20 Absolute Best Places in Europe for Solo Travel (2024)

Looking for the best places in Europe to solo travel in 2024? There are many unique places to start, but Europe is the most accessible and approachable place for most people to travel solo, including myself! My first ever solo trip was to Denmark and Italy, and it was the perfect way to start my solo travel journey.

Europe is great for solo travel because it has a lot of variety. You’ll find mountains, beaches, and cities, not to mention dozens of cultures and lifestyles. Plus, it’s so easy to hop from place to place. You can spend a week in sunny Portugal, hop on a short flight to bustling London, then take the train to Paris. Europe is also not too far from the United States by airplane, with the longest flights lasting around 11-13 hours from the West Coast and 6-7 hours from the East.

With that introduction, you’re probably wondering where in Europe you should solo travel to first. So, here are the 20 best solo travel destinations in Europe that I’ve been to that I recommend for any solo traveller.

London, United Kingdom

London is the second most visited city in the world. It’s often synonymous with iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben and British history, art, culture, food, and diversity. It’s also a big, bustling city that seems endless with energy.

Why London is Perfect for Solo Travel

This is the best destination for first-time solo travellers. London isn’t too different from the United States or Canada, especially since everyone speaks English. Removing the language barrier takes a lot of pressure and weight off your shoulders when navigating a new place. You’ll be able to order food and converse with locals easily; if you need help, it’s easy, and you don’t have to struggle with a translation app.

London is essentially the New York of England. There are tons of things to do, from amazing, world-class museums, art galleries, stunning public parks, and iconic landmarks like the Big Ben or Downtown Abbey. No matter your interest, there is something to do for every type of traveler. If you’re on a budget, London has many free activities and attractions, like visiting Buckingham Palace, walking through Piccadilly Circus, and more.

The public transportation is also reliable and large. The tube gets you to the main areas fast, while the bus is excellent for snaking through neighborhoods. Even if buses and the metro aren’t that fast, they are reliable, and you can depend on them to get anywhere in London. Navigating public transportation is probably the only thing you have to worry about during your first visit to London. Otherwise, it’s very similar to bigger cities in the U.S., and you’ll blend in easily with the crowd.

I used to think London was dirty and too crowded, but I gave it a second chance, and now I absolutely love it.

London Pros and Cons

Pros:

• There are so many different neighborhoods to explore: Soho, Notting Hill, King’s Cross, Kensington, etc.
• Great shopping and food scene.
• Homebase for England exploration. Many tours start from London and go to Oxford, Cotswolds, Bath, Stonehenge, etc.
• Super international.

Cons:

• Slightly pricey (Pounds).
• The weather is constantly gloomy and grey, sometimes rainy.
• Crowded.

London Tips and When to Go

London’s reputation for its gloomy weather doesn’t stop people from visiting. But if you can choose when to go, aim for spring or summer when it’s warm, and the sun has a higher chance of coming out. London in good weather is wonderful. Avoid the winter because it gets frigid, but the Christmas markets and decorations make it a little better.

Get an Oyster card for public transportation—it’s your ticket to getting around! You can also use your VISA card to pay, but the Oyster card is a fun souvenir. Take the tube or double-decker buses; it gets you anywhere and everywhere.

You can take a 2 hour train to Paris! It’s easy and you’ll get to visit two major city in one trip without the hassle of flying.

What’s Unique to London

London has many iconic landmarks, including the Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Downtown Abbey, Tower Bridge, British Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye, British Museum, and the National Gallery. Aside from attractions, London also has a bustling theater district in London’s West End, where you can watch popular Broadway shows and musicals.

During Christmas, a popular shopping street called Regent Street illuminates with Christmas lights and decoration. Regent Street is most known for its beautiful Christmas angel lights which is an annual London tradition and is a sign of Christmas festivities.

London also has many beautiful public Parks including Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, Kensington Park, and Battersea Park. They’re all gorgeous in spring and summer, and are so stunning that there are multiple songs written about them.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The dreamiest, romantic city known for its picturesque canals and blooming tulips. Every tourist who goes to Amsterdam comes out with at least one picture in front of the canals or a bike. It’s the number two biking city in the world (behind Copenhagen) and is known for its laidback lifestyle and picture-perfect scenery.

Why Amsterdam is Perfect for Solo Travel

The second best place to solo travel in Europe is Amsterdam! Or, to be honest, it’s best if you’re looking for a less busy and crowded place than London. Amsterdam has a laidback culture and slower lifestyle than other big cities. Everyone in Amsterdam speaks English, or at least in the city center, making navigation and conversing easy. The public transportation in Amsterdam is great, with buses, light rail, and the train. You can pretty much walk or bike to get anywhere in the city center, though. The center is compact and small and best enjoyed on foot.

Amsterdam has so. many. museums. If you’re a history or art lover, Amsterdam is perfect for you. You can visit fantastic art museums like the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, Rembrandt House Museum, and more. For history, you can’t miss the iconic Anne Frank House. Sometimes, museums are best enjoyed by ourselves so we can enjoy reading and looking at different pieces.

Amsterdam is also safe, and many people walk around at night. There’s nothing better than walking through the streets and canals and admiring all the beautiful houses and plants. And honestly, I think it’s best to walk them alone—fewer people to worry about getting hit by a bike or small car.

Amsterdam Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Very laid-back atmosphere.
• Lots of history and culture.
• Easy to explore other parts of the Netherlands by train.
• Charming and romantic atmosphere
• Easy to explore and navigate

Cons:

• Housing in the city center is expensive
• Rowdy people near red-light districts and bars
• Pricier

Amsterdam Tips and When to Go

Plan a trip to Amsterdam in the spring or summer when the weather is mild and tulips bloom. It rains a lot in the fall in Amsterdam, and there aren’t many blue skies and sunny days. It also gets cold in the winter, but not cold enough for consistent snowfall.

I recommend staying in a hostel or a cheaper Airbnb with communal shared spaces and a private room for Amsterdam accommodation. Amsterdam is so easy to explore, and you won’t spend a lot of time inside unless you purposely choose to. Amsterdam has many hostels or dorm-like accommodations that cost around $30-40 USD per night.

Last, I would avoid the red light district. I know it’s the main draw to Amsterdam for many tourists, but I didn’t find it very interesting or exciting. There are a lot of drunk people, and it gets crowded, so you’re weaving through a rowdy crowd on a small sidewalk. If you want to see it once, definitely go at night because it’s a ghost town during the day.

