Best Solo Travel Destinations for Every Type of Explorer
Not all solo travelers are the same—some are thrill-seekers, others are foodies, and some just want to relax on a beach with a good book. While we have tips for every solo traveler to make the most of their trip, choosing a destination comes first.
No matter what solo traveler you are, we’ve pulled together a list of six destinations that offer safety, accessibility, and unforgettable experiences, all within a budget-friendly range. Just don’t forget to pack your travel insurance!
Lisbon, Portugal: A Solo Traveler’s Dream
- Best for: First-time solo travelers, history enthusiasts, and photographers.
- Budget tip: Take advantage of free walking tours and ride the iconic yellow trams for a scenic city experience.
Lisbon is an excellent destination for first-time solo travelers. The city is safe, easy to navigate, and populated with friendly locals. Whether you’re wandering through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, savoring a pastel de nata, or enjoying the views from the Miradouros, Lisbon perfectly combines charm with affordability.
📍Looking for more tips on exploring on a budget? Check out our guide for cheap travel, including Portugal, here.
Kyoto, Japan: Ancient Traditions and Tranquility
- Best for: Cultural explorers, history enthusiasts, and temple hoppers.
- Budget tip: For an affordable price, you can quickly obtain a day pass for Kyoto’s bus system to visit the city’s top temples.
Kyoto is rich in history and tradition, making it ideal for travelers seeking a profound cultural experience. Visitors can explore ancient temples, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, or wander the renowned Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Also, Japan’s reputation for safety offers solo travelers peace of mind for stress-free exploration.
📍Want to experience Kyoto and surrounding cities? Check out our guide for packing like a pro.
Mexico City, Mexico: A Foodie’s Paradise
- Best for: Food lovers, art enthusiasts, and history buffs
- Budget tip: Stick to street food stalls for delicious tacos that cost less than $1 each.
Mexico City is a paradise for food lovers. From street tacos to fine dining experiences, this city is bursting with flavor. Spend your days exploring historic landmarks like the Frida Kahlo Museum and your evenings savoring authentic Mexican cuisine. Just be sure to stick to well-traveled areas and research safe neighborhoods, while not necessarily an unsafe city, it could be risky to explore certain areas alone.
📍Planning your trip to Mexico City? Check out our guide for must-try foods and cultural experiences.
Reykjavik, Iceland: Adventure Awaits
- Best for: Outdoor adventurers, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts
- Budget tip: Take advantage of free natural wonders like waterfalls, black sand beaches, and geothermal hot springs.
If you’re looking for a solo trip to nature, Iceland should be at the top of your list. Reykjavik is a great home base for day trips to waterfalls, glaciers, and the Northern Lights. Plus, Iceland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world.
📍Need help planning your Icelandic adventure? Our guide for first-time backpackers can help you adventure withe caution.
Dublin, Ireland: The Friendliest City for Solo Travelers
- Best for: Social butterflies, history lovers, and beer enthusiasts
- Budget tip: Skip the taxis and explore the city on foot or use Dublin’s affordable bus system.
Dublin’s pub culture and friendly locals make it one of the easiest places to make new friends while traveling alone (with or without Gaelic!) Whether exploring historic sites like Trinity College or enjoying live music in Temple Bar, Dublin is an inviting and lively destination for solo travelers.
📍If domestic health insurance doesn’t travel, what should you do? Our European travel health insurance guide has some tips to help you make an informed decision.
Bali, Indonesia: A Beach Lover’s Paradise
- Best for: Beach enthusiasts, wellness aficionados, and digital nomads.
- Budget tip: Opt for guesthouses or hostels to save money and connect with fellow solo travelers.
If your vision of solo travel involves yoga retreats, beach sunsets, and smoothie bowls, Bali is calling your name. The island provides affordable luxury, a vibrant digital nomad community, and numerous opportunities to meet other travelers.
📍Need an adventurous Bali itinerary? Check out our guide for extreme adventure.
Four Reasons Why Solo Travelers Need Travel Insurance
Traveling alone can be exhilarating, but it also means you don’t have a travel companion to rely on if something goes wrong. That’s where solo travel insurance comes in. There are three main types of coverage: comprehensive, travel, and annual. For a solo traveler, comprehensive travel insurance is the smart choice.
This article contains many travel tips so you can explore safely, but take a look at a few reasons travel insurance is a must-have on your packing list.
- Medical Emergencies While Traveling Alone: If you get sick or injured while traveling solo, medical travel insurance can cover hospital bills, doctor visits, and even medical evacuations. These expenses can quickly add up without coverage, especially in remote destinations or places with high healthcare costs. You can compare costs and find the best medical coverage for your next trip here.
- Trip Cancellations and Interruptions: Solo travelers are responsible for all their travel costs, so why not protect yourself from unexpected financial burdens? Trip cancellation and interruption insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or shorten your trip due to an emergency.
- Lost or Stolen Belongings: Losing your luggage, passport, or personal items can be incredibly challenging when traveling alone. Baggage and personal belongings coverage can help replace essential items and cover unexpected costs.
- Flight Delays: Travel insurance can cover unexpected hotel stays and meals if a flight delay leaves you stranded, ensuring you’re not left out-of-pocket.
Bottom Line:
Solo travel is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the world. It offers freedom, self-discovery, and adventure. Having the right travel insurance lets you focus on enjoying your journey without unnecessary stress.So, before you set off on your next great solo adventure, take the time to compare travel insurance policies today. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your travel experience, allowing you to explore the world with confidence and peace of mind.