Travel Destinations for Solo Travelers

Steve Jennifer
Updated: May 15, 2024

Got the urge to explore but your friends can’t make it? Don’t put off your adventures—embrace the opportunity for a solo voyage! Travelling solo allows you to set your own pace, choose your meals, and tailor your schedule just how you like it. There are countless spots ideal for solo journeys, from tranquil retreats to bustling hotspots. Discover your next personal getaway with these top destinations for solo travellers.

01. Kick Back in the Cayman Islands

Heading to the Cayman Islands alone is like stepping into a postcard. Crime is a rare sight here, making it a safe bet for solo travellers. The islands shine with top-notch snorkelling spots off Seven Mile Beach, where you can swim solo alongside vibrant fish and stunning coral formations. Dive enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Kittiwake Shipwreck, bustling with marine life like sea turtles and barracudas. The islands also have a reputation as the Caribbean's culinary capital. You're in for a treat with local dishes like lionfish and cassava cake—truly a flavour fiesta!

02. Find Your Chill in Iceland

Iceland is the perfect spot for those flying solo, known for its safety and jaw-dropping landscapes. Treat yourself to a soak in the Blue Lagoon’s steamy waters, consistently heated to a cozy 102°F. For a magical night, chase the Northern Lights in a spot like the secluded Grótta nature reserve from September to April. You can spot humpbacks and orcas by taking a whale-watching tour. Between the thermal baths and the ethereal lights, Iceland offers a solo journey that’s truly out of this world.

03. Unwind in Sedona’s Red Rocks

Sedona offers a stunning setting with its iconic red rock formations, perfect for some soul-searching. Explore these natural wonders by foot or Jeep while picking up interesting tidbits about the region’s history from local experts. After a day of adventure, Sedona’s plethora of spas and wellness centers offer the perfect respite. Engage in restorative activities like yoga or meditation, often complemented by breathtaking views, ensuring you leave feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle more solo adventures.

04. Dive Into San Francisco

San Francisco packs a punch for the solo explorer with its blend of iconic sites and easy access to scenic national parks. The majestic Golden Gate Bridge and the historic Alcatraz are must-visits. If you're itching for more, take a drive to Yosemite National Park for a dose of nature. Whether you’re picnicking with stunning bay views or exploring the great outdoors, San Francisco serves up solo adventures in spades.

05. Roll Solo in Las Vegas

Las Vegas might scream glitz and group fun, but it’s also gold for solo adventurers. Drift above the city in a hot air balloon and soak in panoramic views of the strip and the desert. Venture out to the Grand Canyon for awe-inspiring scenery. Las Vegas is a playground for soloists with its vast array of shows—pick from acrobatics to magic acts without having to compromise. Plus, Fremont Street offers non-stop entertainment, perfect for the solo traveler looking to soak up the neon lights.

06. Get Cozy in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, has an ideal balance of isolation and local culture, making it an excellent choice for a single weekend. The proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park allows tourists to readily interact with nature, whether it's viewing the sunrise over the mountains or exploring the park's 800 miles of trails. The town itself offers a range of entertainment alternatives, including dinner shows like the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show and interactive activities like the Comedy Barn. The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park provides a unique perspective of the area, ending in a walk across the SkyBridge's glass panels. Gatlinburg provides a comprehensive solo travel experience, combining natural beauty with exciting activities.

07. Tokyo’s Solo Beat

Tokyo's safe streets and culture promote unique dining and accommodation experiences, making it an ideal destination for solitary travel. Many restaurants in the city cater to lone dining, like Ichiran, which serves Japanese cuisine in "flavor-concentration booths" meant for individuals. The Tokyo Skytree provides a unique 360-degree vista from 2,080 feet above the city. The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which encompasses 144 acres, is particularly attractive during cherry blossom season. Tokyo's combination of modern comforts and traditional experiences makes it an appealing and pleasant destination for single travellers.

08. Go Solo in New Zealand

New Zealand is a playground for solo adventurers, offering a safe and friendly environment. Tackle the famous Routeburn Track for some of the best views in the Southern Alps or get your heart racing with bungee jumping in Queenstown. For a more laid-back experience, unwind on the tranquil beaches of the Coromandel Peninsula. Whether you’re after thrills or tranquility, New Zealand delivers with open arms.

09. Stroll Through Paris

Paris is a dream for solo wanderers, filled with iconic landmarks and cozy cafés. From the soaring Eiffel Tower to the vast collections of the Louvre, there’s no shortage of sights to feast your eyes on. Enjoy a leisurely coffee at a sidewalk café, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local vibe. Don’t miss a visit to Shakespeare and Company, an iconic spot that connects you to the city’s literary past. Paris is not just a city, it’s a personal experience, tailored just for you.

10. Explore Cape Town on Your Own

Cape Town is a vibrant mix of cultures, making it a rich destination for solo exploration. Climb or ride the cable car up Table Mountain for breathtaking views from 3,500 feet up. Learn about Nelson Mandela’s inspiring history on Robben Island. Dive into the local culinary scene with dishes that reflect the city’s diverse influences, like a traditional braai or local wines. Cape Town offers solo travelers a warm welcome with plenty to see, taste, and do.

TAGS: trip planning

Travel Destinations for Solo Travelers

01. Kick Back in the Cayman Islands

02. Find Your Chill in Iceland

03. Unwind in Sedona’s Red Rocks

04. Dive Into San Francisco

05. Roll Solo in Las Vegas

06. Get Cozy in Gatlinburg

07. Tokyo’s Solo Beat

08. Go Solo in New Zealand

09. Stroll Through Paris

10. Explore Cape Town on Your Own

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Travel Destinations for Solo Travelers

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01. Kick Back in the Cayman Islands

02. Find Your Chill in Iceland

03. Unwind in Sedona’s Red Rocks

04. Dive Into San Francisco

05. Roll Solo in Las Vegas

06. Get Cozy in Gatlinburg

07. Tokyo’s Solo Beat

08. Go Solo in New Zealand

09. Stroll Through Paris

10. Explore Cape Town on Your Own

Recommended

14 Free Things You Can Get at Airports

11 Celebrity Homes You Can Stay at Through AirBnB

Go to Bar Harbor For Outdoorsy Fun

Get inspiration sent straight to your inbox

About

EXPLORE

Get inspiration sent straight to your inbox