taytrum travels

Are you thinking about taking your first solo international trip? It can be really exciting but a bit nerve-wracking.

Solo travel can be liberating and rewarding, but starting somewhere that makes it easier to get around, is relatively affordable, and feels safe can be qualities that make or break the solo travel experience.

Here I list a handful of my top recommendations for first-time solo travel destinations, especially for women. Plus, this guide features the recommendations of 17 other international travel bloggers.

1. Lisbon, Portugal

In my opinion, Lisbon is an excellent first-time solo destination. The streets are so fun to explore and wander around because they are colorful and scenic. You can get around by bike along the waterways, use the metro, call a cab, ride the trolley, and of course huff it on foot.

There are also tons of cute cafes and book shops to explore. Due to the fact this it has so many hills, Lisbon offers many amazing viewpoints to sit and snap great photos.

As a solo female traveler, Lisbon has been one of my absolute favorite places to be. It is reasonably priced too. It also feels quite safe. Plus, there is a fun nightlife scene.

A well-located and lively hostel perfect for solo travel is Inn Possible Lisbon. I stayed here myself for a week and loved it. Whether you have 12 hours in Lisbon or a long vacation, Lisbon is a really comfortable place for a first-time solo traveler.

2. Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is a solo travel gem with stunning bay views, medieval vibes, and just the right dose of adventure. The town is big enough to wander around easily by foot without feeling bored, but not so big that it can feel overwhelming. It is honestly hard to get lost in Kotor.

You can hike up the fortress for epic sunrise and sunset moments. There’s even a longer trail behind the fortress where you can soak in the views for free and get the same view.

You can swim in the bay or take a day trip to nearby islands, Budva, or lagoons. Plus, Kotor feels very safe.

Perfectly balanced on price and experience, Hostel4U is one of the best hostels I’ve stayed at. They have a boisterous party scene and make socializing really easy for a solo traveler.

3. Cusco, Peru

Cusco is great for the adventurous solo traveler who loves the mountains. If you like history, hiking, and a lot of elevation gain, Cusco is right for you. It’s super backpacker-friendly and packed with chill hostels and cool cafés to meet other travelers. Whether you’re exploring ruins or prepping for the Salkantay or Inca Trail, Cusco totally has your back.

Cusco also is a great base for exploring many of the other beautiful places in Peru like Lake Titicaca and Machu Picchu.

I spent three months as a solo traveler in Cusco living in a homestay and learning Spanish. It continues to be one of my favorite cities in the world many years later.

Staying anywhere in the historic center will make exploring easy. Cusco is very hilly so be ready to work your quads and get your steps in.

One of the most infamous hostels in Cusco is Loki. They have a buzzing bar on site that attracts visitors from even outside the hostel. In terms of nightlife, Cusco also has tons of great places to dance like Mama Africa and Chango.

4. Paris, France

Paris is popular for romantic couples but don’t let that stop you from exploring solo. I think one of the best features of Paris is the many museums and gardens to relax and wander through. These are perfect activities for a solo traveler and you can do it at your own pace.

Take a sunset stroll or jog by the Seine, eat flaky croissants, and admire lots of art – all things that will leave you feeling refreshed. Whether you spend a few months or just 72 hours in Paris, there will always be something new to explore.

Paris has an excellent metro system and most of the city feels quite safe even for solo female travelers. It is a big city though so apply common sense to best avoid petty crime.

Solo travel in Paris is also a great opportunity to take French lessons and immerse yourself in the language by living with a host family. A longer stay in Paris may be the best way to do it as it is a pricey city which can be more challenging for a solo traveler.

5. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires has nonstop energy, tango in the streets, and late-night empanadas. I see it as a pretty perfect mix of grit and glam. Think colorful neighborhoods, art everywhere, and endless cafés to people-watch. The city is quite walkable and affordable, albeit the currency fluctuates a lot.

Though a very large city, the neighborhoods are compact and easy to get around on foot with many sidewalks. When you want to jump between neighborhoods, there are buses and budget-friendly Ubers.

Buenos Aires also makes a great base for further exploring, with a day trip to Uruguay a popular adventure. You could take your solo travel in Argentina even further by going to Patagonia, Mendoza, or Iguazu Falls.

