18 Best Countries to Visit for Solo Travelers

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Japan

Japan offers solo travelers a safe and culturally rich experience. The public transport is reliable, which makes it easy to get around without needing a guide. Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are filled with history, food, and beautiful scenery. Travelers often find locals to be polite and helpful if they need directions or advice.

The country also has plenty of solo-friendly accommodations such as capsule hotels and hostels. There are peaceful temples, modern shopping streets, and natural sights like Mount Fuji. Solo diners are common, so eating alone does not feel out of place. Whether exploring ancient shrines or riding the bullet train, Japan welcomes travelers who enjoy their own company.

Portugal

Portugal is a great pick for travelers exploring on their own. The country is known for its relaxed pace, walkable cities, and stunning coastline. Lisbon and Porto offer historic charm with cobbled streets and beautiful tiled buildings. The locals are friendly and many speak English, which makes communication easier.

Public transport between towns is reliable and affordable. Food lovers can enjoy local dishes like pastéis de nata at small cafés without needing a group. Coastal towns like Lagos are ideal for peaceful beach days or scenic hikes. Overall, Portugal provides a good balance of culture, comfort, and solitude.

New Zealand

New Zealand is often recommended for those traveling solo due to its friendly locals and low crime rates. The country is filled with natural beauty, from glaciers to rainforests and beaches. Cities like Auckland and Queenstown are easy to explore without a car. Adventure sports are common, and it is easy to join group activities if you want to meet people.

Hostels and lodges are well equipped for solo guests. The hiking trails are clearly marked and safe, which is great for nature lovers. Traveling around by bus or campervan is popular and gives a sense of freedom. Whether you prefer calm landscapes or exciting outdoor adventures, New Zealand feels like a safe place to do it alone.

Iceland

Iceland is often chosen by solo travelers for its peaceful vibe and otherworldly scenery. The country has low crime rates and a strong sense of community, which helps visitors feel secure. You can rent a car or take guided tours to explore waterfalls, glaciers, and geysers. Reykjavik, the capital, is small and walkable, with cozy cafés and music venues.

Even in remote areas, it is common to find other travelers, especially near famous landmarks. The country is expensive, but many hostels offer shared kitchens to help cut food costs. Hot springs and swimming pools offer quiet moments for reflection. Iceland’s natural beauty makes it a great place to enjoy solitude without feeling isolated.

Thailand

Thailand draws solo travelers with its warm weather, street food, and affordable prices. Bangkok and Chiang Mai are popular cities that offer temples, markets, and lively night scenes. Many travelers explore the country by train or bus, both of which are easy to use. Locals are generally kind and used to visitors from all over the world.

Hostels, guesthouses, and beachfront bungalows are easy to find. Islands like Koh Lanta offer peaceful beach time, while places like Pai are known for their laid-back communities. It is also easy to join group tours for island hopping or trekking. Thailand gives solo travelers many ways to stay busy or simply relax.

Canada

Canada is a welcoming place for solo explorers due to its polite culture and safe environment. Cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal are filled with parks, museums, and scenic spots. Public transport works well and neighborhoods are often easy to walk through. English is widely spoken, although some regions speak French as well.

Outside the cities, Canada offers beautiful nature such as the Rocky Mountains and national parks. Camping and hiking are common, and there are many guided tours that do not require large groups. Many solo travelers also enjoy road trips through scenic routes. The country offers both urban convenience and access to wide open spaces.

Vietnam

Vietnam is full of charm and known for being friendly to travelers going solo. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are lively and full of culture, food, and history. Street food is a big part of daily life, and solo diners are never out of place. The cost of travel is low, which allows you to explore more for less.

Transport options include sleeper trains and domestic flights, making it easy to get around. Coastal towns and countryside areas offer calm breaks from the busy cities. Hostels are affordable and often have social spaces for meeting other travelers. Vietnam has a strong backpacker community that makes traveling alone feel easy and fun.

Ireland

Ireland has a friendly atmosphere that makes solo visitors feel welcome. The cities are walkable, and locals often strike up conversations at pubs or cafés. Dublin and Galway are full of music, museums, and historic sites. Getting around the country by bus or train is simple and safe.

The countryside is just as inviting, with green hills and peaceful villages. You can take day trips to explore castles or coastal cliffs like the Cliffs of Moher. Many travelers rent bikes or take small group tours to explore rural areas. Ireland provides both quiet charm and social moments that solo travelers can enjoy.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is popular for those who enjoy nature and wildlife. Solo travelers often head there for its volcanoes, beaches, and rainforests. The country has a well-developed tourism system, with clear signage and helpful guides. English is spoken in many places, especially in areas with frequent visitors.

Accommodations range from eco-lodges to hostels, often surrounded by natural beauty. There are many tours you can join to see sloths, waterfalls, and hot springs. Public transport works, but many prefer shuttle services or car rentals. Costa Rica gives travelers a chance to unwind while being close to the natural world.

