what age can you travel alone in europe

Can You Legally Travel Alone in Europe at 17?

Can You Travel Alone At 17 In Europe?

At 17, you’re an adult in most countries, but you’re still not quite old enough to drink, rent a car, or vote. So, what about traveling alone? Is it possible to go backpacking through Europe at 17, or is it just too risky?

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the legalities of traveling alone as a 17-year-old in Europe, as well as some of the practical considerations you’ll need to make before you set off on your adventure.

We’ll also provide some tips on how to stay safe and have a great time on your trip. So, if you’re a 17-year-old who’s dreaming of exploring Europe, read on!

Age Requirements for Traveling to Europe

The age requirements for traveling to different countries in Europe vary. Some countries require that you be at least 18 years old to enter, while others allow minors to travel with a parent or guardian. Here is a breakdown of the age requirements for traveling to some of the most popular countries in Europe:

• Austria: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Belgium: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Croatia: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Czech Republic: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Denmark: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Finland: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• France: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Germany: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Greece: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Hungary: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Iceland: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Ireland: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Italy: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Latvia: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Liechtenstein: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Lithuania: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Luxembourg: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Malta: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Moldova: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Monaco: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Montenegro: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Netherlands: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Norway: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Poland: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Portugal: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Romania: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Russia: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• San Marino: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Serbia: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Slovakia: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Slovenia: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Spain: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or they must have a written permission from their parents or guardians.
• Sweden: Minors must be accompanied by

Safety Tips for Traveling to Europe

When you’re traveling to a new country, it’s important to take precautions to stay safe. This is especially true if you’re traveling alone as a young adult. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when traveling to Europe:

• Be aware of your surroundings. This means paying attention to who is around you, what is going on around you, and where you are. If you feel unsafe, trust your instincts and move to a safer location.
• Don’t travel alone at night. If you must travel alone at night, take a taxi or public transportation. Avoid walking alone in dark or deserted areas.
• Be careful with your belongings. Keep your valuables close to you and don’t leave them unattended. If you’re carrying a purse or backpack, keep it zipped up and close to your body.
• Don’t flash your money or credit cards. This can attract unwanted attention from thieves.
• Be aware of scams. There are many scams that target tourists in Europe. Be aware of these scams and how to avoid them.
• Learn some basic phrases in the local language. This will help you communicate with locals and get help if you need it.
• Stay in touch with your family and friends. Let them know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. This way, they can contact authorities if you don’t return on time.
• Use common sense. This means being aware of your surroundings, trusting your instincts, and taking precautions to stay safe.

By following these tips, you can help keep yourself safe while traveling to Europe.

What are the safety risks to be aware of when traveling to Europe?

There are a number of safety risks to be aware of when traveling to Europe. These include:

• Petty theft: Petty theft is a common problem in many European cities. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close to you.
• Pickpocketing: Pickpockets are also a common problem in European cities. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables in a safe place, such as a zippered pocket or a money belt.
• Fraud: There are many scams that target tourists in Europe. Be aware of these scams and how to avoid them.
• Sexual assault: Sexual assault is a problem in all countries, including Europe. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe.
• Hate crimes: Hate crimes against tourists are rare in Europe, but they do happen. Be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to report any incidents to the authorities.

By being aware of these risks, you can help keep yourself safe while traveling to Europe.

What precautions can you take to stay safe while traveling in Europe?

There are a number of precautions you can take to stay safe while traveling in Europe. These include:

By following these precautions, you can help keep yourself safe while traveling to Europe.

What resources are available to help you stay safe while traveling in Europe?

There are a number of resources available to help you stay safe while traveling in Europe. These include:

It is generally not possible to travel alone at 17 in Europe. The minimum age to travel without a parent or guardian varies by country, but it is typically 18. In some countries, you may be able to travel with a notarized letter of permission from your parents or guardians, but this is not always possible. It is best to check the regulations for each country you plan to visit before you travel.

What are the age restrictions for travel in Europe?

The minimum age to travel without a parent or guardian varies by country, but it is typically 18. In some countries, you may be able to travel with a notarized letter of permission from your parents or guardians, but this is not always possible. It is best to check the regulations for each country you plan to visit before you travel.

Can I get a passport at 17?

Yes, you can get a passport at 17. You will need to apply for a passport in person at your local passport office. You will need to bring your birth certificate, a proof of citizenship (such as a naturalization certificate or a certificate of citizenship), and two proofs of identification (such as a driver’s license or a school ID). You will also need to pay the passport fee.

What are the requirements for getting a passport at 17?

To get a passport at 17, you will need to:

• Be a U.S. citizen
• Be at least 17 years old
• Have a valid form of identification (such as a driver’s license or a school ID)
• Have two proofs of citizenship (such as a naturalization certificate or a certificate of citizenship)
• Pay the passport fee

What are the benefits of traveling alone at 17?

There are many benefits to traveling alone at 17, including:

• Increased independence and self-reliance
• The opportunity to meet new people and make new friends
• The chance to learn about different cultures and customs
• The opportunity to experience new things and challenges

What are the risks of traveling alone at 17?

There are also some risks associated with traveling alone at 17, including:

• The risk of getting lost or injured
• The risk of being robbed or assaulted
• The risk of being scammed or taken advantage of

It is important to be aware of these risks and take steps to mitigate them when traveling alone.

How can I stay safe when traveling alone at 17?

There are a number of things you can do to stay safe when traveling alone at 17, including:

• Tell someone you trust where you are going and when you expect to return
• Stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close
• Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to say no if you feel uncomfortable

By following these tips, you can help to reduce the risks associated with traveling alone at 17.

whether or not you can travel alone at 17 in Europe depends on a number of factors, including your maturity, independence, and ability to handle unexpected situations. If you are confident in your ability to travel independently and have done your research on the countries you plan to visit, then you may be able to travel alone at 17. However, it is important to remember that you are still a minor and that there are some risks involved in traveling alone. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.

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Can You Travel Alone At 17 In Europe?

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I have a passion for the English countryside and especially anywhere in Yorkshire. I drink far too much Yorkshire tea on my travels and even take it with me when abroad. My passion is to share travel experiences with my readers which may help them plan their holidays and save money.

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Kids are adventurous young humans who crave going to new places and learning new things.

A time will come when your kid will want to travel away from home alone with their friends.

This is a dreadful time for every parent, and it’s more worrisome if the destination is far. 

While you cannot keep your child with you, or should you, you must consider their safety before letting them explore the world.

Also, can your kids travel alone at 17 or younger in Europe?

Find out below.

Table of Contents

Traveling alone at 17 in Europe is acceptable, provided you have valid documentation.

Besides your ID card and passport, you may require an additional document signed by your legal guardian, parent, or second parent authorizing you to travel. 

Each European country decides if it requires children traveling alone to have authorization documents from their parents.

Therefore, confirm the rules of the specific country if you travel alone at 17 in Europe to ensure stress-free travel. 

Remember that while some countries do not require extra documentation to get into their territories, other places you may transit through could need it.

Thus, it is best to be prepared beforehand. 

You must also check the requirements of the mode of transport you intend to use in your travels.

For Instance – Children aged 16- 18 can travel alone unsupervised using Eurostar provided they have the standard travel documents- a passport and a Eurostar ticket.

Can You Travel Alone At 15 and 16 In Europe?

15 and 16-year-olds can travel in Europe unaccompanied as long as they have the needed documents.

These are a passport and/or a consent letter from their parents or legal guardians.

You must also ensure your child can handle the journey.

As mentioned earlier, the transportation mode also dictates the type of documents a minor needs to travel based on age.

Keep In Mind – Those under 16 traveling on Eurostar need a passport, Eurostar ticket, and a signed authorization form by their parents or guardians.

Rules for Minors Flying on Different Airlines

You must know different airlines’ age limits for minors flying alone if your child is to travel by air across other European countries.

This information is necessary since the rules vary drastically from one airline to another.

Below is a summary of the policies of different airlines regarding minors flying alone.

How to Prepare Your Minors to Travel Alone In Europe

Your teen may be ready, comfortable, and confident to travel alone, but are you?

This is something you must ask yourself and consider everything before arriving at an answer.

If the answer is yes, you must make preparations to ensure your child has a good time exploring different parts of Europe and remains safe.

1. Get Documentation Ready

Your kid will need a valid passport, so if they do not have one, help them apply for one.

Also, prepare a consent form to show that they have your permission to travel alone.

Ensure you notarize every letter needed for their travels. Also, get them a zippered bag or money belt to keep their passport safe.

2. Research Their Destinations

For your child’s safety and peace of mind, you ought to know where your kid will be in Europe.

It would be best to research these areas to find the safe parts and the ones they should avoid.

Additionally – You can talk to friends and family members who have been there to discover what to expect. 

3. Gather Essential Items

Help your child pack to ensure they have everything they need for the trip.

These include multiple pairs of shorts, pants, walking shoes, a jacket or coat, short and long-sleeved tops, underwear, and a sweater.

Make sure they also pack a dressy outfit, just in case.

Ensure toiletries do not overpack; sunscreen and medications are a must. 

4. Communication

Ensure your child stays in touch with you during their trip.

This means having a good phone with enough call minutes to facilitate smooth communication. 

Safety Rules For Minors Traveling In Europe

Since your parent or guardian will not be around, you are responsible for your safety.

Adhere to the following safety rules:

• Avoid suspicious areas- walk on well-lit streets that are not abandoned.
• Ensure your backpack is with you; put it between your legs when seated. Carry a bag with straps that you can fasten across your body.
• Do not keep your valuables together – separate your passport, credit cards, and money. Also, leave valuable items like expensive jewelry at home.
• Learn some words in the local language , like “please” and “thank you.”
• Keep your phone’s location turned on.
• Do not drink too much alcohol

Final Thoughts

Traveling is an exciting time for young people, and the ages of 15, 16, 17, and 18 are when kids get interested in traveling alone.

While minors aged 15 and above can travel in Europe, they must be competent and prioritize their safety.

Parents should also get them ready for solo travel.

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Home » Europe » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Europe | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Europe | Destinations & Tips for 2024

I firmly believe that everyone needs to solo travel in Europe at least once in their life. Exploring different cultures in such a small amount of space is simply mind-blowing.

But trust me, I know just how nerve-racking taking that leap is. That’s why I’ve put together the ultimate guide on European solo travel.

Travelling alone is more than just hopping from one hostel bed to another: it’s about finding out who you are and what the world has to offer. Travel is the best teacher life can give you – and the most fun.

From meeting people around the world to falling in love with your soulmate (more than once, oops…) and seeing some of the world’s best sights, solo travel will change your life.

And to be honest, Europe is the perfect place to start. Even though travelling through Europe is more expensive than Southeast Asia or Latin America, it also feels familiar for Westeners.

English is widely known, the public transport is immaculate, the food you recognize, and most places welcome solo travellers with open arms. So take a deep breath, and let’s plan the BEST freaking solo trip of your life!

7 Things to Do in Europe When Traveling Solo

5 best solo destinations in europe, the best travel apps for solo travel in europe, safety tips for solo travellers in europe, tips for solo travelling in europe, final words for your solo europe trip.

So obviously, Europe is a continent, and if we broke it down country by country, there are SO MANY things for solo travellers to do. But since that would take hours on end to read (and write), let’s focus on the top 7 things you absolutely cannot miss while solo travelling in Europe .

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1. Join a Walking Tour

I’ve yet to visit a good European city that didn’t have a walking tour to join, and usually, they’re free. (Big score for budget backpackers.)

Occasionally, they can be a drag, but I’ve found that if you book them through your hostel, the guides are usually enthusiastic while being equally informational. And best of all, you’ll be joined by other travelers making it one of the best ways to make friends .

You’ll spend the morning getting a feel for the city, and I love doing this on my first day in a new place because the guides can give you some local tips on all the best places to eat, drink, and party. You’ll see all the must-do’s and have a good idea of how to get around the place.

2. Check off Iconic Landmarks

Whether you’re checking off the world’s wonders or just want to drink some wine under the Eiffel Tower, Europe is the perfect destination for travellers who love sightseeing. The continent is full of some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and will definitely keep you busy. (Get ready to be walking 20,000+ steps a day!)

Travelling solo allows you to go to the ones that are high on your list without having to worry about someone else’s schedule. Plus, you can take as many pictures and selfies as your heart desires without being judged!

3. Go on a Pub Crawl

If you’re staying at a hostel , more often than not, someone will be hosting a pub crawl. And let me tell you, Europeans do it differently. There is a high possibility you’ll be out all night long and an even higher possibility of having an epic adventure through the city.

Since they’re organised through the hostels, you’ll be around other travellers about your age, and it’s the perfect way to loosen up and meet other people. Entry into the clubs and bars is usually free, and you might get a shitty shot of absinthe or bottom-shelf liquor on the house.

(If you’re on a budget, drink up. If hangovers are the bain of your existence… well, buy something else. Ha!)

4. Take a Cooking Class

Some of the world’s best food comes out of Europe (and some of the worst, I’m looking at you, beans and toast). And while it might not be in your budget to eat out for every meal, taking a cooking class is one of the best ways to experience local culture and flavours.

Sometimes, you’ll get to go shopping at the local market or step into an old grandma’s home that smells like freshly baked bread. Not only will you learn how to make delicious dishes, but you’ll also get a glimpse into the daily life of locals. It’s one of my favourite ways to meet other travellers who are interested in the same things as me.

5. Eat at Local Spots

I can’t recommend eating at local spots enough. I know it can be difficult to break out of your comfort zone and dine alone, but after a few times, it’ll grow on you.

I’ve come to love heading out to a local spot and getting to interact with the staff and other guests, grabbing some food. Trust me, they can tell you’re a tourist. And for the most part, they will be super kind and help you if you’re confused about the menu or any other customs you aren’t familiar with.

Plus, eating at local spots is typically much cheaper than eating at tourist hotspots. You’ll also get to taste authentic dishes that are so freaking delicious you’ll be dreaming of them for ages.

6. Get Lost in the World’s Best Museums

Museums are the perfect way for solo travellers to spend their day. And the ones in Europe are the BEST.

I seriously don’t think it gets better than the Louvre , the British Museum , or the Rijksmuseum . Not only are they a treasure trove of historical and cultural artefacts, but you also get to explore at your own pace and take in all the beauty without feeling rushed.

7. Attend a Music Festival

If you love music, then you’ve come to the right place. Europe is home to some of the best festivals in the world . I don’t know what it is or why they’re so much better than the rest of the world but prepare for the best vibes and the best shows (and the best drugs, if you’re trying to turn up.)

I’ve definitely planned a solo trip to Europe solely around Tomorrowland, and it was one of my best travel experiences ever. Just make sure to research the festival beforehand and plan accordingly because some tickets sell out super fast.

And don’t be afraid of going alone. You’ll meet loads of other travellers and locals. Plus, it’s a music festival, so everyone is there to have a good time.

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With 44 countries and hundreds of cities, how on earth are you supposed to choose where to go ? Even with all the money in the world, there is just no way to hit all of the European destinations.

I know. I find it tragic as well.

But there are a few places that are just better suited for solo travellers in Europe, and here they are! The top 5 solo destinations in Europe.

Prague is a backpacker haven, making it the perfect destination in Europe for solo travellers. If you go to Prague and don’t make any friends… well, maybe the problem is you.

Ha, just kidding. But seriously, the city has always been known for its amazing nightlife, cheap eats and drinks, and friendly locals.

The city is absolutely gorgeous, and whether you’re planning to stay in Prague in the summer or the winter, the city’s charm is breathtaking. You’ll find a little bit of everything while visiting the city, you can learn about the history on a walking tour (I recommend the ones in the old town.)

Getting lost in the cobblestone streets is like a medieval fairytale. The Museum of Communism is also a great activity for solo travellers, as you’ll get to learn about a really interesting part of history, and you can even join a tour if you want to meet people.

Fun fact: Prague is also one of the safest cities in Europe, making it the perfect destination for solo female travelers .

The Prague Dream Hostel is one of my favourite stays in the city. It’s super warm and cosy in the common areas, so meeting friends is a breeze. It’s also located about a 20-minute walk from the old town, which is perfect for exploring on your own.

History, culture, and nightlife collide in Berlin, making it a must-visit for solo travellers in Europe. Berlin was the first European city I ever visited, and I’m not sure that was the smartest idea, but it definitely prepared me for all the cities I would visit after it.

As someone who grew up quite sheltered, the nightlife in Berlin had its way with me. It was a hell of a time. And if you’re into the techno scene, my god, you’re about to have the time of your life.

But Berlin has so much more to offer than just its party scene. The city is filled with museums, galleries, and historic sites that are a must-see for any solo traveller interested in culture and history.

One of my favourite things to do in Berlin was biking around the city, admiring the street art and architecture. Joining some sort of tour, whether it be biking or walking, is a must. While walking alone is fine, hearing the stories and learning more about the city and the war really adds to the experience.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation in Berlin, I highly recommend checking out the Circus Hostel . It’s located in a great area with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, and they offer a variety of room options, including dorms and privates. Plus, they host events like pub crawls and walking tours making it easy to meet other travelers.

Everyone dreams of visiting Amsterdam on their European tour, and for good reason. The city is one of the coolest and most progressive destinations in Europe, making it perfect for solo travellers.

The best way to explore Amsterdam is by bike. There is some crazy statistic that there are more bikes than people, and after visiting—I believe it.

And one of my favourite things about visiting Amsterdam is literally everyone speaks English. So if you’re feeling a bit paranoid about being able to communicate, well, Amsterdam is the perfect choice for you.

Just prepare for the bluntness. They don’t mean to be rude—they’re just honest.

Unfortunately, loads of expats have moved to the city, pushing out a lot of the Dutchies. And in the summer, it’s pretty much a melting pot of travellers. This is sad because you miss out on a lot of the local culture that made Amsterdam so unique to begin with.

But it’s still an epic destination in Europe, and make sure to stay at Flying Pig Downtown . The staff are amazing. And with all of the awesome common areas, you can hang out, drink a beer, smoke some green, and meet some other travellers.

For so long, Portugal was flying under the radar, and then, what seemed like out of nowhere, it became everyone’s go-to destination in Europe. And they weren’t wrong.

Travelling to Portugal is awesome just about any time of year, and Lisbon is one of the best cities for solo travellers. Unless you don’t like hills… because Lisbon is all hills.

The city has a chill vibe with lots of street art, great food, and plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travellers. Head to the famous Time Out Market for some food and drinks, or take a free walking tour to learn about the history and culture. You can also do some pretty sick day trips from Lisbon like visiting the beautiful beaches of Cascais or the gorgeous castles of Sintra.

If you’re looking for a party place, stay at Yes! Lisbon . This hostel is full of social butterflies, and they put on one heck of a bar crawl every few nights.

Barcelona is one of the most iconic cities in all of Europe, so obviously, it landed a spot on this list. You can visit the ever-unfinished Sagrada Familia or roam the charming streets of the Gothic Quarter.

Barcelona is also known for its delicious food scene and buzzing nightlife. And if you’re into beaches, there are plenty of those too!

Although Barcelona isn’t exactly the cheapest place in Europe, there is lots of opportunity here to bring the costs down. You’ll find cheap flights here from many corners of the world and public transport is easy-peasy.

Barcelona is every solo traveller’s dream come true. I don’t know if it’s because of the weather or the blunt locals (well, most of them have moved to Barcelona, but we will still call them locals), but it’s just so easy to make friends here.

Every morning, you’ll find the cafes full of people enjoying breakfast and a chat, and every night, the streets are packed with young people grabbing dinner on their way out to explore the nightlife. And from what I experienced, just about every night you can party.

My favorite hostel was Onefam Paralelo . Every night, they have a family dinner, making it easy to meet other guests, and typically, everyone goes out together after.

Here are a handful of my favourite travel apps that helped me backpack through Europe immensely. Having these apps in your arsenal will give you superpowers. Trust me.

• Google Maps – Do I need to explain this one?
• Booking.com – Easily the best app for accommodation.
• Hostelworld – This app is perfect for finding the best hostels in Europe .
• Google Translate – Such an easy way to speak every language.
• Couchsurfing – Backpacking Europe isn’t always the cheapest, and downloading the couch surfing app will help you save some money and meet locals.
• Interrail Planner App – If you’re planning on travelling by train in Europe , this app will be your best friend. It helps you plan out your route, shows you the different train options and schedules, and even lets you book tickets.
• Flixbus – But if you plan to travel by bus to save some money, Flixbus is a great option. Their app makes it easy to book tickets and navigate different routes.
• Rick Stevens Audio Europe – This audio guide app offers guided walking tours in different European cities. You’ll get insider tips and historical background information while exploring independently.
• Holafly – An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card.

Facebook groups are also a great shout for solo backpackers, and so is the Hostelworld chat for your location. My best tip though? Get off yo’ phone and go chat to people!

Stop stressing about your phone service when you travel abroad.

Holafly is a digital SIM card that works smoothly like an app — you simply pick your plan, download it, and voilà!

Roam around Europe, but leave the roaming charges for the n00bies.

So this is where it gets tricky lumping all of Europe together into safety tips. Each country definitely varies when it comes to levels of crime. So make sure to look up the countries you’re headed to before and do some research on their travel warnings. With that said, here are a few tips to help keep you safe while exploring solo in Europe.

Pickpockets are in just about every city, so just be smart about your belongings. Don’t wear fancy jewellery. Zip your bags and keep them in front of you, and maybe even get a necklace thing for your phone to make sure it doesn’t get snatched.

If you’re going out or bar hopping, don’t get hammered. I know it feels a bit like a theme park as you travel from city to city. But you aren’t untouchable, and creeps exist everywhere.

So don’t drink too much. If you are a female solo traveller, try to go with a group of friends and don’t wander off alone. Like anywhere, Europe is safe to travel alone but you must keep your wits about you.

If this is your first big solo trip, don’t worry, these tips will help you have a killer time in Europe and could also save your ass.

• Travel light , and pick a trusty backpack over a rolling suitcase.
• Book hostels . It’s the BEST way to travel solo. You’ll meet awesome people and they’re often nicer than hotels.
• If you’re travelling on a tight budget , you can get cheap transport tickets if you book in advance .
• Free walking tours are a must ! They’re a great way to meet people and explore the local areas and, well, they’re free!
• Leave your heels at home . Good travel shoes are essential.
• Always have some Euros on hand. Cash is still king.
• Don’t just visit cities … please. Countries are more than just their tourist hotspots and Instagram-famous locations.
• With that being said— do the touristy things . There is a reason everyone loves going to the Eiffel Tower or seeing the Colosseum. Don’t leave wanting more.
• Get European travel insurance . You never know what can happen, and we want you safe, not hundreds of dollars in debt and unable to get home safely.

My final tip would be to just go for it and also to go with the flow. Nothing ever unfolds exactly how you imagined it, but this is the beauty of travel. We love the mystery of surprises, don’t we?

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.

All that’s left to say is get ready for a trip of a lifetime. My first solo trip to Europe was more than I could have ever imagined, from getting kicked out of a club in Barcelona to jumping on the back of a Vespa to ride around Rome with a stranger. Travelling solo brings opportunities to your front door that you would never even think possible.

Not that getting kicked out of the club was fun, but it definitely makes for a great story to tell. And you’re about to have all of that and more. You’ll learn more about yourself and honestly see more churches than you ever need to in your whole life—but, hey, that’s Europe.

So regardless if you’re visiting one country or are on an epic solo backpacking journey through Europe, you’re about to eat, dance, and live your life to the fullest. So double-check your travel packing list , and get ready to say hola, merci, ciao, and cheers as you embark on your solo adventure in Europe.

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!

Darren Griffiths

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Travelling to and from London Under 12 years old: must travel with a responsible person aged 16 or older. 12 to 15 years old (inclusive): can travel on their own on trains departing between 06.00 and 17.00 local time , as long as they’ve got a fully completed Eurostar  unaccompanied minor form . This must be signed by their parent or legal guardian (or by a responsible adult given consent by the parent or legal guardian) at the station in the presence of a member of the Eurostar team. Children under 16 cannot travel unaccompanied on our direct trains to or from the Netherlands.  The child will need to keep this signed form with them throughout their journey and show it to the onboard team if they’re asked. When the parent or legal guardian gives written consent for the young person to travel, they accept and agree that the young person will travel unaccompanied and be treated as an adult passenger (i.e., the young person will not be supervised by a member of the Eurostar staff) for the entirety of the trip. The responsible person must also ensure arrangements are in place for the young person to be met on arrival.  16 to 18 years old: can travel by themselves, as long as they’ve got all the usual travel documents and meet all the legal requirements (please see below). French citizens and foreigners living in France Anyone under 18 who is a French citizen or a foreigner living in France must complete an Authorisation de sortie de territoire (AST) form before they travel alone or without their parents. This applies to journeys from France. Documents your child will need

Passports are mandatory  for all passengers, including children Up to 16 years old All unaccompanied minors

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Eurostar unaccompanied minors form signed by parent

French citizen or a foreigner living in France who is leaving France:

As above, plus:

Authorisation de sortie de territoire (AST) form signed by parent

Photocopy of the passport of the parent who has signed the AST form

Up to 18 years old ​​​​All unaccompanied minors

French citizen or a foreigner living in France who is leaving France :

Authorisation de sortie de territoire (AST)  form signed by parent

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Traveling to Europe with kids? What to know about vaccination and entry rules

Mar 31, 2022 • 9 min read

The EU has introduced flexible vaccination rules for children traveling under the EU Digital COVID Certificate © Getty Images

Do children need a booster for travel in Europe this summer? Can unvaccinated children travel? Here's what you need to know as the European Union (EU) introduces flexible travel rules for people under the age of 18.

