It might sound frightening but nothing compares to the rush of adrenaline that comes from undertaking an adventure that is unique to you and you alone. Traveling alone is daring, liberating, and it will give you so much confidence that it will change your life!
There are numerous advantages to traveling alone, ranging from not having to coordinate with other people’s schedules to having more time to do whatever you prefer. Also, the freedom to indulge every whim, a sense of empowerment, and opportunities for reflection, self-discovery, and new social connections.
Here are some of the world’s best places to travel solo that you can consider for your next trip. Each place we’ve selected has a good reputation for safety, so you don’t have to worry about that.
Portugal
Your first solo travel must be to Portugal they say.
The country’s less expensive than many of its neighbors, more secure, full of friendly people, and most of them speak English.
Portugal is absolutely beautiful, vibrant, and has stunning beaches. Portugal is one of the best solo travel destinations and has recently become one of Europe’s safest countries.
The Algarve is much more than its reputation as a low-cost vacation destination, and the rest of the country is filled with breathtaking sights and attractions. For some serious inspiration, pick up Joo Saramago’s ‘Journey to Portugal’.
Lisbon is a backpacker’s paradise, while Porto’s dreamlike beauty draws wide-eyed adventurers from all over the world.
Iceland
Iceland is a great solo travel destination, according to Intrepid Travel, which leads group tours all over the world. The majority of the locals speak English and are warm and friendly, and the company notes that Wi-Fi and cellphone reception are both excellent.
Iceland, Europe’s least-populated country, has wide-open spaces and vast areas of untouched wilderness – natural beauty around every corner, with scenery unlike anywhere else.
Volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, natural hot springs, black sand beaches and impressive lava fields, waterfalls, and sculptural mountains can all be found in Iceland.
Because of its proximity to Iceland’s international airport and its abundance of shops, cafes, museums, and art galleries, Reykjavik, the country’s capital and most populous city, is an excellent base.
Iceland has been ranked as the world’s most peaceful country since 2008. The Global Peace Safety Index takes into account factors such as crime rates, political environments, natural disasters, and health risks.
If there is one place in Iceland that you should not miss, it is Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Year-round, the lagoon is filled with icebergs that slowly make their way toward the ocean after breaking free from a glacial tongue. When they reach the sea, the waves push them onto the beach, creating a stunning spectacle.
The Vatnajokull glacier, Europe’s largest glacier, is one of the best places to visit in Iceland. It covers 8% of Iceland’s land area and is home to a plethora of breathtaking ice caves, each of which is a natural marvel.
All you need to do to see Iceland’s diverse landscapes and features is plan a day trip to the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Kirkjufell mountain is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Iceland.
Thailand
Many travel bloggers recommend Thailand, including the busy city of Bangkok, as a safe destination for solo travelers.
Thailand is a reasonably priced country to visit. Solo travelers don’t have to worry about paying for a double room without anyone to split the bill with. You’ll find bars and eateries owned by English-speaking immigrants, and many menus, signs, maps, and guidebooks are written in English. There are numerous places, such as cinemas and shopping malls, where you can take a break to feel more at home.
Solo travel and an endless list of fun activities seem to be the best way to experience this stunning country. There are relaxing beaches, exotic cuisine, magnificent temples and scenery, and cultural and archaeological sites.
Different cities in Thailand are known for a variety of fun activities, such as:
Bangkok street food tours
Rock climbing in Krabi’s caves
White water rafting on the Mae Teng River in Chaing Mai Jungle Bungy jump in Phuket
Thailand’s capital city is a traveler’s paradise. Visit Wat Pho (the reclining Buddha), the Bangkok National Museum, and the Grand Palace for cultural experiences.
Phuket is a historical old town on an island and an excellent solo travel destination in Thailand. It has magnificent scenery and iconic attractions like the Big Buddha. Plan a trip to Phi Phi islands, Phang Nga Bay, and Similan islands, for a wonderful experience.
Krabi is a must-see for anyone interested in Thai culture so make sure you include it in your list. Rai Leh is a hiker’s paradise with breathtaking views that you shouldn’t miss. The Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is home to a diverse range of fauna and flora, as well as the Emerald Pool. At Rai Leh beach, you can shop at the night markets, get a Thai massage, visit the tiger temple, relax, or explore the caves.
