According to a report from American Express, traveling alone is trending, with 69% of survey respondents planning to take a solo trip in 2024. It’s no wonder: When you travel the world alone, you don’t need to juggle anyone else’s schedule or preferences. You can go where you want, when you want, and follow your heart when choosing activities once you’ve arrived at your destination. Solo traveling can be a great way to meet new people, relax, or explore your hobbies (think of a cooking class in the South of France or a wellness-focused destination).
But of course, if you’re looking for the best places to travel alone, you’ll want to consider a few factors, such as how easy it is to get around—since getting lost on your own can be stressful—as well as how fun it is to explore and relax alone in the destination. Taking all this into consideration, here are the 10 best places to travel solo and why we think these destinations fit the bill.
Top 5 Solo International Travel Destinations
- Dublin, Ireland
- Tokyo, Japan
- Reykjavík, Iceland
- La Fortuna, Costa Rica
- Montreal, Canada
Explore more of these international destinations and see why they made our list of recommended solo travel destinations (hint: safety, friendliness, and ease of communication were top priorities).
Related: 12 Essential Tips Every Solo Traveler Needs to Know
1. Dublin, Ireland
If you love history, literature and having a pint in a pub—you may be eager to explore Dublin, a city rich with culture. It’s a safe, walkable city with friendly residents and easy-to-navigate public transportation if you opt to journey out of the city center. Ireland’s capital offers culture galore, including museums, galleries and music. And while you’ll want to bring along a rain slicker, all that drizzle leads to lush green parks.
When to Visit
Any time of year is ideal for visiting Dublin, but if you prefer a less crowded experience, try opting for winter, as colder weather means fewer crowds. Keep in mind that wintertime also comes with holiday markets, a perk that might make those cold temperatures and shorter days worth it. The weather in Ireland in the spring, summer, and fall can span several seasons in a day, so pack layers. And no matter when you travel, include waterproof gear.
Why We Chose Dublin as a Place to Travel Solo
Getting to Dublin and around the city once you arrive is easy, particularly if you live on the East Coast of the United States. Once there, an English-speaking population known for its friendliness is a boon to solo travelers. Plus, you’ll readily find options of things to do, from exploring pubs to museums and other cultural attractions. Explore more of Dublin’s solo-friendly appeal below:
Ease of Getting There and Around
From New York City, a nonstop flight to Dublin is under seven hours.
Most of Dublin’s attractions are in its city center, meaning you can get by without a car or even public transportation unless you want to take day trips or explore destinations further out in the city. Plenty of tours of Ireland are available, too, meaning you can skip renting a car entirely and jump on a bus instead—all with the comfort of a guide steering you along.
Safety
Because Dublin is a large city, you’ll want to take standard safety measures, like being on the lookout for pickpockets and not wandering into deserted neighborhoods.
Overall, the U.S. Department of State has given Ireland a Level 1 travel advisory, indicating that travelers should simply exercise normal precautions. The country is ranked third on the 2023 Global Peace Index from the Institute for Economics and Peace.
2. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo makes this list of the best places to travel for many reasons. It’s quite safe and has many hotels and restaurants geared specifically toward individuals. In addition to its many hotel rooms for solo travelers, it’s also common for people to sit alone at restaurants, whether at a counter or a table.
Additionally, there’s so much to do. Even riding the world-renowned train system is an adventure. There are also many cherry blossoms, fish markets, onsen (aka hot springs), temples, and more to explore.
When to Visit
Tokyo is great to visit year-round, but keep in mind that the summers can be rainy and humid, with typhoons likelier to occur in July through September. The city can also get crowded during springtime’s cherry blossom season; traveling during the most appealing months (spring and fall) means more crowds.
Why We Chose Tokyo as a Place to Travel Solo
Tokyo is a big city, but as a tourist destination, it is also one that you can navigate as a solo traveler. Safety is one of the big reasons we selected Tokyo for this list. Additionally, in Japan, it’s common for people to dine and travel alone (meaning you won’t be the only person at a restaurant eating alone at your table).
Explore more below about why Tokyo is an excellent destination for solo travelers:
Language
If you don’t speak Japanese, the thought of visiting Tokyo may feel intimidating. While it’s true that most residents there do not speak English fluently, many of them can communicate in English to a certain extent. Advancements in technology, including translation apps on your smartphone, can also make the language barrier less daunting.