Across the EU, tourists who completed their primary jabs more than 270 days ago need a booster to enter countries such as France , Spain and Italy  — or be considered unvaccinated and therefore subject to additional rules such as testing.

This recommendation was introduced by the European Commission (the legal arm of the EU) on February 1 under the EU Digital COVID Certificate regulation . Most EU member states adopted it, though some, such as Ireland , Denmark and Sweden , have since scrapped all COVID-19 entry requirements at their borders.

What it's like for Americans proving they are vaccinated in Europe

This week, the Commission introduced new rules on the EU digital COVID certificate that exempt children under the age of 18 from the 270 days acceptance period following the primary vaccination series. This means that children are considered fully vaccinated after having received their primary dose; whether that's a two-shot vaccine series or a one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine. 

By April 6, this new feature will be included in the mobile app used to verify EU Digital COVID Certificates so that children's certificates remain active without the booster.

In a statement, Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders, said: "One of the biggest benefits of the EU Digital COVID Certificate is its flexibility to adapt to new circumstances. Following discussions with member states' public health experts, we have decided that the vaccination certificates of minors should not expire. When travelling, they will be able to continue using the certificate received after the primary series of vaccination."

This exemption applies to EU and Schengen Zone citizens and residents traveling within Europe, though some countries can adopt their own entry restrictions regardless of the Commission's ruling.

If you plan to travel to Europe with kids this summer, here's what you need to know about the latest entry rules and how they apply to you, even if you're traveling from countries outside of the EU like the UK and the US.

Can unvaccinated children travel to Europe?

Generally speaking, yes. Children under 12 are typically exempt from vaccination requirements in most countries but many require that children between the age of 12 and 18 have received the primary vaccine course to avoid testing rules.

What countries in Europe have scrapped COVID-19 entry restrictions?

Andorra , Denmark, Hungary , Lithuania , Iceland , Ireland, Montenegro , Norway , Poland , Romania , Slovenia , Sweden, and the United Kingdom have recently dropped all pandemic restrictions at their borders, meaning people no longer have to show vaccination certificates or negative tests to enter these countries, regardless of where they are coming from.

Countries in Europe with travel restrictions

Here are some of the destinations in Europe that still require proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test from travelers.

People over the age of 12 need one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more: Austria Entry Requirements

Generally, people traveling from the EU/Schengen area can present proof of vaccination (booster mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (36 hours) test.

People from outside the EU or an area categorized as high-risk must present proof of vaccination. Children under 18 can present proof of recovery or a negative test. Children under 12 are exempt.

Belgium's rules vary depending on the COVID-19 risk associated with your departing country.

See more: Belgium Color Codes by Country

People need one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more: Visit Croatia

People over the age of 12 need one of the following: proof of vaccination (booster mandatory seven months after primary vaccine course) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test. People also have to take a PCR on arrival and isolate while awaiting results.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more: Visit Cyprus

People must present proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course) or recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days) to bypass additional restrictions. Unvaccinated travelers from the EU and approved countries including the UK and US must isolate for seven days upon arrival.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from entry rules.

See more: Estonia Ministry of Foreign Affairs

People traveling from the EU, Schengen Zone or approved countries including Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Korea can present one of the following: proof of vaccination; recovery certificate (older than 28 days, but no less than three months old) or a PCR (48 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing.

People traveling from outside the EU, including the UK and the US, must be vaccinated to enter Germany. Unvaccinated 6-11 year olds can enter with a vaccinated parent; unvaccinated accompanying over-12s can provide a negative PCR or antigen test.

See more: Government of Germany

People traveling from the EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and other approved countries need to present one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory seven months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

Children under five are exempt from all entry requirements. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more: Greece Ministry of Tourism

There are no entry rules for those traveling from the EU and Schengen Zone countries. However, people coming from third countries such as the UK and the US must provide proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course) or recovery certificate (issued within the past six months).

Children born in 2007 or later are exempt if accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult.

See more:  Finland Border Guard

People must present one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after a primary vaccine course) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.

Children under 12 are exempt. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more:  French Ministry of Foreign Affairs  

People need to present one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory seven months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.

Children under the age of six are exempt from testing. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more:  Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

People over the age of 12 need one of the following: proof of vaccination (second dose administered at least 14 days prior to travel); recovery certificate; or negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.

See more: Discover Latvia

People need one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past six months); or a negative PCR (48 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt.

See more:  Visit Luxembourg

People must present proof of vaccination with a booster to travel to Malta. 

Children between the ages of five and 11 must present a negative PCR test (72 hours). Children under five are exempt.

See more:  Visit Malta  

Netherlands

There are no entry rules for people traveling from the EU/Schengen area or countries participating in the EU travel rules scheme. People from elsewhere, including the US and UK, must present proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course) or a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days but no earlier than 11 days).

Children under 12 traveling to the Netherlands from outside the EU/Schengen area must show a negative PCR (48 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

See more: Government of Netherlands

See more: Visit Portugal

People traveling to Slovakia must show proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course).

See more: Slovakia Information Centre

People traveling from the EU can show proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

People traveling from outside the EU must show proof of vaccination or recovery only (unless traveling to Balearic Islands where proof of vaccination is mandatory).

Children under 12 are exempt from vaccination requirements. Unvaccinated 12 to 17-year-olds can present a negative PCR (72 hours) test.

See more: Spain Ministry of Health

Switzerland

People traveling to Switzerland must show proof of vaccination ( booster mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course) or a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days). 

Children under 18 are exempt.

See more: Switzerland Travel Check

Most people need to present one of the following: proof of vaccination; a recovery certificate (issued within the past six months but no less than 28 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.

Children under the age of 12 are exempting from testing.

People from high-risk countries are subject to stricter rules including quarantine if they're unvaccinated.

See more: Visit Turkey

You might also like: Europe’s top 10 scenic train journeys for 2022 20 best beaches in Europe

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Solo Travel in Europe for First Timers: 41 Tips to Maximize Your Adventure

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

If you’re in the market for life experiences that make you laugh, cry, throw up & also insufferable at parties, then I can wholeheartedly recommend the wonders of solo travel in Europe.

I mean… Traveling Europe on your own? With no one there to nag or navigate? It’s exciting. It’s empowering. Oh! And how can I forget? It’s scary. Very, very scary.

That’s what I thought anyway when I set off on my first European solo adventure at the clueless age of 21. Almost a decade of solo travel later, I’ve gotten scammed, lost, lonely, and one time, I inexplicably broke out in hives at 2am in a windowless Bulgarian hotel.

All that to say, solo travel in Europe is a wild ride. But one that’s as life-changing as it is terrifying.

The best way to fight the terror? Preparation! And research! Luckily you’re here, and if I haven’t scared you away yet, you’re very close to a full list of all the tips and must-knows I wish I had before my first solo Europe trip. Consider it a list of wisdom gleaned from mistakes I’ve made so you don’t have to.

… Although I still have no idea where the hives came from.

Anyway, read on for a list of my best Europe solo travel tips, and be sure to read my general Europe travel tips for other basics that I don’t have a chance to cover. Yes, against all odds I do have more to say on this topic. Wild.

Save this list of Europe Solo Travel Tips for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Identify your anxieties & build confidence well before departure

Alright, let’s start with some basics. Truly, the most important thing when it comes to solo travel is to build up your confidence as much as humanly possible before you go.

And to do that, we have to play a super fun game called… confronting all our anxieties! Yay.

Truthfully, every traveller will have different comfort levels and anxieties around solo travel. Some might dread being perceived as alone. Some might fear solo navigating. Others (like me) fear having nobody to watch their laptop when nature calls at coffee shops.

Anyways, the point is: we all fear different parts of solo travel, and the easiest way to prepare for this is to identify what your main anxieties are (by writing them down) and building up confidence around those in a more familiar environment.

For instance, if your main anxiety is navigating and getting around, you can build your navigation skills by doing smaller adventures close to home.

Or if you feel nervous about being out on your own, you can try doing a solo meal or museum in your hometown.

Prepare for your first solo trip by building confidence around the areas that make you nervous and you’ll be golden.

2. Decide what kind of solo travel trip you want to do

Gone are the days that “solo travel” means only backpacking and sleeping in dorm rooms with 17 of your new closest friends.

Granted, solo travel in Europe can be that, but it can also be joining a group tour (like with Trafalgar or Contiki ) if you don’t want to worry about logistics. Or checking into a luxe 5 star hotel to take advantage of a solo spa weekend. Or staying in a mid-range hotel and walking 30,000 steps each day until you’re limping back to your bed.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to solo travel, so before you start planning, really think about what your ideal solo trip looks like so you can plan accordingly.

3. Be strategic when picking your first solo destinations in Europe

Now, onto a big decision: where to go for your first European solo trip.

While I’m a huge advocate for simply going where you want to, there might be some destinations that are more ‘beginner-friendly’ for first time solo travellers. Which ones to choose though depends again on our favourite topic of discussion: your specific anxieties! Yay.

If you’re worried about being perceived as lonely for instance, then a bigger city like London might be a good fit, where you can luxuriate in the endless anonymity of the thousands of others who are out and about all on their own.

If you’re worried about being overwhelmed by change, then maybe pick a place where you can speak the language, or isn’t too different from what you know (e.g. if you’re from a big city, pick another big city).

If you’re worried about safety, then some more beginner friendly solo destinations include Nordic countries like Iceland, Norway, Sweden & Finland.

All that to say, lists of “best solo travel destinations in Europe” are wildly subjective, and picking the best fit for you will really depend on a) your bucket list and b) what fears you want to mitigate.

4. Learn the pros and cons of different solo accommodation types

As a solo traveler in Europe, your options for accommodation are just as plentiful as someone traveling with buddies or partners.

That said, picking the right accommodation for your trip is important, so here are some pointers based on personal experience.

If you’re hoping to meet new people on this trip, hostels are the way to go. If you want privacy, don’t fret – many hostels have single rooms these days so you can get the social atmosphere without being immersed in a snoring symphony every night.

If you’re not too bothered about meeting new people and are prioritizing comfort at the end of the day, know that many hotels in Europe actually offer single rooms for cheaper than double rooms, so that could be a great option if you want a hotel experience without paying for a giant room.

NOTE: My foolproof method of finding cheap hotels in Europe can help you find the perfect place.

Lastly, there’s of course vacation rentals like Airbnb. To be honest, I don’t think Airbnbs are great for solo travel, because there’s a lot of additional hoops compared to hostels/hotels like having to meet your host or even potentially share a space with them and other guests.

I personally think more standardized options like hotels and hostels feel safer, plus Airbnb has some outrageous fees these days, so I would stick to hostels or hotels if you can.

5. Prioritize accommodation in busier areas

Another important solo travel tip is to book accommodation somewhere busy. This will help you avoid unpleasant situations like walking back alone at night with no one around.

In addition to this, definitely do some research beforehand to identify safer parts of the city, and prioritize finding accommodation in those.

I like searching for hotels on Booking.com because they have a fun map view that allows me to view options based on neighbourhood.

6. Use Hostelworld for booking hostels

For hostels specifically though, I recommend using Hostelworld.

Back in my hostel era, they used to my go-to, and these days, they have a lot of cool new features like group chats where you can interact with the other people staying at your hostel at the same time as you. Can you imagine how many awkward convos this could have saved me? I’m genuinely angry this didn’t exist back in my day.

That said, if you don’t care about Hostelworld’s extra features, do know it’s pretty much always cheaper to book directly with the hostel itself. Most hostels will offer some kind of perk like free breakfast in exchange for a direct booking because that saves them the extra fees.

PS: If you’re backpacking, be sure to check out my full list of Europe backpacking tips and Western Europe backpacking itinerary.

7. Make sure you have a good data plan

In terms of must-buys before your trip, I think making sure you have data access is crucial , not only for practical reasons like using navigation and translation apps, but also to stay connected with loved ones and keep safe.

If your phone plan doesn’t have a generous international option, then buying a local SIM card could be a great choice. Thanks to EU wide roaming waivers, you can actually get a SIM card in any EU country and use it across the EU, and some other countries without any roaming charges. 

Very handy if you’re planning on visiting a bunch of countries!

8. Get a travel friendly credit card

Another important must-have is a good credit card you can use abroad.

I think this is especially important for solo travellers because (in the off-chance that your cards from home don’t work) you literally have no travel companions to milk for money. In other words, if your cards don’t work, you’re screwed.

I personally use my Wise card in Europe and love it because it saves me from pricey foreign usage fees. You can click here to get your first transfer free (up to 500 euro), and they even send you the card for free! I know it sounds too good to be true, but this thing has been a lifesaver.

NOTE: The reason I’d advise having a credit card over a debit card is because credit cards give you more recourse with false charges in case your card gets stolen. Plus, I’ve found credit cards to be more universally compatible, especially big names like Visa or Matercard.

9. Always schedule a daytime arrival

Now, in terms of planning your travel days, another very important solo tip is to plan so that you arrive in new destinations during the day.

Because you know what seems scarier and more stressful in the dark? Everything . Absolutely everything.

So, don’t plan for a night time arrival. Pay the extra if you have to! It’ll be well worth it.

10. Spoil yourself at the start of your trip

Next, if you’re anxious about arriving in a new place alone, my rule of thumb is to always spoil yourself at the start of your trip, rather than saving it for the end ‘as a treat’.

This is because you’ll always be the most stressed at the very beginning of your trip once you arrive, so if there’s any time to pay for a taxi or get a good night’s sleep, it’s then.

Trust me, you’ll feel much more confident after you ditch your bags and get some proper rest.

11. Splurge on first class trains (depending on the country)

Okay, another slightly boujee tip, but hear me out.

A great solo travel hack to know is that some train systems (e.g. the French train system and German train system ) have 1st class trains that offer single seats you can book. This is ideal if you want to spread out and not fear elbowing someone else. It’s glorious, and well worth the splurge, especially for longer journeys.

I also find that first class cars tend to feel safer as well. You can learn more in my guide on how to takes trains in Europe.

12. Stay close to families and couples

Whether you’re choosing where to sit on a bus/train or simply feeling uncertain while exploring a new place, one way I always find comfort is by sticking close to couples and families.

Not to assume all families and couples are perfect angel-people, but generally if I need someone to watch my things while I head to the bathroom for instance, I can feel confident in asking a mom. This hasn’t steered me wrong yet!

13. Ensure you know your routes well in advance

Now, if you plan on walking a lot during your solo Europe trip (which duh, of course you are), then I need to be annoying and remind you that you and you alone are in charge of navigating… so be sure to prepare accordingly.

Some handy tricks for navigating solo like a pro:

• Use Google Street View to get a sense of your route before your arrival
• Download the Google Map of your destination so you can use it offline, in case you’re left without data (you can do this by typing ‘ok maps’ in into the search bar)
• Star your accommodation on Google Maps so you always remember where it is
• Ask for a business card or something upon check in so you have your accommodation’s address in the worst case scenario that your phone is stolen or lost
• Download the local language on Google Translate for offline use in case you need to ask for directions, translate signs or anything like that. Be sure to check out my list of Europe travel apps for more recommendations.

14. Pack light

One of the greatest woes of solo travel in Europe (especially for weak-armed gremlins like me) is that you and you alone are in charge of carrying your bags.

While kindness from strangers can sometimes go a long way, you’re better off assuming that you’ll have to carry all of your bags by yourself every time.

This endeavour can get especially difficult if you’re using public transport, because hauling multiple suitcases on/off buses and Metros is truly one of the sweatiest and most horrible tasks on Earth.

As such, I’d recommend only packing as much as you can carry yourself in one go. For me, this means one carry-on sized suitcase and one backpack. If that sounds like a struggle, be sure to check out my minimalist packing list and my list of general packing tips.

15. Bring a book or journal

For those who fear being left alone with their thoughts, it’s always a good idea to have a book or journal handy for those little pockets of solitude.

… Which can be frequent by the way, when you’re travelling alone in Europe!

I find that having a book or journal feels much better than just scrolling mindlessly on your phone, so be sure to have one on you (or another solitary activity that you enjoy).

NOTE: I do love physical books but if you’re planning for a long trip then having an e-reader is a much more efficient use of space. I love my Kobo E-reader because I can link it to my library card and check out eBooks for free, so that’s a great hack for a long trip.

In addition to solitary activities, you should also consider bringing a social item if your goal is to make friends at some point. Having a deck of cards or a fun easy game makes for a great icebreaker!

16. Bring a portable charger 

Another important must-have for solo travel in Europe?

… Not the drinking kind. The chargey kind. These days, having access to your phone and internet is so important, especially when you’re on your own.

So, having a portable source of power is essential. This one for instance is the slimmest one on the market.

17. Pack a plug or outlet extender

If you’re planning on staying in hostels, you should also consider some kind of plug or outlet extender.

Often there aren’t enough outlets to go around, which can be tricky if you need to charge your phone, laptop, camera, etc. so having an outlet extender can be a lifesaver.

… It can also help you make friends very quickly.

18. Bring good noise cancelling headphones

I’m not usually one for expensive gear, but one of my most prized travel possessions (that is 100% worth the money) are these headphones.

Screaming baby on the plane? Blocked.

Snoring neighbour? BLOCKED.

Noisy street party outside my window? Blocked! Beautifully.

I’m not being dramatic when I say that having a good set of noise cancelling headphones can absolutely transform your trip, so I’d highly recommend splurging on a pair.

NOTE: For safety reasons, when walking around in public, make sure you never have your headphones at full volume.

19. Making friends? First impressions really matter

Alright, now let’s tackle some social tips for solo travel.

The most important (and inconvenient) truth to keep in mind is that first impressions matter a lot when it comes to meeting new people.

So, when you are entering new situations whether that’s a hostel or a tour, be VERY aware of the initial vibe you put out.

If you act like a frigid meanie at the start, it’ll be very hard for you to reverse that impression and make friends later once your caffeine has kicked in. So, be friendly and approachable right off the bat – this will make your life a lot easier.

20. Wear some kind of identifiable icebreaker

Now, if you’re shy, then here’s a solo travel hack that will help draw friends to you…

Simply wear or carry something (whether that’s a sticker on your laptop or a pin on your bag) that hints at a passion or hobby of yours. That way, similar minded people will find their way to you. Yay.

21. Book (niche) guided tours to meet new people

Aside from staying in hostels, I’ve found the best way to meet new people is on guided tours… especially ones that bring likeminded people together like an x filming locations tour, or an activity where you have common ground (e.g. a cooking class).

NOTE: You can also try places like Facebook groups and Bumble BFF.

22. When in doubt, offer to take someone’s photo

Now, I’m going to let you in on a secret…

One of the easiest hacks in solo travel land is this: if you want to interact with strangers in a non-weird way, simply offer to take their photo when you’re in a touristy place!

The key here is pick someone who is probably on their own as well or in a group of friends. Offering to take a photo is an easy icebreaker that can lead to further conversation, and (at the very least) a nice photo of yourself in return. Double win. 

23. Use recommendations as an icebreaker

If you’re stuck for a conversation starter, another trick is to simply ask for someone’s opinion from a curious POV and get recommendations.

You could always say for instance, “oh I actually just arrived yesterday! Do you have any recommendations for x?”

People love sharing what they know, and this is an easy way to get the ball rolling in terms of conversation. If the vibe is right, you could also start talking about other recommendations you’ve heard from others, and maybe suggest you do it together.

24. Be openminded with who you become friends with

Lastly on the friends front, I want to emphasize how important it is to be openminded when you’re travelling solo.

Here’s the harsh truth: among the friends you make while solo traveling, you’ll probably only see a small percentage of them again. With that in mind, you’re not necessarily looking for lifelong friends… so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone you wouldn’t necessarily befriend back home, whether that’s due to gaps in age or interest.

I’ve had some of my nicest solo travel interactions this way!

25. Always look up local scams

Now let’s move onto solo travel safety tips. The first is to become an expert in the local scam scene.

The truth is, no matter where you go in Europe, there will probably be a common scam or two. The other truth is? You can probably learn all about these scams by simply… Googling them.

So, do your research ahead of time and make sure you’re familiar with the common scams of your destination. My guide on how to avoid pickpockets in Europe may be a good start.

NOTE: You should also have an idea of the rougher areas of your destination to avoid. While I think reports of sketchy areas can often be overblown, when it comes to travelling alone, it’s always better safe than sorry.

26. Walk around with confidence

Another must know for solo travelers?

I don’t care how scared, lost or nervous you are… always strut around with purpose and confidence. The more confident you look, the less likely you are to deal with unwanted attention.

If you do need to look at your map or check something on your phone, do so by pulling over somewhere safe rather than stopping in the middle of the street in a cloud of confusion.

BONUS TIP: Some solo travellers swear by wearing a wedding ring when they’re avoiding attention from potential suitors.

27. Keep someone from home updated on your plans

Another very important solo travel safety tip is making sure someone from home knows where you’re headed. In addition to providing someone with a copy of your itinerary, you should also be checking in every so often to let them know everything is alright.

If that sounds too hands on though, you can also look into apps that allow you to effortlessly share your location, like with…

• The built-in ‘Find My’ app on iPhones (very simple to use)
• Life360, a location sharing app that shares your whereabouts with trusted individuals

28. Opt for a public location if meeting anyone

These days, I think it’s safe to say that most of us are over the whole ‘never trust strangers from the Internet’ thing, so I’m here to offer some realistic advice: it’s okay to meet a date or friends from an online group when you’re travelling solo, but if you are, then please please please make sure you’re meeting them in a public location.

I don’t care how long you’ve chatted for, how many times you’ve Facetimed, or whether you’ve declared your love for each other already – when it comes to solo travel, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

So, meet in public. And again, be sure to let someone know where you’re headed.

29. Never post on social media in real time

An oft neglected solo safety tip is to never update your social media in real-time.

This means if you’re gulping up cool cocktails at a bar in Budapest, you shouldn’t post and tag that bar until you’ve moved on.

Or if you’ve just arrived at your hotel, this means NOT showing the view from the balcony or your room number (seriously, I’ve seen people do this) until check-out.

There’s a ton of different reasons for this. First off, even if your account is private, you don’t know with 100% certainty that all your followers can be trusted with your exact whereabouts, especially when you’re abroad and your home is left vulnerable to intruders.

And if your account isn’t private, then every time you use a location tag, your story (and therefore location) is publicly visible to everyone on the planet. Which really isn’t the safest way to be existing.

So, remember: leave the social updates for after. This will also help you live more in the moment.

30. Avoid getting too drunk

No, I’m not done with the buzzkill tips. Here’s another one: please imbibe responsibly.

Especially when you are new to your destination and don’t quite know your way around yet, getting drunk on your own is a recipe for disaster. At the very least, save the big nights out for when you’re more confident in knowing your way around.

Needless to say, you should also never leave your drink unattended.

31. Have backups of everything

Next, be sure to always have backups of everything, whether that’s copies of your passport and important documents, or backup cards and cash stored in other bags of yours in case your stuff gets stolen.

Make sure you also have emergency phone numbers written down as well. Remember, you should be actively preparing for worst case scenario so that in the off-chance it does happen, you’re not completely screwed.

This same principle applies to backing up your photos like to iCloud or Google Photos in case your phone gets broken or stolen. Try to do this every day, because trust me, you’ll want those memories!

32. Screenshot everything

Continuing with the whole ‘worst case scenario’ doom-thinking, another tip I have is to assume you’ll not have Internet.

This is because data seems to (at least for me) have this magical way of crapping out in the moments I need it most.

So, make sure you have screenshots of all your important bookings, tickets, addresses, etc. so that you can access them even when you don’t have an Internet connection.

33. Get travel insurance just in case something goes wrong

Of course, having travel insurance is a no-brainer as well, if we’re rolling with this whole ‘worst case scenario’ thing.

With many travel-friendly credit cards, travel insurance is included as a perk, so be sure to look into that. I get excellent insurance through my Amex card which saves me a ton of money every trip.

For longer trips, I usually buy a policy with WorldNomads and have never had an issue with them.

34. Always a carry a lock & remember: better safe than sorry

One of my favourite little travel items to carry are these mini locks – you can keep one in each bag and use them for lockers in hostels, to lock up zippers in crowded areas, etc. etc.

I know this may sound overly paranoid, but as I mentioned before, when it comes to solo travel in Europe, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Trust your gut – if you feel that anything is even remotely off, then make sure your stuff is properly locked up… no matter how cool and trustworthy your new friends may seem.

35. Become a master of taking your own photos

Now, a lot of people assume that when they travel solo, they’re doomed to a camera roll of just selfies and landscapes.

Trust me, I love a good selfie, but there are so many ways you can take epic photos of yourself while travelling solo!

From portable tripod/selfie stick combos like this to just propping your phone up on a bench (obviously when people aren’t around), there are plenty of ways to capture yourself and get cool photos. So, be shameless and remember nobody will ever see you again, so you might as well get the shot.

NOTE: I find that waking up very early (i.e. sunrise) is ideal for this type of self-photography… because that’s when nobody is around, and at the end of the day, there’s nothing fun about getting your phone stolen while posing wistfully.

36. Embrace the perks of solo travel

Another random solo travel tip? Remember that solo travel comes with a ton of unique perks that you should definitely take advantage of, whether that’s scoring the last cheap ticket to a play, getting to do the single riders lines at theme parks, or simply being able to choose what you eat and do everyday, based solely on what YOU want.

Solo travel is an amazing gift, and the more you actively take advantage of its perks, the more fulfilling your trip will be.

37. Accept that you’ll have bad days

That said, solo travel isn’t always perfect.

Just like how you might wish you were alone sometimes on a hectic family or friend trip, there will be moments on your solo trip that you wish you had someone to share it with…. And that’s okay! 

Solo travel can often be a rollercoaster of emotions, so if you’re having a bad day, let it happen and don’t feel guilty about it. Sometimes thinking you’re dumb for complaining can send you down a negative guilt spiral and make things 10x worse.