What’s Unique to Amsterdam

Amsterdam has many famous art museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. There’s even a whole Amsterdam art island dedicated to creativity and dining, similar to the Reffen Island in Copenhagen. However, the most unique part of Amsterdam is its canals, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here are the best 18 things to do in Amsterdam!

If you’re lucky, you’ll see the famous tulips blooming in spring, and all the shops and houses display them in front. There’s also a renowned tulip field in Keukenhof that is famous for its tulip fields, which has 7 million tulips! April is also Tulip Festival month in Amsterdam. And you can’t forget the biking culture in Amsterdam—it’s the second-best bike city in the world. You can either try to ride a bike yourself or admire all the locals biking to and from their destinations.

You can also see some of Europe’s last working windmills in Zaanse Schans, a cute, living village of pre-industrial Amsterdam.

Berlin, Germany

The capital of clubbing, fashion, and culture. Practically everyone knows how notorious it is to get into the infamous Berghain. But besides clubbing, Berlin is a multicultural, thriving city filled with history, art, fashion, and food.

Why Berlin is Perfect for Solo Travel

Berlin is great for solo travel because many locals know conversational English, so getting around or asking for help is easy. Most German people know English because it’s a part of their school curriculum. Most of the signs are in both German and English, as well. The public transportation is great and can get you in and around the city quickly. You can take the bus, metro, train, and tram, and they all use the same public transport card or ticket.

Berlin is also highly walkable, and you can easily walk from attraction to attraction. There are many things to do in Berlin, especially if you’re interested in the Cold War and Holocaust history. There are tons of history museums, and they’re some of the best. But there are also amazing parks, landmarks, markets, cafes, nightlife, and more to experience in Berlin beyond history.

There are also hundreds of solo travellers in Berlin and a large hostel culture in the city. Berlin is always bustling with activities and people, so there’s always something to do or see by yourself.

Berlin Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Multicultural
• Artsy grunge scene
• Cultural center of Germany
• Great fashion

Cons:

• Dirty streets
• Rowdy at night near clubbing areas

Berlin Tips and When to Go

The shoulder seasons, spring and fall, are the best time to visit Berlin. The weather is mild, and you can see some fantastic foliage, like blooming flowers or colorful trees. The summer gets hot, and it’s peak tourist season, especially with all the festivals. But the winter is great too if you want to experience Christmas in Germany.

German service is very different if you’re American or from a country where service is overly friendly and nice. It’s customary to be straightforward and to the point, so adjust your expectations for service! Public bathrooms in Germany cost money!!! Even the bathrooms in the malls cost money. Make sure to have 1 Euro coins on you if you need to go and are not in a restaurant or near your accommodation. It’s seriously inconvenient if you don’t have the extra chance to pay…

What’s Unique to Berlin

Berlin is the only city in the world where you can see the history of the Cold War and Nazi Germany in one place. There are dozens of museums and exhibits dedicated to showcasing the war and history of these historic events in Berlin. You can visit public memorials with informational signs, like the Holocaust Memorial or the Berlin Wall Memorial. You can see old Reichstag buildings, visit a concentration camp, and see old remnants of a divided Germany.

Besides history, Berlin is also known for its edgy culture, which bleeds into its fashion. It seems like everyone is well-dressed on Berlin streets, and you’ll see dozens of curated secondhand clothing and vintage stores. There’s an abundance of street art and graffiti and cool hang-out spots like cafes and bars. Berlin is similar to New York City, where there’s always something happening and an event to attend, no matter your interest.

Paris, France

The city of love! And the host for the 2024 Olympics. This beautiful city, along with London, is one of the most visited cities in the world. And with good reason! So many famous landmarks have been on millions of peoples’ bucket lists for years, even decades.

Why Paris is Perfect for Solo Travel

I absolutely LOVE Paris, one of my favorite places to solo travel. Although the national language is French, Paris is so diverse and international that many locals know a decent level of English. The waitstaff knows French and English, especially if you go to popular dining spots or attractions. It’s not as easy to get around as Amsterdam or Berlin is, but the language barrier is a little more navigable. Paris is also safe and great for solo female travellers.

The public transportation in Paris is also excellent, where you can take the bus, tram, train, or metro anywhere in the city. They’re all very well-connected, and it’s the primary mode of transportation for many Parisians. It’s also extremely walkable no matter where you are in Paris; even the smaller suburbs adjacent to it are walkable.

Paris has dozens of famous landmarks and museums, which are must-visits, and it has phenomenal dining. You’ll find steak, escargot, ice cream, pastries, coffee, seafood, and more. You can walk through dozens of museums at your own pace and take in all the amazing artwork.

The fashion is also top-notch, and you can find great French or European brands with excellent quality clothing and bags. But my favorite part is exploring all the neighborhoods in Paris, which all have distinct vibes and specialties.

Paris Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Multicultural
• Big city yet small neighborhood vibes
• Fashionable
• World-class museums and attractions
• Incredible food

Cons:

• Reputation for being rude to Americans
• It can be hard to get around if you don’t know French
• Trains have strikes often
• Service is straightforward and not as friendly

Paris Tips and When to Go

First, whenever you greet someone like a waiter or service worker, say “Bonjour!” It’s the equivalent of saying “hi” in America. You wouldn’t greet someone without saying hi, would you? It’s a huge custom in French culture, so it will make your interaction go smoother. You can also learn basic French phrases like ‘thank you,’ ‘excuse me,’ etc. to make your experience smoother.

Like Berlin, adjust your expectations of service. While German service might be straightforward, Paris servers are known for being rude. I personally didn’t have any experience with rude servers, but it’s definitely a thing! As long as you’re polite, most waiters are straightforward and to the point.

Paris is lovely any time of the year except summer. It gets pretty muggy in the summer because it gets humid. The temperature isn’t too bad, reaching the high 70’s, and seldom, the low 80’s. But the killer is the heat and humidity, making it feel hotter than it actually is. But in the winter, you can enjoy Christmas markets, and in the spring, you’ll see beautiful plants blooming.

What’s Unique to Paris

Of course, Paris is home to the iconic Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and the Louvre. Besides those three, there are dozens more, including the Musee de L’Orangerie, Musee Rodin, Notre Dame Church, Sainte Chapelle, Sacre Coeur Basilica, Versailles, and so much more. There is so much culture and history to enjoy and experience, especially since France has a reputation for protesting.

