch and Bowtie Arch. Corona Arch is impressive standing 105 feet tall and 140 feet wide.

Where to stay in Moab?

You’ll need at least a few nights in Moab to explore which is great because there is a  Moab accommodation  for all budget points.

Some of the recommended options to stay are Castle Valley Inn and Comfort Suites Moab near Arches National Park .

-Nicole, American SW Obessed

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is one of the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

With excellent weather year-round, unique local attractions and fantastic restaurants; you’ll have plenty of options to keep you entertained during your visit. 

Palm Springs is known for its midcentury modern architecture which you will see on prominent display throughout the City.

From the shops and motels along  Palm Canyon Drive  to the apartments and houses in local neighbourhoods, you’ll find the City’s iconic modern architecture around every corner.

If you’d like to experience something unique, Palm Springs, sign up for one of the City’s many architecture tours. You’ll learn all about how Palm Springs became the mecca of modern. 

Palm Springs is also widely known as a destination for shopping.

There are both modern and vintage style boutiques all over the City. If you’re looking to support local artists and designers, head to The Shops at Thirteen Forty-Five found on Palm Canyon Drive, where you’ll find independent and locally owned art galleries, clothing shops, and interior design studios. 

Where to stay in Palm Springs?

If you’re a solo traveler in Palm Springs and looking to socialize or make friends, head down to the pool at your hotel, pool parties are a big thing in Palm Springs, especially if you stay at one of the trendier hotels.

For an especially good time, consider staying at The Saguaro Palm Springs .

The hotel is beautifully decorated, but even more important; it also has a fantastic restaurant and a poolside bar. 

So that’s about the best places to travel alone in the US! Have you visited any of these? Do you have any more recommendations for best US cities for solo travel, or National Parks? Do let us know in the comments below!

-Eden,  Rock a Little Travel

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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.

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

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Home » Budget Travel » 10 BEST Places to Travel Alone (Why You NEED to go NOW!) 2024

10 BEST Places to Travel Alone (Why You NEED to go NOW!) 2024

When life has been grating on your very last nerve, and you need a little freedom, it’s time for some solo travel.

Free from the clutter of responsibilities, schedules, and spreadsheets, it’ll just be you and an epic swathe of wilderness.

Or perhaps it will be you and a steaming pile of delectable dumplings. Or you in the midst of an epic, thumping underground party.

Wherever you choose to travel alone, there’ll be unbridled freedom and personal growth.

How do I know? Because that’s what I gained from travelling alone. The freedom to make my choices and the responsibility of the consequences of those choices.

Throw out the misconception that you need a travel buddy, and unlock the joy of designing your own itinerary!

I’ve put together some destination inspiration for you in this article – just try and stop yourself from booking a one-way ticket at the end.

Without further ado, here are the top 10 best places in the world to travel alone.

10 Best Places in the World to Travel Alone

Staying safe while travelling alone, final thoughts on solo travel.

Travelling alone may be as simple as a quick vacation. You may just need a little time to travel without your phone and connect with nature again.

To this end, a long stretch of beach and a crisp gin and tonic might be just what you’re after. It’s important to honour the need to take a time out. Hustle hard, sure, but take care of yourself too!

Often an extended solo trip comes with the burning need to push your limits – to write your own manifesto . Perhaps you’ve had no choice but to rethink everything you ever thought to be true. Perhaps the only way you can untangle the dumpster fire of emotions is by hitting the road and letting life happen.

More than likely, it’s somewhere in between. Good travel rejuvenates us and challenges us. A bit of yin and a bit of yang. Travelling alone is a surefire way to get a bit of both! There are no compromising schedules with your travel buddy who sleeps in – so yay, freedom.

But there is also no shoulder to cry on when the travel is confronting.

Through it all, we learn a lot. So buckle up folks.

We’re taking a look at the best places in the world to travel alone !

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#1 Mexico City The Best Place to Travel Alone in the World

Mexico City might just be my favourite place in the world, period. It is one of the best places in the world to travel to AND also the best place in the world to travel to alone . It is the perfect combination of exhilarating and reflective – and has bomb-ass tacos to boot.

If you go seeking some company, Mexico City answers with an epic Couchsurfing scene and amazing hostels . And you’re never really alone in this great city. There are too many markets, curious locals, and sneaky mescal bars for that!

Backpacking Mexico is a whirlwind. One minute it’s lazing about on a sunny Yucatan beach and the next it’s driving past unmarked graves.

Mexico City is a microcosm of the country. The streets are awash with colour and passion in true Latino style. But if you go looking, there will be some heartbreaking history amongst its alleyways.

Mexico City stands in the shadow of the great Aztec Empire’s capital. There are hundreds of years of history and the ghosts of Empires past to keep you company in your solo wanderings too.

While you’re here, be sure to check out the National Museum. The stories of the last ten thousand years are displayed here – and that is certainly something to reflect on.

#2 New York City The Best Place to Travel Alone in the USA

Ah, the city that never sleeps: New York City stands out as a great destination to travel alone to in the USA .

If you want to become an anonymous observer, New Yorkers certainly won’t stop you. You can reflect in a ritzy coffee shop, or people watch on the subway. There is something to be said for speaking less and observing more .

On the other end of the spectrum – if you want to be noticed by New Yorkers – all you have to do is talk a little shit! And nowhere is it easier than in one of the many comedy clubs. Sure, there are extortionate drink prices, but there are also potential new travel buddies packed into the cellar!

And once you get partying with a New Yorker, you won’t be exactly sure how, but suddenly it will be sunrise. You’re mostly sure that you remember your name… Soon, you won’t have a choice but to be quietly hungover on the subway, once again observing the city.

One way or another, you’ll make it back to one of New York’s epic hostels , surely…

I think something that the best cities to solo travel to have in common is a buzzing and dynamic energy . You can choose to throw yourself into Times Square, the Brooklyn Flea Market, or secret New York bars. You get to indulge in the freedom that comes with travelling alone.

New York is perfect to travel alone in because it is at once easy to be part of the scenery, and easy enough to join the same scene.

#3 South Island, New Zealand The Best Place to Travel Alone as a Woman

I think everyone should travel alone. I love to travel alone. And, I have to admit that I love it even more because people love to tell women that they can’t travel alone. Bah! Hogwash.

Luckily, New Zealand is an easy country for badass solo female travellers .

Kiwis love hard workers and a good joke. They will go out of their way to make you feel at home in their little slice of paradise.

Once you start making friends in New Zealand, you will have friends of friends inviting you to stay up and down the country. Kiwis are just good like that. Besides, backpacking here has become a right of passage by so many that, no matter where you stay in New Zealand , no one is going to question your pursuit of a solo adventure.

It’s also wild . For that true Into the Wilderness type of solo travel, the South Island of New Zealand is the place.

Hobbits literally made their home out of the New Zealand landscape, and so will the aspiring solo traveller. There are rolling hills that give way into epic snow-capped peaks. There are rocks to climb, waves to surf, and whales to spot.

When you left home to travel alone, you needed the space to think. Well, there’s nothing like the sparsely populated South Island shores to get the mind turning over.

Also, nothing gains an outdoors-loving Kiwi’s respect like good handling of a manual 4WD. So while you are gallivanting about the mountainous South Island on an incredible NZ road trip , be sure to show off your new car handling skills. 😉

#4 Portugal The Best Place to Travel Alone in Europe

What are some top reasons for travelling alone?