If Thailand is your country of choice, apply for a Thai Tourist Visa here.
For more information on this visa application’s requirements, check out our detailed guide.
Canada
For those who enjoy the outdoors, want to travel in a safe and welcoming country, and want to experience many different cultures at once, Canada is one of the best places to travel alone at any time of year. The country is friendly, beautiful, and cosmopolitan, with a very low crime rate and much more.
Canada has more coastline than any other country, as well as mountain ranges, lakes, forests, arctic lands, and even a small amount of desert. There is no better way to reconnect with nature than to spend time in one of Canada’s many beautiful rural landscapes. But it’s not just the great outdoors that draws people to Canada. Canada has clean, safe, friendly, and multicultural cosmopolitan cities.
Indeed, Canada is frequently cited as one of the world’s most livable countries. Whether you enjoy river rafting or live theater, Canada will not disappoint you.
Does Canada sound like a good option for you? Apply for Canadian eTA, if the answer is “Yes”!
The Netherlands
The Netherlands is ideal for solo travelers, and there are myriad exciting things to do there on your own.
The country has a large and vibrant travel community, whether leisure travelers or freelance digital nomads. People meet in hostels or through online communities such as Meetup and Couchsurfing. These hostels host a variety of regular events that are open to those who are not staying there.
In addition to this vibrant community, the Netherlands is home to a plethora of museums. If you have even a passing interest in history or art, you could spend hours there without caring about company.
It’s easy to get around the country, and it’s a good starting point for day trips to other Dutch cities. A solo traveler will appreciate the excellent public transportation and tram network, as well as the comfortable buses and cycling infrastructure.
Don’t be afraid to ask for directions or recommendations, or simply start a conversation in English. Almost all locals, particularly in Amsterdam, speak English and jump at the opportunity to practice their skills.
Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the safest places to visit in the world. For example, it is frequently ranked first among the safest countries to visit, alongside Iceland, Denmark, and New Zealand. It’s also one of the best destinations for solo female travelers.
Switzerland, snuggled in the Alps, is unquestionably one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
The breathtaking landscape in Switzerland is created by the absolutely astounding mountains, multiple lakes, and charming villages. The combination of awe-inspiring Alps scenery and small but nice things like the best cheeses and chocolates is what makes Switzerland so alluring.
When you arrive in Switzerland, you’ll discover that public transportation is simple to use. That could mean taking the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) from one town to another, or the tram within a city.
You’ll find the most brilliant vacation spots within and among this scenic beauty, whether lakes or mountains. Each location has its own unique geographical beauty.
Don’t overlook vacation stays in cities with stunning scenery, such as Zurich, Geneva, Bern, and Basel.
Japan
One of the best places to go when traveling alone for the first time is Japan. The country has a lot to offer as the ninth safest country in the world, and one of the best places to travel solo including for females.
It’s also easy to get around because of the excellent transport links. With one of the world’s most effective public transportation systems, Japan offers a variety of travel options throughout the country, including bus, train, and subway services.
There is something for everyone, from big cities to small towns and off-the-beaten-path locations. The famous Mount Fuji is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit, but you shouldn’t rule out less-known natural wonders like the Arashiyama bamboo forest or the Ritsurin landscape gardens on Shikoku Island.
If you are interested in Japanese history, you should definitely visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, which honors the victims of the atomic bomb. Consider also Shirakawago and Gokayama, which are historic villages with distinctive thatched-roof dwellings.
There are currently 8 more sites awaiting UNESCO classification, bringing the total number of World Heritage Sites in Japan to 21. These include 17 cultural monuments and 4 natural landscapes.
Nearly every city in Japan is home to a number of magnificent historical temples and shrines, and larger cultural hubs can have up to 1,000 temples.
The Byodoin Buddhist temple in Uji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been around for over a thousand years, is one of Japan’s most impressive temples. It is also highly recommended to visit the Toji temple in Kyoto, which is home to the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan and a large garden brimming with cherry trees.
If it’s your first time in Japan, you should try to make it to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Hokkaido in the winter is magnificent if you want to get off the beaten path.