So, when you’re not feeling it, give yourself permission to wallow. You’ll feel much better after some rest.

PS: If you really need a break from hostel life (assuming you’re going that route), you can look into apps like DayUse which allow you to book a hotel at a highly discounted rate for the day rather than overnight, so you can get some proper rest without breaking the bank.

38. Opt for takeout instead of dining in

One of my favourite solo travel hacks as far as dining is concerned is simply grabbing takeout and enjoying it somewhere scenic.

This is an especially great trick if you feel awkward dining alone at a restaurant (which you shouldn’t, but still). There’s nothing I love more than enjoying good food with a side of people watching, so be sure to steal that trick and see what I mean.

39. Consider sitting at the bar

Or, another alternative is to sit at the bar when you dine out.

This way you can more easily strike up conversations with other patrons or at least the bartender…!

40. Load up on movies and TV shows filmed in your destinations

Another fun tip I’ll also add is to load your phone/laptop up with movies and TV shows filmed in the places you’re visiting.

Not only does this give you plenty of potential entertainment for your solo travel evenings, it also makes for a fun game recognizing locations once you’re out and about on your own.

41. Lastly: Keep cool and laugh things off when things go wrong

The only certain thing in solo travel is that things will go wrong at some point. Recognizing that this will eventually happen is pretty freeing!

Remember: at the end of the day, what matters most is how you react to a situation, rather than the situation itself. As such, just practice laughing things off.

At the end of the day, travel either makes for a good memory or a good story. View every mishap as a future story to tell, and you’ll be golden.

Did I Miss Any of Your Favourite Solo Travel Tips for Europe?

Let me know in the comments! Safe and happy travels 🙂

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

2 thoughts on “Solo Travel in Europe for First Timers: 41 Tips to Maximize Your Adventure”

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Unaccompanied children: little passengers are a big priority.

Unaccompanied children need very special support. With Lufthansa, they are in the best hands: we look after their needs with great sensitivity—at the airport, during the flight and after landing.

From what age are children allowed to travel alone?

Children aged between 5 and 11 may only fly unaccompanied if they are using our Lufthansa care service or if they are travelling with someone who is at least 12 years old. The Lufthansa care service can also be booked by parents for unaccompanied children from the age of 12 up to a maximum of 17 years. This ensures that the child receives support, especially in the event of a disruption to their flight, such as  a delay or cancellation. Every year 70,000 children travel using the Lufthansa care service. The Lufthansa care service ensures that the children and their relatives feel they are in good hands before take-off, during the flight and after landing. On arrival, the flight crew will hand your child over to a member of staff who will then take your child to meet the person who is collecting them. Please note that your child must be picked up immediately by the person collecting them at the destination airport. Please note that other airlines' regulations for unaccompanied children may be different from those described here for Lufthansa. If your chosen flight is operated by a carrier other than Lufthansa, please enquire directly with the respective airline about the rules for children travelling alone. This also applies to Lufthansa Group airlines:

Are additional fees charged for unaccompanied children?

Yes, for the Lufthansa care service for unaccompanied children, in addition to the price of the flight, a care service charge applies per route and per child (even in the case of siblings travelling together):

Zone 1: Domestic flights (within DE, CH and AT) and flights within Africa

Zone 2: Europe (IATA Zone 210) incl. flights within and between DE, CH and AT

Zone 3: North Africa and the Levant (incl. LB, IL, EK, JO, IQ, KZ, TM)

Zone 4: Middle East, Central Africa and the Arab region (incl. AE, QA, IR, NG, SA, ET, BH, OM, KW)

Zone 5: Medium-haul intercontinental flights (incl. US East Coast, CA East Coast, IN, GQ, KE, TZ, AO, MV)

Zone 6: Long-haul intercontinental flights (incl. US West Coast, CA West Coast, South America, JP, CN, KR, TH, SG, ZA, SC)

Important travel documents and Lufthansa care service form

Please let us know that your child will be travelling alone as soon as you book the flight. To help you prepare for the journey, please use our practical checklist for unaccompanied children, in which we have listed all the important information for your child’s trip.

As well as the necessary documents (e.g. the Lufthansa care service form), the list also includes useful tips on booking, check-in, carry-on baggage, free baggage allowance and collection at the destination. At the airport you will be given the small yellow Lufthansa bag which your child should keep with them clearly visible during the entire journey. The bag holds all the necessary travel documents:

• valid passport/child’s ID card 1
• visa for the destination country 2
• travel insurance certificate 2
• information on any allergies the child may have 3
• receipt for pre-paid charges for the Lufthansa care service, if applicable
• declaration of consent from parents/legal guardians that their child may travel unaccompanied 2
• the completed care service form 1

Save time: fill in and print out the care service form at home. We recommend you make three copies of the form: one for you, one to go in your child’s small yellow bag (which you will receive at the Lufthansa check-in desks) and one for us.

Tickets for unaccompanied children cannot be booked online, but only via the Lufthansa Service Center or at your travel agency. If you have any questions, please contact the Service Center.

Baggage for unaccompanied children

Your child’s carry-on baggage may be the same size as that which is permitted for an adult. However, your child should be able to carry the bag easily unaided. Any medicines to be taken during the flight or at the destination, warm clothing and a small amount of spending money should, of course, also be included. Find out more about this subject in our carry-on baggage regulations.

You can check your free baggage allowance in just a few steps with our baggage calculator – based on route, travel class and fare. There you will also find the prices and dimensions for optional baggage.

The best of care even before departure

The Lufthansa check-in counters are the first point of contact for you and your child as soon as you arrive at the airport. In Frankfurt you will now be entrusting your child to the service staff. Your child is therefore in the best hands from take-off to landing and will be looked after until the handover to the person collecting your child at the destination airport.

At other airports you may be required to accompany your child to the gate yourself. Please enquire about this at a Lufthansa check-in counter when you arrive at the airport.

Please note that the individual bringing the child to the airport and collecting the child from the destination airport must be at least 18 years of age. The individual who brings the child to the airport must be available at the airport and contactable by phone until the booked flight departs.

Dedicated check-in counters

At Frankfurt Airport, Lufthansa provides dedicated check-in counters for children who will be travelling alone and their parents in departure hall B, counters 336-339. At Munich Airport, counter 417 in the departure hall on Level 4 serves the same purpose.

The best of care on board and after landing

Welcome on board.

Your child will be welcomed on board by our flight attendants and looked after throughout the flight. Your child will be seated close to the flight attendants so that they can be on hand immediately if your child has any questions or concerns. With toys, drawing equipment and a special children’s entertainment programme, the time on board will simply fly by.

Our special children’s menus , which have been prepared with care, are delicious and healthy. You can order these menus free of charge up to 24 hours before departure online at My bookings .

More information about children’s and special meals can be found in our FAQs.

We currently provide our care service for unaccompanied children on direct flights only. Connecting flights are not possible.

Welcome at the destination

At the destination airport, the flight crew will hand your child over to a member of staff who will then take them to meet the person collecting them.

Before entrusting your child to the person collecting them, Lufthansa will check by asking to see a valid ID that this is the person named on the Lufthansa care service form. Please let the person collecting your child know that he or she must produce a valid ID or passport. The person collecting your child must then take immediate responsibility for your child.

Even if flights are delayed, your child will be well looked after by us. In order to save the person collecting your child an unnecessary wait in the event of a flight delay, you can check the flight status at any time online and thus always keep up to date.

In Frankfurt you can collect your child after baggage claim in the Arrivals area of the respective flight; in Munich in front of the exit at baggage reclaim.

1 Required in every case 2 Required depending on destination country 3 Recommended

Children travelling alone

If your child is about to embark on their first adventure without you, here’s everything you need to know to help make sure it goes smoothly. 

How old does a child have to be to fly alone?

We allow children aged 14 or older to travel alone with us on domestic or international British Airways flights. 

Children under 14 years old cannot travel alone with us. They must be accompanied by someone aged 16 or over on the same or a linked booking to travel with us. 

Our partner airline SUN-AIR of Scandinavia follow different guidelines. Please see below for more information.

Booking flights for children under the age of 16

A child aged 14 or 15 years old travelling alone will be booked to travel as an adult. To book their ticket, please get in touch via our  Contact Us  page as you’re unable to book this online. 

The young traveller will be making their own way through departure and arrival airports and boarding their flight(s) without assistance or a chaperone. We’re unable to accept parental responsibility for the young person. 

Our partner airlines may have different regulations, age limits and charges, so please check with them directly.

What your child needs to travel alone

All children aged 14 or 15 travelling alone must carry with them:

• A  British Airways consent form  (pdf, 124kb, English only), completed and signed by a parent/guardian. 
• A copy of photographic identification of the parent/guardian who completed the form showing their signature, such as passport or driving licence. 
• Any required travel documentation, such as valid passport(s), visas and proof of return travel.  Check what they need for their destination .

These three documents must always remain in the child’s possession while travelling. 

We also advise your child carries with them:

• Any required medication and/or health certificates.
• Method of payment for any expenses.
• A way to communicate with their parent or guardian, as well as the person they are meeting at their destination. Please ensure all phones and devices are fully charged, with sufficient credit and roaming activated.

At the airport

You can accompany your young traveller up to the security gate. Anyone not flying with us is unable to go past this point, because we cannot offer gate passes at any of our airports. Airport colleagues will be able to tell you the latest time your child can stay with you before they need to go through security and onto their departure gate. 

We recommended that you wait until their flight takes off before leaving the terminal.

It can help to look at the airport terminal maps with your child before arriving at the airport so they’re familiar with their journey. Some airports do offer paid assistance to help customers to their boarding gate. Please visit the airport’s website for more information. 

Children travelling alone on SUN-AIR flights

SUN-AIR, our partner airline, allows young children between the ages of five and 11 years to travel without a parent or legal guardian provided you contact the airline in advance. Children over the age of 12 can travel unaccompanied on SUN-AIR operated flights, although young flyers between 12-16 years can use the SUN-AIR Unaccompanied Minor service on request.

You’ll need to book and pay for the SUN-AIR Unaccompanied Minor service in advance. You can’t book this service online, so please contact SUN-AIR for more information and to make your booking.

The identification requirements of minors may be different from those of an adult passenger. For this reason, we recommend that you have all the documentation and/or authorisations necessary to fly.

• Travelling alone
• Travelling accompanied
• Travelling alone Travelling alone Travelling accompanied

The minimum age for a child to travel alone is 5 years old. In many cases, an Unaccompanied Minor Service must be requested for a child travelling alone.

Domestic flights (Spain)

Spanish nationality:

• Passengers between 14 and 17 years old: Valid National ID or Passport (can be expired).
• Passengers under 14 years old: the child's national ID (DNI) is typically not required. However, the family record book may be requested. The person responsible for the child at the departure airport should be able to verify the child's identity. No authorisation is required to fly. If the child is eligible for a resident discount, the family record book must be submitted together with a certificate of residence containing the child's date of birth.
• Passengers under 12 years old: in addition to the above, an Unaccompanied Minor Form must be signed and submitted. This form will be handed out by Air Europa staff at the departure airport on the day of the flight.

Nationality from a European Union or Schengen country:

• Valid passport or ID (can be expired).
• Non-expired residence permit

Nationality of Third Countries:

• Passport (can be expired).

Flights within the European Union and/or Schengen area

•  Valid Passport or ID and a signed "Unaccompanied Minor Form", which will be handed over by Air Europa staff at the departure airport on the day of the flight.
• Any persons under 18 travelling without their parents or guardian are required to present an international travel permission declaration form signed by their father, mother or guardian at the check-in desks. This form can be obtained at police stations, civil guard stations, courts, public notary offices and city councils. Only unaccompanied minors travelling on NON-domestic flights are required to present this authorisation form together with their national ID card.
• Parents or guardians must go to their consulate to complete the applicable documentation according to the legislation of their country.
• Valid ID accompanied by the valid residence permit.
• We recommend that passengers go to the corresponding consulate to find out about specific requirements.

Flights to third countries (outside the European Union or Schengen area)

• For more information about special documents, such as visas, please contact the local embassy of the destination country.
• All passengers are required to carry the correct documentation in accordance with the applicable Laws, Regulations and Orders of the State or Country to or from which they are travelling. Furthermore, each passenger is solely responsible for complying with the legal requirements of each country, where applicable.
• This documentation may be requested by the company at the check-in desks and boarding gates of any airports through which the passenger passes.
• During the document checking process, Air Europa may refuse boarding to any passenger whose documents are found to be invalid or expired, or if the identity on the document does not match that of the passenger.
• Valid, non-expired passport and a signed "Unaccompanied Minor Form", which will be handed over by Air Europa staff at the departure airport on the day of the flight.
• Any persons under 18 travelling without their parents or guardian are required to present an international travel permission declaration form signed by their father, mother or guardian at the check-in desks. This form can be obtained at police stations, civil guard stations, courts, public notary offices and city councils. 
• We recommend asking the consulate for information about specific requirements for unaccompanied minors.
• In addition, the interested party must go to the corresponding consulate to obtain information on the specific requirements of each country for unaccompanied minors.
• Passengers under 14 years old: the child's national ID (DNI) is typically not required. However, the family record book may be requested. The child is under the responsibility of an accompanying adult traveller. If the child is eligible for a resident discount, the family record book must be submitted together with a certificate of residence containing the child's date of birth.
• Children under 18 years old travelling with their parents or guardians: Valid, non-expired national ID/Passport.
• Children under 18 years old travelling with people other than their parents or guardians: Spanish ID or Passport. They must also present an international travel permission declaration form signed by their father, mother or guardian. This form can be obtained at police stations, civil guard stations, courts, notaries and city halls.
• Valid, non-expired passport:  Any children travelling without their parents or guardians will also have to present an international travel permission declaration form signed by their father, mother or guardian. This can be obtained at police stations, civil guard stations, courts, notaries and city halls.

INFORMATION ON ONLINE CHECK-IN

Online check-in

To check in online, you must enter:

- Booking reference or ticket number.

- The first surname of the passenger who wishes to check in. If it has 4 letters or fewer, the second surname must be added.

TICKET CONDITIONS

Check-in time limit.

The time limit for checking in, unless otherwise specified (Lima: 90 min, Caracas: 120 min) will be a minimum of 60 minutes before the scheduled departure of intercontinental flights and 45 minutes for all domestic and European flights.

Priority Boarding service

Avoid queues at check-in desks and boarding gates by purchasing the Priority Boarding service.

You can purchase it during the online booking process, at the airport sales offices or by contacting our Call Centre.

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Best places to visit in Europe as a solo traveler (plus safety tips)

Europe is possibly one of the safest and easiest places to visit. With over 40 countries to explore, it will never be a dull moment on the continent. Let's go over the best places to visit in Europe as a solo traveler.

Tiffany Tiff Travels

Oct 05, 2023

As we know, Europe has so many countries to see, but not all of them are as developed as the other.

Cultures (and languages) may vary from region to region. For example, eastern Europe is going to have a very different culture than Western European countries. Although Europe has been rated to be quite safe for solo female travelers , there are still some things to keep in mind.

How to travel solo in Europe keeping it safe and fun

Let's go over a few safety tips that can be applied to solo travel in Europe but also anywhere else in the world.

Try not to arrive at a destination late at night

Some trains or buses may be a bit cheaper if your arrival is at night. My personal opinion is to book any transportation that arrives during daylight .

Although Europe may be safe, anywhere at night has the potential to be dangerous. The few bucks saved is not worth the anxiety of what could possibly happen in the dark.

Update family and friends back home of travel plans

At times, it can be easy to forget to tell our loved ones what our plans are while on the road.

It's so important to make sure your family knows where you are and what your plans are. In case of any emergencies, they can reach out and see any best ways they can help. I’ve had many instances abroad where I had mishaps but my family was updated with my plan .

Learn a little bit of the local language

There are so many languages spoken in Europe it can be a bit overwhelming! To simplify, learn the basics such as greetings and questions if you plan on visiting a country where English is not widely spoken.

Make sure a local knows where you are

Whether it is the hostel receptionist, your airbnb host, or vacation boyfriend, making sure a local knows where you are is key to staying safe. In case anything goes left, you’ll have someone who knows the area to talk to.

Never walk with valuables

During my day trips, I make sure to lock up my computer , passports, or any other important items that mean a lot to me.

Most European countries are safe but petty crime is still a thing . I always make sure to travel with printed copies of my IDs such as passport and driver's license as well.

Be aware of your surroundings

Keep an eye out on anyone who may be eyeing your bag, or you in general. You never know what people may be plotting in their head so it's good to just put yourself first and walk tall and confident.

During my time in Athens,  Greece , I even walked with a mini padlock on my bag to steer off pickpockets and keep my belongings safe.

Never tell anyone you are traveling alone

Like ever, it just makes you more of a target. When I go out of my hostel and strike up conversation with people, I always say my mom is taking a nap at the hotel or my family is shopping in a different area.

Of course we do not want to imagine anything bad will happen while abroad but safety is a priority anywhere in the world.

Bring your phone with you everywhere

A phone can act as a lifeline by calling loved ones, a translator , and a debit card all in one. I always say some of the worst things to be stolen or lost while traveling is a phone or a passport.

Be sure to keep all eyes on your phone .

Drink and party responsibly

Having a good time and late nights in Europe is definitely nothing new. Whether you’re partying with a new group of friends in Santorini or living it up in Southern Italy , know your limits, especially if you’re traveling alone.

When people go to different countries alone, their biggest supporter and protector is themselves. Even if you met someone on the road whom you feel like you connect with, they don’t know you that well and vice versa.

Need more safety tips? Read the ultimate guide to staying safe while traveling the world alone

Volunteering in Europe

Europe is such a great place to get into the world of work exchange and volunteering abroad . There are plenty of diverse options such as agriculture ,  yoga teacher , social media management . Of course there are also the more traditional volunteer jobs such as housekeeping and reception work . 

Volunteering with Worldpackers in Europe is a great way to stay safe while visiting the continent. Working with a hostel or guest house will connect a traveler with a host and the worldpackers support team in case any mishaps occur. In addition, accommodation is included in the volunteering exchange!

Work exchange in Europe is not just a great way to save money while traveling Europe but also to make lifelong memories and build professional experience.

Volunteering can possibly be used on job resumes to build overall experience. Whether the skills traded are in reception, social media management, or website design, the life lessons learned while volunteering abroad can always be applied later on in life .

I personally feel much safer when I travel solo with worldpackers because I’m surrounded by other volunteers as well as a host that cares about me. My first time volunteering with Worldpackers was back when I was only 19 years old . I spent one month at a hostel in my home country of Jamaica.

The workers at the hostel all knew how young I was (and a solo female traveler ) and saw me as one of their own and took very good care of me. At the end of my stay, they even got me a gift! Volunteering abroad helps me to feel safe and loved butI’ve also made countless memories with people from all over the world.

Check out all of the Worldpackers work exchange opportunities in Europe.

Where to solo travel in Europe: Top 20 places

There are so many beautiful destinations in Europe, but it would take forever to see all of them at one time.

Down below is a list of 20 great countries to visit as a first time solo traveler in Europe:

Greece is probably one of the most popular destinations to visit during the summertime. People from all over the world stop their daily routines to island hop and explore the ancient Mediterranean culture.

Learn more about island hopping through Greece in this article. Check out all of the worldpackers opportunities throughout the Greek islands and mainland.

Don't miss out:  The ultimate Greek islands list for budget travel  and  How to plan Greek island hopping .

Located in southern Europe and the birthplace of pizza, pasta, gelato and delicious food, lies the beautiful country of Italy.

With ancient coliseums, picturesque little towns, and crystal clear beaches, it's no wonder so many people visit here.

There are plenty of hostels throughout the country making it easy to meet new people and make friends. View all the volunteer opportunities in Italy .

Plan your trip to Italy with these articles:  The ultimate Worldpackers Italy travel guide  and  The 20 best cities to visit in Italy .

3. Portugal

Probably one of my favorite European countries. With a charming language, stunning views , and delicious food, it is no wonder why Portugal sees thousands of tourists every year.

Many digital nomads have claimed Portugal as their new home for good reasons.

Check out:  Portugal travel itinerary: why you should go beyond Lisbon and Porto  and  TOP 15 Best places to visit in Portugal .

A lesser known yet worthy tourist destination, is Croatia .

Sitting in Southeast Europe , the country is sandwiched in between Slovenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Croatia is also another European country where budget travelers can have a good time without worrying about breaking the bank.

Don't miss out:  How to plan your first trip to Croatia  and  The 10 best places to visit in Croatia .

Home to countless cathedrals, authentic gastronomy, and beautiful beaches, Spain is the second most popular global tourist destination.

The country offers a good amount of excursions and activities whether a traveler wishes to swim in clean beaches, learn history, or go on beautiful hikes..

Plan your trip with our blog's articles about Spain .

I have never met a single person that did not enjoy Turkey. A great place to go backpacking with ancient culture, mouth watering pastries , and mediterranean vibes along the southern coast.

Many budget backpackers head to Turkey as opposed to its neighbor Greece to save money but still have a good time.

A lesser known but beloved country in southern Europe. It's located in the Balkans ,  right next to Greece and is a great alternative for those looking for Mediterranean vibes on a budget .

The scenery is absolutely beautiful ranging from the mountains in Tirana to the turquoise blue beach water of Sarande .

Said to have some delicious and plentiful vegan options , Germany has sophisticated cities as well as beautiful nature scenery.

Berlin is the capital and sees tourists from all over the world. On the other hand, the Bavarian alps have some pretty unbeatable mountain views.

Another good point: there are many volunteering opportunities in Germany .

Check out:  25 absolute best things to do in Berlin  and  How to travel as a vegan in Germany .

From the Eiffel tower of Paris to the lavender fields of the south, France is a dreamy destination for travelers. Surprisingly (but maybe not) France ranks top as the most visited country in the world .

Many people do speak English in Paris, so don’t be stressed if you’re not fluent in French. However, it would be a good idea to learn a few common phrases.

10. Switzerland

Known by many for their expensive prices and beautiful alps,  Switzerland  is quite a small country, but the natural scenery surely makes up for its size.

This country is known to be one of the most expensive in the continent but volunteering with Worldpackers in Switzerland can save lots of funds.

Norway has been rated one of the safest places to travel in the world .

The shining northern lights , the developed streets of Oslo, and overall gorgeous nature are some of the very good reasons to visit this country in northern Europe.

Norway is also quite vegan friendly for all the traveling plant based backpackers concerned.

12. The United Kingdom

The UK consists of several lovely destinations including Wales , Northern Ireland , Scotland , and England .

A famous city that attracts solo travelers from all over the world is London . The train system is reliable and effective here as well so sit back and enjoy exploring all these group of islands have to offer.

Plan your trip with these articles about travel to UK .

Norway’s neighbor and fellow Scandinavian country is Sweden .

It gets extremely cold here during the winter months so be sure to pack a coat if you plan to experience the northern lights's season!

Whether you want to try the world famous Swedish meatballs or try to learn the language, Sweden is a lovely country for solo travelers .

14. Romania

Located in the southeast next to Bulgaria and Moldova, Romania has an interesting history and definitely deserves a visit if in this area.

There are plenty of castles and picturesque cities along the way too. The country is also home to Transylvania   which is a cool feature that brings travelers to visit to know more about Dracula's legend and its castle (Bran Castle).

15. Netherlands

Amsterdam sees around 8 million tourists per year for -among others-, a funny reason: the city claims the title as one of the few places in the world where  marijuana use is completely legal and accepted, and its Red District became a tourist attraction.

Apart from that, there is plenty to do in the Netherlands . Also an expensive country, volunteering in the Netherlands will save you a lot of money.

16. Czech Republic

The capital of Prague not only has the reputation of being very friendly and safe for solo female travelers, but also one of the most facinating European cities to visit.

Although the Czech Republic is a lesser visited European nation, has lots of tourist activities to offer.

17. Ireland

Another cold island off the western coast of Great Britain, is Ireland .

Ireland has a lot of interesting things to see, do, and visit such as castles, whiskey museums , and beautiful national parks. If visiting Ireland, it is almost necessary to visit Dublin to try world class Irish alcohol and snacks.

Check out:  The ultimate Worldpackers Ireland travel guide . 

18. Denmark

Known to be an extremely safe destination for solo travelers (especially women), catcalling is rarely an issue , yet alone major crime.

If heading to Denmark , be sure to visit the capital of Copenhagen , try world famous Danish pastries , and create new memories.

A beautiful Mediterranean island off the southern coast of Turkey, is Cyprus . The southern part of the country shares a similar culture to Greece, while the northern half is where the turkish-cypriot population (and many British expats) lives.

Despite years of division and civil war, now Cyprus is a chill place for solo travelers to make friends and relax by the beach.

Another Mediterranean island located right south of Italy, is Malta, where English is widely spoken and one of the two official languages.

Malta is an archipelago that is made up of 3  major islands, called Comino, Gozo, and the largest being the island of Malta. It is extremely close to Africa , so travelers can continue to Northern Africa and explore another continent if they wish.

There are so many other beautiful destinations on the continent but these are just a few to start off as a solo traveler !

What to pack for backpacking Europe solo

An ideal packing list for Europe will greatly depend on the time of year visited, as well as the country/region.

For example, France during the summer time can experience heat waves of temperatures past 90 degrees fahrenheit, whereas the winter months will require a thick coat. It is also best to travel as lightly as possible .

European countries are quite small compared to the USA , China, or most in South America , so getting from place to place by train and bus is very simple. Traveling with a backpack or carryon suitcase is the best method to not stress over excess luggage.

Below I’ll include 2 small packing lists of traveling to Europe during the summer months and the winter months.