• Swim naked in the ocean (feel wild)
• Drink red wine and make eyes with the bartender (feel desired)
• Change your mind at the last minute (feel free)

Portugal is the traveller’s answer to the travelling alone in Europe request.

There is close to 2000 kilometres of stunning coastline that hugs the untamed Atlantic Ocean. There are so many incredible places to stay in Portugal ! You can nudie swim at designated beaches – but this is Europe where the nudity is natural and not only to be seen in TV commercials.

Portugal’s wine needs little introduction. And neither do its steamy locals. 😉 It may become a question of who makes eyes first – you or the bartender?

When you do go out that evening, will it be for petiscos and fado ? Or will it be a visit to a secluded and ruined castle atop a picturesque cliff?

Either way, you could be adding a sex on the road story to your arsenal…

Many people living the boat life make Portugal their last stop before an Atlantic crossing. You may have had grand plans to continue backpacking Europe, but you aren’t sticking to your friend’s itinerary. You’re free.

Perhaps you will become a crew member on a sailboat and wash up in the Caribbean instead…

#5 Bolivia The Best Place to Travel Alone On a Gap Year

South America is a lively and dramatic place to take a gap year. There are many highlights associated with travelling alone to tick off your list here: you can learn a new travel language , see some scenery that makes you believe in the Divine again, and eat your weight in local delicacies.

Bolivia is a good place to learn Spanish as its accent is easier to understand than other Latin American countries. Bolivia also has the highest percentage of Indigenous peoples as part of its population. You can learn, not only Spanish but Quechua or Guarani too.

Hey, Bolivia is a little rough around the edges, but she always has you coming back for more. If you’re in need of something to grab you by the scruff of the neck and say, “HEY, life is exciting, make the most of it!” Then, Bolivia is where you need to be.

One of the highlights of your trip here definitely could be the Salt Lakes . They are so spectacular, it made me believe in a higher power again. You’ll be putting your camera on a timer to get that perfect shot where the sky and the earth become one.

Trekking in Bolivia is another highlight for the solo traveller. With some trusty hiking boots , you can have the best views of the country.

When you do come down from the mountains, an epic destination awaits you! There is a good balance between true solitude and meeting people here.

And of course, I’d be remiss to mention Bolivia without raving about the Chicharron. Mmmmmm, get in ma belly!

#6 Ireland Best Place to Travel Alone to For The First Time

If you want to ease into travelling alone, Ireland is the place for you.

Sure, it’s got the windswept coastlines and abandoned castled to trigger some introspection. But it’s also got Guinness, friendly locals, and Guinness. Did I mention Guinness?

Ooh, and whiskey! How could I forget?

Well, I guess it’s easy to lose track in between all the fun you can have here. I did make it back to a great Irish hostel , but I’m not exactly sure how. Delivered by the leprechaun, perhaps?

The Irish are famously funny, and all it will take to make a new best friend is to sit down and have a good ol’ fashioned pub session. Be sure to say “your man” a lot, and don’t mention the English. Unless it’s to say, f**k the English .

Irish is one of the roots of Australian English and it can be just as difficult to understand to the uninitiated. Once you understand the craic , you’ll be good to go.

Ireland is no longer going through “The Troubles”. It is a fairly safe country – one of the reasons it makes for a good first place to travel alone. So long as no one mentions the English, and you pay heed to the usual solo travel precautions , you’re in for a right laugh in Ireland!

#7 Vietnam Best Place to Travel Alone for Good Food

For the solo traveller looking for a culinary experience like no other – they need to look no further than Vietnam.

The bitter, sour, spicy (or the fire, metal, water flavours, as they are known in Vietnam) are considered in every bowl of noodles. They got some fine quality French-style bread. And when you get French bread filled with Vietnamese sauces and meats, you get the famous Banh Mi.

There are the equally famous pho noodles to try. But there are stranger and far more delicious delicacies to be found in every alleyway. There are fetal duck eggs, turtle soup, grilled pork, and noodles in every kind of way.

Vietnam is a good budget destination that will alight all your senses from the moment you arrive. You’ll sweat – from the chilli or humidity, it’s anyone’s guess – and smell the traffic and the roast beef everywhere you go. Wherever you decide to stay in Vietnam , you will find a satisfying dish.

My advice to eating in Vietnam? If it looks good, buy two .

My second piece of advice? If the plastic chairs look like they were designed for children, the food is going to be amazing here.

I am not a large person, and yet I still struggled to fit my big, Westerner butt into the small restaurant chairs. And once I was in, I became so sweaty that it was a struggle not to bring the chair with me to the next restaurant.

But, the more comfortable the seating, the less tasty the food. This is the price we pay for truly delicious broth.

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#8 Hokkaido, Japan Most Unique Place to Travel Alone

The most northern island of Japan – Hokkaido – is probably not the first place you think of when you think of where to stay in Japan .

However, this is the most unique place to travel alone .

It is known as the Kingdom of Food due to its high-quality seafood and incredible markets. If you dreamed of a place that delivers incredible oysters, squid, and crab year round – you would find yourself where the cold northern Pacific meets the Sea of Japan.

When you’re done stuffing your face with good food, it is time for a hike in an otherworldly landscape. In the winter, there are some amazing mountain trails to tackle.

In the autumn, the rivers are incredible bird-watching spots. You can kayak all the way down the river system to the Pacific Ocean!

The Ainu people have finally been recognised by the Japanese government as the Indigenous people of Japan . Their culture is felt most strongly on Hokkaido – the last holdout of their language.

It is bittersweet to meet people who have endured colonial oppression. On the one hand, joy is an act of resistance . It’s special to be able to learn from those who are left. On the other, there will always be sadness for what is lost.

Hokkaido remains a complicated and beautiful place to travel to alone.

#9 Amsterdam Best Place to Travel Alone to PARTY

Yes, there is so much more to backpacking the Netherlands than making acquaintance with some suspicious substance and wondering what exactly you were meant to be saying. There are world-class art galleries, fine dining, and even some very easy hitchhiking to do.

Drugs are still illegal and – by design – modify your brain chemistry. Know your limits, drink some water, and look after each other!

But, Amsterdam lives up to its epic party reputation! You don’t need to come here with a group to enjoy a good night out. If you are looking for live music, recycled furniture, and hipster beers that sound like the name of a strange family pet – then head to De Pijp .

This district is also famous for the coffeeshops in which lighting a fat doobie is standard practice. Noice. 😉

Most clubs are open until 3 am on weekdays and 4 am on the weekends. That means, no matter what day of the week you clamber into the Amsterdam rabbit hole, you’re in for a good time.

Choosing the best place to stay in Amsterdam will also add to your party experience. You can meet your new drinking buddies in the common room and party hard knowing you’ve got a bed to come back to!

#10 Shiva’s Holy Trinity (Sri Lanka, Nepal & India) Best Place to Travel Alone to Challenge Yourself

Travelling alone can bring up a lot. You’re alone with your thoughts after all.

You also trade security for freedom when you travel solo. So no one would blame you for sticking to a country where you blend in with the crowd.

BUT if you want to push yourself to the edge of your comfort zone then look no further than backpacking Shiva’s Holy Trinity .