New Zealand
New Zealand is consistently ranked as one of the top travel destinations, and this stunning country is one of the best countries for solo travel, especially for those who are anxious about that.
There are many other solo travelers, so making new friends is not difficult. Hostels and other forms of shared lodging are excellent choices if you visit the country without company.
Since English is one of New Zealand’s two official languages along with Mori, traveling around the country won’t be a problem even if you only know a little bit of it.
You don’t have to worry about dangerous animals. Only the disturbing sandflies, which are otherwise completely harmless but are definitely out for blood, should be your concern.
The South Island in New Zealand is known for its magnificent mountain ranges, glaciers, and lush forestry, whereas the North is known for its breathtaking coastlines, geothermal treasures, and incredible glowworm caves.
Go to the southwest of South Island, park the car, and board a boat to see the breathtaking sights of Milford Sound. If you enjoy nature, this is one of the best things to do in New Zealand.
Queenstown is also located on the South Island’s southwest side. A different city, a completely different experience. Queenstown is the country’s adventure capital, so stop by to get your adrenaline fix.
Christchurch has a glorious past (and well worth seeing when visiting the South Island).
Whether you’re a history buff, a hiker, or a foodie with a rumbling tummy, New Zealand has something for you.
Do you need to learn more about New Zealand? Here are some interesting facts you should know before you travel!
This country is truly stunning and has so much to offer! Apply for New Zeland Electronic Travel Authority, if you believe it is a must-visit for you, too!
Spain
Spain offers a never-ending supply list of vibrant cities, quaint towns, and breathtaking natural beauty and it’s also among the best places for a solo trip.
To visit it, you don’t need to speak Spanish. The locals are frequently very hospitable and speak English fluently.
In Spain, it seems like there is always something going on! That makes it simple for lone travelers to blend in with the group and meet new people. Additionally, there is something to suit almost everyone’s preferences and interests!
The country offers exquisite architecture, world-class museums, delicious food, awe-inspiring beaches, vibrant nightlife, and spectacular hikes.
Spain has a wonderful combination of urban life and dazzling natural scenery, allowing you to decide what kind of travel you want. You’ll find it difficult to resist falling in love with this sunny country because of the welcoming locals and captivating culture that it is brimming with.
There is a lot to see and do in this magnificent Mediterranean country, from lively Barcelona and boisterous Madrid to the historic Ronda, vibrant Seville, and sunny Malaga.
Spain’s most popular attraction and arguably the best place to visit is the magnificent Sagrada Familia Basilica in the city of Barcelona.
Vietnam
Vietnam should be your first choice if you’re organizing a solo trip to Southeast Asia. Despite frequently being overshadowed by its Asian neighbors, Thailand and Cambodia, Vietnam is a surprising country with some regions that are still largely unexplored.
You can enjoy time sailing on wonderful bays, hiking in the mountains, floating down the Delta, or touring old French Colonial towns in this area because of its natural beauty and diverse terrain. You can get by here speaking English because, in the country’s capital, Ho Chi Minh City, a lot of people speak it.
You can eat street food at Bn Thành Market in Ho Chi Minh City, one of the oldest still-standing buildings in the city, and brush up on Vietnam War history by visiting the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels. Visit Hanoi to take in the city’s striking historical and cultural landmarks and to stroll leisurely around Hoàn Kim Lake.
Whether you’re traveling alone or with others, Vietnam is generally very safe. There is a well-established tourist route, so there is a wide range of hotels and transportation options.
Traveling alone will open the door to one of life’s most memorable experiences. You are completely free to do whatever you want, whenever you want, and you will discover a lot about yourself along the way.
It’s important to give yourself plenty of time to organise your trip – such as securing your visa and plane ticket.
With that in mind, your first step should be to talk to the Visa First team!
Visa First is a trusted visa agent and we can help you secure your visa easily so that you have more time to research your travel alone adventure!
Why apply for a visa with Visa First?
We have more than 17 years of experience and we organize over 10,000 visas annually
We will take care of the visa paperwork
We’ll boost your chances of a successful outcome
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Your dedicated visa expert will be on hand to answer any of your questions
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