Summer Months:

• Thick jacket
• Long sleeve shirts
• Closed toed shoes
• Waterproof Boots
• Layerable clothes
• Sweaters/cardigans
• Warm weather pants

Winter Months:

• Shorts/skirts
• Hiking Boots (for outdoor adventures)

*Quick tip for the winter months: wear your bulkiest clothes on the plane and during transport to take off weight from luggage and rack less baggage fees.

No matter the time of the year a traveler visits Europe, be sure to always bring a universal travel adapter . The UK has a completely different plug than France and Germany so having a plug that fits all countries is best. 

Find out more tips on minimalist packing .

Things I learned traveling solo in Europe

As a young solo female traveler that is only 21 years old, I have learned so much throughout my travels. 

Within my adventures and places visited, I visited several European countries which added to my knowledge as a solo female traveler. Here are a few things I learned while traveling throughout Europe as a solo woman.

Its okay to make mistakes

When traveling throughout a continent with so many options and places to discover, its very possible for mistakes to be made. Maybe you booked accommodation a day too early or missed your train stop, things can happen.

Don’t be too hard on yourself or feel like you missed out. With each mistake is a life lesson learned.

Plan in advance (especially during summer months)

Traveling Europe on a budget is definitely capable, especially in the Balkans but summer months are the most expensive time of the year.

Planning a last minute trip to Greece may not be the best idea and cost hundreds of dollars extra. It is best to plan accommodation and transportation in advance. To lift the weight of tripled flight and hostel prices off your shoulders.

You may not be able to go everywhere and that is okay!

There are so many things to do in Europe. I mean, in Greece alone there are at least 15 “must visit” destinations. You won’t be able to go everywhere and take the perfect IG photo at the most trending spots. 

For example, while backpacking Greece I was not able to visit Santorini due to accommodation being booked. However, I was able to visit Crete and Corfu and other amazing places in the country.

Be satisfied with what you are able to see and do and make life lasting memories wherever you go.

• Also, take a look at:  Solo travel groups: exploring the world in good company

Europe is extremely diverse

Although the continent is small, each region and country differs greatly ! Every country has their own language.

So, while you may take a 4 hour bus to another country, the culture and language will be completely different.

Not all hostels are created equally

Different hostels (and hotels) have different standards yet may be the same price. Depending on the destination and location, 2 hostels could be the same price but one could be terrible.

When booking accommodation, always be sure to look at reviews and look at credibility. My favorite place to search for hostels throughout Europe and around the world is hostelworld.com.

Vegan options are plenty (in certain destinations)

I had possibly some of the best vegan food of my life in Athens.

Certain countries are also more veg friendly than others, with Germany offering hundreds of plant based restaurants.

Public restrooms may cost money

Depending on what country is visited, it may cost money to pee . While exploring a bit of Oslo, Norway, I was required to pay 2 euros to use the mall bathroom. Long story short, be prepared to bring coins while going out or drink less water.

Public transport (train & bus) can go many places

Coming from the USA where getting from state to state can cost hundreds of dollars, I’m used to poor public transportation. I was shocked to see that it's possible to travel to different countries in Europe for as low as $10 USD .

The transportation system is another reason why Europe ranks high for solo travelers. Getting around can be made easy via train and bus.

Learn more about the cheapest European cities for budget backpackers .

Europe is known to be one of the most popular and safe tourist destinations for solo travelers for good reason. With an advanced public transportation system , varying regions, and rich cultures, a solo backpacking trip around Europe is a life changing experience.

Want to learn more about planning your dream Europe trip? By subscribing to the WP pack plan you have unlimited access to +120 courses at Worldpackers Academy, the travel school made by travelers! Learn about digital nomadism, master solo female travel, and be prepared to create everlasting memories. 

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Tiff Travels

Hello beautiful people of the internet! My name is Tiffany and I've been traveling the world solo for the past 2 years (I'm currently 21) and been to 5 countries including Zanzibar. My first 2 experiences with worldpackers have been in Ocho Rios, Jamaica and San Francisco, California and I plan on continuing my travels with the company. Let's go explore the world together!

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Travel Europe on a Budget

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How to travel solo in europe | your guide to solo travel planning.

Tips and advice for traveling alone in Europe. How to have a successful solo backpacking journey through Europe.

Helpful Travel Tips & Articles

Many people are intimated by the thought of solo travel but plenty of people travel alone in Europe. In fact, my first backpacking Europe trip was a solo adventure and I’ve now done 10+ solo trips to Europe. And while I was a little worried at first, I now find traveling alone to be a super rewarding experience. 

And while traveling alone does have some downsides, I still wholeheartedly endorse solo travel to anyone.

In this guide, I’ll teach you how to travel solo in Europe—including the positives and negatives, how to meet people, how to stay safe, how to fight loneliness, and plenty of other practical advice for making the most of your solo travels. 

Note: Looking for female-specific advice — check out our Guide To Solo Travel For Women in Europe . 

The Best Things About Solo Travel In Europe

Solo travel has always been a niche style of travel (check out the r/SoloTravel subreddit) but it truly started booming alongside the surge of post-pandemic travel ( Kayak’s Travel Trend Report states that single-person ticket sales are up by 36% compared to 2022). Many major news publications have also recently written about the benefits of traveling alone— The Solo Trip-Explore at Your Own Pace – NY Times , How (and Why) to Travel Alone – Vox , and Solo Travel: Why More People Are Doing It – BBC .

Let’s jump straight into some of the best things about traveling alone (don’t worry, I’ll cover the downsides in the next section).

Easier To Simply Get Started

I’ve met countless people who have put off travel for 5 or 10 years because they couldn’t find someone to travel with.

Taking a trip to Europe is a big commitment. It takes a lot of time and money. Trying to coordinate schedules and budgets of multiple people is often enough to delay (or even prevent) the start of a trip. 

And every group seems to have one person who can’t commit or cancels last minute—which can throw a wrench into the entire trip before it even begins.

But with solo travel, all you have to do is buy that ticket and you’re on your way.

Complete Control Of Your Day

Traveling alone allows you to be in total control so you can do whatever you want, whenever you want. You can eat whenever, see whatever, and go wherever you want. 

Feel like sleeping in? You got it.

Want to just walk for hours? Go for it. 

You can’t fully appreciate this freedom until you travel with other people.

Food Freedom

From my experience, choosing where to eat is one of the most stressful aspects of traveling with other people—especially when you’re traveling with a larger group of people. 

When you travel alone you can choose exactly where to eat and you don’t have to worry about splitting bills and making sure you get paid back. 

Dining alone can also help you get seated faster if the restaurant has seats at the bar.

Choose Your Itinerary

Trying to get an entire group of people to agree to an itinerary can cause a lot of fiction. 

Some people love the beach. Others love city adventures. Some people want to travel cheaply and others want to drop a lot of cash. Some want to stop at every souvenir shop and others want to spend their days in museums. Inevitably, these misaligned travel styles things cause stress and conflict.

Solo travel allows you to do things you want to do. You don’t need to answer to anyone else. In a group, everyone has their own ideas of what to see and this can cause a lot of conflicts.

No Arguments

Travel is stressful. And you usually take out that stress on your travel partners. This can cause riffs between you and your travel partner or riffs within a larger group. 

I find myself getting much less stressed when I am traveling alone… because I’m not going to argue with myself. 

Total Focus

There is no one to “distract” you when you’re traveling solo. You’re totally focused on whatever it is you’re experiencing.

An Opportunity To Reinvent Yourself

You can be whoever you want to be when you travel alone. Solo travel gives you a chance to shake off the “old you” and try being someone else for a while.

Meet New People

Groups tend to unknowingly put up a “wall” between themselves and other travelers—which often prevents them from making friends with other people.

I’ve also found that solo travelers tend to meet other solo travelers—especially if you’re staying in a hostel. 

No Large Group Issues 

Traveling in a large group poses other issues that a small group won’t experience. 

One of the biggest issues is finding a table at restaurants because reservations for more than four people can be a hassle. In fact, even a reservation for 4 people will be much harder than a group of two. 

Even finding two and three-bedroom rental properties can be difficult.

Large groups also stand out so you’re much more likely to be pegged for tourists.

An Opportunity For Self-Growth

Most solo travelers find that self-growth is the greatest long-term benefit of traveling to Europe alone. You learn that you can rely on yourself. You learn that you can figure stuff out while on the road. You develop self-confidence after figuring out a difficult problem. 

In the end, you become a stronger person.

Disadvantages of Solo Travel

I’d be lying if I said that solo travel was always amazing—because it’s not. And sometimes it kind of sucks. 

But I’ve also found the difficulties of solo travel end up being the most rewarding experiences.

Eating Alone

Many people feel really uncomfortable eating alone—especially in restaurants. It isn’t bad for breakfast and lunch but dinners do get a little lonely.

In actuality, eating alone isn’t nearly as awkward as we think it will be… but, given the choice, I’d still rather eat with someone than eat alone.

Unwanted Isolation

Solo travel can be isolating. And every solo traveler will experience bouts where they wish they had someone to hang out with. 

I remember my very first night of solo traveling. I was in Dublin and the hostel was overrun by a large group of Spanish students.  didn’t meet any English speakers that first night so it was pretty lonely. I was also a new traveler so I was pretty timid. Luckily, occasions like this were pretty rare.

But, I still find going to bars alone to be intimidating.

No “Buddy System” 

Having someone to share your memories with can be nice—especially if everyone travels well with each other. 

Traveling with a friend also helps with other practicalities like having someone watch your bags, watch your drinks, save your seat, help you solve a problem, etc.

Too Many Selfies

Most of my travel photos are selfies. Minor issue but all your photos start looking the same after a while. Of course, you can ask strangers to take your photo but that also gets old (and people take really bad photos).  

General Safety

Europe is a very safe place for solo travelers but there is always safety in numbers no matter where you go. 

On the other hand, traveling with a large group makes you stand out as a bunch of tourists—which brings another host of issues. I’ve written more about safety as a solo traveler further down in this article.

No “Single’s Tax”

Solo travel can be more expensive (on a per-person basis) than traveling with a group because you’re not able to split some travel costs—notably hotel rooms/rental apartments and food. For example, splitting the cost of a hotel room between two people is a huge money saver. 

Tips On How To Travel Alone Successfully

Now that we’ve covered the positives and negatives of solo travel, let’s take a look at some tips to help you successfully travel alone. 

Consider Staying In Hostels

Hostel life isn’t for everyone but it’s an excellent way to be instantly connected with other travelers (especially other solo travelers).

Hostels have changed a lot in the past 5-10 years. Europe now has a number of higher-end hostels so many feel more like boutique hotels than the stereotypical budget backpacker flops of yesteryear. 

Additionally, just about every nicer hostel has private rooms and many hostels cater to every age so you won’t feel out of place if you’re not the typical twentysomething traveler. 

Many hostels often plan group meals, bar crawls, and walking tours to help create a communal vibe so do a little research to find a hostel that fits your travel style.

More Tips On How To Meet People In Hostels

Hostels are naturally social but there are a few things you can do to increase the chance of meeting other people.

• Don’t Break The Unspoken Hostel Rules: Check out The Savvy Backpacker’s guide to hostel etiquette .
• I didn’t do a very good job being outgoing my first few nights and I had a hard time meeting people. But after the third night, I forced myself to be a little more outgoing and it opened up so many doors.
• Buy People Beer: Buy some cheap beer and offer it to people. You’ll meet TONS of people this way. People will often do the same for you. Trust me, this will be the best €10 you can spend.
• Cook Meals In The Hostel: You’ll meet so many people if you hang out in the kitchen around dinner time. Or, if nothing else, hang around the kitchen at dinner time and you’ll probably be invited to eat with other guests.

Check out my Guide To Hostels in Europe to get a more in-depth look at the world of modern hostels and visit my Accommodations Page to see my list of the best hostels in Europe.

Stay In A Fun/Popular Neighborhood

I always try to book accommodation that’s located in a fun neighborhood because I love being able to walk out the door and instantly have coffee shops, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife within walking distance.

Fun neighborhoods also tend to be the safest since they’re the most popular so there are always people out and about.

The best neighborhoods are typically the most expensive in terms of accommodation so you’ll pay a bit of a premium, but I think it’s worth the extra costs.

Take A Food Tour, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting, Etc. 

Participating in a group event is an excellent way to meet other people.

I love taking food tours when traveling solo since eating is naturally a communal event—especially when there is alcohol involved. Many food tours take place at night so it’s a great way to fill your evening after you’ve spent the day exploring the city. I’ve personally taken Devour Food Tours in Rome, Seville, and Madrid—all were excellent (check out my Devour Rome Food Tour review to learn more).

Cooking classes are also a great way to meet people since you’re all in a kitchen preparing a meal together and then you all gather to eat everything you just made. For example, I’ve taken cooking classes in Paris at Cook’n With Class and a cooking class in Florence. These classes generally last 3-5 hours so you still have plenty of time to do other things that day.

Take A Walking Tour

Walking tours tend to be a little less social than food tours and cooking classes since you’re mostly listening to the guide talk but it’s still an excellent way to be around others.

But you’ll naturally start up conversations when the guide isn’t talking and you might end up making a new travel buddy along the way.

Most cities have free walking tours (the guides work off tips) so it’s an affordable activity as well. You can also find more specialty paid walking tours and those tend to attract like-minded travelers.

Couchsurfing, Reddit, and Other Meetup Groups

Most big cities across the world have active Couchsurfing and Reddit meetup groups that attract people eager to meet and chat. These groups typically meet at a local bar to help the conversations flow. 

The best way to find these groups is to Google “CITYNAME Couchsurfing Meetup” or “CITYNAME Reddit Meetup.” Meetup.com can also be a good resource for finding people who are also looking for things to do.

Rent A Room On Airbnb

While not guaranteed, renting a room in an Airbnb can be a good way to interact with your hosts. Plenty of hosts will invite you to dinner or be open to hanging out. 

For example, my Airbnb hosts in Naples invited me to have a homemade dinner with them one evening out on their beautiful rooftop patio.

Use Dating Apps

Using dating apps can be a good way for single travelers to meet locals and other tourists. Plus, meeting a local is a good way to find cooler places that you might not find on your own. 

Hit The Bar

The bar has always been a natural place to meet other people.

If you feel weird about drinking alone, I recommend bringing a book and sitting at the bar as you look much more approachable than if you’re just scrolling through your phone.

Safety Tips For Solo Travelers

While Europe is a very safe place to visit, common sense safety measures are still something that all solo travelers should consider.

Act Like You Belong

One of the best things you can do while traveling alone is to simply act like you belong. Walk with confidence. Pretend like you’ve been there a million times before. People who look lost and bewildered instantly stand out.

Stay In A Safe Neighborhood

Always do some research before booking your accommodation to ensure it’s in a safe neighborhood—especially at night.

TIP: The areas around train stations in Europe are often a little sketchy (since there is a large transient population) but this is also where much of the cheap accommodation is found. So keep this in mind when booking a place to stay.

Listen To Your Instincts

If something doesn’t feel right then you shouldn’t do it. It’s a pretty simple concept but sometimes it’s easier said than done.

Know Where You’re Going

Pulling your phone out every two seconds to see where you’re going will naturally draw attention to yourself and it’s a signal that you’re lost. So spend a little time studying your route so you only need to check periodically.

Keep Connected With Reliable Mobile Data

Having reliable mobile data for your phone can be a huge help when traveling—you need it for Google Maps, rideshare apps, digital train tickets… and just about anything else so don’t rely on hard-to-find free wifi to keep you connected.

I recommend buying a cheap prepaid European data plan—check out my guide to How to Use Data Plans and Smartphone Phones in Europe and my guide to the best eSIM data plans for Europe .

Get Familiar With Common Travel Scams

As G.I. Joe says, “Knowing Is Half The Battle” so it’s smart to familiarize yourself with the most common travel scams so you can avoid them.

I’ve written extensively about How to Avoid Pickpockets and Outsmart Thieves in Europe and How to Avoid Common Travel Scams In Europe but here are a few safety tips to consider while traveling alone.

You can also Google “scams in CITY” to get a better idea about the specifics of common scams in individual cities—for example, the “deaf/mute petition scam” is popular in Paris and Bus #64 in Rome is a hotspot for pickpockets.

Pack Light and Blend In

Lugging around a huge, heavy suitcase or massive backpack makes you an instant (and slow-moving) target. This is even more true in chaotic, crowded, and pickpocket-heavy locations like train stations, subways, and city buses.

Furthermore, knowing how to dress so you don’t instantly stand out as a tourist can also give you another level of safety.

I’ve written multiple packing-related articles you might want to check out:

• Backpacking Europe Packing List
• Travel Europe Packing List for Women
• Europe Packing List  (for any travel style)
• Hostel Packing List
• How to Avoid Looking Like a Tourist in Europe

Buy Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is smart for all travelers because it can save your butt financially. I use and recommend  World Nomads  for most travelers but there are a handful of other travel insurance companies.

• Recent Posts

• Backpacking Europe Packing List — My Europe Travel Packing Guide - April 6, 2024
• Best eSIM For Europe Travel | Everything You Need To Know About European Prepaid eSIM Data Plans - March 24, 2024
• Holafly eSIM Review | Testing The New eSIM Data Plan from Holafly - March 3, 2024

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SOLO TRAVEL , DESTINATIONS , EUROPE , SOLO LOCATION GUIDES

Solo travel in europe: best places to travel alone + tips.

Are you looking for the best solo travel destinations in Europe?

Then you’ve come to the right place. I’ve visited most European countries over the past three decades, many of these as a solo traveller.

To inspire you to   plan your next solo trip to Europe, I’ve pulled together an awesome list of the best destinations. To make it as varied as possible, I’ve reached out to fellow travel writers for their suggestions.

Read on to discover the best places to travel alone in Europe and solo travel tips, including how to get around and how to stay safe.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

Dreaming of your first solo trip? Click here to download your FREE solo travel toolkit . 

It’s just what you need to kickstart your plans!

IN THIS ARTICLE

My Top 10 Solo Travel Destinations in Europe

1.  anywhere in italy.

Italy is an amazing solo travel destination , especially if you are travelling alone for the first time . It was one of the first countries that I visited as a solo traveller more than 30 years ago and one to which I have returned more times than I can count.

There is a well-worn tourist trail, and English is widely spoken in tourism hotspots and by younger people. And the familiarity that comes with unconscious immersion in the country’s food and culture makes Italy a super easy country for the novice solo traveller.

For centuries, Italy’s landscape, history and food have drawn travellers from across the globe (for me, add  Italian coffee bars  and  gelato! ). The famous  hilltop towns of Tuscany  draw travellers from near and far.

Italy is every Renaissance fangirl or fanboy’s dream with world-famous art and architectural treasures too numerous to count. From Rome to Rimini, Urbino to the Uffizi, Cortona to  Carrara’s marble mines , there’s something for everyone.

READ THESE NEXT!

• Best Solo Travel Destinations in Italy
• How to Have the Best Solo Trip to Rome
• The Perfect Solo Trip to Florence

2. Anywhere in Spain

Spain ticks many of the boxes for an ideal solo travel destination . 

It has natural beauty in spades with wide, sandy beaches, rugged rocky coves and a highland plateau, straddled by dramatic mountain ranges.

Thanks to decades of mass tourism, it has an extremely well-developed infrastructure. There are accommodation choices to suit all budgets, restaurants are plentiful, English is widely spoken and the train network is extensive. 

One of  the things that Spain is most famous for  is its rich historical heritage. Its UNESCO-listed sites include  Granada’s majestic Alhambra Palace ,  Seville’s Cathedral  and its  Alcázar palace , Antoni Gaudí’s work in  Barcelona  (including the jaw-dropping  La Sagrada Família ) and  Tarragona’s Roman ruins  (to name but a few).

And don’t write off the Canary Islands for your solo trip.  They offer much more than sun-and-sangria beach flops, from hiking in the Anaga Forest of Tenerife to exploring the magical world of César Manrique in Lanzarote.

READ THESE NEXT:

• Canary Islands Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide
• Lanzarote Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide
• Gran Canaria Solo Travel: Itinerary & Essential Guide
• Tenerife Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide

3. Anywhere in Portugal

Portugal is one of the cheapest solo travel destinations in Western Europe.

Although not as well developed as that of its Iberian neighbour, Portugal’s travel infrastructure does allow independent exploration with its rail network covering major tourist hubs. And as Portugal is a relatively small country, this makes travel more manageable if you only have a few weeks to spare.

Like Spain, it has a temperate climate and abundant natural beauty with a long beach-lined coastline, a mountainous north and the lush Duoro River valley, home to the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. 

The sub-tropical island of  Madeira is one of the best places I have visited as a solo traveller  in recent years.

Finally,  Portugal has been ranked as the third safest country in the world,  welcome news if you are a female solo traveller. 

READ THIS NEXT:   Solo Travel in Madeira: The Ultimate Guide

4. Ghent, Belgium

If you are a solo traveller looking for a less-touristy alternative to Bruges in Belgium, book your ticket to gorgeous Ghent.

Bruges may be better known, but Ghent has a cityscape to rival its busier neighbour with red-bricked gable-roofed buildings and monumental Gothic spires overlooking meandering canals. It’s a delight.

Hit the highlights of this medieval city on a free Ghent self-guided walking tour , taking in the famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb in St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and climb the UNESCO-listed Belfry for a bird’s eye view of Ghent. Take a boat tour along the canals and, as evening falls, join a local for a beer tour of the city (highly recommended!).

A broad range of places to stay in Ghent and the excellent value Ghent City Card help to keep things affordable. It is a friendly and safe city with locals, students and tourists alike enjoying its attractions, bars and restaurants.

5. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is a superb solo city break  and is a good jumping-off point for Iceland’s outstanding natural wonders. 

Take a  day tour of the  Golden Circle , a 300 km circular route that loops from Reykjavik into central Iceland, to explore the country’s rugged interior. Soak your cares away in the milky waters of the  Blue Lagoon  whilst sipping on a cool Icelandic beer. 

Iceland’s crime rate approaches zero and, as a solo female traveller, harassment is also rare. It is easy to book excursions online or via one of the agencies in downtown Reykjavik, and Iceland is also a mecca for outdoor activities.

Whilst it’s safe to say that Iceland isn’t the most budget-friendly destination, there are tips and tricks for cutting costs when you visit Iceland .

6. London, England

I may be biased, but my home town of London has a cultural scene that is second to none. There are world-class  museums , including Tate Britain and Tate Modern , a theatrical and musical landscape to accommodate all tastes, excellent restaurants and, of course, a lively drinking culture. 

There is no shortage of  things to do in London as a solo traveller . 

Meet fellow travellers on one of the many  walking tours  – I recommend one of the London street art tours. Or tick off many of London’s landmarks by taking a stroll along the Victoria Embankment or the South Bank. 

Or see the sights from the water by taking a  boat ride along the Thames  (for the more adventurous you can ride in a RIB!). This is a great way to fully appreciate London’s magnificent bridges .

On those rainy afternoons (and we do get a few of these!), visit a museum or gallery, get a bargain ticket for a  theatre  matinee performance, see a new  cinematic release  or an old classic or linger over a book in a coffee shop.

Finally, if you want a break from city life, take one of the many  easy day trips from London , including Bohemian Brighton, the golden dunes of Camber Sands , the dreaming spires of Oxford and the Georgian splendour of Bath.

7. Rhine Valley, Germany

Are you a solo traveller searching for a perfect mix of legend, history and beauty? Then start planning a trip to the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, also known as the Rhine Gorge.

The good news is that you don’t have to fork out for an expensive cruise to experience this idyllic section of the Rhine. It’s easy to explore Germany’s Romantic Rhine Valley on public transport.

Base yourself in Boppard and use local trains and buses to visit Burg Rheinfels , one of the mightiest castles on the river, Bacharach and Oberwesel .

And when the sightseeing is done, there’s the region’s excellent food and wine to savour.

8. Highlands of Scotland

Studded with deep lochs and soaring mountains, the Scottish Highlands is blessed with some of the most dramatic scenery on the planet. 

Better still, its abundance of outdoor activities provides ample opportunities for solo travellers to meet other people. If you prefer solitude, solo hiking is relatively safe as long as you don’t too far off the beaten path.

And if you love train travel as much as I do, you’re in luck. From catching the Caledonian Sleeper from London to the magical Harry Potter scenic train between Fort William and Mallaig , there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring trips.

Base yourself in Fort William to ride the Jacobite steam train and visit glorious Glencoe . Make the lovely city of Inverness your second base, the jumping-off point for Loch Ness and the historic Culloden battlefield.

9. Provence, France

The ease with which you can explore  Provence by train ; fields filled with fragrant lavender; ancient Roman ruins; picture-perfect walled medieval cities and some of the best food and wine in the world. These are just a few reasons why this region of France is perfect for those who are travelling alone. 

During a week in Provence, you can explore the ‘three As” – the historic cities of  Avignon, Arles  and  Aix-en-Provence . If you are a history buff, visit the amphitheatre at  Orange  and the sensational  Pont du Gard , the tallest aqueduct bridge in the Roman world.

Moving south, spend a day in revitalised  Marseilles , visiting the MuCEM, Marseille’s Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, before relaxing in the quintessential Provençal portside town of Cassis.

And, of course, in summer there are the lavender and sunflower fields in full bloom.

10. Kraków, Poland

If you are looking for a budget-friendly solo travel destination with a first-rate bar scene, Kraków could be just the ticket. This is a city that hasn’t sold its soul to tourism, and where it is possible to feast on a meal for 15 PLN washed down with a glass of craft beer for 5 PLN (around 4 GBP). 

Join one of its excellent  free walking tours  – I loved the one exploring  Kraków’s Royal Road  –  to meet like-minded travellers. However, the whole city has a social vibe.