In 2023, I spent a solid three weeks in BA alone and loved the city. There are tons of shopping and dancing options. Plus, there is really great food all over the place. Like other big cities, it is important to use common sense to avoid crime, but it really isn’t that big of an issue in Buenos Aires. As a solo female traveler there, I felt quite comfortable and at ease exploring on my own.

6. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn in the summer is one of the best places in Europe in my opinion. I wouldn’t be the first person to describe Tallinn as a place with fairytale vibes in Old Town and a post-Soviet, tech-saavy austerity outside the walls. Here you can wander cobblestone streets, sip coffee in cozy cafés, and further explore the many small cities in the Baltics.

Tallinn is a little off the beaten path, especially for first-time solo travelers. This is probably because it is a little out of the way from most places, but it is well worth the detour.

It’s super safe (probably the safest place on this whole list by my assessment), budget-friendly, and perfect for solo travel. When I was 21 years old I spent two months in Tallinn solo and met tons of nice people and had a great summer exploring Estonia and the Baltics.

Plus, give its latitude the sun stays up super late in the summer and barely gets dark around the solstice. That makes walking home from the club at 3 or 4 am feel much safer – not that I’d know anything about that….

7. Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara, though also a bit out of the way if you are not from California, is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Having lived in both cities for a long time, I can confidently say Santa Barbara is a lot like San Diego but with a small fraction of the population. It has mellow (although sometimes pretentious) beach vibes, beautiful sunsets (but I gotta give west-facing San Diego the gold in the competition), and enough cute cafés to keep you energized.

The downtown is super walkable, the city quite safe, and the terrain is packed with coastal and mountainous hikes. In the funk zone and on State St. you’ll find vintage shops and wine tasting options.

Though a little more dead in nightlife, if you’re looking for a wellness vacation within California or the United States for that matter, Santa Barbara might just be the right fit for your solo holiday. It’s the perfect spot to recharge and explore.

There are many things to do in Santa Barbara like check out the historic Spanish mission, walk down dog beach, or take a day trip to Danish Solvang. You could also try one of the many great desserts in town like McConnell’s ice cream or Creaminal sundaes (a real local’s recommendation!).

The main downside of a solo trip in Santa Barbara will be the cost. SB is expensive! Hotels and restaurants are quite pricey and there isn’t a hostel to be found. I

8. Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua, Guatemala is a dream for Spanish-speaking solo travelers with a love for adventure. Think colorful streets and epic volcano hikes. It’s affordable and vibrant. You can sip local coffee, as it is one of the few places where you can both grow and roast coffee beans in an economically scalable way.

One of the most popular things to do is the multi-day Acatenango and Fuego Volcano hike. This is usually a group hike so it is a perfect way to meet people as a solo traveler.

If you don’t speak basic Spanish, Guatemala may not be the best fit for you. Antigua offers a lot of English menus and guides are usually quite fluent, but outside of cities when you adventure from natural wonder to natural wonder, you may have more difficulty. For a first-time solo traveler with some basic Spanish fluency, I think Antigua will leave you craving more adventure in Latin America.

Guatemala may also have a reputation for being less safe among some. While compared to other places on this list, there may be more violence and unrest in the country, however it is quite rare that tourists come in contact with it. Antigua in particular is quite comfortable. Antigua is the most touristy city in Guatemala and while not everyone like this, it also means that Antigua is quite insulated from violence. That said, exploring other parts of Guatemala is worth your time and I wouldn’t let a rarity disuade your adventure.

A well located and relatively tranquil hostel in Antigua is Maya Papaya. I didn’t stay here personally, but I heard good things from people I met in Antigua that did stay here.

9. Malaga, Spain

Malaga is a great intro to solo travel. I found it to be pretty easygoing, sunny, and super beginner-friendly for solo travel. You’ve got beaches, tapas, and a walkable old town that feels safe even for solo women.

There are just enough opportunities for adventure without it feeling overwhelming. You can take a boat cruise, hike, or take a day trip to a nearby city. Malaga is a great base for exploring more in southern Spain.

I spent three weeks in Malaga one summer, and although very hot, I thought it was a wonderful place to spend a relaxing holiday. My advice would be to go in the spring of fall to beat the heat though!

10. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is an incredibly easy first-timer’s solo travel destination. Assuming you speak English, you’ll have no trouble getting around and communicating with locals. You’ve got live music pouring out of pubs and famous places to explore.