The capital city is also a huge tourist destination, so English signs are common, as are pictures of food on menus. Before you go, aim to learn some basic polite words and phrases.
Safety
The U.S. travel advisory for Japan is at the lowest level, advising visitors to take regular precautions.
Ideal for Female Travelers
Crime rates are low in Japan. If you’re a woman traveling alone, know that Tokyo offers women-only train cars during peak travel times, and you can generally walk around safely and unbothered. That said, foreigners may get a bit of unwanted attention, so exercise caution, particularly late at night.
3. Reykjavík, Iceland
Visit Reykjavík—and if you’re lucky, you’ll see the Northern Lights. But even if those colorful rays of light don’t appear in the sky, there’s plenty to see and do, including geothermal spas, museums, a vibrant music scene, and many places to eat and shop.
You can walk to many main attractions, though cabs are readily available. It’s also easy to rent a car or bike to get around. Iceland itself is also easy to get to. Flights are generally budget-friendly, and the flight time from NYC is about six hours.
When to Visit
Here, there’s no question: The summer months are most ideal for visiting Reykjavík, as they bring with them longer nights, relatively warmer weather, and the thrilling possibility of spotting the Northern Lights.
Travel in the offseason, and your experience may be less thrilling—but you’ll save a bunch of money as hotel rates fall. Even in the summertime, the weather doesn’t reach temperatures of greater than 60 degrees Fahrenheit—so you’ll want to pack warm clothes regardless of when you travel.
Why We Chose Reykjavík as a Place to Travel Solo
Reykjavík is an ideal destination for solo travelers, who can get there easily and get around on foot or with cabs (no rental car needed). Plus, tourists are both common and welcome in this city, so you won’t stand out. Here are more reasons to visit Reykjavík as a solo traveler:
Friendliness Toward Travelers
Tourism is a major part of Iceland’s economy, so people in Reykjavík are accustomed to visitors. However, this isn’t just transactional friendliness: You can expect warmth, smiles, and genuine kindness from the residents you encounter. Iceland is the number-one country ranked in the 2023 Global Peace Index.
LGBTQIA+-Friendly
Iceland is considered a tolerant, welcoming destination for the LGBTQIA+ community. Reykjavík’s annual pride event attracts over 100,000 people, and the city has a flourishing LGBTQIA+ culture outside of that event.
Plenty of Things to Do
You can opt for a relaxing experience with geothermal springs, go on a whale-watching trip, visit a museum, hear live music, or entertain yourself in countless other ways.
4. La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Gorgeous and scenic Costa Rica offers beaches, jungles, adventure, and pura vida. The Central American country welcomes tourists and has many friendly English-speaking residents. If planning out an itinerary feels overwhelming, plenty of companies can arrange one for solo travelers. But you can also figure it out yourself by taking a bus, renting a car, or using a shuttle from the airport to La Fortuna. Once there, you can visit Arenal Volcano National Park, enjoy time in a hot spring, go for a hike, or ride a horse.
When to Visit
The rainy season runs from May through December, which you may want to avoid. That said, if a budget-friendly experience is your priority, you might want to travel during these months to avoid the crowds and correspondingly high accommodation rates. The dryer months, from January to April, are more pleasant and, unsurprisingly, more crowded.
Why We Chose La Fortuna as a Place to Travel Solo
You’ll feel quite comfortable visiting this country from the United States, as most people will be able to communicate in English. You can even opt to pay in dollars, rather than the country’s currency. Plus, there’s so much to do, particularly for adventure lovers, from ziplining to scuba diving. Dig into more reasons why La Fortuna is ideal for solo travelers:
Ease of Tourism
Costa Rica is a tourist-friendly country. While the official language is Spanish, English is commonly spoken. (As always, it’s best to learn key phrases in Spanish before arriving.) Similarly, while the country’s currency is the colón, you can pay in dollars, though it might lead to an exchange rate that’s not in your favor.
Adventures Galore
Ziplining, whitewater rafting, rope swings, and hanging bridges are just some of the delights available for solo adventure seekers.
