The Best Destinations for Total Independence.
Designed for travelers who enjoy solitude, personal space, and exploring a new destination without feeling out of place for being alone, these destinations are best for staying solo.
Go Solo in Japan.
Japan is one of the easiest places in the world for traveling solo without ever feeling out of place. Eating alone is considered very normal, public transport is precise, and cities are organized so you rarely even need to ask for help. Experiences like solo dining booths and capsule hotels remove the need for talking entirely, which makes it especially good for first-time solo travelers or introverts.
Wander Around in Iceland.
Iceland offers a rare combination of extreme safety and raw, cinematic landscapes. It’s the ultimate destination when you want to be in your feelings, or a meditative state. With a low population density and straightforward logistics, you can rent a van, pack your backpack, and chase the northern lights or waterfalls without any distractions. The only company you will have is the beautiful landscapes.
Soak Up the Sun in Portugal.
While the Portuguese people are incredibly welcoming, cities like Lisbon and Porto are great for relaxation. The steep, narrow streets and panoramic viewpoints invite long, aimless walks where you can think and breathe while soaking up years of history. It’s a country that honors moving slowly, perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace.
Want to stay close to home? Explore our guide on solo travel in the USA.
The Best Destinations for Making New Friends.
Be Social in Australia.
Australians are famously outgoing, and the hostel culture is more like a community hub. Whether you’re learning to surf in Byron Bay or grabbing a coffee in Melbourne, the social barriers are non-existent. While Aussies are known for their global wanderlust, the country is large and ensures you’ll always find plenty of locals exploring their own country right alongside you.
Experience Markets in Thailand.
Thailand remains the global capital for social solo travel. Between the crowded night markets of Bangkok and the island-hopping in the south, you are never truly alone unless you really want to be. The backpacker ecosystem is so well-established that you’ll likely meet your next travel partner before you’ve even checked into your room.
Chat With Fellow Travellers in Vietnam.
From the chaotic energy of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the serene mountain treks of Sapa, Vietnam offers the best of both worlds. The café culture here is a major draw for solo travelers, as it’s common to spend an afternoon over a coffee, striking up conversations with other travelers.
Experience a Fiesta in Mexico.
Mexico is a strong destination for social solo travel thanks to its mix of lively cities, beach towns, and backpacker hubs. Mexico City, especially Roma Norte and La Condesa has a strong café, dining, and nightlife scene where solo travelers naturally tend to meet.
The Best Destinations for Adventure.
Surf in Indonesia or Portugal.
For solo surfers, Indonesia and Portugal are the ultimate destinations. Kuta, Lombok offers steady, long waves and a quieter pace than Bali, while Portugal’s surf camps in Ericeira and the Algarve make it effortless to meet fellow travelers. Whether you prefer tropical swells or rugged European cliffs, both spots provide the perfect blend of world-class surfing and a welcoming community for those traveling alone. Grab your surf gear and go.
Skiing in Japan and Switzerland.
For solo adventurers, Japan and Switzerland are the ultimate playgrounds for skiing and photography. Japan is a world-class destination for powder skiing in Hokkaido and Hakuba, with highly organized resorts that are perfect for solo travelers. Meanwhile, Switzerland’s seamless infrastructure and social lodges in Zermatt make solo travel effortless. Whether you’re chasing deep turns or the perfect shot, these destinations offer both.
Travelling to Europe? Get tips on: How to backpack through Europe.
To Sum It Up.
Choosing the right destination for your solo journey comes down to your personal goal for the trip. If you crave total independence and a quiet environment where being alone is the norm, Japan and Iceland provide the world’s most seamless and safe experiences.
For those looking to build a community and meet fellow travelers, the social hubs of Thailand, Australia, and Vietnam make it nearly impossible to stay lonely as both locals and other travellers tend to crave socializing in these destinations.
Finally, if you are driven by pure adventure, the surf breaks of Indonesia and the powder-filled slopes of Switzerland offer the perfect high-energy backdrop for solo exploration. No matter where you go, the key to a successful solo trip is finding a destination that matches your pace.
Your Questions Answered.
Where can a girl travel alone?
Portugal, Montreal, or Japan are all great destinations for female solo travelers as they are easy to navigate and generally safe. If safety is your number one priority, Iceland has been ranked the safest country in the world for multiple years in a row.
Get more tips on female solo travel with our guide to solo travel as a woman.
Is 27 too old to solo travel?
No, at 27, you’re far from "too old", you’re actually entering the golden age of solo travel. Many hit the perfect sweet spot between more financial freedom than a student, while being able to take some time off in their mid to late 20s.