Some of the best things do solo in Dublin include checking out the Jameson Distillery, enjoying good literature (think Oscar Wilde) in a little local cafe, and explore Temple Bar. Of course, no first-time trip to Ireland is complete without a stop at Guinness.

Ireland is super safe and overall Dublin is a great way to dip your toes into solo travel. Though a little on the expensive side, it isn’t too bad – especially with good public transit.

11. Toronto, Canada

Recommended by Kelly of Road Trippin Kel

If you’re planning your first solo trip, look no further than Toronto, Canada’s largest city. Toronto is the perfect starting point for solo travellers, largely due to its many activities and the friendliness of the people.

For a city the size of Toronto, it’s incredibly safe and easily walkable. If you don’t feel like walking, Toronto has a very reliable transit system. For just $13.50, you can purchase a one day pass which allows unlimited travel throughout the city for the day.

For foodies visiting Toronto for the first time, I recommend a visit to the St. Lawrence Market. Here you will not only find a wide variety of food, it’s also a budget friendly place to grab a bite to eat.

First time solo visitors to Toronto will also want to visit the CN Tower, which offers the most spectacular views of the city and beyond. There is also a skywalk at the top of the tower for adventure enthusiasts.

Toronto is not known to be a budget friendly destination. It’s the welcoming locals, fun energy, and solo-friendly activities that make Toronto a top destination for first time solo travelers.

12. Cahuita, Costa Rica

Recommended by Giorgia Vicedomini of Sabiduri

I had already been traveling around Costa Rica for two weeks, and I still hadn’t found the place that matched the reason I started this journey.

But the moment I set foot in Cahuita, I just knew… this was the spot. A perfect destination for solo travelers like me. Small, peaceful, and filled with warm, welcoming people who make you feel right at home and safe. Surrounded by nature, you’re greeted daily by sloths, coatis, monkeys, and all kinds of wildlife. And if you occasionally crave a bit more action, there’s a livelier town just a short ride away.

Even though Cahuita is a small town, it offers plenty of things to do. For instance, it’s home to the only free national parks in Costa Rica (a real gem in a country where travel can get pricey). Then there’s the local market every Wednesday, night tours to spot nocturnal animals, and even surfing, snorkeling, and diving opportunities for those who love the ocean.

One of the best things about backpacking and staying in hostels is the people you meet and the tips you get along the way. Thanks to a fellow solo traveler’s recommendation, I stayed at Secret Garden Hostel, nestled in greenery, full of hammocks to chill, budget-friendly (for being Costa Rica), and with a communal kitchen to prepare your own meals.

For anyone wondering where to go, Cahuita definitely deserves a spot on the list of the best first-time solo travel destinations. It has that rare mix of nature, safety, and community that makes solo travel feel just right.

13. Goa, India

Recommended by Juan from Planet of Adventures

India is one of those incredible countries most of us want to go at some point so for your first trip to there I recommend you to go to the south where the pace of living is a bit slower and people are more relaxed which makes it much easier to adapt when you travel solo for the first time.

Goa is a region rather than just a place, so whilst in North Goa is famous for the partying scene, my advice is for you to go to the South to Palolem Beach where you will enjoy chilled vibes, great beaches, cheap beers, beautiful sunsets, and you will have a chance to meet lots of other solo travelers.

Palolem is super safe, you can walk everywhere or catch a tuk-tuk if exploring around. I loved staying at the Bhakti Kutir Hotel as it’s an incredible jungle retreat where you will find many cool areas to chill and do yoga. 

Being a super budget-friendly country to travel, I recommend you to join a traditional cooking class as well which is an experience that won’t break the bank and you will get to learn many things about Indian cuisine.

Check my relaxed 2 week itinerary in India with all my tips for your next solo trip!

14. Brighton, United Kingdom

Recommended by Gillian at Secret Sussex

Brighton in Sussex is a great city to visit solo. This vibrant and fiercely independent city is set on the beautiful Sussex coast at the foot of the rolling South Downs.

Brighton is accessed easily by train from London and is only around 30 minutes from Gatwick airport. 

The great thing about Brighton when travelling solo is there are so many things to see and do to keep you occupied. Spend the day exploring the stunning Royal Pavillion Palace and gardens. Get lost in the famous Brighton Lanes, which are packed full of cafes, independent shops and quirky art galleries. 