Safety
Do note that the U.S. Department of State has given Costa Rica a Level 2 travel advisory, encouraging visitors to practice increased caution due to crime. Still, savvy travelers—who know not to showcase expensive items, wander in isolated areas or be unaware of their surroundings—should feel comfortable visiting alone.
5. Montreal, Canada
If a trip across the ocean to Europe feels out of reach, consider a visit to Montreal, where the official language is French and the city has the moniker “Canada’s Culture Capital.” Foodies and culture lovers will find a lot to love about this locale. Some noteworthy museums include the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montréal and the Canadian Centre for Architecture.
Plus, the city is full of murals and galleries as well as upscale restaurants and low-budget treats, such as Montreal bagels and poutine. Outdoor fanatics might want to rent a bike to explore some of the city’s gorgeous parks, including Parc Jean-Drapeau (a site used during the 1976 Summer Olympics) and Mount Royal.
When to Visit
Spring, summer, and fall are all ideal for visiting Montreal; just know that the city is hopping in the summer, so you’ll want to book early. You can travel to Montreal in winter, of course; the snow and cold can be quite cozy (offering a handy excuse for afternoon hot chocolate). But Montreal has an Underground City for a reason—the low end of the average temperature dips to single digits during the winter, which can make it challenging to explore on foot.
Be sure to pack warm clothes and check the weather (snow is not uncommon, even in March and April).
Why We Chose Montreal as a Place to Travel Solo
You can skip the car rental in Montreal, which is easily walkable and offers a great public transportation system and ready bike rentals. You’ll find plenty of things to do in this approachable city. Explore more factors that make this city a good fit for solo travelers.
Safety
Canada is generally considered a safe country, and Montreal does not have a high crime rate. As with any city, take sensible precautions. Montreal’s public transportation is also easy to use and safe.
A Haven for Foodies and Culture Lovers
This city has so much to eat and observe, including gardens galore. Most activities—visiting museums, shopping, and walking through parks, to name a few—do not require a companion to be fulfilling. Make sure you don’t leave without sampling a Montreal bagel!
Top 5 Solo Travel Destinations in the United States
- New York, New York
- Portland, Oregon
- Sedona, Arizona
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Chicago, Illinois
You can confidently turn to these cities across the United States as a solo traveler — they’re all easy to navigate (many do not require a car to get around) and offer an abundance of activities, from museums to nature to restaurants.
1. New York, New York
New York City is giant, which can make it a bit overwhelming, but it also means that there’s something for nearly every person’s interest. There are more museums than a person could visit in a month, many sprawling parks, and endless food options, from classic slice joints to fine dining. You can also delight in spa offerings, incredible shopping, theater, live music—the list goes on and on.
When to Visit
There’s something to see and do in New York City in every season. That said, January and February can be inclement and cold, making walking (one of the great ways to explore the city) unpleasant. The city is humid and very hot during the summer, and locals often clear out. The shorter lines and easier-to-nab reservations may be a perk, but the long walks can become unpleasant.
Why We Chose New York City as a Place Tt Travel Solo
New York City is a great destination for solo travelers because it’s easy to get around, offers much to do and see, and is relatively safe with some common sense precautions. (Crime rates are low in New York City, but it’s best to be alert and mindful—bags left unattended or wallets poking out of pockets are easy targets.) Here are some of the perks of traveling in New York City alone:
Easy Transportation—24/7
Skip a car rental if you’re visiting New York, as parking will be more of a hassle than a convenience. Public transportation is available from airports, and within the city, it’s easy to ride subways and buses to get anywhere you want to go. Trains and buses never close (although, for safety reasons, you might prefer to take a rideshare or taxi later at night).
You can also opt to rent a bicycle, though biking in the city can be a bit overwhelming if you’ve previously only biked on quiet roads.
Endless Things to Do
New York City has something for everyone, from music and theater lovers to food fans, fashion enthusiasts to frequent museum-goers. As many things as there are to try, it can also be delightful to simply sit and do some people watching from cafes or a seat on the train.
Options for an Array Of Budgets
You can opt to go out to a multicourse dinner that costs hundreds of dollars, or you can gobble up dumplings in Chinatown, where you can get half a dozen or more for under $5. Similarly, you can go to arena concerts or stop by Pete’s Candy Store in Williamsburg for more budget-friendly music in an intimate venue. A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is both iconic and free.