Also, food is huge in Paris. You have world-class bars, restaurants, and patisseries next to high-quality local mom-and-pop shops, bakeries, restaurants, and more. You can find virtually any cuisine you’re craving in Paris. But there are so many different things to try that you won’t run out of food. Parisians take their bread and patisserie seriously, and you’ll find neighborhood bakeries on almost every street.

Lisbon, Portugal

Is this the European San Francisco? With sunny weather, hills, and a lookalike Golden Gate Bridge. Lisbon is a popular vacation destination for many, with numerous attractions, delicious food, and beautiful viewpoints.

Why Lisbon is Perfect for Solo Travel

Lisbon is small, compact, and easy to get around. There’s great public transportation, including the bus, metro, light rail, and train, which you can use to get in and around Lisbon and other cities in Portugal like Porto. Alongside transportation, walking is one of the best ways to get around Lisbon. You can easily walk from attraction to attraction, with amazing views of the Bay and the April Bridge.

Lisbon has Mediterranean weather, so mild summers and winters. It’s similar to Californian or Italian weather and pleasant all year round. And with great weather comes a great mood and a smooth travel experience.

The city is very safe, and you’ll see many people socializing at night, having a drink, or eating good food. People are super friendly and always willing to have a conversation. Lisbon’s a huge expat community because of its great weather, number of attractions and day trips, food, culture, and relative affordability. You won’t have trouble meeting new people or making friends, that’s for sure!

Lisbon Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Friendly people
• Great weather
• Super compact and walkable
• Good food and bar scene
• Gateway to other cities in Portugal
• Great for tours
• Affordable
• Great culture

Cons:

• Super hilly
• Crowded during peak tourist season
• Popular amongst digital nomads, making Lisbon more expensive than before
• Semi-large language barrier
• Limited dietary options

Lisbon Tips and When to Go

Avoid peak tourist season, which is summertime. All the college students and school kids are on summer break, and many families come to Lisbon for vacation. Hundreds of people are roaming the streets, and it can get very crowded, especially in the city center. Lines get really long, and the sun can be intense. Try visiting in the spring, early or late summer, or early fall when the weather is still lovely and less crowded. Also note that Lisbon has a rainy season, which starts in October and lasts until January.

Public transportation and walking are the best ways to get around. It’s easy to hop on and off to your destinations, especially to and from the airport. Pack or wear good walking shoes because you will be walking up and down large hills, especially if you want to see great views of Lisbon. The ground is also mostly cobblestone, and you don’t want to lose your balance or fall.

Not as many people speak English in Lisbon since most people speak Portuguese. You won’t have too much trouble in Lisbon, but if you venture further into smaller towns, you’ll find fewer English speakers. So, learn some basic Portuguese phrases and use a translation app.

What’s Unique to Lisbon

Lisbon is often confused as San Francisco’s sister city because of its Golden Gate Bridge lookalike, the April Bridge, designed by the same company that made the Golden Gate. Genuinely, the bridges look identical, and it was crazy to see as someone who’s lived in the San Francisco Bay Area all her life.

The cities are even more similar because of how hilly Lisbon is! All the apartments are on hills, and you’ll walk up and down hills daily. But that means you’ll get great views around the city! And with all that walking, you’ll work up an appetite to try some delicious Portuguese dishes, like the famous pasteis de nata and bacalhau.

Lisbon also has impressive neoclassical architecture, colorful buildings, intricate tiles, and unique doors. The tiles are particularly famous because they have beautiful designs and colors, and they regulate the building temperature.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin perfectly introduces Irish pubs, music, food, and culture. It’s Ireland’s largest city and has dozens of attractions, which include alcohol museums and breweries. Dublin is the place for you if you love to drink and have a good time.

Why Dublin is Perfect for Solo Travel

Everyone speaks English in Dublin and Ireland, so getting around is fine. The only thing you might need help with is understanding the Irish accent (and vice versa). But because everyone knows English, there isn’t a language barrier like in Paris, Berlin, or Lisbon.

Dublin’s public transportation is pretty good and easy to navigate. The entire system uses the same card (Leap Card), making it convenient to go to and from places. Dublin’s city center is relatively compact, so you can walk pretty easily everywhere. However, the greater Dublin area is quite large, and there are dozens of inner and outer suburbs to explore. Many have said that Dublin feels like a small town while being a large city.

People in Dublin are pretty friendly, and it’s easy to strike up a conversation with a local, whether they’re a waiter, waitress, or another customer. Dublin is incredibly multicultural, and blending in with the locals is easy. There are so many cafes and museums to see; you’ll have a handful of things to do during your trip.

Dublin Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lots of bars
• Cheap flights with Aer Lingus
• Great for coastal tours
• Friendly people
• Compact city center
• Multicultural

Cons:

• Not much to do other than go out
• It can feel dodgy in the city center at night (drunk, loud people)
• There are not as many attractions as in other big cities
• Rainy and gloomy weather
• Expensive housing

Dublin Tips and When to Go

Definitely grab a leap card for public transportation or before you leave the airport, which you can easily get at a convenience store in the terminal. It’s cheap and top-uppable, so you can start exploring ASAP.

I recommend visiting Dublin during the shoulder season, like spring and fall, for better weather and fewer people. Summer is the most popular time for Dublin to travel because it has nicer weather and summer festivals, but it is also the most crowded and expensive. And definitely avoid winter because it’s cold, wet, and has short days.

Because Dublin accommodation is expensive, stay further from the city center. Housing in the Dublin suburbs is more affordable and won’t negatively impact your travels. You can easily get to the city center with public transportation, which most locals do. Plus, you’ll see other sides of Dublin you usually wouldn’t.

What’s Unique to Dublin

The most unique and famous thing about Dublin is its drinking culture. There are dozens of pubs in the Temple Bar district; some offer live traditional Irish music you can drink and dance to. The atmosphere is on another level, and everyone’s having a good time. If you don’t like beer, there are plenty of other options, including wine, cider, whiskey, and more.

While Dublin, Ireland, might not be as famous for food as Paris or Rome, there are still a couple Irish dishes that you should try when you’re in town, mostly pub food. Obviously, you have to try french fries with Irish potatoes! But there are interesting fusion dishes you should try, like a Chinese spice bag with chicken tenders, fries, and spices in a bag, perfect for a night-out snack.

