Where are the best solo travel destinations?
Before you book your dream getaway, there’s certainly some factors to consider.Â
Solo travelling can be liberating, exciting and fun, you can do what you want when you want.
But, keeping yourself safe is the most important thing and knowing which destinations are the safer options is paramount.
When it comes to safety, you can look at many factors such as the Global Peace Index, crime rates and more.
If you are looking for the best solo travel destinations to check out, then why not consider some of these inspiring places.
Iceland
Not only is Iceland stunningly beautiful, but it also tops the Global Peace Index for the most peaceful country in the world.
The ‘land of fire and ice’ is an irresistible option for nature lovers and is one of the best solo travel destinations for those travelling on their own.   Â
From the dramatic waterfalls and geysers to the dazzling blue lagoon, Iceland is one of the most intriguing countries in the world and the varied landscape is enthralling and intriguing in equal measure.
From immersing yourself in nature with a whale watching expedition to chasing the Northern lights which is one of nature’s greatest light shows, you can’t fail to be charmed by Iceland’s captivating capital, Reykjavik which offers so much to see and do.
It would be remiss not to include a visit to the Blue Lagoon to your to-do list for some serious solo relaxation or if you are hankering after some company why not join other tourists on a free walking tour around the capital.
It’s one of the best ways to clock up several of the fantastic Reykjavik attractions whilst learning about the city’s history and of course, it’s absolutely free of charge, but tips are welcome.
When it comes to walking, Iceland is one of the best places when it comes to the best solo travel destinations.
It is recognised as one of the safest countries for travellers thanks to its low crime rates and impeccable air quality.Â
Iceland has also been ranked 4th on the list of the happiest countries in the world which is awarded annually and assesses crime rates, satisfaction levels as well as standards of living.
Canada
When it comes to considering the best solo travel destinations, Canada is one of the destinations that comes up most often.
For solo travellers, Canada is one of the safest countries in the world to visit. It has a very low crime rate and there’s low risk of any potentially dangerous incidents.Â
As well as being incredibly safe, Canada offers everything you might want from a travel destination.
From incredible off-the-grid adventure opportunities like exploring the Rockies, visiting the awe-inspiring attraction that is Niagara Falls and hiking in Banff National Park.
All of these offer up an abundance of adventure for intrepid solo travellers.
For city slickers, you have your choice of the cosmopolitan Toronto where there are so many things to see and do and the stunning city of Vancouver with its unique laid-back charm, stunning mountain scenic surroundings, and access to some of the best nature you’ll find in the city.
New Zealand
As one of the best solo travel destinations, New Zealand is a country that is an idyllic escape for solo travellers.
According to the Global Peace Index, New Zealand is the second-safest country to live in the world making it a brilliant option for solo travellers looking for a far flung trip.
Not only is it one of the safest countries in the world, but it is also one of the top places for solo travellers who can explore feeling secure whilst taking advantage of the incredible landscapes, vibrant cities and towns and the laid back vibes that can only be found in New Zealand.
The cities and towns are ideal for backpackers and you can find fantastic accommodation options for connecting with fellow travellers.
As well as exploring the wilderness and rural landscape of New Zealand, one of the best places to explore is Auckland which effortlessly combines the best of the country’s spectacular landscape and unbeatable natural beauty with the benefits of an exciting city with its fantastic nightlife.
Ireland
Ireland remains a strong choice for travellers of all ages and in particular it’s a stellar choice for solo travellers making it one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe.
The 2023 edition of the annual Global Peace Index has ranked the Republic of Ireland as the eighth safest destination for tourists out of 163 countries around the world.
The report acknowledges the country’s relatively low crime rates and ‘happy and friendly residents’.
The charm of the Irish along with its friendly and warm hospitality go a long way when travelling alone.
Of course, the Irish storytelling is world-renowned and even if you are travelling alone.
Walk into any pub in Dublin and you will certainly find a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the locals and then of course there’s the live music scene which can’t be missed.
The quintessential Irish craic is second-to-none and even if you only venture into the famed Temple Bar you will witness this in abundance.
Vietnam
Whether you are travelling alone or with others, the breathtaking unique beauty and storied history make the charming country of Vietnam a compelling travel destination.