You can ease into the water of South Asian goodness in Sri Lanka. There are enough green smoothies and easy-going surfers to allow a level of comfort. The best hostels in Sri Lanka are overflowing with cool people.

However, there are still lessons in haggling, negotiating traffic madness, and cultural differences.

When you’re ready to turn up the volume on the South Asian experience – head to Nepal . Rumour has it there are still communists hanging out in the jungles here…

The buses run a little later here and tend to cram eighteen more people than is comfortable in them. Who knows how much something should really cost and there is no such thing as an unpotholed road.

Just when you think you’ve got the hang of the head wobbling locals, the scruffy tab tripping ex-pats, and street begging response edict down, go to India.

Anyone who has been backpacking in India will have a complicated relationship with the country. It can be exhausting. Maddening. Devastating. If you’re not careful, India is the place that leads to travel burnout .

And yet it remains – for so many of us – the place that transformed us.

Wherever you end up, there is chai.

When you travel alone, it’s just you. That safety net of having someone else to rely on to get help if you need it urgently isn’t there.

This doesn’t mean you don’t take on the greatest adventures in the world – but it does help to be a little prepared, especially if you’re planning to go solo travelling in Mexico and the like. One way you can stay prepared is by taking out some insurance before you leave.

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.

There is no need to idly scroll through Instagram and dream about your next trip away. It is time to book that ticket and hit the road! You are guaranteed a life-changing experience when you travel alone.

It will likely be the most terrifying thing you ever do, and yet the most rewarding. You won’t know what ghosts are lurking within yourself – or how to get rid of them – until you spend some time travelling solo.

And when you’re done with the introspective mountain tops, when you are done putting yourself through the chaos of Mumbai, a change of pace awaits. Without consulting anyone else, you are free to change the direction of your travels.

How does a glass of wine atop a cliff at sunset sound?

Delightful, I tell you.

The only thing standing between you and your dreamy solo trip is yourself. So do it! Go explore the best places to travel alone!

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!

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Single Travel: Essential Tips for Planning a Solo Trip

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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People who have never traveled alone often describe their first solo trip as an almost religious experience. To take in new surroundings unfiltered by the prejudices, tastes, or preferences of a traveling companion can be heady stuff. Solo travel gives you the chance to indulge yourself fully.

Of course, traveling alone has its perils too—such as safety concerns, loneliness, and the dreaded single supplement. But a little preparation and common sense can save you money and get you through the rough spots.

Why Travel Alone?

How to travel alone safely, how to travel alone as a woman, avoiding the single supplement, tips for solo dining.

• When You’ve Had Enough of Solo Travel

The Best Solo Travel Websites

Solo travel can be the ultimate in self-indulgence; you can rest when you want and pour it on when you’re feeling ambitious. Another benefit is that your mistakes are your own, and your triumphs all the more exciting. There’s no worrying that your insistence on trekking all the way across town to a museum that was closed ruined your partner’s day; it’s your own day to salvage or chalk up to a learning experience.

Also, you can do exactly what you want to do—all the time. Always wanted to try surfing? Sign up for a class and go for it; there’s no one sitting on the beach feeling bored while you have the time of your life. Have no desire to see Niagara Falls? Just drive right by. For more benefits of solo travel, see 11 Reasons Why You Should Travel Alone at Least Once .

The 13 Best Places to Travel Alone

It’s perhaps the foremost question of the solo or single traveler: “Is solo travel safe?” Without a companion to watch your back, you are more vulnerable to criminals and scam artists, as well as simple health worries. But the saying “safety in numbers” isn’t always true—a solo traveler can blend in more easily than a group, and not drawing attention to yourself as a tourist is one way to stay secure.

Here are a few safety tips for traveling alone:

Do your homework before you arrive. Know how long it takes and how much it costs to get from the airport to your hotel or to the city center. Solo travelers are more likely to be “taken for a ride,” so ask the taxi driver for an estimated fare before you leave. If it’s considerably different from what you know to be true, take a different cab (or opt for a rideshare instead).

Choose the right accommodations. Book a hotel with a 24-hour front desk if you’ll be arriving late, so you don’t end up sleeping in your car or worse.

Trust yourself. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

Carry good identification —in more than one place. If you choose to wear a money belt , use it for storage and not as a purse. Constantly reaching under your shirt for money draws attention to it and defeats the purpose. Instead, keep your passport, extra stores of money, and other important documents tucked away, and use a theft-resistant bag or purse for carrying daily spending money.

Stick to open and public places , especially at night.

Exude confidence. Whether you’re on a street at home or 7,000 miles away, walking confidently and with direction is an effective technique for deterring unwanted attention, since appearing lost or confused can make you vulnerable. If you are lost, walk into a shop or restaurant and ask for directions there.

Avoid appearing like a tourist. Ditch the Disney T-shirt and don’t walk around with your face in a guidebook. (See 10 Things Not to Wear Abroad for more thoughts on this one.)

Leave valuables at home. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothes or jewelry.

Lie a little. When asking for directions, don’t let on that you are alone: “Can you direct me to the museum? I have to meet a friend.”

Check your maps and transportation schedules before leaving your hotel/train/rental car/tourist office. A solo traveler who’s too absorbed in their phone can be a mark for unsavory types.

Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home, and stay in touch regularly via phone, text, video chat, or email.

Register with the State Department. For U.S. citizens traveling internationally, consider signing up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , which could help the State Department assist you in case of emergency. If you’re from outside the States, see if your home country has a similar program.

Arrive during the day. Areas around bus and train stations can be scary and/or deserted, and small towns tend to shut down early. Veteran solo traveler Mara Rothman of San Francisco notes that plenty of beautiful towns can appear eerie at night, and locals who are genuinely trying to help you can appear unnecessarily threatening. Arriving during the day means you’ll be able to find a place to stay and get your bearings before dark.

Trust everyone and no one. One of the best reasons to travel alone is to meet new people, but this also makes you more vulnerable. It’s okay to hang out, travel, and share with new friends, but you might not want to ask them to hold your money. Scam artists can often be the most charming companions you’ll find; you want to be open-minded, but keep your guard up enough to ensure your safety.

10 Travel Safety Mishaps (and How to Avoid Them)

Though some tips apply to just about every solo traveler, women traveling alone have their own set of safety concerns that most men don’t have to face. Here are a few tips to help you protect yourself.

Exercise hotel safety. At check-in, consider asking for a room near the elevator so you won’t need to walk down long, potentially ill-lit hallways to reach your room. When filling out guest registration forms, consider using your first initial instead of your name, and skip the “Mrs./Miss/Mr.” check box. Additionally, make sure the clerk writes down your room number instead of saying it out loud. This will prevent anyone in the vicinity from knowing where to find you later. Consider packing a door stop to wedge under the door in case the lock is unreliable.

Dress to blend in. To avoid attracting unwanted attention, dress as conservatively as the women you see around you. This doesn’t necessarily mean donning the traditional dress, but a good rule of thumb is to dress modestly. Think knee-length or longer skirts. Bare arms, shoulders, and legs are considered risqué in some countries, so do the research before you go and once you’re there. Note which body parts the local women cover and do the same.