Reflect on Kraków’s tragic past by visiting  Kazimierz , the city’s old Jewish Quarter, the former Jewish ghetto in  Podgorze  and the neighbouring  Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory.  For many people, the chance to take a  day trip to  Auschwitz   is reason enough to visit Kraków. 

For something a little different, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the  Wieliczka  Salt Mine , a labyrinthine network of tunnels lacing through the mine’s salty depths. Just 12km south-east of Kraków, this is an easy day trip from Kraków. 

Best Cities in Europe for Solo Travel (A to Z List)

11. amsterdam, the netherlands.

Amsterdam has a large and vibrant community of travellers, be they leisure travellers or freelance digital nomads.

People hang out at hostels or connect with each other through communities such as Couchsurfing or Meetup. Couchsurfing events are a great way to meet locals in addition to fellow travellers (I remember joining a meet-up of Spanish-speaking folks in Amsterdam, which was such fun!).  

In addition to this thriving community, Amsterdam is also home to tons of  museums.   If you have even a little curiosity regarding history or art, you can spend hours here, not really caring about having company. 

Getting around Amsterdam is easy and it’s a convenient base for day trips to other Dutch cities. The excellent tram network, comfortable buses and cycling infrastructure are a real boon for a solo traveller in Amsterdam.  

The best sights in Amsterdam are the museums and  Dam Square . The  Jordaan area  is also a good place to spend an evening chilling in cafes and pubs. 

If you feel more adventurous, cross the river to the  Noord region  to enjoy the  I AM HOLLAND experience  and  Adam’s Lookout . The former experience gives you an epic virtual tour of The Netherlands, while the latter offers a stunning view of the city. 

By Umang of Travelmax

12. Athens, Greece

Athens is friendly, welcoming, easy to get around and home to spectacular attractions.

With relatively cheap flights from Europe and beyond, some great hostels and an excellent range of bars, restaurants and cafes, Athens is an amazing destination for solo travellers taking a weekend break and those travelling more extensively across Europe.

Choose centrally located accommodation in Athens so you can easily walk around the top sights.

These include the  Acropolis  (and Acropolis Museum), the  Ancient Agora, Monastiraki, Plaka  and  Syntagma Square.  Thankfully there are so many options within this area that you won’t be hard pushed to find a decent hotel or Airbnb.

Athens also has some awesome  tours  that you can take (e.g. Local Food Tours, Street Art Tours) which are a great way to interact with both locals and other travellers.

As Athens has both easy-to-use public transport and taxis, you’ll be able to explore the city safely. There are also some fun day trips that can be taken as tours out of the city.

By Chrysoula of Athens and Beyond

13. Belgrade, Serbia

If you’re looking for the perfect solo travel destination in Europe, you really can’t go wrong with Belgrade, Serbia.

The capital of Serbia has lots to offer visitors and it is a great place to visit alone. There are countless  things to do in Belgrade over two or three (or more!) days  and the atmosphere of the city, along with the gregarious nature of the locals, make it ideal to visit on your own.

Belgrade is a popular city amongst backpackers and there are countless hostels throughout the city, where it is easy to meet other like-minded travellers.

There are also numerous free walking tours of the city’s neighbourhoods. Ideal for meeting others while learning about the destination.

Belgrade locals are also easy-going, sociable and easy to talk to, so you never truly have to feel alone when visiting this dynamic city.

Some of the top sites in Belgrade include the fascinating  Old Town , the wonderful pedestrian street of  Knez Mihailova  and, of course, the sprawling  Kalemegdan  fortress park overlooking the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. There are also several interesting  museums  where you can learn more about Belgrade’s history plus a great nightlife scene to experience.

By Maggie of The World Was Here First

14. Bruges, Belgium

Picture-postcard-perfect Bruges is an idyllic destination for those travelling alone in Europe and an essential part of any Belgium itinerary .

It is picturesque, safe, easy to get to and there are lots of things to do. As it is a compact and walkable city, it is simple to navigate.

Bruges is famous for its meandering canals that lace their way through its perfectly preserved medieval centre , its magnificent Belfry , world-class museums and, of course, Belgian beer .

But for my money, one of the best things to do in this charming city is to take a self-guided Bruges chocolate tour . Belgium produces some of the finest chocolate in the world, and this is the ideal place to try the best of the best from the city’s artisan producers.

15. Brussels, Belgium

The Belgian capital is one of Europe’s liveliest cities. With just one day in Brussels , you can soak up its medieval architecture and stuff yourself silly with beer, waffles and chocolate.

The UNESCO-listed Grand Place is at the heart of Brussels’ city centre and is lined with porticoed and frilly, late medieval buildings. This is also where the city’s Christmas market takes place.

On the eastern side of the city, old architecture gives way to sleek skyscrapers, including the headquarters of the European Union .

Lovers of cartoons should follow the Comic Strip Walk or visit the Belgian Comic Strip Centre .

Brussels is also the best base from which to visit other Belgian cities. Ones for your bucket list include lovely Leuven and its botanic garden ( De Kruidtuin Leuven ), Mechelen and Hasselt (don’t miss the Jenever Museum and Japanse Tuin Hasselt ).

16. Budapest, Hungary

There are so many great places to travel alone in Europe and Budapest is one of them.

Budapest is a safe city to visit, even at night. However, as with any big city, take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Also, Budapest is easy to navigate. The trams and buses are simple to use, there are lots of helpful maps that will guide you from place to place and the majority of the signs are written in English.

Budapest has great hostels and hotels, world-class attractions and first-rate restaurants and pubs that won’t break the bank. As a solo traveller, you can find anything within your budget.

Some of the most iconic things to do in Budapest include the  Parliament House ,  Dohany Street Synagogue ,  Fisherman’s Bastion , the  Jewish Quarter ,  St. Stephen’s Basilica , the  Chain Bridge , and  Szechenyi Spa Baths .

By Disha of  Disha Discovers

>>> Are you looking for motivation to book your solo trip to Europe? If so, check out these inspirational quotations about travelling alone .

17. Cologne, Germany

For a German city with a rich historical legacy, visit Cologne.

It is best known for the UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral , one of the greatest churches in Christendom, and its toilet water, Eau de Cologne .

Germany’s fourth-largest city is also home to the busiest railway bridge in the world, Hohenzollern Bridge (Hohenzollernbrücke), which is smothered in love locks. The other highlights of Cologne include its 12 great Romanesque churches , the Old Town ’s squares and buildings and its insanely popular Chocolate Museum .

Last but not least, don’t leave town before trying the local Kölsch , the delicious local brew which has a hoppy and slightly sweet taste.

18. Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark’s capital city is effortlessly cool.

Copenhagen has the lot. A historic city centre with cobbled streets and candy-coloured gabled houses; a cutting-edge design scene and trendy shops, bars and restaurants.

Paying your respects to The Little Mermaid is pretty much obligatory but manage your expectations. At just four feet tall, she is a little underwhelming.

One of the best things to do in Copenhagen is to take a canal cruise from Nyhavn and Ved Stranden, allowing you to see the city from a different perspective. With its crayon-hued houses, the former rough sailors’ district of Nyhavn has been transformed into the poster child of Copenhagen.

Finally, for a different side of Copenhagen, stroll through the hash-perfumed community of Freetown Christiana . There are not many cities that have a main drag called Pushers Street.

19. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is the gem of the Adriatic coast in Croatia. As it’s not a dangerous city, you don’t need to take special safety precautions; just use your common sense like anywhere else and you will be fine.

With all the great  things to do in Dubrovnik , you will be busy all day long with sightseeing.

Be sure to  walk the city walls  around the  Old Town.  The views from there are incredible and with the ticket, you can also visit  Fort Lovrijenac  just outside the Old Town.

Fans of  Game of Thrones  will recognise many of Dubrovnik’s sights from their television screen. One of the best activities in Dubrovnik though is just wandering around its narrow streets and enjoying the atmosphere of the town.

The city is very popular among tourists, especially in the summer season, but once the crowds are gone Dubrovnik is bliss.   

By Kami of Kami & The Rest of the World

20. Dublin, Ireland

By day and by night, Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, has a diverse range of attractions to offer. As a solo tourist, you will feel right at home and have a packed  Dublin itinerary  exploring the city, its culture and top-class tourist sights.  

The must-see attractions include the  Guinness Storehouse  with an unbeatable view of the Dublin skyline from the Gravity Bar,  Trinity College  and the medieval manuscript of the Book of Kells and the latest treasures found in the  Chester Beatty Library .  

Dublin is designated a UNESCO City of Literature. Join in the fun at the  James Joyce Bloomsday Festival  in June, or visit the  Museum of Modern Literature  to get a taste of Irish Literature at its finest. 

If you want to learn more about the country’s history, visit Kilmainham Gaol , the birthplace of modern Ireland

Ireland’s capital is an excellent base for  day trips  with many locations to choose from, so you won’t have to bother renting a car. From Howth Harbour outside the city centre (reachable by train) to the Cliffs of Moher or to the Giant’s Causeway, you will be spoilt for choice! 

In the evenings, you can enjoy some great  live music  in the many pubs around the city. There is always music in  Temple Bar,  but it can be very touristy. 

Try some of these other pubs for a more authentic atmosphere. Don’t worry about being by yourself, it is very easy to strike up a conversation with most Irish people! 

By Emer and Nils of Let’s Go Ireland

21. Frieburg, Germany

Hugging the western edge of the Black Forest, sunny Freiburg im Breisgau is the perfect destination for the solo traveller wishing to combine a cultural city break with first-rate hiking. has a lot going for it.

This university city has a compact Old Town (Altstadt), a magnificent Cathedral, a handful of first-rate museums and more cafes and restaurants than you can shake a stick at. It is also an excellent base from which to explore the Black Forest.

Although it was extensively damaged by Allied bombing raids in World War II, its Old Town has been faithfully restored and is home to a number of fine medieval buildings. The city even has a resident crocodile!

If you crave an easy walk in the Black Forest, a short bus and tram journey will bring you to the Schlauslandbahn Cableway. From the top station, 2.5 km to 8.8 km walking trails offer sensational views over this iconic German landscape.

22. Glasgow, Scotland

As a solo traveller, do you want to visit a city that is friendly and welcoming, gentle on your wallet, filled with fun people and dotted with amazing things to do? Look no further than Glasgow, Scotland.

The city’s slogan “People Make Glasgow” could not be more true. The locals are super friendly, whether you need help with directions to want to meet new people in the pub. 

There are numerous budget-friendly accommodation options from great hostels to quirky boutique guest houses. Most attractions and museums are free to visit, which makes it easy to soak up as much of Glasgow’s history, art and culture as possible.  

Glasgow has also many fantastic green spaces and a colourful  street art  trail with massive murals. There are several street  food markets , cool  shops  filled with local designs and of course endless  pubs with live music  and banter.  

I highly recommend taking a  history tour with Glasgow Women’s Library  and looking into the city’s historic involvement with the slave trade, signs of which can be seen in street names and buildings around the city. 

And that’s just in the city.

Glasgow is also a great place to base yourself if you want to take  day trips to the Scottish countryside.  Other cities like Stirling and Edinburgh are within easy reach. Beautiful castles, stunning Highland scenery and several Scottish islands are on your doorstep.  

All this and more makes Glasgow a perfect place to visit as a solo traveller.

By Kathi of Watch Me See

23. Gothenburg, Sweden

Sweden’s second city, Gothenburg is an underrated destination compared to the capital, Stockholm . But as the world’s most sustainable destination four times in a row, it’s a European city that will  inspire any solo traveller .   

Gothenburg is a very walkable city, filled with beautiful  botanical gardens , local  designer shops , and a strong Swedish  fika  culture. Gothenburg is a paradise for foodies and has a much more affordable price tag compared to Stockholm. 

With free walking tours, it’s easy for solo travellers to make friends and explore quaint neighbourhoods such as Haga, which is famous for baking the largest cinnamon rolls in Sweden.  

The best time of year to visit the city is December for the Gothenburg  Christmas markets . This is when the whole city turns into a festive winter wonderland. 

Gothenburg has four Christmas markets, but the main one is Sweden’s largest and is found at Liseberg Amusement Park. Liseberg is an icon in Sweden and includes thrilling rollercoaster rides, a seasonal ice skating show and over 80 Christmas stalls and shops.

By Roshni of The Wanderlust Within

24. Helsinki, Finland

Modest Helsinki, or  Finland , might not be at the top of your list when considering places for a solo Europe escape, but it should be. 

Tucked away in the northeast of Europe, Helsinki is an enigma; an excellent secret destination full of local charm and personality but minus the crowds. A short vacation with a difference. 

Not only is it wonderfully weird and completely original, but it is utterly welcoming to everyone. And it is oh so safe! Helsinki is one of the safest cities in the world, and you can walk everywhere during the day without worry. 

Finns are shy, reserved and independent, and love to spend time alone. However, this adds to Helsinki’s appeal as a solo travel destination since most of its attractions can easily be undertaken by one person. 

Dining alone , drinking coffee, sauna, you name it; being solo here is completely normal. And, especially as a female traveller, it would be unheard of for someone to come up and harass you for being alone. 

Strolling around Helsinki is like being in an outdoor museum of architecture, with an eclectic mish-mash of magnificent neoclassical architecture, art nouveau constructs, and modern design. Inside top highlights include the  Kiasma Museum , the  Löyly Sauna , the  Amos Rex , and the  Moomin store . 

And don’t forget to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed  Suomenlinna Island Fortress . You might not know much about Helsinki before visiting, but you’ll never forget it afterwards.

By Jordan of Inspired by Maps

25. La Valletta, Malta

La Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a great European destination for solo travellers.

It’s delightfully compact, with stone buildings piled on top of each other higgledy-piggledy. The entire Valletta peninsula is only a couple of kilometres long, so you can easily explore the whole city on foot. Just be prepared to climb lots of stairs.

Most locals here speak fluent English, so it’s easy to make new friends

Valletta’s role as the headquarters of the Knights of Malta from the 16th to 18th Centuries is a very important part of the city’s history, and many of its best sights relate to this period. The knights’ armoury can be visited inside the  Palace of the Grand Masters , though the palace now serves as the parliament and president’s office, most of it is off-limits.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral  doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the interior is covered head to toe in marble and frescoes and is incredibly ornate. If you love art, be sure to visit the  Cathedral Museum , which displays two paintings by Caravaggio, who was once a knight himself.

And Valletta is the perfect base from which to explore the rest of this small island nation. Across the harbour from Valletta are three other cities:  Birgu, Senglea  and  Bormla.

Most locals here speak fluent English, so it’s easy to make new friends.

Finally, don’t leave Valletta without trying some of the  traditional Maltese foods  like bigilla and pastizzi .

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

26. Lyon, France

Lyon may be a big city – it is France’s 2nd or 3rd, depending on your source – but that is precisely what makes it perfect for the solo traveller: an abundance of choice. 

If you’re new to Lyon, go see the  murals . These are scattered along the edges of the  Old Town , as well as here and there throughout the rest of the city. They not only look realistic, but are huge and provide a strong sense of Lyon’s personality. 

Lyon is considered France’s gastronomic heartland and if you believe French food is sublime, Lyon is amazing when it comes to  food . 

There are plenty of great restaurants but try a  bouchon , a typical Lyonnais eatery. If the heavy fare is daunting, head for  Les Halles Paul Bocuse , a covered market filled with shops that sell every kind of food you could expect to find in Lyon, and more.

Wandering around  Old Lyon  is always a pleasure, as is visiting the  Roman Fourvière  Theatre. But for an intriguing view of Lyon, two things should grab your attention, both related to silk, of which Lyon was for years France’s main supplier. 

The first is the  traboules  in the old town: these are ancient tunnels that allowed weavers to carry bolts of silk from building to building without getting them wet when it rained. 

The second must-see sights are the silk establishments on the  Croix-Rousse hill ; these are shops, or old buildings where workshops were once located, topping it off with a visit to the  Maison des Canuts , the silk museum. 

France is a safe destination for solo travellers and Lyon is no exception. That said, it is best to stick to the more touristed parts of town after dark. It is, after all, a major city.

By Leyla of  Offbeat France

27. Munich, Germany

Bavaria’s capital has a friendly, supportive small-town feel but, at the same time, it is metropolitan enough to nurture a thriving traveller and ex-pat scene.  Munich has a good choice of accommodation  and its public transport is excellent and easy to navigate, allowing you to explore every part of the city. 

Here are some of the must-dos in Munich: 

Munich Beer Halls.  Everyone knows the Hofbräuhaus, but there are quite a few others that are not quite as touristy, like the Paulaner, or the Weißes Brauhaus. 

What is great about these beer halls is that they usually have community tables that you share with others. That makes it easy to connect with other guests and chat.  

Swimming in the Isar.  If you travel to Munich in the summer, pack your swimsuit and go to the Isar Beaches. That is where the locals hang out and it is easy to connect with others.  

Go on a Walking Tour . Munich has a lot of history and a walking tour is fun, inexpensive (sometimes even free), and you can meet other travellers. To get some non-touristy recommendations, ask the guide for his favourite bars and restaurants 

Pro Tip:  If a restaurant is busy and does not have empty tables, it is customary to join a party already seated. Simply ask if the seat is taken, and if they nod in approval you can join them.

This is a great way to find some company during meals if you are travelling alone. 

By Maria of Europe Up Close

28. Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg (Nürnberg) is both a wonderful destination for solo travellers in its own right and a fabulous base from which to explore Bavaria by train.

Nuremberg Old Town is home to magnificent medieval buildings, a thousand-year-old castle, Germany’s tiniest (and some say tastiest) bratwurst and one of the country’s biggest and best Christmas markets. But Nuremberg is perhaps best known for its dark Nazi past, as the city where Hitler liked to throw a really big party.

Easy day trips from Nuremberg include UNESCO-listed Bamberg , home to the smokiest beer on the planet, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber , the medieval city that inspired the Disney animation Pinocchio .

29. Paris, France

France is a fabulous solo travel destination and Paris is no exception.

Easy public transport, many people speaking different languages and an abundance of fellow travellers help make Paris a great city to visit solo.

It’s also a relatively safe city to visit if you are travelling alone. You can easily walk around many of the popular neighbourhoods and take the metro at night without feeling uncomfortable.

Paris’s top attractions include a visit to the  Eiffel Tower , browsing the many museums like the  Louvre  and  D’Orsay ,  people-watching  at one of the hundreds of cafes, and strolling down the  Champs-Elysees .

And don’t forget to grab a baguette and a bottle of wine, and enjoy a picnic in one of the many lovely  parks .

Some other great things that you visit in Paris are the  Catacombs  – if you dare! –  and the stunning churches that dot the city, like  Sacre-Coeur  and  Saint-Sulpice .

So, make sure you plan at least  four days in Paris  for your next solo adventure. It will be epic!

By Stephanie of The World As I See It

30. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is one of the prettiest medieval cities in the world and one of the best places to travel solo with lots to see and do.

Take a  walking tour . Several companies offer free walking tours of the old town, the castle and even some lesser-known neighbourhoods, and this is a great way to meet other people who are travelling alone.

Enjoy a beer at  Letna Park Beer Garden  or  Strahov Monastery.  Both places offer spectacular views of the city.

Visiting a quirky museum like the  Beer Museum  (which includes a beer tasting), the  Chocolate Museum or the Museum of Alchemists and Magicians , where you learn the darker side of Prague’s history.

Along with things to do during the day, Prague has an excellent  nightlife and food scene  worth checking out. If you want dinner and a show, you should book a  medieval dinner show  or a  dinner show with traditional Czech dancing .

If you want to party, Prague has a few  pub crawls  worth checking out.

With its colourful architecture, cobblestoned streets and countless things to do you are bound to have the best time exploring Prague on your own. 

By Marika of  Clumsy Girl Travels

31. Pristina and Prizren, Kosovo

If you are travelling alone in Kosovo, make sure you visit its capital, Pristina, and its cultural heart, Prizren.

Solo travel in Kosovo feels safe,  the locals are friendly and welcoming, especially at local cafes such as Half&Half Cafe in Pristina.

Hostels are well maintained and also very cheap. Bus routes between key cities are not only very budget-friendly but easy to navigate.

Pristina,  Europe’s newest capital, is trendy and home to underrated street art and to a diverse range of eateries, including modern and vegan cafes. Look out for the National Library, one of the world’s ugliest buildings, and the Bill Clinton statue (yep, he’s quite the hero in Kosovo!).

More cultural gems include the Cathedral of Saint Mother Teresa.

In  Prizren,  the Prizren Fortress has spectacular views over the city. There are also many museums to learn more about European, and more specifically Balkan, history.

Nature lovers and keen hikers can also take a day trip to the scenic trails of Peja or to one of the less well-known national parks.

By Cass of Cassie the Hag

32. Reims, France

Reims is one of the loveliest cities in France, known for its magnificent cathedral and its champagne houses, all of which are UNESCO-listed.

Beneath Reims is a labyrinth of 200 km of caves that provide the perfect environment for the second fermentation of champagne. This is the shared real estate for the city’s champagne houses.

It’s very easy to put together a DIY champagne tour of Reims , even if you are travelling alone. From the Disneyesque Champagne Pommery to the elegance of Taittinger, there’s a champagne house for everyone (and far worse ways of spending a day).

With flying buttresses a-plenty and an enigmatic smiling angel, Notre Dame de Reims is one of Europe’s great Gothic cathedrals. This was the coronation site for most of the French kings and its architecture set the mould for cathedrals to follow.

33. St. Petersburg, Russia

Due to the ongoing geopolitical situation, travel to Russia is not currently recommended. For current travel advice, check the advice of the UK FCO here .

St Petersburg in Russia is not only a gem of a city but is also one of the best places to travel alone in Europe.

Some of the major costs for solo travellers are taxis and hotels. However, St. Petersburg has an excellent public transport system that is easy to navigate.

Furthermore, the city has lots of hostels where it is easy to meet other travellers.

There are lots of solo travel-friendly things to do.

First of all, St. Petersburg is full of interesting  museums  that you can explore at your own pace. The most famous of these is the  Hermitage,  where you can easily spend a whole day.

As well as the museums, there are the 18th and 19th-Century  palaces of the Romanov tsars  and their families. These  European palaces  are not only worth a visit because of their opulent and extravagant rooms inside, but also for their beautiful palace gardens.

St Petersburg is a year-round destination. Visit in the summer for the long nights and to see the bridges open up over the Neva River. Go to  St Petersburg in winter  for cold, snowy days and the beauty of the frozen Neva.

By Ellis of Backpack Adventures

34. Salzburg, Austria

With an abundance of stunning architecture, a pretty old town and its connection to some musical icons, both classical and modern, the Austrian city of Salzburg is a wonderful destination for solo travellers. And the city’s excellent public transport connections to Austria and beyond make it one of the best places to visit in Europe.

Top sights in Salzburg  include the  Cathedral,  the 12th Century  Residenz ,  Mozart’s Birthplace  (one of many Mozart sights in Salzburg ) and  Hohensalzburg Fortress , an imposing castle atop a hill overlooking the city.  All can be found close to the  Old Town  in the compact city centre and Salzburg’s tourist pass can save you money on ticket prices.

Getreidegasse  and  Linzer Gasse , two of Salzburg’s most famous streets, are the places for retail therapy or to find the perfect souvenir. Amongst the shops and boutiques, you’ll find one of the city’s specialities on sale, a chocolate ball with a marzipan centre known as a  Mozartkugel .

A short walk from the Old Town, and across the Salzach River, the  Mirabell Palace  and gardens are well worth a visit. Most visitors flock to the steps in front of Rose Hill to re-enact a famous scene from  The Sound of Music .

Salzburg can be easily explored alone on foot, on a hop-on-hop-off bus, or even by horse-drawn carriage. But if you’d prefer some company, the Tourist Office offers several guided city tours every day. 

By Carolyn of Holidays to Europe

35. Sibiu, Romania

Sibiu, a small city in Romania’s southern Transilvania, is an ideal destination in Europe for the solo traveller. 

First and foremost, Romania in general, and Sibiu in particular, are super safe.

Walking home alone at night is not a problem, even as a solo female traveller. There are people who will approach you at restaurants and ask for money if you’re sitting outside, but there are no aggressive tactics employed.

Sibiu is small and pedestrian-friendly, important if you’re not partial to taking public transportation. You’ll be able to walk amongst its colourful buildings and get lost in the winding cobblestone streets of the  Old Town 

There’s no shortage of things to do in Sibiu, including  restaurants  serving delicious food, an impressive number of  museums  and  open-air markets . You’ll never be bored in the European Cultural Capital in 2007.  

If you’re partial to nature, Sibiu is located in the Carpathian Basin. There are plenty of hiking and trekking options nearby, not to mention some gorgeous green parks.

Finally, the people of Romania are very friendly and English is widely spoken among the younger generations.

By Jade of The Migrant Yogi

36. Split, Croatia

For my money, Split is one of the most extraordinary cities in Europe. Over the millennia its UNESCO World Heritage Site of Diocletian’s Palace has morphed into the tangle of churches, chapels and houses that now form Split’s medieval hub.

This is truly living history, not some dry, roped-off archaeological site.

Game of Thrones fans are also in luck. Some of its scenes were filmed in Diocletian’s Palace and a Split Game of Thrones tour is on offer.

Split is also home to one of the most bizarre museums I have ever visited ( Froggyland ) and a supermarket that is UNESCO-protected.

As this is a popular port of call for cruise ships, it’s good to get off the beaten track in Spilt . Away from the day-trippers, there is a wonderful walk along the Marjan Peninsula to Telegrin, its highest point.

37. Vienna, Austria

For elegant cafe culture with a twist of Mozart, Vienna is one of the best places to travel alone in Europe.