Ireland is known for its castles and breweries, which you can find in Dublin, such as Dublin Castle and Guinness. And with a large pub culture comes a large sports culture, with many Dubliners into sports like football (soccer) and rugby. You’ll see games playing at pubs all the time, and it gets wildly energetic during important games.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

The capital of Northern Ireland and the birthplace of the Titanic! Ireland and Northern Ireland are different countries, which came about after a massive conflict in Belfast called the Troubles. So this unassuming place has a lot of history and is also the gateway to Northern Ireland.

Why Belfast is Perfect for Solo Travel

Like Dublin, everyone speaks English in Belfast. The signs are also in English, so getting around without extra guidance is easy. The public transportation in Belfast is good and will get you to where you need to go, including the trams and bus. Belfast city center is small and compact, so walking is a great way to see everything.

The airport is so close to the city that it only takes 15 minutes by bus to get to the city center. So once you land, you’ll be able to get to your accommodation quickly. Belfast might not be as large as other big cities, but has quirks and specialties. There are many beautiful walks next to the river, the iconic Titanic museum, many pubs, and more.

Belfast is pretty safe, much safer than most U.S. cities, and you’ll feel comfortable even at night. People are friendly, and you’ll see many young students due to the numerous universities nearby. Meaning, there are lots of fun things to do (especially in a college town). Best of all, Belfast is the best place to start your adventures in Northern Ireland, especially if you want to visit the Giants Causeway and the Dark Hedges up north.

Belfast Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Gateway to Irish North Coast
• Start tours to Giants Causeway and more
• Safe
• Great nightlife
• Unique history
• More affordable

Cons:

• Bad weather
• Crowded public transport
• Taxis scam

Belfast Tips and When to Go

It’s worth taking a tour of Belfast with a tour guide that explains the Troubles’ history, as it influences the entire city and its culture. You’ll see remnants of divided Belfast, including the peace wall and much street art referencing the two sides of the conflict. Learning about the Troubles gives you a different perspective on the city.

Public transportation gets extremely crowded during work commute times. Everyone uses the trams to get in and out of the city center, but there aren’t enough trams to meet the demand. I waited at least 20 minutes, letting multiple tram cars pass me before I even squeezed into the car. So, if you need to be in the city center, go early, before 8 AM, or after 10 AM. Likewise, getting out of the city center, avoid 5-7 PM.

The best time to go to Belfast is summer, but you can’t go wrong with late spring or early fall. Belfast summer weather is pleasant and reaches the low 80’s at its peak. But it gets pretty cold in the winter, and the weather most of the year is gloomy and rainy. Belfast isn’t too busy in terms of tourist destinations, and it doesn’t get very crowded.

What’s Unique to Belfast

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, the Titanic, or unique history, Belfast is the place for you. The T.V. show Game of Thrones was filmed in Belfast and across Ireland. In Belfast, you can do a self-guided GoT tour of stained glass window art from different scenes of the series. You’re also only a short drive away from multiple filming locations of the series, which are easily doable with a tour bus or rental car.

You can visit the Titanic museum, which has all the information on the ship, and see the original dock from which it sailed. The museum has impressive architecture worth seeing, even if you don’t want to go inside.

Finally, the Troubles history is what makes Belfast unique. Such a small city has a vast history that has shaped not only its culture but also the identity of Ireland. The Troubles was a violent civil and political conflict in the late 20th century between unionists and nationalists regarding Northern Ireland’s status as either part of the U.K. or Ireland. It’s a fascinating and saddening history but an essential part of Belfast.

Madrid, Spain

Spain’s capital city! Madrid is rich in food, culture, art, bars, nightlife, and more. It’s a massive city with so many things to do and see, yet it has the touch of a Spanish lifestyle. It’s also the second most leafiest city in the world!

Why Madrid is Perfect for Solo Travel

Madrid has some very friendly people, no matter where you go. The atmosphere is social, casual, and fun, with many people hanging out at restaurants or neighborhood bars. If going out is not for you, there’s always something to do or see. You can find amazing art museums, history museums, shopping, dining, public parks, and more to do on your trip. So, even if you don’t like socializing, you can immerse yourself in fun, solitary activities.

The public transportation in Madrid is amazing. You can get literally anywhere by bus or metro, and it’s fast and reliable. The metro runs early in the morning until late at night. Once you’re at your destination, the city is very walkable, and you can spend hours walking around, visiting attractions, and eating.

Madrid is very popular with solo travellers and study-abroad university students. You’ll find people in your age group to meet or hang out with if you know where to look. There are numerous hostels you can stay at, all of which are located in the city center. Madrid’s weather is also great, so people want to go out and have fun. It’s one of my favorite cities to visit!

Madrid Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Relatively affordable
• Great weather
• Lots of history and culture
• Socializing culture is great
• Famous nightlife
• Lots of parks
• Safe
• Laidback vibe

Cons:

• Language barrier
• Crowded during peak season
• Lots of traffic
• Late-night culture shock

Madrid Tips and When to Go

Avoid summer in Madrid; it’s hot, crowded, and more expensive than other times of the year, which are cooler and less crowded. The best times to go are spring, April, and May, and fall between September and October. The cheapest time to go is winter when it’s cold, but there are Christmas festivities you can experience.

Madrid is literally in the center of Spain. So it’s the best place to make multiple-day trips to other parts of Spain, which you can easily do by train. But Madrid has so many attractions and sights to see; spend at least 5 days there. You have the famous Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Royal Palace, etc.

And whatever you do, do not eat paella in Madrid. While you can find okay restaurants or restaurants that specialize in it, they are tourist traps. Paella is from Valencia and is best eaten there. Please don’t fall for it!!!

What’s Unique to Madrid

The social life in Madrid is unbeatable—the food and drinks are on another level, and everyone stays out late. It’s just part of Spanish culture. You’ll find many kinds of street food, like calamari sandwiches, and special drinks like a tinto de verano (summer wine).

Madrid also has the best art museums in all of Spain. The big three are the Museo del Prado, Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, and Museo Reina Sofía. The Prado Museum is the Spanish National Art Museum, which has the most Spanish art in one place. The Thyssen features European and American art, and the Reina Sofia features contemporary art. These three make up the golden triangle of Madrid museums.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona isn’t Spain’s capital city? No, it’s not, but it seems like it should be! With how popular it is and how much there is to do, you’d think it was the center of Spain.