Bottom line: While New York City has a reputation for being pricey (and it is certainly easy to spend a lot of money while there), there are plenty of lower-cost options available if you seek them out.
2. Portland, Oregon
There’s no reason to hesitate before visiting Portland, Oregon, a hipster haven, as a solo traveler. This West Coast city is known for friendly locals, tons of bookstores, excellent food, and, of course, being a bit damp.
While there, you can get around without a car (but feel free to consider renting a bicycle or scooter). Some of the city’s most popular attractions include its hikes, as well as museums (like the Portland Museum of Art), bookstores (Powell’s is the most well-known, but you can find many appealing, smaller options throughout the city), the Japanese Garden, and the weekly market.
When to Visit
You’ll do best with your visit if you embrace the city’s rain (planning ahead with umbrellas, slickers, and shoes that can manage drizzle and puddles). Spring and summertime, when flowers are blooming and the weather is nicer, are the peak times to visit, which means you’ll have a lovely experience, but also more crowds. But don’t shy away from a winter or fall visit; the city also offers plenty of indoor activities.
Why We Chose Portland as a Place to Travel Solo
Getting around is easy in Portland, and this manageable city offers plenty of things to do, whether you’re seeking donuts, secondhand clothes, or books. Explore more perks of traveling to Portland on your own below:
Friendly People
You’ll find “Keep Portland Weird” on bumper stickers and t-shirts. But don’t mistake this slogan as anything unfriendly: People in Portland are known for being friendly and open to conversation. Easily connecting with people can make traveling solo that much nicer.
Easy to Get Around
You can use public transportation to navigate the city (including buses, trams, and a light rail system), as well as biking and walking. If you do opt to rent a car, know that while pumping your own gas was once prohibited in Oregon, it’s now permitted as of 2023.
Plenty of Indoor and Outdoor Activities
Looking for things to do in Portland? There’s no shortage of options, both inside and out. If you’re looking for indoor activities, there are museums, bookstores, and secondhand shops. Outside, there are hikes, outdoor gardens, and plenty of walks. Portland is geared toward wandering and strolling around, making it truly lovely for solo travelers.
3. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is full of natural beauty. It’s known for mixing glorious, awe-inspiring vistas with spirituality. If you love to hike, you’ll love this destination. But it’s also a good spot for anyone who sets out their crystals to charge during a full moon.
And while Sedona is known as a popular group destination (think Pink Jeep tours full of bachelorette parties), it’s also ideal for solo travelers who can enjoy reflective time alone or join group tours. Sedona also offers plenty of shopping, as well as spas and art galleries.
When to Visit
The most popular times to visit Sedona are the spring (March to May) and the fall (September to November), when the weather is temperate. Sedona summers are known for their scorching heat and rainfall, while wintertime weather from December to February can be unpredictable. While snow isn’t common in the winter, the temperatures aren’t very warm, either, meaning Sedona might not necessarily be a pleasant getaway if you live somewhere cold yourself. That said, consider a wintertime visit if your top priority is avoiding crowds.
Why We Chose Sedona as a Place to Travel Solo
Sedona is a lovely choice for solo travelers, offering plenty to do in a safe environment. Because it’s a real destination for travelers, you’ll find plenty of infrastructure, such as guided tours to enjoy with others, as well as plenty of activities you can do all on your own, such as visiting an art gallery or shopping.
Safety
Sedona is a safe destination with low crime rates, making it an appealing destination for solo travelers. Still, you’ll want to observe basic precautions, such as staying alert and keeping an eye on your possessions. If you go for a solo hike, let someone know (like the person at the front desk at your hotel), bring lots of water, stay on the trail, and follow other hiking safety precautions.
Access to Many Activities
While in Sedona, you can go on hikes (solo or with groups), go up in a hot air balloon, take guided tours, do spa treatments or attend a yoga class, go shopping, visit art galleries, and enjoy plenty of good food. At the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, for instance, you can explore tons of restaurants and shops against a charming backdrop.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
History buffs will enjoy a visit to the birthplace of America, where you can visit the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross’ house, and other destinations dating back to America’s quest for independence. There’s something for everyone in Philadelphia, including eye-catching street art, the opportunity to see teams in every major sport, and plenty of iconic eats (think Philadelphia cheese steak). Other great destinations include visiting the Eastern State Penitentiary or the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Love Park, or the Rocky Statue.