With its imperial architecture, magnificent museums, classical music scene and cafes galore, Austria’s capital is a superb destination for the solo traveller at any time of year. 

Take a journey from Ancient Rome to the Renaissance by exploring the vast collection of the  Kunsthistoriches Museum . Visit  Schloss Schönbrunn , one of the Hapsburg Empire’s palaces, in all its gilded glory. 

But perhaps the jewel in Vienna’s crown is the UNESCO World Heritage site of the  Belvedere Palace , home to Gustav Klimt’s  The Kiss  (1908).

Finally, if you are visiting  Vienna at Christmas , don’t leave the city before washing down a plate of  Bratkartoffeln  with  glühwein  (mulled wine) at one of the city’s  Christmas markets . 

38. Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw, Poland’s 4 th  largest city, is a hidden gem in Central Europe and is an ideal solo travel destination for several reasons.

First, it’s easy to get there, whether you want to fly in or prefer taking the bus or the train.

Second, it’s safe. I wandered around in the evening and never felt unsafe. A close friend who calls Wroclaw home swears by the city’s safety too.

Third, it’s just so easy to walk around and explore. You can use public transport (trams & buses), but it’s easy to see  Wroclaw’s main sights  on foot as they’re located within walking distance of each other.

In the heart of Wroclaw Old Town lies the  Market Square  with beautiful merchant houses and a monumental  Old Town Hall . Many visitors to Wroclaw enjoy tracing the famous  Wroclaw dwarfs.

Walk through Butcher’s Street  and then stroll all the way to the lovely  Tumski Island  with its impressive  cathedrals . 

This beautiful city doesn’t attract many visitors, yet there’s so much to see and do in Wroclaw.

By Veronika of Travel Geekery

Best Places to Travel Alone in Europe: Natural Wonders

39. bansko, bulgaria.

Bansko is Bulgaria’s largest  ski resort  and one of the cheapest places to ski in Europe, perfect for making your holiday budget go further . But this mountain town is so much more than a ski resort. 

Bansko is located two hours from Sofia and 2.5 hours from Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second city, and is served by great public transport connections. There are lots of places to stay here; self-catering accommodation, small family-run hotels and larger ones too, some with pools. 

There are two great co-working locations here in Bansko and, as such, the town has a great social life for solo travellers. With co-living spaces and hostels available, plus apartments for US$180 a month, there are cheap options for places to stay as a single traveller.

The town is easy to navigate on foot and there are great  hiking and mountain biking  activities with superb groups on Facebook for visitors to find out about activities with others. 

Eating out is cheap, with a great selection of Bulgarian  mehanas , alongside more international foods. You’ll also find takeaway and delivery options too. 

From May onwards there are free  outdoor festivals , including the  Bansko Jazz festival , which has run for more than 20 years.

By Sarah of  Lets Grow Cook

40. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lovely Lake Bled is the jewel in Slovenia’s crown.

This picturesque corner of Europe has many of the ingredients for a perfect solo travel break.

Slovenia is cheap by European standards, it’s relatively safe and has a good travel infrastructure.

Lake Bled has an abundance of walking trails, a castle perched on a hillside and an enigmatic island to visit. Traditional boats plough the turquoise waters of the lake, but if you prefer to confine your travelling to dry land, there’s the super scenic Bohinj Railway .

Lake Bled is a mecca for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and joining an organised tour to go canyoning / underground kayaking / ziplining / river rafting (delete as appropriate) is a fantastic way to meet other travellers.

If food and wine are more your thing, join a wine-tasting session – Slovenian wines are very quaffable – and don’t leave town before biting into a slice of feather-light Lake Bled Cake.

41. Lake District, England

The North of England has a reputation as being extremely friendly, and the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is no exception.

Full of quaint towns and villages, the Lake District is very visitor-friendly. Base yourself in a small town such as  Ambleside  or Windermere to be in the best possible location.

The main activity for most visitors is  hiking , something that can easily be done as a solo traveller. Views around the Lake District are spectacular, so don’t forget your camera.

Local buses mean it is easy to get from town to town.

You can also travel to a lot of the lakes by steamer boat. These traditional ferry boats are a great way to see the scenery from a different angle.

Or rent a bike and explore some of the  cycle trails .

If the sun is out, you will find everyone sitting in the afternoon in a scenic garden, enjoying a traditional English roast. Wander alone into any old English pub in the Lake District, and you are sure to make friends in a matter of minutes.

By Demi of Around The World With Her

42. Northern Norway

From Arctic-connected  Tromso  up to  Bodo , the “gateway to the North”, Northern  Norway  is brimming with natural wonders. But why is it an excellent place for a solo traveller?

Well, I usually prefer going to big party destinations, like Madrid or Berlin, together with friends. But when it comes to nature destinations, I prefer going alone, especially if it is something challenging like mountainous Norway.

Norway allows you to test yourself, and somehow, after returning home, you feel stronger.

Northern Norway connects world-famous mountain views and small comfortable towns. But you don’t need to just visit tourist places. 

Unknown fjords are just as beautiful. If you go alone, you can easily choose routes, hike difficulty, and type of landscape according to your preferences and fitness.

If you go to Northern Norway, make sure you visit Tromso, the centre of Arctic Exploration and Saami culture. Make it on a ship through the  Northern archipelago  and long  Raften Pass.  And visit the jewel of Northern Norway – the Lofoten Islands . 

By Alexander of Engineer On Tour

43. Zermatt, Switzerland

If you are yearning to hike amongst mountain peaks, one of the best places to travel alone in Europe is  Zermatt.  

The appeal of the town itself and the relative ease with which you can explore its surroundings make Zermatt a fantastic solo travel destination at any time of year. 

The star of the show is the mighty  Matterhorn , piercing the sky above the town like a harpoon tip.

To get the best view of the mountain, take a ride on the Gornergrat Railway. From here, there are also great  hiking trails  through mountain valleys and along woodland paths scattered with pine cones, accompanied by the soundtrack of gurgling mountain streams and distant cowbells.

To reach Zermatt, take the  Glacier Express   from St. Moritz, one of the world’s great train journeys. 

Visas for Europe travel

Many non-EU passport-holders enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days every six months. The Schengen Area consists of 27 member countries , most of which are in the European Union (EU).

Post-Brexit, the UK is not a member of the Schengen Area.

From 2025, US citizens will have to apply for an ETIAS prior to their trip towards Europe.

Travelling around Europe

Europe by train

There are few things I like better than travelling by train , especially in Europe. Its rail network is vast, connecting major cities and scenic spots in an eco-friendly way.

For the most part, European trains are reliable and have spacious seating, Wi-Fi and dining cars. Stations are usually located in the heart of the city (and are sometimes destinations in their own right).

I have been lucky to ride on some of Europe’s most scenic routes, including the Glacier Express and the Jacobite Steam Train . But you don’t have to buy a ticket for these iconic trains to experience treated to ever-changing landscapes.

European rail passes ( Interrail / Eurail passes ) can unlock the joy of train travel in 33 countries. But always compare the price of the train pass with that of point-to-point tickets for your planned itinerary to figure out if an Interrail pass will be good value .

Many countries have their own rail passes – the Swiss Rail Pass is a good one – or you can just stick with point-to-point tickets.

You can book ahead using the websites of individual train operators, RailEurope or Omio . For local routes, I’ve found that it is often easier to buy a ticket from a self-service machine at the station.

Europe by bus

For the places that trains don’t reach, there are buses.

Tickets are often – but not always – cheaper than train or airfare, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers. The flip side is that bus travel might take longer than trains.

FlixBus and Eurolines operate affordable services connecting Europe’s major cities. To search across multiple operators, head to Omio .

Europe by air

Budget airlines like EasyJet and RyanAir operate cheap flights across Europe.

However, getting around Europe by air would not be my preferred option. Aside from the lack of sustainability and the stress of flying in the 21 st Century, you don’t get a sense of the landscape unfolding as you travel from A to B.

That said, there are times when flying might be the most feasible option. You can check flight timetables and prices here.

Europe by car

Again, this one isn’t for me. I am not a happy driver, it’s a lonely experience and hiring a car can be extortionate as a solo traveller.

But I have rented a car in the past and it’s hard to beat when it comes to flexibility and the ease with which you can access remote areas.

With the exception of Great Britain, the Republic of Ireland,  Malta and Cyprus, European countries drive on the right.

If you are a non-E.U. citizen, make sure that you confirm that your license will allow you to drive in Europe. As automatics are in short supply in Europe, make sure that you book in advance if you can’t drive stick.

Europe Solo Travel Tips

Safety tips for female solo travellers.

If you are a female solo traveller you might be wondering if it is safe to travel alone in Europe. And while some countries are safer than others, broadly speaking the answer is a resounding “yes.”

That said, there are actionable steps you can take to stay safe when travelling alone. The bottom line is to take the same precautions that you would at home and keep your valuables safe (I use this theft-proof day pack when I travel)

Here are my top tips:

• Choose accommodation in a good area of town
• Share your itinerary with someone at home
• Don’t flash your valuables (better still, keep them locked in your hotel safe)
• Trust your gut; if somewhere doesn’t feel right, leave
• Go easy on the booze and never leave a drink unattended
• Never, ever tell strangers that you are travelling alone

Meeting people on a Europe solo trip

Loneliness is a common fear amongst solo travellers . But the good news is that there are failsafe ways to meet people when you are travelling alone.

Being open and friendly and taking an interest in people goes a long way.

Although my hostelling days are behind me, I have made lifelong friends whilst staying in hostels.

Nowadays, I find that an organised activity is an excellent way to make friends on the road. I make most of my bookings through GetYourGuide , largely because they have a broad portfolio and most activities come with free cancellation within 24 hours of the event.

Tips for dining out alone

Solo dining is not something I relish. However, I’ve done this so many times that I have developed these tips and tricks for eating out alone .

Bring a prop or two, exude confidence and enjoy every morsel.

Booking hotels in Europe

Choosing the right hotel is important when you are planning your solo Europe vacation. You want somewhere that is affordable, comfortable, welcoming and, above all, safe.

I book around 80% of my accommodation in Europe via Booking.com . When the price or cancellation terms are better, I will book directly with the hotel.

Solo Travel in Europe: Final Thoughts

I hope that these recommendations inspire you to plan a future trip to Europe. It’s an easy part of the world to visit as a solo traveller and has enough diversity to satisfy most people.

If you are not sure whether you are ready to explore Europe independently, why not join a  group tour ?

As well as being a relatively hassle-free way of travelling, there are many other  benefits of a group tour  as a solo traveller. There are lots of  group travel companies  out there but two companies that I have used and can recommend are  Exodus Travels  and  Explore Worldwide!

You’ll have an expertly curated itinerary and you often gain valuable insights into the country, the people and its culture. Generally, there’s safety in numbers. Finally, if you fear the dark spectre of loneliness, there’s the reassurance of ready-made travel companions.

• The Best Places to Travel Alone in Asia
• 23 Best Places to Travel Alone in the USA
• 19 Awesome Places to Travel Alone in Africa

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

10 Top Tips For Travelling Alone in Europe

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here .

We head back to Europe this week as I let you in on my top tips for travelling alone in Europe. It’s a great destination for both first time and frequent solo female travellers.

Sorry for the radio silence around here this month. With my 30th birthday and subsequent trip to New Zealand, life has been a good kind of hectic. But I’m back at my desk in Melbourne and ready to share this week’s post with you. I think Europe is a great place for solo travellers and I personally can’t wait to return. If you’re unsure about travelling alone in Europe, then you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to discover my top 10 tips for safe solo travel in Europe.

Before we dive in, here’s my entire itinerary for travelling alone in Europe, if you’d like some specific solo travel destination suggestions.

My top tips for travelling alone in europe, 1. when travelling alone in europe, stick to daytime travel.

To travel between destinations in Europe, I used a combination of buses, trains and planes. However, FlixBus was the main transport I used in mainland Europe. It was cheap and it always got me safely to my next destination in daylight. Being able to make my way to my accommodation during the day and via public transport made my life so much easier. A bonus is that public transport is always quieter during the day, so getting to your accommodation with your luggage is breezier than trying to get your suitcase onto a peak hour train. This makes me anxious just thinking about it.

Travelling alone in Europe led me to Brussels twice

I got one night flight from Ljubljana to Brussels and getting from the airport to my accommodation was a struggle. No solo female traveller wants to be trying to figure out public transport and wheeling her suitcase through a nearly-empty station at 11 pm at night.

2. Learn language basics

For every city I visited, I tried to learn the basics: hello, goodbye, please and thank you. Sometimes in Eastern European cities, this was difficult, but a danke in Austria and a merci in France can go a long way. As does a smile – it’s universal 😊.

3. See how safe you feel at night

I avoid walking around some places in Melbourne alone at night and I’ve lived here for over two years now. So when I’m in a foreign city, I’ll usually assess the situation and whether I feel comfortable being out after dark. In Budapest , I wanted to take night photos and because I visited at the end of autumn, the sunset early so I could do this at 6 pm. There were plenty of people walking around checking out the nearby Christmas Fair so I felt fine. But in Amsterdam , I stayed at the Generator , which was located within Oosterpark and a 10-minute walk from public transport. I wouldn’t walk through a park alone at night back home, so I tended to head back to the hostel before dark. This is one of those situations where you should 100% trust your gut. For me, my comfortability changes from city to city.

Awesome Amsterdam

4. Travel with a crossbody bag

Before visiting Europe I’d heard and read too many pickpocket stories. So I decided to use a crossbody bag as my everyday bag. I felt better having all of my important possessions in front of me, instead of on my back in a backpack. In saying that though, I always kept my passport under lock and key at my hostel, along with a different debit card just in case.

My trusty crossbody bag and I in Budapest

If you’re looking for what to pack for an autumnal trip to Europe, I’ve got you covered .

5. use public transport.

This may just be a personal preference, but I never feel too comfortable using taxis/ridesharing services in new cities when I’m alone. I’ve also heard horror stories from friends, so I’ll always use public transport wherever possible. Public transport across Europe is incredibly efficient and cheap, and Google Maps makes it easy to figure out how to get from A to B. A quick Google search will tell you any public transport tips as well. But if you have any questions, ask the hostel staff for tips and tricks. Which leads me to…

Catching the tram in Budapest

6. Stay in hostels when travelling alone in Europe

I may now be in my 30s (😱) but I will still stay in hostels on my next solo trip to Europe. Although I may try and book more single rooms when possible, I believe hostels are the best accommodation option when travelling alone in Europe. They’re cheap, usually located in central and convenient locations, and they’re a great way to meet people . If you think you’ll get lonely travelling around Europe alone, stay in hostels. I hung out with my hostel dorm mates in Edinburgh, Brussels, Amsterdam and more. I also stick to female-only dorm rooms as well.

Generator Hostel in Amsterdam

For more tips regarding staying in hostels as a solo female traveller, check out this post .

7. go to the supermarket.

Another great thing about hostels is that most of them have kitchen facilities available to guests. Like I mentioned, I don’t really enjoy walking around cities alone at night. So I’d usually have a traditional/must-eat meal for lunch and then buy something from the supermarket to have for dinner back at the hostel. Supermarkets are filled with traditional food as well, you know. I totally had a bread and cheese feast one night back at my hostel in Paris . Then I’d usually try a local sweet, because when in Rome/ Zagreb / Bratislava 😉.

Eating delicious Parisian snacks while travelling alone in Europe

8. Don’t be afraid of dining solo

As I said, I’d usually eat one meal out a day to sample the local delicacies. Back home I regularly dine out alone and pass the time either reading a book or scrolling on my phone. I did the same thing while travelling around Europe alone, or I’d plot my afternoon activities. Tourism is such a big industry in Europe that you will find many hospitality staff speak a little bit of English. But all you need to do is point at a menu and ask for a bill. So step out of your comfort zone and get ready to eat some delicious dishes.

Goulash for one in Budapest

9. Don’t travel without a SIM card

My friend actually bought me a global SIM card before I left Vancouver , which I just topped up with data when needed. Although I can’t remember the company (🤦‍♀️), googling global/Europe SIM card will bring up a variety of options, depending on where you live. I usually wouldn’t leave my data on at all times, because it’s nice to not get notified of emails every 15 minutes when on holiday. But with one press of a button, I could easily look up a menu, opening hours or Google Maps (of course).

10. Become best friends with Google Maps

Speaking of, I honestly don’t know how I survived without Google Maps. I use it nearly daily even in Melbourne to check tram times. Google Maps was my best friend when travelling alone in Europe, as I used it to check public transport information. I also used the ‘save’ feature to save different food and attraction recommendations. It’s a great way to plan your trip – I even did it for my recent holiday in New Zealand . It’s also beneficial to download an offline map for each city you visit.

An unrelated photo of me exploring Cork

Let me end by saying that I hope this post helps you understand that travelling alone in Europe isn’t scary.

I had an unforgettable time travelling alone in Europe and I hope these tips help you in planning your own solo travel experience in Europe. For more inspiration, check out my guide to my favourite solo travel destinations around the world. There may be just a few European inclusions 😏.

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20 Best Places To Travel Alone In Europe

By Jessie Festa. This guide to solo travel destinations in Europe contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for the best places to travel alone in Europe ?

Then this post can help!

As an avid solo traveler, I’m always researching fun, interesting, and safe places to confidently travel on my own.

Since I know many people in my community do too, I reached out to some of my favorite bloggers to see where they think the best destinations for solo travel in Europe are — and this post shares their responses!

Below, you’ll find 20 incredible places for a Europe solo trip, including a mix of popular cities and lesser-known spots. For each, you’ll also snag local travel tips and recommendations to plan the perfect solo vacation.

So if you’re trying to decide where to travel solo in Europe, keep reading to discover the best European cities to visit solo!

Disclaimer: Please always check current travel advisories for a particular country before booking a trip.

💡 Quick Tip: When traveling solo in Europe, it’s smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves . 🚆 Getting Around: Omio is one of the best tools for planning and booking public transportation in Europe. Save big while comparing fares for train, bus, and flight routes. 🏥  Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing offers straightforward and comprehensive plans to ensure you’re covered in an emergency. 📞  Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM is my go-to eSIM provider for staying connected abroad.

Table of Contents

Enjoy Solo Travel In Europe With Confidence [Free Course]

Now, before we dive into our  solo Europe trip guide I invite you to grab a seat in the  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The six-day ecourse is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to travel by yourself and take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve grabbed your seat, keep reading to learn about traveling to Europe alone.

Not sure where to travel on your own when visiting Europe ? Consider adding the following places to your ultimate solo travel Europe itinerary !

1. Riga, Latvia

Is traveling alone fun ? It can be, especially if you visit this unforgettable city.

When it comes to solo European travel , I am absolutely obsessed with Riga, Latvia, which is also one of my favorite solo female travel destinations of all time.

Not only is it safe with relatively low crime rates, but it’s walkable, affordable, easy to get around, and easy to use as a base for visiting other places in the country by public transportation.

Riga is also a green city that blends lovely parks with architectural beauty and opportunities to explore fascinating (and sometimes dark) history, from the Riga Free Walking Tour to the KGB Museum to the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia.

If you like history, Riga has numerous museums dedicated to exploring its past as a USSR country as well as its place in WWII when it was occupied by Nazi Germany. That being said, you’ll find plenty of cultural institutions focused on other topics like the Riga Art Nouveau Museum and the Art Museum RIGA BOURSE.

Beyond museums, there are endless things to do when traveling Riga solo . Treat yourself to a massage and soak at ESPA (the facilities are included with a treatment!), do a sunrise paddleboard at Cenas Tīrelis Preserve with SUP Adventures, wander Old Town and take in a view from the top of St. Peter’s Church, and have a local beer at Labietis Brewery on the hip Aristida Briāna (Street).

There is also the Old Town Hall Square, a cobbled 13th-century market square that was destroyed during WWII and now features reconstructions.

Beyond the city walls, a few fun day trips for solo travelers include the medieval town of Cēsis, the seaside destination of Jūrmala, and the beautiful Kemeri National Park.

Overall, Riga is one of the best cities to travel alone in Europe. I’m sure you will love it as much as I do!

-Jessie Festa from Jessie on a Journey

Riga Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Riga tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Riga hotels .

2. Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is one of the best countries in Europe for solo travel!

The capital city of Portugal, Lisbon is among the best places to solo travel in Europe . This city has everything — culture, beaches, food, and nightlife — to enjoy on a short or a longer trip. 

When traveling solo in Lisbon , one must explore the Old Town (city center) area and go on a walking tour to learn about the unique Pombal architecture, which was built throughout the city after the massive earthquake of 1775. 

Be sure to also visit the stunning neighborhoods of Chiado, Baixa, and Alfama. Spend half a day in the historic Alfama and soak in those city views from the various miradouros or viewpoints. My personal favorite is the Miradouro das Portas do Sol.

Other must-explore attractions in historic Lisbon are the Castelo de são Jorge, Lisbon Cathedral, and the Commerce Square. Take a moment to ride the Tram 28 as well as the Santa Justa Lift to admire the city from above. Lisbon is known as the “City Of Seven Hills,” so don’t miss a chance to explore.

From the historic city center, make your way to the neighborhood of Belem and check off the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge, and of course the iconic Belem Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery . These two attractions are very popular so ensure you set aside a full day and book tickets in advance to explore the neighborhood.

As a solo traveler in Portugal , you can easily take a train to Sintra on a quick day trip and explore the beautiful Pena Palace. It is completely safe to stay out at night. The local public transportation system is safe and affordable, as well. 

-By Mayuri from 2 Day Itinerary

Lisbon Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Lisbon tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Lisbon hotels .

3. Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

Freiburg im Breisgau in Germany is one of the best places to travel solo in Europe . This quaint university city has a vibrant young population which means there are plenty of modern amenities and trendy cafes — a cool and unexpected contrast to the beautiful historic streets.

There is a great deal to do in Freiburg. Thankfully for solo travelers, much of it is within walking distance from the city center and free or cheap.

Within the old town, enjoy medieval architecture such as Martinstor and Shwabentor, the two remaining medieval gates, and the 13th-century church. The church, named Freiburger Munster, has a striking gothic structure and Romanesque architecture.

It’s also worth visiting the market on the Munsterplatz Square below the church. This is the perfect spot to pick up a souvenir or enjoy a traditional “bratwurst” hot dog. They even have vegan ones!

Other traditional food worth trying is Flammkuchen, a sort of French pizza; Raclette, a Swiss dish; and fried potatoes. 

The traditional food is characterized by a mix of specialties from Germany, Switzerland, and France since Freiburg lies near the border of all three. Wash it down with a wine from one of Freiburg’s local vineyards, too.

One of the best things to do here is walking just over a kilometer up Schlossberg (Castle Hill) to see the amazing views over Freiburg and beyond.

And for real nature-lovers, you won’t want to miss hiking in the nearby Black Forest. You can easily take a day trip to nearby Shausinland, a mountain just outside the city, for some great panoramic views over the forest, too.

-By Cass from Cassie The Hag

Freiburg im Breisgau Travel Resources

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4. Seville, Spain

As Europe’s hottest city, Seville blazes away in southern Spain as both the home of flamenco and the setting for the passionate opera Carmen. It’s also one of the best places in Europe to solo travel.

Christopher Colombus received both permission and funds for his history-changing voyage here in the delicate walls of the Real Alcazar. He recruited his sailors from the district of Triana and routed the wealth from the Americas back along the Guadalquivir to Seville, making it one of the most important cities in the world at the time. 

As a result, it’s bursting with architectural charisma from the Torre del Oro (Tower of Gold) to the white walls of the Santa Cruz quarter to La Giralda, the distinctive tower attached to the largest cathedral in Seville.

The city center is very compact and so it’s great for solo travelers. As well as amazing architecture and tapas, the local vibe involves chatting to anyone and whiling away the hours in cafes and bars so it’s a very non-threatening place to meet people or to sit on your own with a book. 

Make sure to cool off from the heat in the ice baths at the Baños Arabes, try salmorejo rather than gazpacho in one of the tapas bars (it’s the local favorite), and catch an evening performance of Carmen in one of the gardens near the Plaza España.

In conclusion, Seville is one of the best European cities to visit alone. There are plenty of things to do and see!

-By Abigail from Inside The Travel Lab

Seville Travel Resources

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5. Prague, Czech Republic

When it comes to the best destinations in Europe for solo travel, it’s hard to beat Prague, Czech Republic.

Prague is nicknamed “the heart of Europe” and it’s not only gorgeous, but it’s one of the safest cities in Europe.

It’s also a smaller city and incredibly easy to navigate on foot, making it simple to wander around and take in the main sites like the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Old Town Square, and the Lennon Wall. 

Many of the locals speak several languages, including English, making it quite easy to meet people and get directions when necessary.

Pro tip: If you’re interested in meeting other travelers, try dining in one of the many outdoor restaurants in Old Town. 

The clustered outdoor café tables are the perfect place to enjoy some casual dining and a pilsner while taking in the stunning architecture of the “City of a Hundred Spires” and chatting with other travelers. In winter, it’s also a great spot to sip some delicious hot grog, a Prague specialty that is similar to a hot toddy.

Traveling solo in Prague is also relatively inexpensive, especially by European standards. You can book a night at the 5-star Kings Court Hotel , just steps from Old Town Square and Prague’s famous Astronomical Clock, starting at $112/ night. 

Visitors looking to explore more of the Czech Republic should check out some memorable day trips from Prague, too, like Sedlec Ossuary in Kutna Hora (aka The Bone Church), Terezin Concentration Camp (heavy but important), and Karlovy Vary , a world-famous spa town.  

-By Jenn from Sick Girl Travels

Prague Travel Resources

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6. Copenhagen, Denmark

Ah, Copenhagen. Home of hands-off cyclers, long canals, the longest pedestrian street in the world, hipster spots packed with perfectly groomed beards, and very tall humans. To top it all up, the Danish capital is a godsend for solo travelers. One might even say it’s the best place to solo travel in Europe – especially for first-time solo travelers.