Know when to buddy up. Seeking out company can help you have a safer and more enjoyable experience. Smaller hotels and hostels are great places to find like-minded travelers to explore new places with. And even when you can’t find someone to buddy up with, there are often ways to associate yourself with others so you’ll be less likely to be bothered. In some countries, there are women-only sections in trains and women’s waiting rooms at train stations. Sticking close to families on public transportation and in unfamiliar public markets is another technique some women use.

Combat harassment. Having a repertoire of harassment deterrents can be as important to women travelers as a sturdy pair of shoes and a passport. Not engaging with people who are bothering you can make you a less interesting target. If you want to avoid being approached during lulls in activity, such as while waiting for a train, carry a novel or keep your eyes on your phone to make yourself look busy and involved.

If a situation of harassment escalates, making a scene can sometimes be effective. Many societies place a high premium on respecting social norms, so drawing attention to harassment in a loud and clear manner may solve the problem. The sentence for “leave me alone” is a handy one to learn in the language of your destination.

What is the Safest Hotel Floor to Stay On?

Frequent solo travelers are all too familiar with the single supplement, which tour operators and cruise lines often tack onto your bill to make up for the fact that they’re not making money off a second occupant. The supplement can range anywhere from 25 to 100 percent of the trip cost, meaning that you could end up paying twice as much as someone traveling with a partner.

There are several ways to get around the single supplement. You can avoid it altogether by booking with a tour operator that doesn’t charge single supplements on most trips, such as Overseas Adventure Travel .

Many other tour operators, including G Adventures , Intrepid Travel , Exodus Travels , REI Adventures , Adventure Women , and Road Scholar , offer roommate matching. By finding you a roommate, the company maximizes its own profit off each room and saves you the single supplement. The catch is, of course, that you’ll have to share a room with a stranger. If you’re concerned, contact the tour operator and see what kind of procedures it uses to match roommates. Some pair people off at random, while others will try to put travelers of similar ages together.

Several cruise lines offer single staterooms on select ships, including Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line , Cunard , and P&O Cruises .

You can sometimes save money by booking at the last minute. Tour operators eager to sell out their last few places may be willing to reduce their usual single supplement. Insight Vacations and Road Scholar are two companies that regularly discount or waive single supplements.

It’s not for everyone, but you may also want to consider staying in a hostel, which charges per bed rather than per room. Hostelling International properties tend to be reliably clean and secure, and they’re open to travelers of all ages. You can find more hostels and read reviews at HostelWorld.com .

3 Ways for Solo Travelers to Avoid Single Supplements

Eating alone isn’t so bad. Many solo travelers (and frequent business travelers) hate dining by themselves, worried that they appear like some worn-out Willy Loman of the road. There’s even a name for it: solomangarephobia. (Occasionally the fear is justified—see Terror at the Table for One .) The following tips can help you overcome what for many travelers is the most unpleasant aspect of going it alone.

Chat with the service people. Waiters and waitresses are some of the best local color you’ll find.

Choose the right eatery. Cafe or outdoor dining is often attractive to single travelers; sitting alone with a book in a cafe isn’t as unusual as a table for one at a fancy restaurant. You can also opt for a counter seat or a seat at the bar. A restaurant booth can also provide some privacy.

Bring reading material. If you start to feel uneasy sitting alone and staring down at your food, you can crack open a book, whip out your phone, or read a magazine.

Eat in. If you don’t want to endure yet another public meal alone, use room service or order carry-out from a restaurant nearby.

Eat well. Just because you’re alone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take time for sit-down meals, a leisurely cup of coffee, or a decadent dessert.

When You’ve Had Enough of Single Travel

The constant sensory input and vigilance of traveling alone can wear you down. If you feel your attention or your body flagging, don’t be afraid to back off your ambitious itinerary, slow the pace, and kick back for a bit.

When traveling abroad, seek out an expat bar—locals will often know where these are—where you can hang out and speak your native tongue with some fellow expatriates and travelers. When traveling in more familiar locales, a hot shower and a night in front of the tube in a nice hotel room can often give you enough of a reprieve to send you out eagerly the next morning.

How to Meet Other People When You’re Traveling Solo

Best Single Travel offers vacations, cruises, and weekend getaways for solo travelers of all ages.

Flash Pack leads small-group trips of single travelers in their 30s and 40s.

GAFFL , which stands for “Get a Friend for Life,” lets you find travel buddies to meet up with in your destination.

Intrepid Travel has dedicated solo trips as well as a roommate-matching program on the rest of its offerings, so you never have to pay a solo supplement if you don’t want to.

One Traveller is a U.K.-based company leading trips for the “mature single traveller” (aged 50+) to destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Singles Travel International offers trips for solo travelers with an average age 50+. If the company can’t find you a roommate by the time you make your final payment, you can have a room to yourself for free.

Solos is a U.K.-based company offering a wide variety of solo-only trips around the globe.

Solo Traveler offers tips, resources, and destination guides for solo travelers.

Women on the Road offers tips and advice for women traveling alone.

Women Traveling Together is for women travelers, most of them age 50+ and unaccompanied, who prefer to be with a group of like-minded women. The company offers tours, retreats, and other getaways, complete with roommate matching.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Sarah Schlichter and Christine Sarkis 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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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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Best Places to Travel Solo | Money

Traveling exposes us to new places, cultures and people. For many, it’s one of the great joys of life. If you’re an independent spirit looking for safe places to travel by yourself, our guide can be an excellent place to start your research.

Keep reading to learn about our top picks for the best places to travel alone and how to make the most of your trip.

Our Top Picks for Best Places to Travel Solo

• Barcelona, Spain: Best for first-time solo travelers
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Best for solo backpacking
• Montreal, Canada: Best for solo female travelers
• Chicago, Illinois: Best for going on solo travel tours
• Ljubljana, Slovenia: Best budget solo travel destination

Best Places to Travel Solo Reviews

Best for first-time solo travelers: barcelona, spain.

• Offers many travel experiences in a single city
• Easy to get around town without a car
• Year-round good weather means you can visit in any season
• More expensive than other options on our list
• Can get very busy during popular travel times

Why we chose it : Barcelona is a beautiful and historic European city with something for everyone to enjoy. It boasts stunning gothic architecture, sandy beaches, a bustling nightlife and prices that will help you stretch your budget.

Spain is considerably affordable compared to other European countries, and Barcelona is its crown jewel. The city has roots tracing back to the end of the 1st century BCE and beautiful architecture throughout its winding streets, such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and his world-famous unfinished church, La Sagrada Familia.

If you tire of exploring Barcelona’s impressive history, gorgeous Barceloneta Beach is just a few minutes away from the city center. And at night, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options, from rooftop bars and clubs to concert venues and flamenco shows.

Barcelona is excellent for first-time solo travelers because its compact layout, wide sidewalks and excellent public transportation makes getting around town without a car a breeze. U.S. travelers can also visit for up to 90 days without a visa . However, Barcelona is more expensive than other options on our list and can be very busy during popular travel times.

Best for solo backpacking: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Very affordable accommodations, food and attractions
• Is easy to navigate, with a developed transportation system
• Has a vibrant expat community
• U.S. citizens need a tourist visa to visit Vietnam

Why we chose it : Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling and affordable city that offers a wide range of attractions for solo travelers, from inexpensive food and accommodations to an abundance of cultural and historical sites.

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City has become something of a bucket-list item for many backpackers. Its vibrant culture, friendly people and amazing food attract millions of tourists annually. And it’s also one of Vietnam’s safest cities .