Why Barcelona is Perfect for Solo Travel

Barcelona was where many of my friends studied abroad at university. It’s relatively affordable, centrally located in Spain and other European countries, and has tasty food, great weather, and lots to do. If it’s perfect for study abroad, it’s ideal for solo travel. I don’t think I’ve ever been to a city that has this many things to do. In practically every corner you turn in Barcelona, you’ll find something cool or exciting. Barcelona has over 80 museums covering everything from art, history, archeology, science, etc. You can spend countless hours just browsing through all the museums. The city is also very walkable and has great public transportation. You can walk through smaller streets to get to bigger ones and through the many neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its unique atmosphere, and you might feel like you’re in a maze because of how big Barcelona is. The people are also super friendly!

Barcelona Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Relatively affordable
• Extremely walkable
• Tons of attractions and activities
• Big markets
• Fun atmosphere
• Great weather

Cons:

• Crowded and busy
• The recent backlash against tourists, which is more a” Barcelona hates over-tourism and bad landlords.”
• Notorious pickpocket problem
• Difficult getting tickets for popular attractions

Barcelona Tips and When to Go

Go to the famous attractions early in the morning or late at night to beat the crowds. If you go during the afternoon, you’ll be with hundreds of other people, which isn’t bad, but if you don’t like crowds, it’s best to go during less popular times. Also, buy your tickets way, way, way ahead of time. Things like the Sagrada Familia sell out weeks in advance, and unless you have a connection, you’re not getting in without one. Check out more local or less popular attractions if you’re staying for a while! Dozens of small churches allow visitors to visit, and they have a rich history. Go walk through small alleyways (if it’s safe) and discover hidden spots that only locals may know. Summer is the worst time to go because it’s hot and crowded, and if you have the flexibility, try going in late spring or early fall when the weather is cooler and the city has fewer people. Also, learn some basic Spanish before you go. Few people in Spain speak English compared to Paris or Copenhagen, so there’s a language barrier. If you know other Romantic languages like Italian or French, Spanish will be easier to pick up or understand due to mutual words and structures. But your experience will be much smoother if you know the basic phrases!

What’s Unique to Barcelona

Barcelona is buzzing with energy and attractions. It has 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famous La Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell. The architecture is incredible and mind-blowing in person. Barcelona has it all: art, culture, architecture, and history. Barcelona is also famous for its 100 beaches. With hot, sunny weather, people flock to the beaches for soft sand and cool water.

Florence, Italy

Florence was the heart of the Renaissance! Nowhere else can you see the amount of Renaissance art and architecture like in Florence. The city has impressive architecture, world-class museums, famous art galleries, lots of attractions, great weather, and more that will blow your mind.

Why Florence is Perfect for Solo Travel

Florence is great for solo travelers because it’s extremely, extremely walkable. Public transportation is good; it can get you to places, but walking is the best way to explore the city. But honestly, you don’t need transportation to get around. You only need it to get to and from the airport. The central train station is walkable. There are lots of American study-abroad students in Florence, so there’s always something happening in the city. Florence has so many side streets, which makes it perfect for wandering around. There is so much amazing art in Florence that it’s known as the city of art. Even though it’s still a popular tourist destination, it’s not nearly as crowded as Rome. You can easily visit museums and attractions and enjoy them at your own pace. It can be scary to go to a new place without a structure, but with Florence, you can easily pack your itinerary. Florence is relatively affordable, so you won’t blow through your budget. Even if you mess up or miss something, there’s buffer room. It’s a great starter city for solo travel since navigating is pretty straightforward, and many people have visited and can give tips and tricks.

Florence Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great views
• Affordable
• Great bars
• Many balcony restaurants
• Centrally located in Italy for day trips
• Lots of students
• Lots of pedestrian-friendly streets

Cons:

• Crowded during peak season
• Needs lots of walking
• Limited public transportation for the city center
• Hot during summer

Florence Tips and When to Go

Florence is a city where you don’t need to take public transport, especially if you’re staying in the city center. That being said, if you visit somewhere across the city from where you are, try to get as close as you can to it with transportation. You will walk a lot in Florence, so the more steps you can take, the better. You don’t want to tire yourself out to the point where you can’t enjoy the attractions you go to!

Like Rome, book tickets to attractions as soon as possible because they will sell out! Especially things like the Uffizi Gallery or Florence Cathedral, which require a timed entry.

Avoid summer if you can, because it gets hot! You’ll be walking around in at least 80-degree heat without proper A.C. in a lot of places. And if you want to see the sunset during summer, note that the sun sets much later in the summer, so you’ll be out for longer, sometimes as late as 9 or 10 PM.

What’s Unique to Florence

The architecture in Florence is really unique and features Gothic and Romanesque styles. Most buildings in the city center have faded multi-colored facades, like the Florence Cathedral or Santa Maria Novella, with red brick roofs. The entire city is covered in similar architecture, and when you look at it from a viewpoint, you will see that it’s a spectacular sea of red, cream, white, and beige. Accordingly, the historic center of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Florence was coined the birthplace of the Renaissance, so accordingly, it has an abundance of art museums—more than 70 to be exact. You can see the real Statue of David, Medusa, the Painting of Aphrodite, and other famous artwork. You can’t leave Florence without trying its famous food, like Florentine steak, panini, gelato, and more. Honestly, I thought the food in Florence was better than in Rome!

Rome, Italy

Italy’s capital city! We all know the history of the Ancient Roman Empire and all of its architectural and cultural feats. Since our youth, we’ve dreamed of seeing these magnificent structures, especially if you love history or architecture.

Why Rome is Perfect for Solo Travel

You might be skeptical that Rome is a great solo travel destination, but hear me out! Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, but their tourism infrastructure is robust. There are plenty of hotels and hostels to stay in, and the famous tourist attractions have English signs and speakers to help guide you through. If you don’t like planning trips, you can easily book tours in Rome for major attractions since there are so many tourists. While you might be scared of how crowded it gets (which it does) and pickpockets, Rome is quite safe besides touristy areas. Of course, there are dozens of famous attractions that you should see, like the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and more. There are so many that you must pick and choose what you want to see on your trip. That being said, you definitely will not be bored. The biggest pro of going solo in Rome is that you don’t have to account for other people in one of the most popular tourist destinations. Trying to get tickets for a group of people is a headache, as is making sure they all show up on time, etc. By yourself, navigating popular attractions is easy, stress-free, and more manageable. Public transportation is straightforward and reliable, and Rome is very walkable.