There are so many great things to do in Brighton. There are many tours and experiences you can book onto if you are keen to meet like-minded travelers, for example the Brighton food tour. The Brighton i360 is an iconic landmark that offers stunning panoramic views of the English Channel and city below, this is an affordable experience that can be easily enjoyed solo. The Booth Museum is a free natural history museum that is worth a visit. 

Some other budget friendly activities are to grab some fish and chips to take away and enjoy on the beach. You could probably avoid entering Brighton Palace Pier unless you are particularly entertained by amusements and fair ground rides. 

Catching the sunset is a must by West Pier, which are mesmerizing ruins and super atmospheric. You could easily enjoy an evening on the beach whilst on a budget by bringing some snacks and drinks from the shop, just make sure to wrap up warm in the colder months! Brighton beach is always buzzing, especially in summer.

Overall, I felt safe when visiting Brighton solo. I would recommend Kipp’s Hotel which is budget friendly and a bit more upmarket than some of the hostels. 

15. Vancouver, Canada

Recommended by Rebecca at Veggies Abroad

For first-time solo travelers, there’s no better city to visit in Canada than Vancouver! The city is perfect for every type of traveler. Are you a foodie? Outdoor adventurer? Art lover? Shopper? Vancouver has all of that and more!

Aside from offering so much for visitors to do and see, it’s also extremely easy and safe to get around. There’s no need to rent a car. You can easily visit almost every part of the city using the SkyTrain, buses, or even the sea bus.

If you want to explore outside the city, there are many scenic areas to check out, from short jaunts to beautiful day trips from Vancouver. If you have time, add a stop to Whistler — it’s great to visit year-round.

When choosing a place to stay, consider the beautifully renovated HI Vancouver Downtown in the heart of the city. It’s just a block from colorful Davie Street, cafes, restaurants, and much more. The hostel offers shared and private rooms. 

16. Marrakech, Morocco

Recommended by Chris at Global Trip Diaries

Marrakech is a strong choice for first-time solo travel. It’s close enough to Europe to feel accessible, but offers a completely different experience – lively, warm, and full of history. It’s also unbelievable value so you can feasibly do a lot of activities as a solo traveler!

I found it easy to get around once I got my bearings. Google maps helped, and I mostly walked everywhere, ideal for solo travel and really exploring. The medina can be intense at first, but it’s part of the experience. Don’t be afraid to say no, it’s part of the haggle.

I felt safe, even when out in the evenings. Staying in a riad inside the medina made things simple and central. English is spoken in most places, but learning basic French greetings helps too. 

Meals, day trips, and transport are all affordable, and there’s plenty to do: wander the souks, relax in a hammam, visit Jardin Majorelle, rooftop dinner for sunset or book a desert day trip. For something different, try a sunrise hot air balloon ride – the highlight of my trips to Marrakech and well worth the early start!

Sun hostel would be my recommendation although every time I’ve been there I’ve chosen a riad personally (they are a bit more expensive though).

If you want a nice riad recommendation Riad Hizad is my favorite I’ve stayed at.

17. Sydney, Australia

Recommended by Blesson and Alisha at Hat Explores

Before I officially moved to Sydney five years ago and created our Instagram account dedicated to Sydney travel, I visited this beautiful harbor city solo and completely fell in love! Sydney is one of those places where, even if you’re traveling alone, you never really feel alone. It’s a welcoming, vibrant city with over 4 million visitors each year and so much to explore, from golden beaches to iconic architecture and buzzing neighborhoods.

Having personally stayed at YHA Sydney Harbour and YHA Sydney Central, I would highly recommend one of these two for your stay. The Sydney Harbour location is right at the historic Rocks district, with gorgeous views of the Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay and Opera house from their rooftop and its recent renovation makes the hostel feel surprisingly luxe.

While Sydney is an expensive city, the public transport from trains, buses and the iconic ferry make it very economical and convenient to explore the city and you can choose among tours or rent a car for longer road trips.

Also if you are a budget conscious traveler like I was, there are plenty of free things to do in Sydney that you can enjoy solo or with a friend you make at the hostel! Some of my favorite things I did on the trip were the Opera House tour, visiting Pylon lookout, swimming in Bondi Beach, exploring Darling Harbour and taking a day trip to Blue Mountains. It was super easy to navigate the city via Google Maps and I felt perfectly safe the entire time.