It’s as safe as a city gets! Even if you take a stroll into one of the “rough” hoods, you’ll still feel safe. People respect traffic lights to a T. You can go at it on your own, even at nighttime, and you’ll be just fine — though, of course, always keep your eyes open and assess your surroundings. 

Also, Copenhagen hosts people from all over the world, and 86% of Danes speak English fluently, and many also speak a third language like Spanish or German.

Moreover, you can bike everywhere. Biking is the way to tour the city, especially as bike lanes are typically separate from traffic. Copenhagen pioneered the art of city cycling, and visitors can truly see how ingrained in the culture this is.

Over spring and summer, you can enjoy the longest days of city touring . As a proper Scandinavian country, daylight changes drastically between seasons. During this time, days are super long. Plus, it never gets extremely hot. So, if you enjoy long days of solo touring, you can keep going for as long as you want — which is sometimes hard if you are with a travel companion! 

Danes might not seem too social, but they are super curious. When you are on your own, striking conversation can be somewhat challenging. Danes are very respectful of someone’s personal space; however, if you start a conversation, you’ll find they are very curious. 

When traveling alone in Copenhagen , do visit the Freetown of Christiania to understand some of the values many Danes hold up “high”.

Also spend a day at the Tivoli Gardens , one of the first amusement parks in the world. The park changes its theme and decorations every season, and it’s a stunning wonder in the middle of the city. It’s not open year-long, so check the dates beforehand.

And of course, tour the city streets like crazy! Exploring Copenhagen is an absolute joy. It’s packed with cool neighborhoods like Vesterbro and Christianshavn, huge parks, posh streets, palaces, canals, and museums.

The best part? As soon as the weather gets a tad good, everyone goes outside for a beer and a catch-up with friends — which makes Copenhagen very lively and fun! 

If you’re travelling alone in Europe, make sure to add Copenhagen to your list. You won’t regret it!

-By Martina from The Global Curious

Copenhagen Travel Resources

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7. Athens, Greece

What comes to your mind when you think of Greece? Like most people, I bet you see it as just a romantic destination, but what you probably don’t know is that it has some of the best places in Europe to travel solo.

The capital of Greece, Athens, has loads of interesting history to explore during the day — as well as great nightlife, so you can socialize and have fun with travelers and locals alike.

Apart from seeing the Acropolis, which is usually at the top of most people’s Athens itineraries, you can also hike up Mount Lycabettus for beautiful views, visit some of the city’s delicious tavernas, and check out some interesting museums like the Museum of Cycladic Art and the Museum of the City of Athens.

And if you wish to explore a bit more of Greece, then consider visiting some of the nearby islands — such as Aegina and Hydra –- and take some trips from Athens to Delphi, Meteora, Mycenae, and Cape Sounion.

What about what to eat while in Athens?

Well, there are many fantastic cuisines you can try while in the city. I’d suggest you have a taste of the traditional Greek salad, also known as Horiatiki. It’s made with tomato, green pepper, cucumber, Kalamata olives, red onion, and feta cheese.

If you’re the type that likes to explore different dishes, then you can also check out saganaki, Greek bouyourdi, dolmades, and souvlaki.

In terms of where to eat, visit Tzitzikas kai Mermigas, which is a downtown restaurant that is centrally located near Syntagma Square. It’s a very popular restaurant for both locals and tourists.

Finally, you can lodge at Athens Gate Hotel , which is one of the best hotels in the city with Acropolis views. But if you want to stay close to the Acropolis to enjoy easy access to the city’s main sites, then you should consider the Plaka neighborhood.

-By Theodore from Foodies Family

Athens Travel Resources

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8. Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is a much smaller and lesser-known gem of Austria but it’s definitely a place I would add to your solo travel Europe itinerary. I visited it during a solo trip to Austria and it became my favorite city, beating even Vienna and Salzburg. I’d even go as far to say that it’s one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe.

Located in the Alps, this is also a popular destination for winter sports. Its small narrow streets, beautiful Old Town, colorful buildings, and gorgeous mountain backdrop will melt your heart. It also features some wonderful modern and imperial architecture and even just wandering through its streets is totally worth it. 

Being a university town, you will find a lot of young people in the city to chat and meet up with.

Austria is also a safe country to visit, with a very low crime rate. It’s one of the safest places to solo travel in Europe . On top of that, cities in Austria are very easy to navigate, finding convenient accommodation and transportation is never an issue, and communicating in English is very easy. 

Plus, it doesn’t have to be an expensive place to visit. Things like using public transport, eating local food, and getting an Innsbruck City Card will for sure help you achieve that.

In terms of things to do in Innsbruck, make sure to hop on Nordkette Cable Car to get to Hafelekar Peak, visit the Golden Roof, get to the top of the Town Tower, and visit Swarovski Crystal World. 

-By Diana from Travelling With Diana

Innsbruck Travel Resources

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9. Barcelona, Spain

I honestly feel safer traveling solo in Barcelona than in Paris. Don’t get me wrong, Paris is great; but between these two cities that I constantly travel to, Barcelona always wins! It’s one of the best European solo trips.

I first traveled to Barcelona in 2012 and fell in love right away. From that trip, I decided to visit every year and spend at least one month there. When you’re traveling by yourself, Barcelona just gives you that warm welcome — like you don’t need to worry about anything.

What I love about traveling solo in Barcelona is how easily you can meet people, especially if you stay in hostels. I literally made friends in the first hour of checking into my hostel in Barcelona as everyone was so sociable in my dorm room and I know very well that it’s because of the vibe of the city. It just makes people naturally happy and friendly.

Barcelona is also a young city and many young professionals and digital nomads from the European Union choose to live here. It won’t be difficult to meet people!

I am also fluent in Spanish so it was easy for me to go around Barcelona by myself. It doesn’t necessarily mean it will be challenging if you don’t speak the language but I always tell people that Spain is the best country to learn Spanish, which, by the way, is different from learning in Latin America. I must warn you that not everyone speaks English well but you’ll get around!

If you are also traveling solo on a budget , Barcelona is cheaper than most western European countries. When I stay here for a month, I pay less than €1,000 EUR for a studio in the city. Beer is around €3 EUR and I can get my daily coffee for less €2 EUR. 

When it comes to things to do, Barcelona never runs out. What I love the most about this city is that you can easily go to the beach — which is unlike many other European cities in the west! If you’re looking for a solo beach trip , it’s definitely a top pick.

Don’t skip Barcelona when you’re planning your solo Euro trip. I promise it’ll be worth it!

-By Trisha from PS Im On My Way

Barcelona Travel Resources

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10. Stockholm, Sweden

Still wondering where to solo travel in Europe?

Well, Stockholm, Sweden is a must-see destination for solo travelers with its reliable public transit and affordable hostels.

Whether you’re traveling by foot or vehicle, places in the city are simple to get to. Plus with English being spoken by 90% of the city’s population, you can easily communicate with locals. 

So, why embark on a Stockholm solo travel adventure?

The synergy of historic and modern architecture is what draws most travelers. Plus, I felt safe and comfortable traveling solo around the city.

Apart from exploring the city on foot, there are five things you must do in Stockholm:

First, check out a preserved 17th-century Swedish warship inside the Vasa Museum.

Then, tour the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Swedish royal family.

Next, travel back to the mid-1700s in Gamla Stan with its medieval architecture, streets, and alleyways. 

Then, learn how the locals live through a free walking tour in Söder, one of Sweden’s trendiest neighborhoods.

Finally, walk through the Brunkeberg Tunnel, an 1886 tunnel that stretches out to 231 meters (758 feet). 

If you haven’t fallen in love with Stockholm yet, here’s another reason:

Stockholm is considered one of Europe’s most sustainable cities and a global role model for its efforts to combat climate change. 

In fact, the Arlanda Express train that connects Stockholm Arlanda International Airport to Stockholm Central Station runs on 100% renewable energy and most of Sweden’s buses run on biogas.

-By Rasika from Bae Area And Beyond

Stockholm Travel Resources

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11. Krakow, Poland

Ever since my trip to Krakow last summer, I’ll tell anyone who’ll listen that they quite simply have to visit. Although I completely fell in love with Poland as a whole, Krakow in particular stood out as a fantastic solo travel destination. 

Boasting one of Europe’s largest central squares — which was largely undamaged during the war — Krakow really is one of the most stunning cities I’ve ever visited. It’s a great addition to any solo trip in Europe!

Not only that, Poland is still one of Europe’s truly affordable destinations, where you can get a fantastic meal for PLN 30-40 (~US $8-$10). I recommend trying restaurants like Smakolyki and Szalone Widelce for delicious homemade food.

Although Krakow is Poland’s second-largest city, its main center is surprisingly compact. Personally, I love walking around a new city to get my bearings, and Krakow always felt like an easy and safe place to do so. It has a relaxed and friendly vibe with so much to see and do!

The main market square in Krakow’s Old Town is a fantastic place to start your solo trip. Head up the tower at St. Mary’s Cathedral for a bird’s-eye view of the square, which is dominated by the old Cloth Hall where you can pick up a variety of souvenirs. 

A little outside the Old Town, stunning Wawel Castle is a truly impressive sight. Strolling around the beautiful grounds is completely free and you can pick and choose which parts of the castle you want to pay to enter. If you’re looking to hang out with the locals, head to the hillside underneath the castle facing the Vistula River at sunset.

Also, take an afternoon to soak up the atmosphere in Kazimierz, Krakow’s Jewish quarter. You’ll find lots of lovely artisan shops and numerous cafes and restaurants in the area. And, if history is your thing, a visit to Schindler’s Factory Museum is well worth your time. 

There are a few good day trips within easy reach of Krakow, too. Of course, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is an obvious choice, and a very poignant experience if you decide this is something you’d like to do. You’ll likely join a tour for this, so it’s a great activity as a solo traveler.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is another unique day trip option, and can easily be visited independently by bus from Krakow and then joining a guided tour there.

-By Joannda from A Zest For Travel

Krakow Travel Resources

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12. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a lovely medieval city in the West Flanders Provience of northwest Belgium. The cobbled streets, tranquil canals, and beautiful medieval buildings bring you straight into a fairytale place that’s perfect for exploring solo.

Known as one of the most picturesque cities in Europe, you can’t leave your camera home when visiting Bruges. The reflection of the buildings in the canals can be perfectly captured on a sunny day or at night when the lights reflect in the water. 

The city is also small enough that you can walk everywhere. That is a huge benefit when traveling alone so you don’t have to figure out public transport or negotiate for a taxi.

Another great way to see the city is to cruise the waterways by boat. 

The canals of Bruges make their way through the historic city center and stretch off into the city beyond. Boats depart from several jetties in the city throughout the day and evening and captains provide information and anecdotes about Bruges.

Another one of the top things to do in Bruges for solo travelers is visiting the Belfry Tower and making the 366-step climb up. From the tower, you’ll have a superb view of the Bruges skyline.

Looking for something beautiful? The Lake of Love is a serene spot in the middle of Minnewater Park. The beautiful Lover’s Bridge makes it a perfect photo spot as well.

For the market lovers, on Wednesdays in Bruges there is a local market. During the winter months, this square transforms into a winter wonderland with a yearly Christmas market. 

When exploring a historic European city, you can’t miss visiting a church. Bruges has the Basilica of the Holy Blood which is a beautiful Renaissance building. It is best known for a small vial that is kept there which contains a cloth with the blood of Jesus Christ on it.

For the best season to visit Bruges you can either go for springtime when the Loppem Castle gardens are in bloom or winter if you’re a Christmas market lover.

Weekdays are also better than weekends if you want to avoid the crowds.

Note that the official language of Bruges is Flemish (similar to Dutch), but English is spoken almost everywhere. 

-By Ilse from Digital Travel Couple

Bruges Travel Resources

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13. Lyon, France

The third-largest city in France has a population of over 700,000. Lyon is known for gastronomy and silk, as well as for being where the Lumiere brothers invented photographic equipment that created the first projector cinema. 

One of the main reasons Lyon is a great place to visit for solo travelers is it’s an easily walkable city that is safe and has plenty of sights to see. The city is a beautiful place for solo travel in France as it has lovely cobbled streets and historic buildings. 

Lyon is home to some of the most famous landmarks in France, too, such as the World Heritage Lyon Cathedral, Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière (for the best view across Lyon), and Musée des Beaux-Arts. The latter has exhibits of famous European artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Matisse and is built over a former Benedictine convent.

Additionally, Lyon is one of the best places for solo travel because it’s close enough to Paris and easy to get to. Solo travel in Paris is also worthwhile.

But, that’s not all.

You can get around on foot alone without being hassled in Lyon, and many of the attractions are free to visit. English is also widely spoken, and it’s a fantastic city to see if you’re on a budget.

It’s not just about sightseeing, though, as Lyon has so much going on after hours, whether you want to go clubbing, have fun dancing until dawn, or relax by the pool.

Love to eat?

Lyon is a city for foodies, with a high concentration of Michelin-star restaurants and lots of great spots to party at night. Head to the Vieux Lyon area for pubs and to mingle with an English-speaking crowd. Along the Rhone, some riverboats serve as nightclubs, lounges, and wine bars. 

There are also several festivals in Lyon, including the Fête des Lumieres or the Festival of Lights, which turns the city into a magical fairyland of twinkling lights.

For those who love shopping, Lyon offers everything from designer boutiques to street markets selling local produce. If you’re looking for a unique item, head to one of the many antique shops or flea markets around town.

In short, solo travelers will feel right at home in this cosmopolitan French metropolis. It’s truly one of the best places to travel solo in France . Whether you have time for a  weekend in Lyon  or a longer trip, make sure to visit this incredible city!

-By Christina from Travel2next.com

Lyon Travel Resources

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14. Istanbul, Turkey

With its vibrant food scene, incredible history, and picturesque sights, budget-friendly Istanbul in Turkey is easily one of the best cities in Europe for solo travelers. 

Formerly the capital of the Byzantine Roman Empire, Istanbul has a plethora of historical sites that are easily accessible on foot or by public transport. Make sure not to miss the Hagia Sophia , Blue Mosque , and Suleymaniye Mosque in the Sultanahmet area, as these architectural wonders are so beautiful they’ll take your breath away. 

Once you’ve had your fill of history, jump on a bus to Balat, a quaint neighborhood with colorful houses, cobbled streets, and a lively cafe scene. It’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon in the city! 

Alternatively, head to the Grand Bazaar — one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world — to get your shopping fix. Just remember to haggle when you buy something; this is a Turkish tradition after all!

Istanbul has some fantastic farmer’s markets, too. If you happen to be in the city on a Wednesday, don’t miss the sprawling market in the Fatih District which sells spices, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables. 

In the evenings, take a leisurely stroll around the Galata Tower area, which is packed with lively cafes, bars, and bakeries, all of which are great places to strike up a conversation or while away the time with a drink or a book. 

Those traveling Istanbul solo should also make sure to indulge in at least one Turkish breakfast — an extravagant meal with a minimum of 10 different dishes, though sometimes more than 30. It’s an introduction to Turkish food and culture that is like no other. 

By the way, Istanbul has a great variety of accommodation options, from fancy hotels to apartments to simple BnBs, meaning that solo travelers have plenty of choices on where to stay. In my opinion, the Cihangir, Beyoglu, and Sisli areas are some of the best neighborhoods. 

One of the main reasons that this city is so brilliant for solo travel is the super friendly local people who are always more than happy to recommend places to visit and food to try. Sitting down with an Istanbulite over a cup of Turkish çay (tea) is one of the best ways to get to know the city and if you’re lucky, they’ll tell you about some under-the-radar places to visit, too!

– By Sasha from Mog And Dog Travels

Istanbul Travel Resources

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15. Valencia, Spain

Want to experience life as a local in Spain? Like exploring on foot? Love great food? Then consider Valencia, Spain!

A little less visited than some other cities, Valencia is a great solo destination if you are looking for a more authentic Spanish experience.

Plus, Valencia really does have it all when it comes to things to see and do.

The city center in Valencia is historic with tiny streets, cobbles, landmarks, and historic buildings to explore.

Hungry? The food market is an absolute must for delicious treats and there are plenty of squares and courtyards with cafes to enjoy. The food is fabulous, with the best orange juice in Spain from Valencian oranges.

The historic center is hugged on two sides by the old river which is now a public park. Complete with sports areas, gardens, and water features, this is a fantastic place to walk and see local life happening around you. The park leads from the historic center to the City of Arts and Sciences complex with its futuristic buildings in a stunning park setting.

In March, there is the crazy Fallas Festival where teams compete to see who can make the loudest noise with the same amount of gunpowder as each other. There are daily heats in the main square and the festival builds up to an incredible finale where the huge figures made by local groups are set on fire, signifying the end of winter and the start of spring.

The Fallas Museum offers fascinating insight into the history of this event and the hidden meanings behind the figures, which often make strong political statements. Each year one figure is chosen by locals to be saved for the museum.

Valencia is very friendly, with a large town rather than a big city feel. Its smaller size makes it easy to get around on public transport and on foot.

Finally, I would recommend seeing Flamenco in Valencia. The smaller venues mean the emotion of the dance is even more powerful.

Personally, I think that Valencia is the best place for solo travel in Europe.

– By Melanie from The Professional Traveller

Valencia Travel Resources

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16. Bologna, Italy

If you’re a solo traveler looking for one of the best places to travel to in Europe, look no further than Bologna, Italy. 

Although Bologna is a very old city, dating back to the 9 th century BC, it’s a remarkably young city demographically because of the historic University of Bologna, which happens to be the oldest university in the Western World. The students of the university, founded in 1088, infuse a vibrant buzz and energy into this beautiful city.

Need a change of scenery for a day? Or maybe some world-class wine for a weekend? Bologna is just a quick 45-minute train ride to the more popular and touristy Florence and the Tuscan countryside. 

The other large cities of Rome (2 hours 15 minutes) and Venice (1 hour 45 minutes) can be reached pretty easily and quickly by train, making Bologna a great hub for traveling all over Italy’s main attractions.

Stroll through the miles and miles of porticoes — which is just a fancy word for “covered walkways” — in and around Bologna (almost 30 miles in city proper) and visit some of the major landmarks like the iconic dual-leaning towers. These are very matter-of-factly nicknamed “Due Torri” and are protected from anything Mother Nature can think of.  

If you’re up for a quintessential Bologna experience involving some good exercise, walk the longest uninterrupted portico in the world!

A total of about 2.3 miles of covered walkway leads you from the historic city center all the way up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, which overlooks Bologna from atop its perch. Along the way, you’ll pass under 666 arches — the meaning of this devilish number has been speculated for years — many of which contain paintings, sculptures, or chapels.

In addition to the rich historical sites, many believe that Bologna is one of the premier “foodie” cities in Italy — if that can even be a thing. And no, we aren’t talking about bologna sandwiches!

But in all seriousness, the food in Bologna is some of the best in Italy! Think Parmesan, prosciutto, balsamic vinegar, tortellini, and tagliatelle al ragù — which you may know better as spaghetti Bolognese. Yum! They all call this region home so you can only imagine the options that await.

With more affordable prices than some of the other major cities, you can enjoy a variety of mouthwatering food at a food hall near the city center.

Don’t forget about the local craft beer movement, either! There is a budding craft beer scene where travelers can make small talk with the Bolognese over some cold local beers. 

– By Samantha and Chris from Boozing Abroad

Bologna Travel Resources

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17. Madeira, Portugal

Madeira — which is one of my favorite solo travel destinations in Europe — is a relatively remote island in Portugal. Closer to the African continent than to Europe, it is an autonomous region and a well-developed archipelago comprising four islands.

The island is a true hidden gem, and they call it the “Hawaii of Europe”.

And for this reason, the destination is known for its cliffs and dense rain forests that offer unique landscapes. It is a true heaven for photographers and hikers. Madeira is known for its endless trails — which are some of the best hikes in the world — waterfalls, and scenic mountain peaks.

Lately, Madeira has become a hub for solo travelers and digital nomads. The government has been going to great lengths to make it such a destination, and they succeeded.

Funchal, the main city of Madeira, offers a unique charm for independent entrepreneurs. Being financially very affordable and safe, the city has attracted thousands of nomads, especially after the pandemic.

Madeira has lately even opened a digital nomad village. It offers unique opportunities for independent entrepreneurs in terms of stay, networking, and great internet. Launched in mid 2021, the villages witnessed more than 5000 registrations from 90 countries.

-By Achraf from Walk Beside Me Blog

Madeira Travel Resources

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18. Cinque Terre, Italy  

The Cinque Terre in Italy is a picturesque, compact, and activity-packed destination for solo travelers to consider.

The five villages of this UNESCO World Heritage site are built around coves and beaches with the jewel-box-colored houses seeming to cling to the cliffs. Below is the Ligurian Sea and rising behind the towns are olive groves, orchards, and ancient defensive fortifications.

The Cinque Terre is not accessible by car, and trains, buses, and walking between the towns make for an interesting and hassle-free holiday. The infrastructure is good, trains run very frequently, and English is spoken fluently in many hotels, hostels, restaurants, and by tour companies.

The crowded coastline doesn’t lend itself to large hotels or resorts — the largest ones are up in the hills rather than in the towns themselves — and it is likely as a solo traveler that you’ll meet fellow travelers in the small and charming hotels in the five towns.

Solo women travelers find it safe and it’s common to see women hiking and dining alone in and between the five towns. This also makes it one of the best places in Europe to travel alone as a woman .

Hiking and walking is the reason most people love the Cinque Terre National Park. Trails wind between the five towns, linking them together. These paths all have their own names.

Even seasoned travelers to Italy will fall in love with the country again when they walk through olive groves, fragrant orchards, and past wildflowers with the sparkling sea down below.

Swimming and boating trips are also wildly popular, but so too is visiting the towers, castles, and churches that can be found along the Cinque Terre coastline.

-By Monique from Trip Anthropologist

Cinque Terre Travel Resources

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19. Paros Island, Greece

Paros Island is one of the Cyclades’ gems and the perfect paradise for solo traveling. Traveling to Paros Island is relatively inexpensive with round trip flights from Dublin , Ireland at around $470 — which is great, because Dublin solo travel is also a great experience.

But, back to Paros.

On the island, you’ll find a wide variety of accommodation options to fit all budgets and socializing preferences, from camping to luxury hotels.

Paros is often described by locals as a more authentic Santorini — and that is exactly what it is. It’s just as beautiful, too.

You can experience this authenticity while roaming the towns of Parikia and Naoussa. Parikia is a typical town with traditional white houses and small touristy streets. You can also watch a beautiful sunset over the Mediterranean Sea from the windmill at the beginning of the Promenade.

Naoussa is another town you should visit. With its port and restaurants right by the water, it is the perfect place to have dinner and enjoy some time by yourself. Recommendation: Order a gyro while you’re there!

While on Paros Island, it’s also recommended to visit the many beautiful beaches. Some of the beaches you should check out are Santa Maria Beach and Golden Beach. Paros is also the perfect place to snorkel or have a drink on the beach.

As for transportation, you have a couple of options on Paros. You could rent a car — although when traveling solo, it can feel like it’s too high of an expense for just one person.

Alternatively, you can take the bus. Paros’ bus system is well organized and inexpensive and take you around to the most famous beaches and towns.

If you want to explore more of the island, you can rent an ATV. ATVs are very common on the island, are easy to drive, and you just need a regular driver’s license to rent one. They are also rather inexpensive and can be rented for one or several days.

Finally, Paros is extremely safe for solo travelers. The locals are very friendly, helpful, and often love giving visitors recommendations.

-By Mary from Be Right Back

Paros Island Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Paros Island tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Paros Island hotels .

20. Ljubljana, Slovenia

If you’re wondering what the best places to travel alone in Europe are, I highly recommend getting Ljubljana in Slovenia on your radar.

Not only is the city beautiful, clean, and one of the safest places in Europe for solo female travelers , but the Center District is car-free, which leads to a peaceful atmosphere for exploring the local restaurants, bars, cafes, and markets.

Ljubljana is known for its architecturally-interesting bridges, many museums and cultural institutions, and lovely Ljubljanica River running through the Center District, which adds to this city’s charm — especially when you sit outside with an inexpensive glass of wine or beer. TOZD Bar is a nice place to do this at.

A few other must-have Ljubljana experiences for solo travelers include taking a tour with Watermelon Ljubljana Bike Tours, exploring local eateries with Ljubljananjam Foodwalks, wandering the nature trails around Rožnik Hill, and viewing the experimental art at Metelkova City.

In terms of day trips, getting out into nature is a must! Visit the beautiful Lake Bled in the Julian Alps and hike in the nearby Triglav National Park, do a homestay in the Slovenian countryside , and enjoy one of the many hiking trails in Slovenia .

Ljubljana Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Ljubljana tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Ljubljana hotels .

Solo Travel Europe Tips

To help you make the most of your time traveling solo in Europe, here are a few helpful tips.

– Know how to meet people. One of the biggest fears people have when planning for solo travel in Europe is how to overcome loneliness .

The truth is, there are many ways to meet locals while traveling as well as other travelers, such as taking group tours and free walking tours, booking experiences that take you into local homes, attending local meetups through sites like Couchsurfing.org, and going to places frequented by other travelers like bars and cafes.

Fun fact: While traveling solo in Prague I actually made a friend at a local money exchange!

-Consider places with excellent public transportation. Traveling solo means you won’t have anyone to split cab and car rental costs with. Being able to get around by bus and train makes for a more budget-friendly solo trip.

You should also look into a Eurail Pass, which can help you save money if you’ll be traveling around Europe solo by train.