Try some of the mouth-watering street food available in pretty much every corner of the city (especially Districts 1, 3 and 5), do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral or book a tour of the Mekong Delta to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

Getting around is also pretty easy, with many transportation options, from the new metro to buses, taxis and motorbikes. However, one thing to keep in mind is that U.S. citizens need to apply for a Visa before they can be granted entry into Vietnam.

Best for solo female travelers: Montreal, Canada

• Very safe and walkable city
• Visitors can stay for up to six months without a Visa
• Toronto is only five hours away by direct train
• Not a great option for budget travelers
• The winter weather can be harsh

Why we chose it : Montreal is one of the safest cities in Canada, and it is only a short flight away for travelers from the U.S. The city has a vibrant art scene, a diverse population and plenty of old-world charm with its mix of classic and modern architecture.

Traveling solo as a woman might cause your loved ones some anxiety. But Montreal is a great place for women to travel alone. The city is safe and offers much to do, from beautiful architecture, such as Notre-Dame Basilica, to artisanal shopping in Old Montreal. And while the population is predominantly French-speaking, many residents also speak English, so you should have no problem communicating.

Visitors from the United States can stay in Montreal for up to six months without a visa. It’s also a good point of departure for exploring the rest of Canada. Trains depart for Toronto several times a day, and the trip is about five hours.

Accommodations in Montreal can be more expensive than in other international destinations, but enrolling in the best hotel rewards programs may help.

Best for going on solo travel tours: Chicago, Illinois

• You can find many different types of guided tours
• Has an excellent public transportation system
• One of the best culinary destinations in the U.S.
• Weather can be unpleasant if you visit at the wrong time

Why we chose it : Chicago is home to some of the best travel tours in the country. From river cruises to walking food and drink excursions, you’ll have no problem filling your time in the Windy City.

Chicago is one of the best places to travel in the U.S. It’s home to a wide variety of guided tours, covering everything from the city’s mob history to its architecture and natural landmarks. And if you love Chicago dogs or deep-dish pizza, you can take a walking food tour to enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants in a single day.

Chicago is also home to inspiring architecture, such as Willis Tower and Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. The city is a more affordable place to visit than other U.S. cities of its size, including San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York. And if you visit in summer, you’ll have perfect weather for relaxing on the beaches of Lake Michigan, located in the heart of the city.

Depending on what you’re looking for, visiting the city between May and October could be your best bet, as winters can be very cold, with average temperatures ranging between 22 F and 37 F.

Best budget solo travel destination: Ljubljana, Slovenia

• A highly affordable travel destination
• Easy entrance requirements for U.S. citizens
• Classic European architecture and dining options
• Plenty of green spaces to lounge and relax
• Doesn't have a strong nightlife culture
• Crowds can be overwhelming during peak travel seasons

Why we chose it : Slovenia is one of the most affordable European countries, and Ljubljana is one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. It’s home to classic European cobblestone streets and its stunning architecture and exhibits can keep you busy for weeks without breaking your budget.

Ljubljana is an affordable European destination with beautiful green spaces and incredible architecture, including the Ljubljana Castle and the Robba Fountain. It’s also highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly, as car traffic is banned in the city center.

Hotels are cheaper here than in more popular destinations such as France or Italy, which is a big reason why Ljubljana is one of the best international places to travel . There are also many great affordable restaurants and open-air cafes.

U.S. citizens can remain in Slovenia for up to 90 days without a visa, making it easy to extend their stay with the money they save.

However, Ljubljana is not known for its nightlife, as many bars close earlier than elsewhere in Europe. Plus, it has become more popular in recent years, and crowds are abundant during peak seasons, especially the summer.

Other places to travel solo we considered

We compiled our list of the best places to travel alone by evaluating global destinations based on safety, affordability, cultural and historical sites and convenience, among other factors.

Although the following destinations didn’t make it into our top list, they’re still worth considering as you plan your travels.

Reykjavik, Iceland

• Close to beautiful natural landmarks
• It's possible to see the Northern Lights when conditions allow
• Home to many museums and several Michelin-starred restaurants
• More expensive than other popular travel destinations
• The region's weather can be bleak
• Long periods of darkness and sunlight can interfere with your sleep schedule

Reykjavik is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with stunning mountains and beaches everywhere you look. However, it’s an expensive destination and experiences prolonged periods of darkness and sunlight that may be difficult to adjust to.

• Some of the best food in South America
• Miles of beautiful coastline to explore
• Friendly locals - many of whom speak at least some English
• Travelers can suffer from altitude sickness in some popular attractions
• The city is sprawling, which can increase travel times and make traffic worse

Lima is a beautiful South American destination with picturesque beaches and affordable accommodations. It’s also a foodie’s dream, with a wide variety of tasty local and international restaurants available at budget-friendly prices.

Just remember that traffic congestions are common and can make it hard to get around. Additionally, some travelers may experience altitude sickness in high-altitude locations like Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Knoxville, Tennessee

• Has beautiful outdoor settings
• Minimal traffic
• Moderate prices for accommodations
• There isn't as much to do in Knoxville as in other travel destinations
• Public transportation options are limited

Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee, but it maintains a small-town feel. It’s home to beautiful attractions, such as the Great Smoky Mountains and the World’s Fair Park, and has enough cultural exhibits and museums to keep you busy.

Nevertheless, there isn’t quite as much to do here as in other cities, and public transportation is comparatively limited.

Places to Travel Solo Guide

Traveling alone can be intimidating, but a little preparation can go a long way. This guide covers some of the best travel tips to help you plan your next solo trip.

Why travel solo?

As with everything, there are pros and cons to traveling alone.

Some of the benefits of solo travel include:

• The ability to plan trips according to your schedule
• Paying less for dining and experiences
• Stepping out of your comfort zone and getting to know yourself better
• Having more time to reflect and relax in peace

Of course, to enjoy your solo vacation to the fullest, practice general safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, do some proper research before visiting new places and consider hiring a guide if you’re doing outdoor activities in remote locations.

How to travel alone

Traveling alone can be a wonderful experience. But it often requires more planning and initiative than group trips. The following tips for traveling alone should help you make the most of your next solo trip.

Research your travel destination extensively

The more research you do before visiting a destination, the more prepared you will be to enjoy it. Pay close attention to the following:

• Climate : Be aware of the weather conditions at your destination to avoid potential hazards, pack the right gear and plan appropriate activities.
• Top attractions : Plan your itinerary by mapping out the attractions you want to visit and checking their distance from your accommodations. This will help you create a realistic schedule and determine if you need to book transportation for any day trips.
• Cost : Consider the average cost of accommodations, meals and attractions to create a realistic budget.
• Public transportation : This is an important consideration, as visiting a destination with insufficient or unreliable public transportation translates into additional expenses.
• Language barrier : Consider downloading translation apps or learning basic phrases in your destination’s native language if English isn’t widely spoken there.
• Food : If you have any dietary restrictions, check the availability of suitable food options at your destination and plan your meals.

Stay connected with your friends and family

When traveling alone, keep your loved ones informed of where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing. That way, your family can call for help if they don’t hear back from you in a reasonable timeframe.

Depending on your destination, you may consider purchasing an international SIM card or an international phone plan with your existing carrier to text and call your people back home.