18. Tokyo, Japan

Recommended by Joey at Joey is a Traveler

Tokyo, Japan is a great place to visit as a first-time solo traveler.

Tokyo is the world’s most populous, but also one of the safest cities in the world. The crime rate is low and pretty much everyone follows the rules. Public spaces are clean and well-lit any time of the day. I always felt safe and comfortable in Tokyo. Still, it’s important to be cautious and use common sense, especially in crowded spots like Shibuya Crossing. 

It’s quite easy to get around Tokyo with public transit. Visitors can take the metro, subway, buses, and trains, and ticket machine screens can be converted to English. Signs and announcements inside train stations are in Japanese and English. 

A great place to stay in Tokyo as a solo traveler is Guest House Toco, a traditional Japanese house from 1920. They have private rooms and dorms. It’s in a residential area and has a peaceful Zen garden. Tourist attractions nearby include Onoterusake Shinto Shrine and Bentendo Buddhist Temple hall. Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Tower are not too far, either.

Although Tokyo can be expensive, there are ways to save cash. It has restaurants for every budget and konbini (convenience stores) sell pretty cheap food. Besides, some attractions (like Shibuya Crossing and Bentendo Temple hall) are free to visit. 

19. Bali, Indonesia

Recommended by Mal at Where to Stay Bali

I can’t imagine a better destination for solo travel than Bali, especially if you’re new to it. The island is absolutely gorgeous and incredibly diverse, offering plenty of exciting things to do, whether you’re here for yoga, adventure, or party vibes.

I spent seven months here as a solo female traveler and found the island to be safe, with locals who were consistently friendly and caring. The best way to get around Bali is by renting a scooter, but it’s also easy to travel using GoJek or Grab rides (both are super affordable) or by booking shared transfers for longer distances.

I highly recommend staying in Ubud, the cultural capital of the island, known for its beautiful temples, like Pura Tirta Empul, where you can take part in a traditional cleansing ritual. Ubud is also a dream if you’re into yoga and meditation workshops, rice field walks, or chasing waterfalls. Definitely carve out time to visit Tibumana Waterfall – it’s one of my personal favourites.

If you’re big on nightlife, shopping, and dining, you’ll want to check out Canggu. And for the most beautiful beaches on the island, Uluwatu is the place to be. I loved staying around Bingin Beach, which has a hip, relaxed vibe that’s perfect for solo travelers.

For accommodations, Kos One Hostel in Canggu and Savanna Ubud are both fantastic picks for solo adventurers – super social, clean, and perfectly located.

20. Ella, Sri Lanka

Recommended by Sophia at The Always Wanderer

Ella in Sri Lanka became world-famous in recent years due to its picturesque mountains, great backpacking culture, laid-back vibes, and of course, the Ella-Kandy train, which is known as the world’s most scenic train ride.

Sri Lanka overall is a great first-time solo travel destination. Why? Because of the local people. They are the kindest I have ever met—I found them even nicer than Thai people, who are also some of the best on this planet. I felt completely safe throughout my trip in Sri Lanka, but especially in Ella, thanks to the slower-paced lifestyle, friendly locals, like-minded fellow travelers, and being surrounded by nature.

Ella is a beloved town among backpackers and solo travelers due to its lovely coffee and digital nomad scene. The climate is also perfect: Ella is located in the mountains, so the days are warm but not overly hot, and at night, it cools down just enough for a great sleep without needing aircon.

One of the best things to do is take the Ella-Kandy train ride, which lasts around 8–10 hours. Near Ella, there are beautiful waterfalls—don’t miss Diyaluma Falls or Rawana Falls. In Ella, you can visit tea factories and plantations, join Sri Lankan cooking classes, and hike to famous viewpoints such as Ella Rock.

 There are also great souvenir and local clothes shops in town.

As a solo traveler, Ella is ideal because the town is small and easy to get around. Personally, I’d highly recommend you to rent a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka — it’s an affordable and fun way to explore all the nearby sights. Otherwise, Sri Lanka’s public transportation infrastructure is very developed, and you can also always find a taxi either on the street or using the PickMe App (Sri Lanka’s version of Uber).

In terms of accommodation, most solo travelers choose Rock View Hostel Ella, thanks to the view from the terrace and its great location close to the train station and all the cafes and restaurants. However, if you’d prefer a private room, homestays are at a similar price level—and you’ll often enjoy the best home-cooked food made by the owners.