As one of the best solo travel destinations, Vietnam has become one of the most popular destinations for travelling.
The main source of income in Vietnam is from the travel and tourism industry which means tourist safety is high on the agenda giving travellers total peace of mind.
Vietnam boasts no fewer than eight UNESCO-listed sites which includes the world-famous Ha Long Bay which is not only the most famous UNESCO site in Vietnam, but is possibly one of the most beautiful places in the whole of Vietnam.
The well-established tourist route means that despite travelling alone, it’s really easy to meet like-minded travellers whether you are visiting the dreamy Ha Long Bay or the colourful city of Hanoi.
For those on a budget, Vietnam is one of the best solo travel destinations for travellers. Not only is it a cost-effective choice, especially when it comes to eating out, it also has great transport links too.
Denmark
Attaining second place on the 2023 Global Peace Index, Denmark remains an intelligent choice for travellers, in particular for its prowess as one of the best solo travel destinations globally.
Denmark achieved its second place ranking thanks to its low crime rate and good access to high-quality healthcare.
Interestingly, Denmark also ranks second in the list of the happiest countries in the world.
Is it just down to the acclaimed Danish hygge? Perhaps, but a trip to Denmark whether it’s to the capital Copenhagen or further afield, is most definitely required.
An excellent spot for tourists, Copenhagen delivers on all levels and this is largely down to its fantastic transport links, rich cultural heritage and world-class cuisine.
Yes, Copenhagen can be expensive, but it can be ‘done’ on a budget and whilst it is famous for its extraordinary foodie scene, there are cost-effective options that means you can enjoy eating out without having to spend lots of money.
One of the best ways to explore the city is on a bike and the Danish capital is made for cycling.
Whilst it might feel a tad scary cycling on new routes, in Copenhagen, cyclists are given priority and the well-built infrastructure has been set up to accommodate this.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is easily one of the most tourist-friendly destinations in Latin America and despite not making the top 20 countries in the Global Peace Index, it is one of the best solo travel destinations in that region.
It’s a safer haven for tourists who want to travel in the Latin American region and there are very low levels of violent crime and high levels of political stability making it a good choice for solo travellers.
It’s also one of the best places in the world to experience ‘Pura Vida’ which literally translates to ‘Pure Life’ in English which more than adequately describes the chilled vibes and relaxed way for those living in Costa Rica are able to enjoy.
As well as being one of the most sustainable destinations in the world, Costa Rica is also a great choice for wellness lovers and the eco-pioneering Costa Rica has been awarded the accolade of being one of the happiest and most peaceful countries in the world.
This beautiful Central American country is chock-full of lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, incredible wildlife as well as having a wealth of cultural experiences which are just waiting to be enjoyed.
Croatia
From Split to Dubrovnik, Croatia is one of the best solo travel destinations as well as one of the friendliest places to visit.
It’s easy to see why this super-safe country is the jewel of the Adriatic. Not only is Croatia famed for its fascinating towns and cities, it’s also garnered an impressive reputation for its glorious beaches and fantastic nightlife.
Nature lovers will adore exploring Croatia’s scenic landscape which includes its picturesque Adriatic coast, expansive national parks, wonderful waterfalls and stunning mountains, Croatia is a glorious destination for a truly incredible and adventurous experience.
Fans of Game of Thrones will be able to visit some of the filming locations in Split and beyond which includes Diocletian’s Palace and Bokar Fort in Dubrovnik.
Croatia is famed for its scenic pebbled beaches, which are beautifully lapped by crystal-clear waters.
Make sure you visit the stunning beach on Brac‘s Zlatni Rat which is also known as the Golden Cape which can be visited via a short boat trip off the coast of Split.
Portugal
Not just one of the safest countries in Europe, Portugal remains one of the most popular places to visit for solo travellers.
From the dreamy vacay vibes of The Algarve which is not just deemed one of the safer parts of Portugal, it’s consistently ranked among the safest places in the world.
This European treasure boasts over 800km of spectacular coastline, and it’s an ideal location for surfers, divers and lovers of water sports.Â
The Algarve is also home to some of the best nightlife in the country and of course then there’s the exciting foodie scene too!