When to Visit
Just about any time of year is fine to visit Philadelphia, although January and February will be cold and potentially inclement. The best weather is during the fall and spring, but similar to other destinations, the gorgeous weather comes with bigger crowds. Consider an off-season visit in summer or winter if you seek to avoid them. Pack as you would for any northeast destination, with lots of layers (since weather can be unpredictable) and rain gear during the spring.
Why We Chose Philadelphia as a Place to Travel Solo
Philadelphia is a city, but a manageable one. You won’t need a car to get around, and if you stick to popular areas and follow sensible precautions, you shouldn’t have to feel too concerned about safety. Here are some of the benefits of traveling to Philadelphia alone:
Loaded With History
Philadelphia is full of destinations that showcase its history. You can visit the Benjamin Franklin Museum, the Betsy Ross House, the Liberty Bell, the First Bank of the United States, and so much more. Or you can simply walk the streets, gazing at older homes and imagining what it was like to live in the City of Brotherly Love during the Revolutionary War and early days of the country.
No Need to Rent a Car
The most popular areas to visit in Philadelphia as a tourist are generally all relatively close together, so there’s no need to rent a car to get around. Philadelphia also has public transportation, and of course, you can always use a rideshare for longer jaunts.
Lots of Delicious Food
Philadelphia is known for its food (and its cocktail culture). You won’t go wrong sampling a cheesesteak, scrapple, or water ice. But you can also opt for more upscale eating experiences at an array of well-regarded restaurants.
5. Chicago, Illinois
The Midwest isn’t always high on travel destinations in the United States, with people often sticking to the coasts. However, Chicago is a great city to explore and is ideal for solo travelers thanks to its great public transportation. You can find all the common cultural attractions of a big city, like museums, sports, as well as live music and theater.
Wrigley Field is worth visiting, even if you aren’t into baseball. Plus, you can enjoy deep-dish pizza and other Chicago-area food favorites. You can enjoy views with a bike or walk along DuSable Lake Shore Drive, and since the city is fairly flat, it makes for easy bike rides throughout. And during warmer weather, it’s lovely to view the city’s architecture from a tour on a boat.
When to Visit
Stay away from Chicago in the winter (i.e., November to March—longer than the calendar months of winter) unless you truly love the cold. Summer, late spring, and early fall are all more reasonable seasons for a visit (though keep in mind the spring and fall temperatures may be more chilly than you’re accustomed to). If you visit during the summer, spring, or fall, pack various outfits and layers to accommodate potential shifts in the weather.
Why We Chose Chicago as a Place to Travel Solo
Sure, Chicago is a big city—the third largest by population—but it has a more approachable character than New York and Los Angeles. Credit that midwestern friendliness! Its many attractions and easy-to-use public transportation also make Chicago a great fit for solo travelers.
A word on crime: While Chicago has a high crime rate, crimes in tourist-focused areas are not an issue any more than in any big city, where tourists can be vulnerable to petty theft.
Customize to Meet Your Passions
Do you love sports? Museums? Architecture? Bike riding? Live theater? Shopping? If you’re into any or all of these, you’re in luck with a visit to Chicago. Consider a visit to the Field Museum or the Art Institute, a bike ride along DuSable Lake Shore Drive, swinging by Wrigley Field or Millennium Park, or heading up to the touristy yet delightful Skydeck Chicago.
It’s a Foodie Paradise
When you think of Chicago, you may immediately think of deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwich, or a Chicago-style hot dog. But there’s so much more to this midwestern city’s food options. There’s German and Polish food, the site of the original brownie, and an acclaimed fine dining scene.
Start Planning Your Solo Adventure Today
As a solo traveler, there are so many places to visit, both within the United States and abroad. Our top destinations for solo travelers are safe, easy to get around, offer plenty to do at various budgets, and don’t require extensive knowledge of a second language. So start planning your trip today, and let us know where you’re heading next!
This article has been updated. Photo by eldinhoid/iStock.com