Rome Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Relatively affordably
• Lots of great attractions
• Archeology heaven
• History and culture capital
• Friendly people
• Great weather

Cons:

• Crowded
• Lots of people
• Semi-language barrier
• Dirty
• Lots of tourism

Rome Tips and When to Go

The best time to go is during spring, fall, or shoulder seasons. Summer is fierce in Rome, with hot weather and crowded streets. You’ll have a better experience going during the offseason, if possible!

With so many famous attractions, you have to book tickets early; otherwise, you won’t be able to visit things like the Colosseum and Vatican Museum. You’ll be turned away at the front if you don’t have a ticket, and nowadays, most tickets are bought online.

If you’re looking for good food, avoid restaurants with menus in English at the front of the restaurant. There’s nothing wrong with the food, but it will be more expensive and less “authentic.” Especially in the city center, it’s best to go further away from the main attractions to find good, reasonably priced food. Look for restaurants that have Italian menus and are popular with locals. Also, ask for seasonal dishes they have! Most Italian restaurants will have a specialty seasonal dish made with in-season veggies and produce.

What’s Unique to Rome

Rome has unbeatable archeological sites like the Roman Forum, Colosseum, Pantheon, and more. It’s all the Roman sites most kids learn about in their history classes when they’re young and dream about visiting one day when they’re older. You can learn all about Roman history just from the museums and attractions. Of course, you’ll find great food (if you know where to look) and get a taste of Italian culture. Live out your pasta and pizza dreams, but don’t miss out on more local foods like arancini, cornetto, or seasonal dishes with veggies and other goodies.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland’s capital city! Coined the birthplace of Harry Potter and one of the most beautiful cities in the world. While it may be gloomy and rainy most of the year, it still draws millions annually. Maybe the dreary weather makes it cozy inside?

Why Edinburgh is Perfect for Solo Travel

Edinburgh is perfect for solo travelers because it has amazing public transportation and is extremely walkable. You can take the bus, tram, or train to get around and conveniently use contactless payment to hop on and off. Edinburgh’s old town connects seamlessly with the new town, which you can walk. You could walk all over the city and be fine! There are lots of friendly people in Edinburgh, and they welcome tourists. You can do many attractions and activities, from museums, libraries, castles, hikes, shopping, dining, and more. All the main attractions are centrally located and within a 10-15 minute walk between each other. You truly will not get bored in this city, and it’s way more exciting than its sister, Glasgow (sorry). Edinburgh is safe and easy to walk around by yourself. I felt very safe as a solo traveller, even at night. Everyone speaks fluent English as well, so getting around is easy. The city is easy to navigate and is beginner-friendly for first-time travellers.

Edinburgh Pros and Cons

Pros:

• All museums are free
• Central attractions
• Can see a lot in a short trip
• Many attractions and activities
• Beautiful architecture and streets
• Rich history
• Multicultural

Cons:

• Terrible weather (Gloomy and rainy)
• Expensive housing
• Hilly

Edinburgh Tips and When to Go

No matter what time of year you go, Edinburgh is very rainy and windy. It has a reputation for having gloomy weather, even more than London since it’s much more north in the U.K. Fall is particularly wet, so try to visit other times of the year, like spring or summer. It’s less cold and still rainy, but you’ll have more chances for blue skies. But definitely don’t go in winter unless you’re prepared to brave intense cold and rain.

If you go to a viewpoint and it’s foggy, wait 15 minutes. Chances are, the fog will subside for a little bit, and you’ll get a clear view! Since it’s so windy in Edinburgh, the grey clouds move fast, and a view that looks completely blocked can clear within minutes. It’s like magic! So, don’t give up hope.

What’s Unique to Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s architecture is unique! Both the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh are a UNESCO heritage site. Old Town looks very medieval, with medieval buildings and houses with unique closes, or alleyways, connecting to hidden dwellings. It’s most famous for the Royal Mile, which connects Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyrood. You’ll also find an old-looking village in Dean Village, a preserved industrial town in Edinburgh. The New Town has great neoclassical architecture, and it is comprised of seven towns. Both areas have high concentrations of specific architecture, which you can’t see anywhere else. Edinburgh is also popular with Harry Potter fans because it’s where the author J.K. Rowling wrote some of her books. Harry Potter easter eggs are all over the city, including tombstones with similar names to the characters, the cafe she wrote some of her books and more.

Copenhagen, Denmark

The trendy capital that’s all over everyone’s Instagram and Pinterest. It’s the fashion city with its own fashion term—Scandi fashion. Copenhagen is the place to go if you’re looking for outstanding design in all aspects of life.

Why Copenhagen is Perfect for Solo Travel

Copenhagen is one of the best places to travel solo for the first time because it’s extremely safe and the world’s safest city. You can walk around at night or in the morning without a problem. The city center is very compact and easy to walk around, and the attractions are all within walking distance from each other. The road infrastructure is stellar, with well-marked sidewalks, bike lanes, and roads.

Besides being the safest city, Copenhagen is also the best bike city in the world. Most people bike to and from home to their destination, and more bikes are on the road than cars. Bike lanes have their own traffic lights and protected lanes, so biking is a safe and fun way to get around Copenhagen.

Copenhagen has beautiful architecture and design, including fashion, interior design, and more. You’ll find traditional and modern architecture around the city, with iconic buildings like the Nyhavn townhouses and the Royal Opera House. The city center has some of the most pleasant walking routes, especially in spring.

While Danes have a reputation for not being friendly, it’s more introverted than anything. Once you meet some people, it’s easy to make friends. Most people speak English, so you won’t have any trouble getting around, either.

Copenhagen Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extremely safe
• Calm lifestyle
• Easy to establish a friend group
• Speaks English
• Lively, lots of cultural events
• Great for wandering around
• Clean

Cons:

• Expensive
• Extremely cold in winter
• Rare sunny days
• Not accessible to nature

Copenhagen Tips and When to Go

The best time to go to Copenhagen is in the summer and spring. The weather is pleasant, there are more sunny days, and there are tons of activities to do. In the summer, you can swim in the harbor, eat at a street food market, bike, picnic, visit the beach, etc. Summer in Copenhagen is unmatched, and the vibes are immaculate.

If you’re not used to the cold, definitely don’t go to Copenhagen or Scandinavia in general during winter. It gets pretty frigid, and it snows. The worst part about winter is that the days are very short, so you’ll have to be up early to take advantage of the sun.