Transportation between major towns is convenient and affordable, thanks to a well-connected network of buses and trains.
From the charms of Lisbon which is an amazing city to visit whether you are enjoying a city break or even backpacking to the beauty of Porto where you can try any manner of wines and ports that are synonymous with the region.
With its low crime rates, Mediterranean climate, amazing architecture and rich history, it’s easy to see why Portugal remains one of the best solo travel destinations in the world.
Greece
From the intriguing city of Athens to the Greek Islands, you can rest assured that you will enjoy a safe trip when visiting Greece.
It has a relatively low crime rate compared to many other countries.
The Greek authorities prioritise the safety and security of both residents and visitors and that combined with a warm and welcoming atmosphere helps cement its reputation as one of the safest countries to visit making it one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe.
For solo travellers, why not try a spot of island-hopping in Greece which is almost a rite of passage for any traveller. Greece has more than 6,000 islands and islets, so it’s no surprise, then, that there’s a little something for everyone.
From Rhodes to Santorini and everything in-between, with so many Greek islands to choose from, Greece will certainly capture your heart and will create memories for you that will last forever.
Spain
Spain really does have it all, from awe-inspiring landscapes and beautiful beaches, to world-famous cuisine and rich history – not to mention the fantastic museums and striking architecture.
When it comes to considering the best solo travel destinations, Spain is a natural choice for solo travellers thanks to its relatively low crime rates.
Whilst you can expect pickpocketing in cities like Barcelona and other major cities, generally travellers will feel secure when exploring this beautiful country.
This country is very easy to get around as a solo traveller and there’s so many incredible places to explore.
From the amazing architecture and beautiful parks of Barcelona to the cultural sophistication of Madrid, a city break to Spain offers so much.
Of course if you venture outside of the cities, you will find stunning and diverse scenery that includes volcanoes, deserts, wetlands and of course mountains like the majestic Pyrenees in the north of the country.
Singapore
The island nation of Singapore is intoxicating and mesmerising in equal measure.
It’s also a juxtaposition when it comes to its landscape which is characterised by both age-old temples and impressive glass skyscrapers.
Singapore is also incredibly safe, according to a recent report that surveyed 96 percent of locals and is ranked fourth on the GPI.
The allure of the delicious food, cool things to do, the year-round tropical climate, vibrant nightlife and fantastic shopping, all go a long way to make Singapore a smart choice when it comes to the best solo travel destinations.
Whether you favour Singapore’s instagram-perfect skyline which includes the mindblowing ‘Gardens by the Bay’ and its supersized Supertree Grove or prefer an oasis of calm at one of Singapore’s endless parks, nature reserves and of course – the National Orchid Garden.Â
Sweden
One of the best things about visiting Sweden is that it is an incredibly safe country to travel around in.Â
Sweden is considered a safe country for solo travellers for several reasons which includes that it has low crime rates, a well-developed infrastructure which make it easy for solo travellers to navigate and explore different parts of the country.
Sweden is known for its high level of gender equality, making it a welcome and inclusive destination for all travellers making it a solid choice in particular for solo female travellers who often feel safe and respected in Sweden due to the country’s progressive attitudes towards gender equality.
As well as being one of the safest countries in Europe, Sweden is also one of the most beautiful countries too.
Sweden boasts no fewer than 29 national parks in addition to over 100,000 lakes throughout the country, making it a dream solo travel destination for hikers and camping enthusiasts.
If you are more of a city slicker, you can’t beat the staggeringly beautiful city of Stockholm, Sweden’s stunning capital which has so much to see and do including the picturesque Old Town, Gamla Stan, the Opera House and the historic Storkyrkan cathedral. It’s also a city ripe with culture and has over 50 museums that are just waiting to be explored.
Japan
As the world’s ninth most peaceful country, Japan is a strong contender for one of the best solo travel destinations to travel to.
Japan is ideal for solo travellers thanks to its impressive safety record, its transport links efficiency and the well-deserved reputation of the friendliness of the Japanese people.
Adding into the mix the out-of-this-world scenery and the exhilarating cities like Tokyo, it’s easy to see why Japan remains one of the most popular choices for travellers and at the same time is ranked one of the top ten safest cities in the world for travel in 2023.