-Pick a travel destination that can also be a great homebase. This may be a personal preference, but for a place to be one of the best places in Europe for solo travel this is a requirement. I like being able to have more time in a place to meet people and get to know the destination.

That being said, I also appreciate places from where I can do day and weekend trips without having to move all of my things constantly. For instance, if traveling solo in Ireland , Dublin is a great homebase.

-Ask your hotel/hostel for an annotated map. In terms of solo travel safety , I recommend always asking your hotel to mark up a map to show you where it’s safe to walk alone and where it’s not. Or, at the very least, ask them to tell you and just note it in your phone so you’re aware.

-Pack important travel safety items. When it comes to travel safety gear , I’m never without a personal alarm . Moreover, knowing how to avoid pickpockets with things like Clever Travel Companion pickpocket-proof garments and hidden-pocket scarves is wise.

Tours In Europe For Solo Travelers

One great way to meet other people while traveling solo in Europe is to book group tours. A few highly-rated Europe tours include:

• Amsterdam Alternative Culture Walking Tour with Local Food Sampling
• Best of Prague: City Walking Tour, Boat Cruise, and Typical Czech Lunch
• 3-Hour Berlin Street Art Tour
• Athens All Included: Acropolis and Museum In a Cultural Guided Walking Tour
• Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside from Florence

Click here for a full list of tours in Europe .

Renting A Car In Europe

For many destinations in Europe, it can make sense to rent a car, especially if you’ll be exploring remote areas or beautiful countryside places.

Recommendation: Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

Public Transportation In Europe

Traveling Europe alone isn’t a problem for those who don’t drive. Public transportation in Europe is fantastic!

Getting around Europe by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! I use this tool for all of my public transportation needs when traveling Europe.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount.

They even offer flight and car deals!

Hotels In Europe

Looking to pre-book hotels for your Europe solo trip?

Click here for a full list of European hotels !

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals !

You can also use the map below to search for local stays. It’s set to Paris, though you can easily change it based on where you’ll be traveling solo in Europe:

Europe Travel Insurance

When visiting Europe solo — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Best Places In Europe To Travel Alone As A Woman [Bonus Guides]

The following guides can help you plan an incredible Europe solo travel itinerary!

Solo Travel In Paris: A Romantic Guide For One

Here’s What Happens When You Travel Latvia Solo

Slovenia Travel: Local Ljubljana Experiences For Solo Travelers

Solo Travel In Prague: How To Have An Amazing Trip On Your Own

Solo Trip To Amsterdam: How To Have An Amazing Time On Your Own

Rome Solo Travel: How To Have An Amazing Time Traveling Rome Alone

50 Fun Things To Do In London Alone

Best Solo Travel Destinations Europe FAQs

Still trying to decide where to travel alone in Europe? These questions may help you decide!

Q) What are the best places for solo travel in Europe?

Some of the best solo trips in Europe include Riga in Latvia, Freiburg im Breisgau in Germany, and Innsbruck in Austria. But that’s just a few options – much of Europe is ideal for solo travel.

Q) What are the best European cities for solo travelers?

When it comes to solo travel to Europe, some of the best major cities include Prague, Copenhagen, Athens, Istanbul, Barcelona, and Lisbon.

Q) What are the best European countries for solo travel?

Some of the countries you’ll want to consider for your solo trip to Europe include Spain, Portugal, Denmark, Italy, and the Czech Republic.

Q) Is it a good idea to travel Europe alone?

Absolutely – it’s a great idea! Solo trips to Europe are incredibly rewarding – and fun! Most European countries are ideal for solo travel with endless things to do and great public transportation for getting around.

Q) Can you travel to Europe alone as a woman?

Yes! Solo traveling to Europe as a woman is both easy and safe, especially to the destinations listed above. Just keep your wits about you and use common sense and you’ll have a great time.

What do you think are the best places to travel alone in Europe?

Enjoyed this guide to the best places in Europe for solo travel? Pin this solo female travel Europe guide for later!

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This guide is incredibly helpful for europe traveller’s. Thank you for this great resource.

I guess all of these places are worth visiting as what I read in your blog. Thanks for sharing these beautiful European places. This is very helpful and informative for every traveler and tourist who wants to visit and travel to Europe 🙂

We were just in San Sebastian, Spain last year with our oldest daughter who was playing soccer in the Donosti Cup. We started off in Barcelona, went to Madrid, and then made our way over to Hondarribia. It was an incredible trip!

You have so many great places on your list, but Slovenia and Portugal are up there for me! Cheers to great travels!

For solo travelers, Prague stands out in Europe. It’s safe, affordable, and rich in culture and history. The city’s walkable layout and friendly locals make it ideal for those exploring alone. Plus, Prague’s stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife offer a perfect blend of exploration and entertainment.

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Kids on planes: What you should know before booking a flight for unaccompanied minors

In many families, parents or grandparents occasionally have to send kids from one family group to another , creating situations in which kids fly alone. Airline standards about the minimum travel age for children flying alone vary, though, and policies for unaccompanied minors on flights is one area where the big U.S. airlines do not march in lockstep.

How old do you have to be to fly alone?

The minimum age for children to travel alone as adults paying adult fares varies: Kids have to be 12 years old to fly alone on domestic flights with Hawaiian, Southwest, Air Canada, and WestJet; 13 years old on Alaska; 14 years old to fly as an adult on JetBlue; and 15 years old on Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Spirit and United. 

International age limits also vary by airline, and some airlines don’t allow unaccompanied minors on international flights.

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Can kids younger than 5 years old fly as unaccompanied minors?

For a variety of reasons, including the fact that flying with kids can be difficult even under the best conditions, children younger than 5 years old cannot travel as unaccompanied minors under any circumstances. For children between 5 years old and whatever the minimum adult age is on their chosen airline, most airlines provide special unaccompanied minor service for a fee. 

Of the 12 large North American airlines, only Allegiant and Frontier do not offer unaccompanied minors the option to fly. Many airlines also offer unaccompanied minor service for children a few years over the minimum adult age, which can be a good fit for families nervous about teenagers traveling alone.

Unaccompanied minor services and fees

Unaccompanied minors are carefully controlled and monitored by airline personnel throughout the boarding, flight, and arrival phases of the trip. Airlines require that unaccompanied minors be delivered to the airline by adults with the proper documentation and retrieved at their destination by other documented adults.

Typically, airlines avoid booking unaccompanied minors on the last flight of the day or on flights likely to be disrupted by weather or other factors . Also, bookings on code-shared flights are not allowed. Most airlines limit unaccompanied minor service to nonstop or direct flights. Alaska, American, and Delta allow unaccompanied minor bookings on some connecting flights for kids ages eight and older, with various schedule and route limitations. 

The big U.S. airlines charge a base fee of $150 each way (though sometimes the fee covers multiple children traveling together) plus the applicable adult fare; other airlines charge the same or less. On the airlines that allow unaccompanied minors on international bookings, conditions around children flying alone on those flights are even more stringent. Most big international airlines offer similar services, though specifics vary by airline and country.

Parents of responsible tweens and young teens would do well to compare flights and airlines , since the minimum age at which children can travel unaccompanied ranges so widely. Also, with unaccompanied minor fees in the range of $150 each way, having a family member buy a round-trip ticket to accompany kids one way on a short trip may actually be less expensive.

Minimum age to travel alone: Taking the train

Thinking about sending your child on the train instead? The minimum age to travel on Amtrak without an adult is 16 on most routes. However, Amtrak offers unaccompanied minor service between staffed stations on some trains for children between the ages of 13 and 15.

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How Old Do You Have to Be to Fly Alone?

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Parents typically want to travel with their children, but that isn't always possible. Your children may have to travel by themselves for a variety of reasons.

So, that leads parents to ask, "Can minors fly alone?" And, "How old do you have to be?"

The answer depends on the airline and the type of flight you want to purchase. Learn about the rules for each airline, how much they charge and what restrictions govern unaccompanied minor flights.

Why do children fly by themselves?

Here are a few of the reasons why your child may need to fly alone.

Financial . Plane tickets can be expensive, and some families may not be able to afford enough tickets for parents and children.

Divorced parents

Time off work . Parents may have difficulty getting time off work to travel with their children. Whether the child is off to camp, going to see family or other reasons, they may need to travel alone.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

Which airlines allow unaccompanied minors to fly?

Flying as an unaccompanied minor is available on major carriers Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit and United Airlines.

At what age can you fly alone?

The minimum age to travel alone varies among airlines. While there are no specific federal laws on how old a child must be to fly alone, no major U.S. airline allows children under the age of 5 to fly by themselves.

Unaccompanied minors may also travel internationally if they have a passport and meet the airline's requirements.

Depending on which airline your child is flying and their age, the airline may require them to fly nonstop or on a direct flight that doesn't require a plane change. As they get older, some airlines allow them to take connecting flights.

Once a child turns 15, most airlines allow them to fly alone without unaccompanied minor rules and fees. Some airlines allow children as young as 12 to travel without these procedures.

Child travel policies by airline

The travel policies for unaccompanied minors vary significantly by airline. Depending on your child's age and circumstances, your child may not be able to fly on your preferred airline.

» Learn more: How to navigate the airport

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines' Junior Jetsetters program is an unaccompanied minor service for young fliers aged 5 to 17 on domestic and international flights. It costs $150 each way per flight.

The service is optional for young adults ages 13 through 17 years old.

American Airlines

American Airlines’ unaccompanied minor service is required for children ages 5 to 14 traveling alone. Children ages 2 to 14 can travel as unaccompanied minors with someone who is 16 years and older.

The American Airlines unaccompanied minor fee is $150 each way (plus taxes) and must be booked over the phone. The fee also covers additional siblings on the same flight. It includes early boarding, kids-only lounges in hub cities, an airport escort and more.

There are different levels of restrictions based on your child's age:

0 to 4 years: Cannot travel alone.

5 to 7 years : Nonstop flights only.

8 to 14 years : Nonstop flights and connecting flights through select hub cities.

15 to 17 years : Unaccompanied minor service is optional.

You cannot use this service on code-share or partner-operated flights, the last flight of the day or overnight connecting flights.

Delta Air Lines

For a Delta unaccompanied minor fee of $150 each way, up to four children ages 5 to 14 can travel together as unaccompanied minors. Minors between the ages of 15 and 17 can also use this service, but it is not required. With this service, Delta provides an employee escort and special amenities for children during their trip.

At select airports, children also have access to the Delta Sky Zone. This kids-only lounge featuring video games and snacks is a secure area for children to relax between flights.

Unaccompanied minors receive a bar-coded wristband that tracks their journey. Parents are allowed to accompany their children through airport security to the gate area until their departure.

Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines eliminated unaccompanied minor travel for children under the age of 15 in 2018. All children under 15 must travel with an accompanying adult to fly with Frontier Airlines.

Children ages 15 and older are treated as adults when flying Frontier. They do not receive special accommodations or airline escorts like those available with other airlines.

JetBlue Airways

Travelers between the ages of 5 and 13 are considered unaccompanied minors with JetBlue. Under the JetBlue unaccompanied minor rules, they can take only nonstop flights.

Additionally, there can be a maximum of three unaccompanied minors on each flight. So, you may not be able to pick certain flights if there are already too many unaccompanied minors on that flight. There is a fee of $150 each way for each child for this service.

Once children reach their 14th birthday, JetBlue allows them to travel alone without restrictions.

Southwest Airlines

Children ages 5 to 11 are required to book an unaccompanied minor ticket on Southwest. Parents can book these tickets online, over the phone or at the airport ticket counter.

The Southwest unaccompanied minor fee is $100 each way per child and due at booking. These fees are refundable if the minor does not travel or if they're later joined by an accompanying passenger age 12 or older.

Parents can get a gate pass from the Southwest ticket counter to bring their children through security and deliver them to their departure gate. At the gate, the child receives an unaccompanied minor lanyard that holds their paperwork and must be worn throughout the duration of their flight.

Unaccompanied minors cannot travel on connecting flights. They must fly nonstop or on a flight that does not require a change of planes. These travelers also cannot travel on flights that require an overnight connection.

Passengers 12 and older are able to travel as "Young Travelers" on Southwest. While Southwest allows these younger passengers to travel alone, parents should consider whether their child is capable of navigating the airport by themselves, dealing with flight disruptions and other scenarios they may face.

Spirit Airlines

The Spirit unaccompanied minor fee is $150 and its policy is as follows:

4 Years and Younger Children must travel with another guest at least 15 years of age.

5-14 Years children can fly on direct flights only and require booking the unaccompanied minor service.

15 Years and older guests are not required to have Unaccompanied Minor service, but it is an option.

Young fliers are offered a snack and drink as part of the service.

United Airlines

On United Airlines, unaccompanied minor service is required for children ages 5 to 14 and is optional for passengers ages 15 to 17. These tickets can be purchased online, over the phone or at the airport.

At the airport, you'll check your child in at the airport ticket counter, where they'll receive a special wristband and envelope for their travel documents. Parents can get a gate pass at U.S. airports to walk their children to the gate.

To use the unaccompanied minor service, children must be booked on a nonstop United or United Express flight. The fee is $150 each way for up to two kids, $300 for up to four kids and $450 for up to six kids.

Comparison of unaccompanied minor fees by airline

This chart summarizes the ages and fees for unaccompanied minor travelers.

The bottom line

Even if you cannot travel with your child, it is still possible for them to travel alone. If you're considering allowing your child to travel without you, you may wonder, "How old do you have to be to fly alone?"

While no major U.S. airline allows children under the age of 5 to travel solo, the rules and fees vary considerably for children ages 5 to 17. In some cases, children as young as 12 years can fly without any restrictions.

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Can A 16 Year Old Travel Alone Internationally

There are no definite answers when it comes to international travel, as each country has different laws and regulations. However, in most cases, a 16-year-old is allowed to travel internationally without an adult.

To be sure, it’s always a good idea to check with the embassy or consulate of the destination country before traveling. Some countries, like Cuba, have stricter regulations for those under 18, and may require that an adult accompany the minor.

There are a few things to keep in mind when traveling internationally with a 16-year-old. First, be sure to have all the necessary documents in order, including a passport, visas (if required), and proof of return or onward travel.

It’s also important to ensure that the minor has all the necessary information to stay safe while abroad. This includes contact information for the embassy or consulate of the destination country, as well as the parents or guardians back home.

Finally, be sure to pack appropriately for the child’s age and destination. A 16-year-old will likely need different items than a 12-year-old, and different items than someone going to a cold country versus a hot country.

With a little preparation, a 16-year-old can have a safe and enjoyable international travel experience.

• 1 Can you travel alone at 16 internationally?
• 2 What age can a child fly alone internationally?
• 3 Can a 16 year old fly alone internationally UK?
• 4 Can a 16 year old fly alone to Europe?
• 5 What age can you leave the country by yourself?
• 6 How do I book a flight for a 16 year old?
• 7 Can a 16 year old fly alone on United airlines?

Can you travel alone at 16 internationally?

16 is the minimum age requirement to travel unaccompanied on an international flight, as set by most airlines. However, depending on your destination, some countries may allow travelers aged 16 and over to travel without an adult.

Before booking any travel, always check the specific requirements of your destination country. Some countries, such as Thailand, have stricter regulations for minors than others. In general, it is always a good idea to have a letter from your parents or guardians authorizing your travel, in case you are questioned by authorities.

If you are planning on traveling alone at 16, be sure to familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of your destination country. Stick to busy, well-lit areas, and avoid traveling at night. Always carry a copy of your passport and visa (if required), as well as contact information for your embassy or consulate.

If you are feeling unsafe or uncomfortable while traveling alone, do not hesitate to reach out to local authorities or your embassy for help. Solo travel can be a great way to experience new cultures and meet new people, but it is important to stay safe and be aware of the risks involved. With a bit of preparation and caution, traveling alone at 16 can be a rewarding and exciting experience.

What age can a child fly alone internationally?

There is no definite answer as to what age a child can fly alone internationally. This will vary depending on the airline and the destination. In general, most airlines will not allow children younger than 12 years old to fly unaccompanied.

There are a few things parents need to consider before sending their child on a solo flight. Firstly, is the child emotionally ready for the experience? Children who are anxious or scared may not be able to handle flying alone. Secondly, is the child physically capable of handling the flight? Young children may get tired or sick during a long flight.

If parents decide their child is ready to fly alone, they will need to book the flight and fill out an unaccompanied minor form. The form will require information about the child, such as their name, age, and contact information. The form will also list the name of the adult who will be picking the child up at the airport.

Parents should be aware that there may be an additional fee for unaccompanied minors. In addition, the airline may require the child to check in and be screened at the airport earlier than other passengers.

Ultimately, it is up to the parents to decide whether their child is ready to fly alone. If they are unsure, they can always contact the airline for more information.

Can a 16 year old fly alone internationally UK?

Can a 16 year old fly alone internationally?

Yes, a 16 year old can fly alone internationally. They will need to have a valid passport and tickets, and will be responsible for their own safety and security while on the flight.

Can a 16 year old fly alone to Europe?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, such as the country you are flying to and your level of flying experience. However, in general, the answer is yes, a 16 year old can fly alone to Europe.

There are some things you will need to take into consideration before flying solo to Europe. Firstly, make sure you are familiar with the European Union’s (EU) aviation safety regulations, as these will be different to those in your home country. You will also need to be aware of the different baggage allowances and restrictions that apply in Europe.

In terms of your flying experience, it is a good idea to have some experience of flying before attempting a long-haul flight such as Europe. If you have never flown before, it might be a good idea to start with a shorter flight, such as a domestic journey within your home country.

If you are confident that you meet all the requirements and are comfortable with flying solo, then go ahead and book your flight! Just make sure to review the safety regulations and baggage allowances of your chosen destination country.

What age can you leave the country by yourself?

This is a question that does not have a definitive answer, as the age at which a person can leave a country without parental permission varies from country to country. However, there are some general rules that apply to most countries.

In most cases, minors who are under the age of 18 are not allowed to leave a country without parental permission. There may be some exceptions to this rule, such as if a minor is going to be travelling with a parent or guardian. Additionally, some countries have laws that state that all minors must have parental permission to leave the country, regardless of their age.

There are a few countries where the age at which a person can leave without parental permission is higher than 18. For example, in the United States, a person must be at least 21 years old to leave the country without parental permission.

There are also a few countries where there is no age requirement for leaving the country without parental permission. For example, in Canada, a person of any age can leave the country without parental permission.

So, what age can you leave the country by yourself? The answer to this question depends on the country you are in. In most cases, minors who are under the age of 18 must have parental permission to leave the country. However, there are a few countries where the age at which a person can leave without parental permission is higher than 18.

How do I book a flight for a 16 year old?

Booking a flight for a 16 year old can be a daunting task. There are a few things to keep in mind when booking a flight for a 16 year old.

The first thing to keep in mind is the passport requirements. A 16 year old will need a passport to fly. If the 16 year old does not have a passport, they will need to apply for one. This can be a time-consuming process, so it is best to start the process as soon as possible.

The next thing to keep in mind is the airline requirements. Each airline has different requirements for minors. It is important to research the airline’s requirements before booking a flight.

Some airlines require that a parent or guardian accompany the minor on the flight. Others require that the minor have a notarized letter from the parent or guardian authorizing the minor to travel alone. It is important to know what the airline’s requirements are before booking a flight.

The last thing to keep in mind is the cost of flying. Flights for minors can be more expensive than flights for adults. It is important to budget for the cost of flying when booking a flight for a 16 year old.

When booking a flight for a 16 year old, it is important to keep the passport requirements, airline requirements, and cost of flying in mind. By doing so, the process of booking a flight will be much easier.

Can a 16 year old fly alone on United airlines?

The answer to this question is yes, a 16 year old can fly alone on United airlines. However, there are a few things that the unaccompanied minor must do in order to fly safely.

First, the unaccompanied minor must arrive at the airport early. This is so they have time to check in and go through security.

Second, the unaccompanied minor must have all the necessary documents. They will need to show a passport or birth certificate, and they will also need to show a letter from their parent or guardian authorizing them to fly unaccompanied.

Third, the unaccompanied minor must be able to follow the rules of the airline. This means they must stay in their seat and not talk to other passengers. They must also keep track of their belongings and not leave the airplane without permission.

Fourth, the unaccompanied minor must be able to handle themselves in a crisis. This means that if something happens during the flight, they are able to stay calm and follow the instructions of the crew.

If the unaccompanied minor can do all of these things, then they are able to fly alone on United airlines.

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What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

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With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome ( pictured above ) are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway—and much of Scandinavia—are popular destinations this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

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In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of "scooping a deal in September are likely over,” according to her. At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds. However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—it will only be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

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U.S. Citizens Will Need to Register and Pay a Fee to Enter Europe in 2024—Here’s What to Know

E ach year, American tourists flock to Europe to glimpse the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, the Sistine Chapel and thousands of other must-see attractions. With so many landmarks to explore in Western Europe and beyond, it's no surprise the continent is a top destination for U.S. citizens. According to the consumer research company Statista, more than 10 million Americans made the trek to France , Italy , Spain and Germany in 2019 alone. But if you want to travel there after January 2024, you'll have to register and pay a fee. It's all thanks to the newly launched European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

The European Union's new system will add an extra step to your travel requirements for 30 European countries. But though it sounds complicated, the process won't be difficult. And we've got everything you need to know before you book your next European vacay.

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What is ETIAS?

There's no such thing as an ETIAS visa, and the system isn't a digital nomad visa either. So what is it, then? According to the official website, ETIAS is the "new travel permit for Americans and other visa-exempt non-EU citizens visiting European destinations." It's an electronic travel authorization for visa-free countries, and it has a faster application and processing time than a visa.

In other words, U.S. citizens won't need a visa to continue traveling to Europe—but they must apply for ETIAS.

If you meet the ETIAS requirements, you won't need a visa if you're traveling for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for business, short-term study or tourism. If you currently hold a passport or will soon apply for a passport from one of 59 travel-visa-free countries and are between the ages of 18 and 70, you will need the new travel authorization for European travel within the Schengen area (a travel zone made up of 27 European countries).

Why are these European requirements changing?

The European Union is changing its requirements to include ETIAS to benefit both travelers and the European Union. When traveling overseas to Europe using ETIAS, you'll benefit from a more streamlined border crossing—the new travel authorization will get you through faster.

But the launch of the electronic authorization system aims to keep the European Union safer too. Better border management means officials can keep an eye on security issues at the borders. And because ETIAS links to security databases, it'll be easier to fight terrorism and criminal activity.

When will ETIAS go into effect?

The current launch date for ETIAS in Europe is sometime in January 2024. But that comes after some delays. The European Union initially intended ETIAS to go into effect in January 2021 but later postponed the kickoff to 2023. The quiet pushback of the launch date, following a series of hiccups, has led up to its slated release in 2024, but some sources note that it may take a while for it to go into effect.

Per the ETIAS website, "after the initial launch, there may be a short period of three to six months where ETIAS may not be mandatory for travel. This is to allow the EU to work through any system issues, which may negatively impact travelers due to complications with the initial rollout." Additionally, the site notes that this is "barring any delay in implementation," so it's unclear whether the 2024 launch date is set in stone.

Still, if you're planning a romantic European vacation and want to skip the new system, you'll have to travel soon.

What countries will require authorization?

Gearing up for some European country-hopping ? These 23 European countries in the Schengen area will require ETIAS authorization from American travelers:

• Czech Republic
• Netherlands

You will also need ETIAS for four non-EU member states:

• Liechtenstein
• Switzerland

Additionally, these non-Schengen EU states will require ETIAS:

Finally, these microstates will also require the new travel authorization:

• Vatican City

What's the difference between ETIAS and EES?

The European Union is launching not only ETIAS but also a border-management strategy called the Entry/Exist System (EES). The first thing to know: ETIAS and EES are not the same thing.

For starters, ETIAS is a new entry requirement, while EES is a registration. When traveling visa free, you'll need to apply for ETIAS travel authorization, but you won't need to take any action before your trip for EES registration. Instead, this is done automatically at the external border of any of the 29 European countries using EES, and this registration will take place each time you cross an external border between countries. EES will also replace manual passport stamps.

How much does ETIAS cost?

Luckily, if you're traveling on a budget , the application fee for ETIAS won't break the bank—it's less than $10. Travelers will pay $8 for ETIAS (or €7).

How do you apply for ETIAS?

Applying for ETIAS online is a relatively simple process. You'll fill out the electronic form with personal information, such as your first and last name, nationality, place of birth, address, phone number and email. You'll also need to include your passport information , your travel plans and your history of travel, and you'll have to answer security-based questions. From there, you'll pay the fee and submit your application.

It's important to avoid scam websites pretending to be ETIAS. Make sure you apply on the official site using this application .

Overall, the application process should take about 10 minutes, while approval for your travel authorization will take 96 hours or fewer. You'll know your application has been approved when you receive an official confirmation email.

How long does an ETIAS authorization last?

Once you've received your ETIAS authorization, it will remain valid for three years from the issue date. You may use it to travel multiple times as long as your travel documents have not expired.

How often do you need to renew/reapply?

You will need to reapply for ETIAS when your previous travel permit has expired, which will happen three years after your application date. If your passport expires sooner, you will need to get a new passport and reapply for ETIAS.

• Statista : "The Most Popular Destinations for U.S. Travelers Abroad"
• European Travel Information and Authorisation System : "Europe's Travel Authorization for U.S. Citizens"
• European Travel Information and Authorisation System : "ETIAS start date set for 2024"
• European Travel Information and Authorisation System : "ETIAS Requirements"
• European Travel Information and Authorisation System : "What are the ETIAS benefits to the European Union?"
• ETIAS : "ETIAS Requirements"
• ETIAS : "Frequently Asked Questions"
• European Union : "Key differences between ETIAS and the EES"

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