The best places to travel solo: 10 destinations where going alone is the point

Have you ever traveled solo? What did you think? Traveling solo counts when you jump on a plane or in a car by yourself to go to a work conference, but you get bonus points if you’ve actually done a solo trip.

Although I’m married and have kids (they’re all grown up now and are great travel buddies), some of my most memorable trips have been solo ones.

If you haven’t traveled alone, it can sound like it’s really out of your comfort zone—but it’s often the most rewarding. No having to coordinate calendars, no compromising on activities. You get to follow your own rhythm, say yes to spontaneous detours, and rediscover what inspires you. The best solo destinations balance safety, ease, and opportunities for connection, whether that’s with locals, fellow travelers, or simply yourself.

Here are 10 destinations (U.S. and beyond) that shine for single travelers, and why they’re great options.

Portugal – approachable and friendly

Lisbon’s steep hills and Porto’s riverside charm are made for wandering on foot, gelato or pastel de nata in hand. Portugal is one of Europe’s friendliest, most affordable corners, with welcoming locals and a growing community of travelers who go it alone.

Why go solo here? Compact cities, easy train travel, and a culture that makes you feel like a guest rather than a stranger.

Japan – organized and safe exploration

Japan is the dream destination for a solo traveler: efficient trains, spotless streets, and a culture that makes solo dining not just accepted but celebrated (ramen booths for one? Yes, please). You can dive into Tokyo’s neon-bright bustle, then retreat to Kyoto’s serene temples or an onsen bath where silence is part of the ritual.

Why go solo here? The mix of safety, independence, and cultural richness means you can wander freely without worry.

Costa Rica – pura vida wellness

Costa Rica is an easy flight from the U.S. but feels worlds away. Eco-lodges and yoga retreats welcome solo guests, while adventure tours (ziplining, surfing, river rafting) make it easy to dip in and out of group settings. One day you’re watching toucans in the cloud forest, the next you’re soaking in hot springs under Arenal Volcano.

Why go solo here? A perfect balance of thrill and tranquility, and a perfect place to sample the “pura vida” (pure life) lifestyle.

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New Zealand – adventure playground

If your idea of solo travel leans more toward hiking boots than hotel slippers, New Zealand is your stage. With the famous “Great Walks,” glacier valleys, and fjords like Milford Sound, every day feels cinematic. And when you want company, hostels and group tours are set up to make it easy.

Why go solo here? Safe, English-speaking, and endlessly adventurous.

Iceland – dramatic and independent

Few places give solo travelers more freedom than Iceland. Rent a car, loop the Ring Road, and stop whenever you see a waterfall, glacier, or lava field that makes you slam on the brakes (hint: this will happen a lot). With English widely spoken and crime rates among the lowest in the world, it’s safe and surprisingly simple to navigate.

Why go solo here? Waterfalls, geothermal pools, northern lights, and the sheer quiet that lets you actually hear yourself think.

Thailand – social and budget-friendly

Thailand is the quintessential backpacker hub—but it’s not just for backpacking youngsters. It’s affordable, easy to explore, and offers something for everyone: Bangkok’s street food, Chiang Mai’s temples, and the islands’ turquoise bays. It’s also one of the easiest places to meet other travelers, whether in a cooking class or on a long-tail boat ride.

Why go solo here? You can spend very little, experience a lot, and choose between quiet escapes or a built-in social scene.

Canada – international but approachable

For solo travel closer to home, Canada delivers. Vancouver has hiking trails minutes from downtown, Montreal blends European flair with North American friendliness, and Toronto buzzes with multicultural energy. You can dip into city life or head straight for wide-open wilderness.

Why go solo here? It’s approachable, safe, and gives you both city and nature in one trip.

New Orleans, Louisiana – culture and connection

If there’s a U.S. city that makes solo travel feel effortless, it’s New Orleans. Music spills into the streets, food is a cultural language, and strangers often become friends by the end of the night. From jazz on Frenchmen Street and beignets at Café du Monde, to exploring the leafy Garden District, you’ll never run out of ways to fill your day—or night.

Why go solo here? It’s colorful, soulful, and a a city that never leaves you bored, even if you’re exploring alone.

Sedona, Arizona – red rocks and renewal

With its red rock formations and reputation as a wellness hub, Sedona is ideal if you want a solo trip that leans toward connection with yourself. Hike trails like Cathedral Rock, join a yoga retreat, or book a spa day. Many travelers come alone, making it easy to blend in while learning new things about yourself.

Why go solo here? Adventure meets introspection in one of the most beautiful desert landscapes in the U.S.

San Diego, California – sunshine and simplicity

For a solo trip with no stress required, San Diego shines. Surf lessons in La Jolla, tacos that may ruin you for all others (the best fish tacos of my LIFE were in San Diego!), and whale-watching cruises all fit into a single itinerary. It’s laid-back, sunny year-round, and endlessly easygoing—perfect for a traveler who wants to relax into a place without overthinking.

Why go solo here? It’s California cool, nestled along the coastline, and has captivating attractions.

Final thought: going alone is sometimes the best company

Solo travel isn’t about being lonely—it’s about giving yourself the freedom to explore the way you want. Each of these destinations offers that freedom, whether through wellness, adventure, culture, or just the joy of walking into a new place and knowing the day belongs entirely to you.

Ready to stop waiting on someone else’s schedule and start planning a trip for you? Still a little nervous about traveling solo? I'd love to help you craft the solo adventure that works for you, with the right blend of pre-planned and unplanned moments.