From singing toilets and sushi to skyscrapers and the iconic Shibuya Crossing, it’s easy to be enthralled by the vibrant city of Tokyo and you certainly won’t be short of things to see and do.
Iceland
Not only is Iceland stunningly beautiful, but it also tops the Global Peace Index for the most peaceful country in the world.
The ‘land of fire and ice’ is an irresistible option for nature lovers and is one of the best solo travel destinations for those travelling on their own.   Â
From the dramatic waterfalls and geysers to the dazzling blue lagoon, Iceland is one of the most intriguing countries in the world and the varied landscape is enthralling and intriguing in equal measure.
From immersing yourself in nature with a whale watching expedition to chasing the Northern lights which is one of nature’s greatest light shows, you can’t fail to be charmed by Iceland’s captivating capital, Reykjavik which offers so much to see and do.
It would be remiss not to include a visit to the Blue Lagoon to your to-do list for some serious solo relaxation or if you are hankering after some company why not join other tourists on a free walking tour around the capital.
It’s one of the best ways to clock up several of the fantastic Reykjavik attractions whilst learning about the city’s history and of course, it’s absolutely free of charge, but tips are welcome.
When it comes to walking, Iceland is one of the best places when it comes to the best solo travel destinations.
It is recognised as one of the safest countries for travellers thanks to its low crime rates and impeccable air quality.Â
Iceland has also been ranked 4th on the list of the happiest countries in the world which is awarded annually and assesses crime rates, satisfaction levels as well as standards of living.
Canada
When it comes to considering the best solo travel destinations, Canada is one of the destinations that comes up most often.
For solo travellers, Canada is one of the safest countries in the world to visit. It has a very low crime rate and there’s low risk of any potentially dangerous incidents.Â
As well as being incredibly safe, Canada offers everything you might want from a travel destination.
From incredible off-the-grid adventure opportunities like exploring the Rockies, visiting the awe-inspiring attraction that is Niagara Falls and hiking in Banff National Park.
All of these offer up an abundance of adventure for intrepid solo travellers.
For city slickers, you have your choice of the cosmopolitan Toronto where there are so many things to see and do and the stunning city of Vancouver with its unique laid-back charm, stunning mountain scenic surroundings, and access to some of the best nature you’ll find in the city.
New Zealand
As one of the best solo travel destinations, New Zealand is a country that is an idyllic escape for solo travellers.
According to the Global Peace Index, New Zealand is the second-safest country to live in the world making it a brilliant option for solo travellers looking for a far flung trip.
Not only is it one of the safest countries in the world but it is also one of the top places for solo travellers who can explore feeling secure whilst taking advantage of the incredible landscapes, vibrant cities and towns and the laid back vibes that can only be found in New Zealand.
The cities and towns are ideal for backpackers and you can find fantastic accommodation options for connecting with fellow travellers.
As well as exploring the wilderness and rural landscape of New Zealand, one of the best places to explore is Auckland which effortlessly combines the best of the country’s spectacular landscape and unbeatable natural beauty with the benefits of an exciting city with its fantastic nightlife.
Ireland
Ireland remains a strong choice for travellers of all ages and in particular it’s a stellar choice for solo travellers making it one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe.
The 2023 edition of the annual Global Peace Index has ranked the Republic of Ireland as the eighth safest destination for tourists out of 163 countries around the world.
The report acknowledges the country’s relatively low crime rates and ‘happy and friendly residents’. The charm of the Irish along with its friendly and warm hospitality go a long way when travelling alone.
Of course, the Irish storytelling is world-renowned and even if you are travelling alone,
Walk into any pub in Dublin and you will certainly find a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the locals and then of course there’s the live music scene which can’t be missed.
The quintessential Irish craic is second-to-none and even if you only venture into the famed Temple Bar you will witness this in abundance.
Vietnam
Whether you are travelling alone or with others, the breathtaking unique beauty and storied history make the charming country of Vietnam a compelling travel destination.
As one of the best solo travel destinations, Vietnam has become one of the most popular destinations for travelling.
The main source of income in Vietnam is from the travel and tourism industry which means tourist safety is high on the agenda giving travellers total peace of mind.