Ella truly has everything a first-time solo traveller could want: community, nature, affordability, and comfort.

21. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Recommended by Inessa Rezanova of Through a Travel Lens

Ljubljana is one of Europe’s most underrated capitals, although this city boasts a great combination of urban things to do and memorable day trips. Ljubljana also makes for a great solo trip – it is safe (as is Slovenia in general), easy to get around by both car and public transportation, affordable (solo travelers know the pain of bearing all the costs of travel, especially when it comes to accommodations), and is a comfortable setting to meet fellow travelers and make new friends.

Slovenia is the country I’ve traveled to solo more than three times, choosing Ljubljana as a base each time, and I still feel like, despite its small size, the city has plenty more hidden gems to discover.

Some of the things to do include exploring the Old Town with its iconic Prešeren Square, the Triple Bridges, the Town Hall, and the Central Market. A little hike up Castle Hill in the Old Town is also very much recommended, as it leads to Ljubljana Castle and lovely views of the city.

Ljubljana’s food scene is impressive, with lots of quaint cafes serving local desserts like Prekmurska Gibanica – a folded cake with apples, walnuts, and raisins. There are also plenty of restaurants serving delicious Slovenian cuisine, including the mouth-watering Gobova juha – hearty mushroom soup.

For a few days’ stay, Dragons Dream Hostel makes for a great option in Ljubljana as it provides good value for money and is very close to all the iconic locations in the city. The hostel is clean and safe (it offers capsules) and is known for its helpful staff.

22. Mexico City, Mexico

Recommended by Kimberly Erin Davies at Walkaboot Travel

Mexico City makes solo travel feel exciting, not overwhelming, which is exactly what first-timers need. It’s full of life, culture, and energy, yet is surprisingly easy to get around. The metro system is efficient and affordable, with a women-only section that offers extra peace of mind for female travelers. Rideshares like Uber are also readily available.

Like most big cities, safety in Mexico City can vary by neighborhood, but areas like Roma Norte, Condesa, Coyoacán, and the Historic Center are popular with tourists and feel comfortable to explore.

There’s no shortage of things to do. Spend an afternoon wandering through the Frida Kahlo Museum, located in her actual home, or join a walking tour of the historic center and learn about the city’s modern history. You can browse colorful markets, like those in Coyoacán, or take on a wild night out to see Lucha Libre at the Arena Mexico. The National Anthropology Museum is a world-class highlight, and a day trip to the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán is a must.

CDMX is also great for meeting people, the hostels are always buzzing. I loved staying at Metro Boutique Hostel in Roma Norte. This area of the city has a more relaxed vibe, but Casa Pepe downtown is perfect if you’re looking for something livelier.

Mexico City is also budget-friendly, especially with all the delicious street food, but you can also splurge on some pretty iconic restaurants. Between the amazing food, friendly locals, and endless things to do, Mexico City is the kind of place that makes solo travel feel not just doable, but genuinely enjoyable.

23. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Recommended by Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes

Dubrovnik, Croatia is a dream for first-time solo travelers! As the biggest city along Croatia’s Adriatic coast, it’s a great spot for anyone who enjoys history, Old Town charm, and/or the beach. It’s risen in popularity over the last few years due to Game of Thrones, too!

I arrived in Dubrovnik after a group trip and then spent some time there solo. The walled city’s compact size makes it very easy to navigate— it’s all walkable. As a solo traveler, I always felt safe. The city center is very much dedicated to tourism. Public buses were simple to use if you want to explore beyond the city center, too.

Start your day or end your day by walking the ancient city walls—early morning or late afternoon are best to beat the crowds and heat. This is a must! There are lots of great viewpoints around the wall perimeters.

I also enjoyed taking the cable car up Mount Srđ. The views are incredible. Banje Beach is another fun place to go.

For a social and clean place to stay, I recommend Hostel Angelina. It’s located conveniently inside the Old Town, has a great common area, and offers walking tours, which is the best way to see the city and also meet other travelers.  Enjoy your time!

24. Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Recommended by Moumita from Chasing the Long Road

If you’re traveling solo for the first time, the Scottish capital city of Edinburgh is the perfect place to be. From exploring the atmospheric streets to the lively food scene – I found an array of incredible things to do in Edinburgh, particularly for solo travelers. 