Finally, you can register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. State Department. STEP is a free service that allows you to receive automatic safety and travel updates from the U.S. embassy in the country you’re visiting. It also makes it easier for friends and family to reach you in an emergency.

Consider travel insurance

If you’ve spent quite a bit of money on non-refundable travel expenses and it hasn’t been that long since you made your initial trip deposit, consider travel insurance to safeguard your investment. A travel insurance policy can help you recoup a portion of pre-paid travel expenses if you cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason.

Travel medical insurance could also be worthwhile if you’re going on an extended trip, as it would cover some of your medical expenses in an emergency, including medical evacuation and repatriation. And some plans even include additional services like language support, which could be helpful if English isn’t widely spoken where you’re visiting.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, check out our guide to the best travel insurance companies .

Try new things

Now that we’ve covered some of the most important things to do before leaving for a solo trip, let’s explore how to get as much enjoyment out of your travels as possible while you’re there. The best advice we can give you is to get out of your comfort zone and try new things.

If you genuinely want to experience everything other cultures have to offer, you can’t spend your days doing the same things you do at home. So take a chance and live as the locals do. You’ll be happy you did.

Interact with the locals

The best way to forget you’re traveling alone is to befriend the locals. Your new friends can keep you company, guide you to the best places in town (the ones that aren’t in any tourist guides) and help to make your trip more enjoyable overall.

Meeting locals is much easier to do now than before the Internet. A wide variety of online resources can connect you to local events and groups where you can meet people. Some of the best options for this include:

• Facebook expat groups for the destination you’re visiting
• The subreddit for your destination (such as r/Paris and r/Chicago)

Some professional and religious groups may have international meetups as well. This can be a fantastic way to meet locals with whom you already have something in common.

Take plenty of pictures (with you in them)

Last but not least, make sure you take plenty of pictures to share with your people back home. Landmarks can be great, but you should also be in some of the photos. Most people will happily snap pictures of you if you ask nicely.

What to do when traveling alone

Traveling alone can be one of the best experiences of your life or a challenge that quickly loses its appeal. To give yourself the best chance of having an ideal trip, remember the following strategies during your travels:

• Be flexible : Flexibility is a must for solo travelers. You’ll have more fun if you take advantage of chance encounters and throw away your schedule when necessary.
• Take group tours and classes : Just because you arrive at your destination alone doesn’t mean you must spend every minute there alone. Group tours and classes will help you meet people and give you a chance to socialize when you’re feeling lonely.
• Stay in places that encourage talking : If you’re concerned about feeling lonely, consider staying at a hostel or bed and breakfast. Shared accommodations like these are more affordable than the best hotels and can be a great way to meet people.
• Gather first-hand advice : You can use Reddit and other resources to read about the experiences other solo travelers have had at your destination. These firsthand accounts can alert you to problems you may not have considered otherwise and new opportunities for fun.
• Sign up for free rewards programs : Airlines , hotel chains and third-party booking sites often have reward programs that help you save money if you’re a frequent traveler. You may also want to look into the best airline credit cards and best travel credit cards if you plan on traveling alone regularly.
• Prioritize your safety : Traveling alone can make you a target, so prioritizing safety is important. Be proactive about telling others where you’ll be and take yourself out of situations you feel unsure about to enjoy your trip without incident.

Staying safe is a critical consideration for solo travelers. One way to do that is by avoiding reckless behavior, such as drinking excessively and venturing alone into places locals deem unsafe.

Take the time to thoroughly research your destination, share your travel plans with friends and family and prepare an emergency plan.

Finally, consider travel insurance. If something does happen while you’re traveling alone, it will provide financial support so you can go to the hospital without worrying about breaking your budget.

You could save up enough money to make the cost of travel insurance negligible by signing up for one of the best airline rewards programs .

Places to Travel Solo FAQ

What are the safest places to travel alone, is solo female travel safe, how old do you have to be to travel alone, how we chose the best places to travel solo.

We evaluated the best places to travel solo based on the following criteria:

• Cost of accommodations, experiences and meals
• Crime rates
• Reviews and guides from experienced solo travelers
• Natural and cultural attractions
• Strictness of entry criteria

Summary of Money’s Best Places to Travel Solo

© Copyright 2023 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

I've been to all 50 states. Here are the 10 I think everyone should visit at least once.

• Over the past decade, I've traveled solo to all 50 US states and most major US national parks.
• Although I've found beauty in every state, there are some that I want to visit over and over again.
• I love traveling to places like New Mexico, Montana, New Hampshire, and Arizona.

Over the past decade, I've successfully visited all 50 US states solo. I've even made it to most of the major US national parks along the way. Because of this journey, I'm often asked which states I'd recommend to travelers.

Although most international travelers gravitate toward states like Florida and New York , I've found fantastic beauty and history in every state.

However, these are the 10 states I always return to.

New Mexico boasts a surprising variety of stunning landscapes.

New Mexico is always at the top of my list when recommending US states. Nicknamed " the land of enchantment ," it lives up to its moniker — and then some.

Those who haven't visited New Mexico may think of the state as a mostly barren desert, but it's actually the diverse landscapes that keep me coming back.

From the otherworldly dunes of White Sands National Park to the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there's beauty to be found around every corner.

Outside the natural beauty, the state is chock full of history, art, food, wine, and culture.

Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

With its vast open spaces, majestic mountains, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

The state is home to the breathtaking Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone National Park . The sky is vast and open, the mountains are towering, and the lack of development makes me feel like I'm entering another world entirely.

California is full of diverse landscapes and experiences.

Every time I visit California , I feel like I'm entering a completely different reality.

The sheer size and diversity of the state are impressive, and it has gorgeous beaches, cities, forests, deserts, mountains, and even volcanoes.

I love road-tripping up the coast, visiting Yosemite National Park, taking a boat to the Channel Islands, and wine tasting in places like Napa and Sonoma.

There's no place quite like the Maine coast.

There's so much to love about Maine, but my favorite part of the state is the coast. With jagged and dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, and lobster shacks, visiting the Maine coast is an unforgettable experience.

It's easy to find peace in the state that sees the first sunrise of the year and is home to Acadia National Park, which is one of the country's most popular national parks.

I love to road trip up the coast, stopping in beautiful towns like Kennebunkport, Bar Harbour, and Lubec.

I've returned to West Virginia multiple times.

While it may not get as much attention as some of the other states on this list, I've returned to West Virginia multiple times since my first visit.

The state's natural beauty is stunning, from New River Gorge National Park to ample lush forests, underground caverns, historic small towns, and over 200 waterfalls .

Wisconsin is home to beautiful scenery and great dining options.

Wisconsin has so much more than first meets the eye, from the natural beauty of the Apostle Islands and the 15,000 lakes in the state to the classic cheese curds, breweries, and wineries that dot the landscape.

I love spending time along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, dining at one of the state's famous supper clubs, and exploring the many Wisconsin state parks.

As my home state, Colorado will always hold a special place in my heart.

I couldn't write a list like this without including my home state of Colorado. The state has so much to offer, from beautiful views to fun activities.

On the Front Range, I enjoy hiking in Boulder and exploring Cheyenne Cañon. I like to spend the night at the The Broadmoor hotel in Colorado Springs before heading over to Great Sand Dunes National Park.