Netherlands

The Netherlands is easy to explore, especially for solo travelers who enjoy biking or walking. Cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht are filled with canals, museums, and green spaces. English is widely spoken, which helps when asking for directions or ordering food. The transport system is reliable and connects even small towns.

Cafés and restaurants are welcoming to solo guests. You can visit famous art museums, historic homes, and local markets. Bicycle rentals are everywhere and give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you stay in the city or take a day trip to the countryside, the Netherlands feels peaceful and easy to enjoy alone.

Spain

Spain is a wonderful place for solo travelers who enjoy history, art, and sunny weather. Cities like Barcelona and Madrid offer lively streets, delicious tapas, and famous landmarks. The metro systems are easy to use, and many people speak some English. Walking around neighborhoods filled with unique architecture feels both exciting and safe.

Outside the big cities, places like Seville and Granada give travelers a more relaxed pace. Beaches along the coast and scenic spots in the countryside provide quiet escapes. Accommodations range from hostels to family-run guesthouses. With plenty of festivals and local events, it is easy to meet people along the way.

Australia

Australia offers a wide range of experiences for those traveling alone. Whether you are exploring the city life in Sydney or heading into the Outback, there is plenty to see. Public transport in urban areas is dependable and helps you reach museums, beaches, and parks. English is the main language, which makes communication simple.

The country is also known for its backpacker culture, especially along the East Coast. Hostels, tours, and shared transport options help solo visitors find community. Places like Byron Bay, Cairns, and Melbourne are full of activities and friendly faces. With its mix of city comfort and wild nature, Australia feels welcoming to solo travelers.

Greece

Greece has a relaxed vibe that appeals to solo visitors looking for a mix of history and beach time. Athens offers ancient ruins and lively cafés, while the islands provide scenic beauty and calm waters. Ferry travel makes it easy to hop between destinations. Many locals are warm and helpful, which creates a comfortable setting for newcomers.

On islands like Santorini and Naxos, it is common to dine alone and take in the views. Walking through old villages or relaxing by the sea allows for peaceful solo moments. Accommodations range from small inns to budget-friendly hostels. Whether enjoying local food or watching a sunset, Greece offers a setting that feels just right for traveling solo.

South Korea

South Korea combines modern energy with deep cultural traditions. Cities like Seoul and Busan are filled with street food, shopping districts, and historic landmarks. The subway systems are clean, safe, and easy to use. Many locals are used to tourists, and there are signs in English in popular areas.

Solo dining is part of the culture, especially at barbecue places and noodle shops. Coffee shops and parks provide quiet spaces for relaxation. There are also beautiful spots outside the cities, such as mountain trails and coastal views. With its mix of convenience and charm, South Korea makes solo travel feel smooth and enjoyable.

Germany

Germany is organized and welcoming, making it a good choice for traveling alone. Cities like Berlin and Munich offer museums, historic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods. Trains connect the country, and schedules are usually on time. It is common to see people exploring on their own, especially at parks and cafés.

Travelers often enjoy a mix of big cities and smaller towns. Places like Heidelberg and Dresden offer charm and fewer crowds. Accommodations include hostels, inns, and hotels that are solo-friendly. Germany combines ease of movement with cultural depth, which suits independent travelers well.

Indonesia

Indonesia has many islands to explore, but Bali stands out as a top spot for solo travelers. The island offers beaches, temples, rice fields, and a strong community of travelers. Hostels and cafés often have shared spaces, which makes it easy to meet others. You can take yoga classes, enjoy nature walks, or visit art markets.

Transport is available through scooters, taxis, and private drivers. Many locals speak some English, especially in areas with lots of visitors. Outside Bali, islands like Lombok and Flores offer peaceful settings. Whether you want to relax or explore, Indonesia has something for those traveling alone.

Italy

Italy draws travelers with its mix of food, art, and history. Cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are packed with landmarks and museums. Walking through the streets is a joy in itself, and solo diners are welcome almost everywhere. Public transport connects major spots and makes it easy to plan day trips.

Outside the cities, towns like Cinque Terre or Siena offer quiet charm. It is easy to take your time at cafés or wander through markets. Accommodations include hostels and small bed-and-breakfasts that feel homey. Italy invites travelers to slow down and enjoy each moment.

Singapore

Singapore is a clean and efficient place that works well for solo visitors. The public transport system is simple to use and helps you get around without hassle. Attractions like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and Chinatown are safe to explore on your own. English is one of the official languages, which helps when navigating the city.

Food courts offer a wide range of local dishes where solo dining is common. The city is walkable and well lit at night, which adds to the feeling of safety. Parks and waterfront areas provide peaceful spots for reflection. Singapore is perfect for travelers who enjoy order and ease while still being in a lively setting.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.