The city is well known for its medieval architecture, cobbled streets and a dramatic castle perched over an extinct volcano. It was an amazing experience exploring the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh, both of which are part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

One of the main tourist attractions here is the iconic Edinburgh Castle. It was once the residence of Scottish kings and queens. From the castle promenade, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the city skyline. Next, take a wander around the historic Royal Mile. Visit the St Giles Cathedral – one of the city’s most prominent medieval buildings. You can also climb Calton Hill to watch a beautiful sunset over the city.

Edinburgh is a very safe city. You shouldn’t feel any safety concerns at all while exploring here, particularly as a solo woman traveler. Also, there are not many tourist scams compared to other European cities. But it is important to take the usual precautions when traveling alone.

Edinburgh also has a well-connected public transport system, which is a budget-friendly way to explore the city.

25. Berlin, Germany

Recommended by Roisin at Ro About Town

Berlin Germany is an ideal destination for first-time solo travelers. It is an incredibly safe city with a range of accommodation options and a public transport system that is easy to navigate.

I have traveled to Berlin alone on a few occasions. I’ve never found (for example) eating breakfast in a hotel alone an issue or sitting in a coffee shop by myself and I have never been hassled. I usually stay just outside the city centre – Hotel Rui Plaza was the last place and it was good value for money.

In terms of things to do, Berlin is so packed you almost don’t notice you are alone. 

For a first-timer on a 48-hour Berlin visit I would recommend balancing the history of the city with some of the cool culture. Visiting Checkpoint Charlie is a must, as is going to see the East Side Gallery – the longest part of the Berlin Wall that is intact.

There are some brilliant places such as the Tajikistan Tearooms which are cool, quirky and everyone talks to each other. Another cool and free spot is Urban Nation, an immersive art museum in south West Berlin which is funky and great for Instagram!

26. Saranda, Albania

Recommended by Lucy at Type 1 Travel

A large coastal town in the southwest of Albania, Saranda is an affordable European summer destination just a 30-minute ferry ride from the neighboring Greek Island of Corfu. 

With some of the best beaches in Albania nearby, a few of my favorites include Mirror Beach, Kroreza Beach, and Ksamil Beach – all of which can be reached by public transport or on a boat trip. 

However, Saranda offers not only a beach getaway but also day trips to famous spots like the Butrint UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ottoman style town of Gjirokaster, and the Blue Eye – a natural phenomenon in the mountains.

The town itself is easy to navigate as the streets run parallel to the lively promenade, which has plenty of restaurants and bars that add to the holiday atmosphere. 

As a solo traveler, it’s a safe place to visit and a great hostel for socializing is Hasta La Vista. This is thanks to its games room and organized events, which are perfect for meeting other likeminded travelers!

Whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches, sightseeing day trips, or somewhere to make new friends, Saranda is the place to go!

27. Bangkok, Thailand

Recommended by Liza from Atlas Rambler Travel Guides

Bangkok is the perfect destination for first time solo travelers. Not only is it filled with interesting things to see and do, but it is also super affordable and a very easy place to make friends with fellow travelers.

Local Thai people are known for being incredibly warm and friendly which makes the solo travel experience stress-free as there is always someone willing to help or offer advice. Bangkok is an easy city to navigate thanks to the MRT, and as a solo traveler I always felt safe and comfortable.

Stay at the Khao San Social Capsule Hostel and you are sure to meet people wanting to explore the city, take a day trip to the floating markets, or even visit a nearby island like the stunning Koh Samet.

Thailand has a world-renowned food culture. One of my favorite things to do in Bangkok is to take a traditional Thai cooking class. It is a great way to get oriented with the local cuisine, which can add so much to your enjoyment of the city. It is also a great way to meet people. I had a great night out with some British travelers I met in my Thai cooking class.

You might arrive as a solo traveler, but you are sure to leave with a whole bunch of new friends and fun memories.

Overall, if you’re thinking about taking a solo trip for the first time, I whole heartedly say do it! It is a great way to gain more personal growth and independence, plus taste new foods, meet new people, and learn more about other places.

The truth is (as many fellow solo travelers have echoed in their recommendations) that while you may start as a solo traveler, you actually don’t have to spend that much time alone if you choose not to. This is especially the case when you stay in hostels. So, whatever kind of journey you’re looking for, don’t let a table or ticket for just one stop you. Take the leap.

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