Vietnam boasts no fewer than eight UNESCO-listed sites which includes the world-famous Ha Long Bay which is not only the most famous UNESCO site in Vietnam, but is possibly one of the most beautiful places in the whole of Vietnam.
The well-established tourist route means that despite travelling alone, it’s really easy to meet like-minded travellers whether you are visiting the dreamy Ha Long Bay or the colourful city of Hanoi.
For those on a budget, Vietnam is one of the best solo travel destinations for travellers. Not only is it a cost-effective choice, especially when it comes to eating out, it also has great transport links too.
Denmark
Attaining second place on the 2023 Global Peace Index, Denmark remains an intelligent choice for travellers, in particular for its prowess as one of the best solo travel destinations globally.
Denmark achieved its second place ranking thanks to its low crime rate and good access to high-quality healthcare.
Interestingly, Denmark also ranks second in the list of the happiest countries in the world.
Is it just down to the acclaimed Danish hygge? Perhaps, but a trip to Denmark whether it’s to the capital Copenhagen or further afield, is most definitely required.
An excellent spot for tourists, Copenhagen delivers on all levels and this is largely down to its fantastic transport links, rich cultural heritage and world-class cuisine.
Yes, Copenhagen can be expensive, but it can be ‘done’ on a budget and whilst it is famous for its extraordinary foodie scene, there are cost-effective options that means you can enjoy eating out without having to spend lots of money.
One of the best ways to explore the city is on a bike and the Danish capital is made for cycling.
Whilst it might feel a tad scary cycling on new routes, in Copenhagen, cyclists are given priority and the well-built infrastructure has been set up to accommodate this.Â
Zanzibar
Costa Rica is easily one of the most tourist-friendly destinations in Latin America and despite not making the top 20 countries in the Global Peace Index, it is one of the best solo travel destinations in that region.
It’s a safer haven for tourists who want to travel in the Latin American region and there are very low levels of violent crime and high levels of political stability making it a good choice for solo travellers.
It’s also one of the best places in the world to experience ‘Pura Vida’ which literally translates to ‘Pure Life’ in English which more than adequately describes the chilled vibes and relaxed way for those living in Costa Rica are able to enjoy.
As well as being one of the most sustainable destinations in the world, Costa Rica is also a great choice for wellness lovers and the eco-pioneering Costa Rica has been awarded the accolade of being one of the happiest and most peaceful countries in the world.
This beautiful Central American country is chock-full of lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, incredible wildlife as well as having a wealth of cultural experiences which are just waiting to be enjoyed.
Croatia
From Split to Dubrovnik, Croatia is one of the best solo travel destinations as well as one of the friendliest places to visit.
It’s easy to see why this super-safe country is the jewel of the Adriatic.
Not only is Croatia famed for its fascinating towns and cities, it’s also garnered an impressive reputation for its glorious beaches and fantastic nightlife.
Nature lovers will adore exploring Croatia’s scenic landscape which includes its picturesque Adriatic coast, expansive national parks, wonderful waterfalls and stunning mountains, Croatia is a glorious destination for a truly incredible and adventurous experience.
Fans of Game of Thrones will be able to visit some of the filming locations in Split and beyond which includes Diocletian’s Palace and Bokar Fort in Dubrovnik.
Croatia is famed for its scenic pebbled beaches, which are beautifully lapped by crystal-clear waters.
Make sure you visit the stunning beach on Brac‘s Zlatni Rat which is also known as the Golden Cape which can be visited via a short boat trip off the coast of Split.
Portugal
Not just one of the safest countries in Europe, Portugal remains one of the most popular places to visit for solo travellers.
From the dreamy vacay vibes of The Algarve which is not just deemed one of the safer parts of Portugal, it’s consistently ranked among the safest places in the world.
This European treasure boasts over 800km of spectacular coastline, and it’s an ideal location for surfers, divers and lovers of water sports.Â
The Algarve is also home to some of the best nightlife in the country and of course then there’s the exciting foodie scene too!
Transportation between major towns is convenient and affordable, thanks to a well-connected network of buses and trains.
From the charms of Lisbon which is an amazing city to visit whether you are enjoying a city break or even backpacking to the beauty of Porto where you can try any manner of wines and ports that are synonymous with the region.