If you can, rent a bike to get around. Public transportation in Copenhagen, while reliable, is expensive. A single ticket costs around USD 3.50, and it adds up over time. Even the multi-day tourist pass is costly! You can easily rent a bike with Donkey Republic; just make sure to learn the biking rules before you bike.

Here’s a 3-day itinerary for Copenhagen that you can use as inspiration.

What’s Unique to Copenhagen

Copenhagen is the best bike city, as mentioned. Bike around and live like a local! There are bike parking structures on almost every street; you’ll even see bike traffic during commute hours.

Copenhagen has some cutting-edge modern architecture that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s the capital of design, not just in buildings but in everyday items like a broom, decorations, clothing, etc. Danish people are proud of their design and fashion, which is globally renowned.

It’s also a sustainable city, with dozens of sustainability initiatives for renewable energy, electric transportation, car-free roads, district heating systems, etc.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is Sweden’s capital city and is famous for its Stockholm archipelago and bridges. It’s nicknamed the “Venice of the North” for its architecture and geography. It’s also popular in pop culture, with IKEA, Stockholm syndrome, ABBA, and more.

Why Stockholm is Perfect for Solo Travel

The Stockholm public transportation system is straightforward to navigate. You can easily use multiple transportation methods to reach your destination, including the bus, tram, metro, ferry, and train. You can also use public transportation to get to islands in the archipelago, which is a bargain because private tours charge almost 5 times the amount of a single ticket.

Swedish people are so friendly. You can converse with the waiter, another patron, a stranger, etc. Genuinely, I’ve had the best hospitality in Stockholm and it’s a great city to meet new people. Most people in Stockholm also speak English, so you won’t have a problem asking around or ordering food.

Stockholm has a great variety of things to do, from nature to nightlife, museums, attractions, landmarks, and dining. If you get bored of going to museums, you can find a different type of activity. And thanks to its compact city center, it’s easy to walk from place to place or combine walking with public transportation. It’s incredibly safe as well, and you won’t feel uncomfortable.

Stockholm Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great nature close by
• Very walkable
• Lots of attraction variety
• Best urban and nature balance
• Great quality of life
• Friendly people
• Great museums

Cons:

• Cold in winter
• Airport is far away
• Expensive
• Snows a lot in winter
• Dark, long winters

Stockholm Tips and When to Go

Stockholm in summer is gorgeous and electric. People are out and about, soaking in the great weather and (hopefully) sun. It’s similar to Copenhagen, where people maximize their time outside when the weather isn’t as bleak and cold. Summer is the perfect time to explore the Stockholm archipelago, where most Swedish people spend their summer weekends.

Definitely get a public transportation pass if you’re in Stockholm for at least 3 days. It will save you time and money and is very convenient. You use the same ticket for all the public transportation, so there’s no need to switch cards or pay for each ride. If you ride the tram, you must have a valid ticket. There aren’t any ticket verifiers before boarding, but that’s because there’s a person inside the tram scanning tickets. Don’t risk it!

Stockholm essentially runs on credit cards; hardly anyone uses cash anymore, and it’ll be hard to get rid of your cash if you exchange it. Cash is more of a nuisance than anything. Also, take the public ferry to explore the archipelago! It’s way cheaper and gets you to well-known islands.

What’s Unique to Stockholm

You can’t leave Stockholm without visiting the Vasamuseet, which has the largest Viking boat in the world. It’s the most popular attraction in Stockholm, and for good reason—you can’t find this anywhere else in the world. And on the same island that the Vasamuseet is on, you’ll see more museums to check out, like the ABBA or contemporary art museums.

If you want to experience summer in Sweden, visit the Stockholm archipelago islands. Each island has a little community with cute vacation houses, great swimming holes, and laid-back vibes. You can easily get to popular islands like Vaxholm with public transportation.

Stockholm also has the world’s longest art gallery in its underground subway. More than 80 stations have art you can visit using your public transportation tickets or pass. Depending on the time, you can take a self-guided tour of the Stockholm subway art and see the top 5 or 10. It’s a remarkable initiative and a nice, free activity to do. Plus, you can’t miss out on eating authentic Swedish meatballs, can you?

Geneva, Switzerland

Home to the United Nations, Red Cross, and other international organizations. It’s the worldwide diplomacy capital alongside many business and financial institutions. It’s also one of the most expensive destinations to travel to…

Why Geneva is Perfect for Solo Travel

Like Copenhagen and Stockholm, Geneva is very safe for solo travellers and, like the rest of Switzerland, there is very little violent crime. Plus, Geneva is small, compact, and walkable, so you can see much of the city on foot at all hours of the day.

Geneva’s public transportation is quite good and dependable; you can easily use it to get to and from your accommodation, the train station, and the airport. Plus, if you stay at tourist accommodations, public transportation is free! Geneva is surrounded by France and Italy, so it’s easily connected to main cities nearby. You can go from Paris, Lyon, Milan or other Swiss cities by train or plane.

While Geneva is not as German as the rest of the country, it still has festive Christmas celebrations during winter. You’ll find Christmas markets and Christmas decor in shopping areas. It’s one of the most charming cities in winter, which is usually a low season for many cities. You’ll see snow-covered mountains in the distance and cute houses covered in snow. It’s incredibly romantic, and since Geneva sits on a lake, there are bathhouses and other fun water activities.

There is a huge expat community due to all the international organizations and businesses in the city.

Geneva Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Free public transportation (with eligible accommodations)
• Lots of nature tours from Geneva
• Multicultural and global
• Big city with a small town feel
• Big lake
• Clean
• Well-connected to European destinations and skiing

Cons:

• Extremely expensive
• Language barrier for English speakers
• Mostly business destination
• Less Swiss than other cities
• Less attractions and entertainment than bigger cities
• Long winters with short days

Tips and When to Go

The best times to visit Geneva are summer and winter. The weather is the best in summer, and with Lake Geneva, you can swim, go boating, or do other water activities. There are public gardens you can enjoy as well. Even though it may be more expensive and slightly more crowded, it’s definitely not as crowded as Barcelona or Lisbon in summer.

Winter is cold, and days are short, but the holiday festivities make up for it. Several Christmas festivities happen in Geneva that many look forward to, including fondue eating, many Christmas markets, mulled wine, and more.