In the Rockies, I love driving Independence Pass to Aspen, as well as exploring the underrated Grand Mesa, which is the biggest flat-top mountain in the world . I also enjoy taking road trips to the charming mountain towns of Telluride, Buena Vista, and Steamboat Springs.

No matter where you find yourself in Colorado, there's no shortage of incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Utah is home to five major national parks.

Utah is a state that you have to see to believe. With five major national parks, 46 state parks, 15 ski resorts, and hidden gems at every turn — you'll never get bored here.

I love visiting Moab to hike in Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park before heading south to Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Zion National Park .

I also love making stops in Park City and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

New Hampshire boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

The Northeast is famous for fall foliage, but I can't help but think that New Hampshire is sometimes overshadowed by its neighbors, Maine and Vermont.

I was stunned by its natural beauty during my first trip to the state. From the White Mountains to Franconia Notch State Park, the state boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

Arizona is the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

Arizona is well known for the Grand Canyon, but the state has much more to offer. From Flagstaff's high-altitude forests to Sedona's iconic red rocks, Arizona's diversity is surprising and worth a trip.

I love hiking among the cacti in Sedona or Scottsdale before heading to one of the many resorts to jump in a pool or hit the spa — the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

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The 12 Best Tropical Destinations for Solo Travelers

For solo travel, I tend to gravitate toward structured trips , like exploring a few cities in Scandinavia, road tripping through Northern California, or seeing the Taj Mahal. It might be my Type A tendencies, but my solo travel usually includes a packed itinerary with goals like fitting in bucket list attractions or making it to a new continent . What I don't associate with solo travel is a tropical vacation . Palm-lined beach towns and scuba dive lessons aren't necessarily top of mind for the traveler going it alone. Driving the coast of Maui, sailing in French Polynesia, or bronzing on the Riviera Maya are activities usually tailored to couples and families.

After talking to 12 solo travelers who specifically sought out tropical destinations, one thing is apparent to me: The island life is definitely not reserved for bachelorette parties, couples, college groups, and families anymore. Tropical destinations offer perfect itineraries (and prices ) for when you need to escape from the hustle of real life—you just have to know where to go. And choosing a tropical destination doesn't mean you won't find must-see landmarks; get you a destination that can do both.

As with all solo travel, you might need to give yourself a push to actually make your trip happen. Whether you're going through a big life change and need time to process, you're traveling for work and looking to extend your trip, or you're just in desperate need of a change of pace, sometimes lounging on a beach by yourself is exactly what the doctor ordered. Here are 12 of the best tropical destinations to explore on your own:

"Australia, specifically the Great Barrier Reef , was a bucket list destination for me. I spent a week exploring the reef and it was mind boggling. You could definitely see the damage the reef has suffered, but the wildlife was indescribably beautiful. I also spent time in Cairns, an area that's perfect for a solo traveler. You have easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and the Tablelands. I felt safe throughout my travels in Australia. The people were simply amazing—I even lost my cell phone in a cab and was able to get it back, thanks to the cabbie. I would recommend Australia for any traveler, but especially solos." — Charmayne Evans

"I went to Bermuda last September for my first solo vacay. I really enjoyed it because it's super close to the east coast, they speak English and take American currency, and the island is so small, it's super easy to navigate on your own via motorbike or public transit. I mostly took the bus everywhere. I ended up Airbnb-ing it and rented a room in a woman's home. The island is totally manageable on your own. I found all the locals to be super helpful with directions and recommendations. I also loved Bermuda because if you wanted, you could do all the action packed stuff (swim with dolphins, etc.) or just sit on the beach all day, which was more my speed. Also, if you're willing to venture around the island a bit, and you take the time to learn from the locals, there's a ton of more secluded and quiet beaches that are not mobbed with tourists." — Colleen Hughes

The Galapagos, Ecuador

"The Galapagos are ideal for solo travelers, whether you crave isolation or company. A cruise is the best way to see the islands , and smaller ships, like Haugan Cruises, have communal dining so you'll always have someone to chat with at dinner. With a land-based stay on Isabela or Santa Cruz, you can book a day cruise or walk to see flamingos, giant tortoises, and sea lions. If you want a swimming partner, sea lions and penguins are happy to oblige." — Johanna Reed

"In February I went to the southern islands of Ko Tao, Ko Phangan, and Ko Samui before starting a new job. The weather was absolutely perfect , and if you're looking to learn to scuba, this is the place to do it. As a solo traveler, it's so easy to meet people on snorkeling day trips or while island hopping or hiking the waterfalls. Nightlife on the Thai islands is also easy to find and a good place to meet people. If you're in the area for a half moon or full moon party in Ko Phangan, definitely check it out!" — Maxine Renn

"Living in Asia provides me with some great solo-travel destinations—one of my favorites being Laos. The backpacker culture makes it easy to keep to your own itinerary and still meet others to visit attractions or split a tuk-tuk with. Laos had everything you could want from a visit to SE Asia: jungle treks, swimming in blue lagoons, and endless natural beauty. It doesn't have the same manufactured tourism feel as some other countries nearby, but still offers structure and support, which can be nice when you are going it on your own. The best part is the street food—don't miss the markets and fresh sausage in Luang Prabang." — Rita Callahan

Turks and Caicos

"It was my first international solo trip ever, and it was amazing. I was going through a breakup and wanted to get my confidence back. I had never traveled internationally by myself before and thought if I could travel in a different country by myself, then I can do anything by myself. I put a lot of research into safe destinations before settling on Turks and Caicos . I wanted a relaxed location where English was spoken. I was already nervous and thought that if I didn't have to worry about communication, it would ease my nerves a bit. I liked that the island was small enough to bike from my hotel on the water to the small town nearby, and everyone was so kind. The best part was getting to just do what I wanted, when I wanted, and not have to worry about anyone else's opinion. It was definitely a good spot for a solo traveler—especially a female solo traveler. I felt safe the whole time, even when I was biking around exploring the town. I'm kind of spoiled, because now I'd rather travel by myself than with other people." — Tracy Huynh

"I spent this April in a small surf town on the west coast of Sri Lanka. It was an unplugged vacation—I didn't even bring my laptop. My goal was to surf twice a day, everyday. With safe (and cheap) transportation options like the train or a taxi, Sri Lanka is well-suited for one. I'd recommend booking a private room in a hostel or a surf camp package, so you can meet other vacationers. There are tons of backpackers making their way around the island, so it's easy to link up with other people. Sri Lanka attracts health-minded tourists, and there are tons of outdoor activities available everywhere. During the busy season, most hostels will have a yogi-in-residence leading classes. I'd recommend taking a break from the Lanka beach life and checking out the tea plantations around Ella. The mountainous train ride offers the views you've probably seen on your Instagram feed. As a solo female traveler, safety is always a concern, but the ease of getting around the island coupled with the hospitality of locals made me feel secure." — Alexandra Talty

"I actually was invited to dog-sit for my aunt, so that was the catalyst for this trip—hello not paying for accommodations! It was my first solo trip, and I was in Miami long enough to get to know the area, as well as embrace the independence and solitude of traveling solo. Miami is a fantastic locale for solo travel: the people I met were all super welcoming, the food is phenomenal, and you have the options to explore the city, do outdoorsy activities, or live that beach bum life." —Natalie Large