With its low crime rates, Mediterranean climate, amazing architecture and rich history, it’s easy to see why Portugal remains one of the best solo travel destinations in the world.
Santorini
From the intriguing city of Athens to the Greek Islands, you can rest assured that you will enjoy a safe trip when visiting Greece.
It has a relatively low crime rate compared to many other countries.
The Greek authorities prioritise the safety and security of both residents and visitors and that combined with a warm and welcoming atmosphere helps cement its reputation as one of the safest countries to visit making it one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe.
For solo travellers, why not try a spot of island-hopping in Greece which is almost a rite of passage for any traveller.
Greece has more than 6,000 islands and islets, so it’s no surprise, then, that there’s a little something for everyone.
From Rhodes to Santorini and everything in-between, with so many Greek islands to choose from, Greece will certainly capture your heart and will create memories for you that will last forever.
Spain
Spain really does have it all, from awe-inspiring landscapes and beautiful beaches, to world-famous cuisine and rich history – not to mention the fantastic museums and striking architecture.
When it comes to considering the best solo travel destinations, Spain is a natural choice for solo travellers thanks to its relatively low crime rates.
Whilst you can expect pickpocketing in cities like Barcelona and other major cities, generally travellers will feel secure when exploring this beautiful country.
This country is very easy to get around as a solo traveller and there’s so many incredible places to explore.
From the amazing architecture and beautiful parks of Barcelona to the cultural sophistication of Madrid, a city break to Spain offers so much and of course if you venture outside of the cities, you will find stunning and diverse scenery that includes volcanoes, deserts, wetlands and of course mountains like the majestic Pyrenees in the north of the country.
Singapore
The island nation of Singapore is intoxicating and mesmerising in equal measure.
It’s also a juxtaposition when it comes to its landscape which is characterised by both age-old temples and impressive glass skyscrapers.
Singapore is also incredibly safe, according to a recent report that surveyed 96 percent of locals and is ranked fourth on the GPI.
The allure of the delicious food, cool things to do, the year-round tropical climate, vibrant nightlife and fantastic shopping, all go a long way to make Singapore a smart choice when it comes to the best solo travel destinations.
Whether you favour Singapore’s instagram-perfect skyline which includes the mindblowing ‘Gardens by the Bay’ and its supersized Supertree Grove or prefer an oasis of calm at one of Singapore’s endless parks, nature reserves and of course – the National Orchid Garden.Â
Sweden
One of the best things about visiting Sweden is that it is an incredibly safe country to travel around in.Â
Sweden is considered a safe country for solo travellers for several reasons which includes that it has low crime rates, a well-developed infrastructure which make it easy for solo travellers to navigate and explore different parts of the country.
Sweden is known for its high level of gender equality, making it a welcome and inclusive destination for all travellers making it a solid choice in particular for solo female travellers who often feel safe and respected in Sweden due to the country’s progressive attitudes towards gender equality.
As well as being one of the safest countries in Europe, Sweden is also one of the most beautiful countries too. Sweden boasts no fewer than 29 national parks in addition to over 100,000 lakes throughout the country, making it a dream solo travel destination for hikers and camping enthusiasts.
If you are more of a city slicker, you can’t beat the staggeringly beautiful city of Stockholm, Sweden’s stunning capital which has so much to see and do including the picturesque Old Town, Gamla Stan, the Opera House and the historic Storkyrkan cathedral.
It’s also a city ripe with culture and has over 50 museums that are just waiting to be explored.Â
Japan
As the world’s ninth most peaceful country, Japan is a strong contender for one of the best solo travel destinations to travel to.
Japan is ideal for solo travellers thanks to its impressive safety record, its transport links efficiency and the well-deserved reputation of the friendliness of the Japanese people.
Adding into the mix the out-of-this-world scenery and the exhilarating cities like Tokyo, it’s easy to see why Japan remains one of the most popular choices for travellers and at the same time is ranked one of the top ten safest cities in the world for travel in 2023.
From singing toilets and sushi to skyscrapers and the iconic Shibuya Crossing, it’s easy to be enthralled by the vibrant city of Tokyo and you certainly won’t be short of things to see and do.