What’s Unique to Geneva

The Geneva Water Fountain jet is the most popular attraction. It shoots water up to 140 meters in the air as a practical way to redistribute water. It’s in Lake Geneva, which has some of the cleanest, clearest water in the world. Truly, Geneva (and Switzerland) has some of the cleanest tap water in the world, if not the cleanest tap water.

Compared to other parts of Switzerland, Geneva is the only city that speaks majority French, surrounded by France on all sides. So, if you know basic French or are fluent, Geneva will be easy to navigate!

Geneva has great food as well, from their chocolate to fondue. But you’ll also find amazing international options.

The Old Town of Geneva is absolutely stunning, with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Its small streets are something out of a historical T.V. show, with small bakeries, antique shops, and stairs leading up the hill it sits on. It’s also the oldest old town in Europe, dating back 2000 years.

Luxembourg, Luxembourg

“Is Luxembourg a country?” Yes. Yes, it is. It’s also the wealthiest country in the world in terms of its banking and business sectors and one of the world’s smallest countries.

Why Luxembourg is Perfect for Solo Travel

Luxembourg City is extremely small, with just over 120K population. The country of Luxembourg is only two times the size of L.A., which is tiny! Thus, its capital city is quite small and extremely walkable. You can walk from one side to the other in 45 minutes. The town is very safe for solo travellers, so walking alone is comfortable.

Even though it’s small, there are numerous attractions, from historic churches, buildings, bridges, and more. There’s a fantastic Modern Art Museum with an incredible view of Luxembourg. In winter, there are Christmas markets and festivities.

Luxembourg is surrounded by three other European countries: France, Germany, and Belgium. It’s easily connected by train for day trips to Paris, Brussels, and Frankfurt. And as a bonus, all public transportation in Luxembourg City is free!

Regardless of if you’re solo or not, Luxembourg City is gorgeous. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and looks like something out of a fairytale. It was once a fort, built on the rocky cliffs, which still stands today, albeit reconstructed.

Luxembourg Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lots of history and culture
• Gorgeous landscape
• Historic buildings
• Free public transportation

Cons:

• Not many attractions
• Small
• Expensive
• Not much nightlife
• Cloudy and rainy

Luxembourg Tips and When to Go

Walk through the UNESCO Old Town, starting from the top and going to the bottom. The Old Town has breathtaking scenery, which you can see best from a viewpoint. Then, go to the old church area, where you’ll see a water wheel on the river.

Luxembourg isn’t a touristy destination like other big cities, so no matter what time of year you go, it won’t be too crowded. If you go during the winter, it will be cold, but there may be some Christmas markets and festivities to visit. But the best time to visit is summer, with sunny skies and great weather. Plus, there are a variety of summer festivals, including National Day, which has a huge outdoor festival and fireworks. It is a little more crowded but worth going when the weather is best. The rest of the year, Luxembourg sees a lot of rain.

What’s Unique to Luxembourg

Luxembourg’s Old Town is historic and beautiful, and, amazingly, such a large area is deemed heritage-worthy. You’ll see beautiful architecture, buildings, streets, and more. What makes it special is that the buildings are nestled in the hills, which makes a stunning landscape.

Luxembourg also has more than 60 museums featuring art and history, and most of them are free! There’s even a mile route called the MuseumSmile that you can walk to seven museums. I love their modern art museum because of the architecture, the view, and the cafe!

Also, apparently, there’s excellent wine in Luxembourg, which has the highest density of hikes in Europe?

Places I Hear Are Good But Haven’t Been

• Istanbul, Turkey: Istanbul is one of the most visited cities in the world. I’ve heard that it has incredibly friendly people, delicious food, and beautiful scenery. It uniquely blends East and West with great nightlife, culture, and history.
• Vienna, Austria: If you’re a music lover, Vienna should be on your list. Vienna is home to dozens of famous musicians, including Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, and more. It’s uniquely musical and coined the “City of Music.” Besides music, it has incredible architecture and attractions, from palaces, museums, cathedrals, and more.
• Porto, Portugal: If you’ve heard of Porto wine, this is where it’s from. Many people visiting Lisbon also visit Porto for its food, beautiful seaside scenery, and wine. There are beaches, great architecture, churches, and a laidback atmosphere that sets it apart from Lisbon, which is more modern.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: The famous city where a part of Game of Thrones was filmed. And with reason! Dubrovnik is famous for its medieval architecture and old town, one of the only medieval cities left in Europe. It’s also a seaside town, so the beautiful blue water contrasts with the stone city walls. The city looks stunning in photos.

Best Places in Europe for Solo Travel FAQ’s

What is the best country to visit solo in Europe?

Portugal or Spain are the best countries in Europe to travel solo. It’s relatively affordable, has excellent weather, good food, various destinations, friendly locals, and an established solo travel community. While the language barrier can be an obstacle, it’s easily navigable.

What is the safest country in Europe to travel alone as a woman?

Denmark. Copenhagen is the safest city in the world and perfect for solo female travellers. But honestly, any country in Scandinavia is very safe for women to travel alone. There’s low crime, violence, and a high quality of life. Yes, they are more expensive, but sometimes peace of mind is worth the extra cost.

Where should I travel for the first time alone?

If you’re hesitant about visiting countries with a different language, try traveling to the U.K., Denmark, Germany, or Sweden first. All those places have locals that speak English well, and it’s easier to navigate alone for your first time. You won’t have to worry about translating, asking for help, ordering food, or other mundane tasks that might be stressful. They’re also all safe, some more than others, have great public transportation, and are walkable. The downside is that these regions are usually more expensive.

Solo Travel Tips

Here are some great articles to read to prepare you for your next solo travel journey:

• How to Make Eating Alone Less Scary
• How to Make Friends While Traveling Solo
• How to Take Good Pictures of Yourself Traveling Solo
• First Time Flying Alone? Use This Amazing 22 Step-by-Step Guide
• 17 Solo Travel Safety Tips: How to Stay Safe Abroad
• 50+ Amazing Solo Travel Quotes That Will Inspire You

Visit One of the Best Places in Europe for Solo Travel!

Now, you know the 20 best places in Europe for solo travel! If there is a destination missing from this list that you’re interested in, that doesn’t mean it’s not great. These are just places I personally visited and would recommend to any prospective solo traveller. But before you embark on your solo travels, do thorough research beforehand so you can have a smooth journey. Europe is a great place to solo travel; no matter where you go, you’ll have a great time. Happy travels!