"After I turned 25, I decided to take a break from the nine-to-five and adventure throughout Europe and Asia. Every country I've visited so far has been amazing, but Indonesia definitely owns the top spot on my favorites list. While the country's natural beauty is out of this world, the people are what made my experience there as a solo traveler so amazing. My favorite memory has to be losing my iPhone on the top of a volcano in East Java and having the phone back in my hands a few months later after a local found it and wanted to return it to its rightful owner. Even more than Bali, I'd recommend Lombok, which is the island right next to Bali." —Arren Quezada

"I can't think of a better place to travel solo than Costa Rica . From the gorgeous coast line, to the rich rainforest, to the majestic cloud forest, there is so much to see, do, and explore. Costa Ricans are famous for their laid back pura vida (pure life) attitude, and their spirit is as relaxed and welcoming as you could imagine." — Kayla McCormack

"I had a fantastic time in Crete and can't recommend it enough! Filled with small mountain towns and gorgeous beaches on every side, there was so much to explore. The island was beautiful, the food delicious and uniquely Greek, and the people were so friendly. Everyone I met spoke an impressive amount of English. I felt incredibly safe the entire time I was there, even when walking around the old quarter of Chania — the city I stayed in — at 1 o'clock in the morning." — Hillary Handy

"I was working with an NGO in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, for the summer and went for a five-day vacation to Siem Reap to see the temples of Angkor Wat. It was definitely a more adventurous place to go alone, especially as a young woman, but it was actually pretty easy because Siem Reap accommodates so many tourists. My hotel, which was so cheap, had a tuk tuk driver pick me up when my bus got in. They were tremendously helpful and available, and arranged for my tuk tuk drivers to and from the temples — even when I went at sunrise — and from the kayaking trip I went on. The combination of having very knowledgeable guides and drivers, plus the ability to wander the temples and town by myself and still feel comfortable was the best part. It was equally independent and supportive." — Eleanor Brakewood

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Conan O’Brien Must Go Takes One Giant Step for Travel-Show Idiocy

When Conan O’Brien appeared on Hot Ones last week, he did the opposite of what most guests do on that show. Instead of dabbing his chicken wings in conservative dollops of hot sauce, he submerged them to the point of drowning. He sucked every piece of meat off of every bone, at one point dramatically licking a wing covered in Da’Bomb Beyond Insanity, a condiment almost single-handedly responsible for Idris Elba’s murder on the series in 2019 . Rather than wipe away tears or snot, O’Brien let everything fly so that, by the end of the episode, milk, mucus, and other unidentifiable fluids were streaming down his face while he screamed out a promo for his new travel series, Conan O’Brien Must Go .

The internet naturally went wild over all this , turning the moment into an opportunity to share classic Conan clips and celebrate the former late-night host’s eagerness to go for the most broken version of broke in any scenario. But his Hot Ones appearance is also a reminder of what has always been the secret to O’Brien’s success: his ability to enter well-established media formats — the family sitcom via his time as a Simpsons writer, the late-night talk show, the celebrity-interview podcast — and blow them up with his postmodern version of vaudevillian absurdity.

That’s what he does for the docuseries form in Conan O’Brien Must Go, a new Max series inspired by Conan O’Brien Needs a Fan , a podcast spinoff of Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend in which O’Brien has in-depth conversations with admirers from all over the globe. In the Max show, whose four episodes drop simultaneously this Thursday, O’Brien actually goes to visit some of those fans — the host swears that none of them know in advance that the world’s most recognizable redhead and his film crew are about to show up — while also visiting various cities to theoretically learn more about each country’s culture. O’Brien did something similar in Conan Without Borders , a series of specials that ran on TBS when O’Brien also hosted Conan on the network. Perhaps because Conan O’Brien Must Go is a series rather than spread-out one-offs, or maybe because it seems to have a more robust budget, this version is much more blatant about its interest in riffing on and subverting the tropes of the travel format.

Each of the episodes — set in Norway, Argentina, Thailand, and Ireland — begins with majestic cinematography and a deeply serious voiceover narration from distinguished filmmaker Werner Herzog as he describes the beauty of our planet. Then Herzog, in his thick German accent, utters what is basically the mission statement of the show: “To truly appreciate the astounding grandeur of this planet, sometimes you must defile it. Behold,” he adds, “the defiler.” Cut to clips from the series of O’Brien making an ass of himself on multiple continents.

The first theoretical rule of being a travel-show host is to keep the focus on the places and people you’re visiting rather than yourself. O’Brien takes the paper that rule is written on and sets it on fire. In classic Conan fashion, he makes everything about himself. Crucially, he’s always the butt of the joke and the obvious jester, never a mocker of other people’s traditions. In Bergen, Norway, he “helps” one of his fans, a hip-hop musician, by insisting on singing on one of his songs in a very high falsetto. In Buenos Aires, he commissions another fan, an artist, to paint a mural of O’Brien with his arms around the pope and soccer star Lionel Messi, underneath a banner that says “Hijos sagrados de Argentina,” or “Sacred sons of Argentina.” (In case this wasn’t abundantly clear: Conan O’Brien is an Irish American who grew up in Massachusetts and has zero connection to Argentina.) In an especially clever and very Conan bit, when the host first arrives in Ireland, he says, “As soon as I landed, I knew that I was with my people,” at which point the camera captures several different Irish men and women, all of whom are just O’Brien in costume.

Conan O’Brien Must Go even highlights the mechanics of making a travel show and Conan-izes them for the sake of comedy. O’Brien points out that he can afford drones for this series, which he uses for the least inspired reasons he can conjure. In the Norway episode, he waxes poetic about how stunning the northern lights look, then the camera pans to a wide shot and reveals that he’s actually sitting in his hotel, staring at a picture of the northern lights on his laptop. This show is relentless in its silliness. This is meant as the highest compliment.

Most travel-show hosts try to make their interview subjects comfortable, but that is not O’Brien’s goal. After getting a Norwegian to admit his people do not like having their space invaded, he slowly licks the entirety of the man’s left cheek. After being fitted for a formal suit in Bangkok, O’Brien pontificates about nonsense in English at great length, while the owner of the shop assumes an expression similar to the one Chris Pine made while trying to beam himself onto some other celestial plane during the Don’t Worry Darling press tour.

O’Brien even calls attention to specific subgenres that fall underneath the travel-show umbrella. While visiting Merrion Square Park in Dublin, a place that U2 front man Bono is allegedly known to frequent, the series briefly turns into a nature program called Finding Bono in which O’Brien tries to track the elusive rock star. (He almost “catches him” by using a fake global humanitarian award as bait.) Before trying some of the black pudding that Ireland is famous for, O’Brien nods to Stanley Tucci’s foodie-focused CNN travel series by noting that Tucci always looks like he’s having “six orgasms” after he tries a bite of any dish. Not to be outdone, after a couple tastes of black pudding, O’Brien engages in a deranged form of modern dance that leads to him writhing on the floor while the owner of the shop he’s visiting looks on, stupefied.

This is what O’Brien was born to do: gyrate on the floor in public, in his land of origin, in the hope that someone, somewhere on this planet filled with astounding grandeur, will laugh. He truly is the defiler. At 61 years old — his birthday falls on the same day as Conan O’Brien Must Go ’s release date — he is also, still, a comedy king .

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