The Top 25 Places Around the World to Visit Alone

It's true that you can entertain yourself at times. There are many good reasons to take a solo trip, whether you want to explore Japan at your own pace or your friends just can't afford to join you on that Scottish adventure right now.

There are many upsides to solo travel, including the chance to do whatever you want, whenever you want, and the chance to learn about yourself and meet interesting people.

Whatever your motivation, exploring the world on your own can be an unforgettable and formative experience. It's normal to feel anxious before setting out on a solo trip, whether it's your first or twentieth.  

We don't want a lack of travel companions to stop you from seeing the world, so we've compiled a list of countries that are great for solo travelers of all experience levels. We tour classics like Mexico, as well as up-and-coming places like Egypt and Croatia, where lone travelers are flocking in increasing numbers.

From Germany's castles to Norway's Northern Lights, these are the top countries for those traveling alone.

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Iceland has been one of the most popular tourist destinations for the past few years, and for good reason: the country is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with countless caves, volcanoes, and glaciers just waiting to be explored. and relaxing geothermal spas, and because it topped the Global Peace Index, lone travelers needn't be concerned about venturing out on their own.

Day trips from Reykjavk include visits to the Blue Lagoon and whale-watching tours out of Faxaflói Bay. Thingvellir National Park is a great getaway from the city, with opportunities for camping, hiking, horseback riding, and diving in the freshwater Silfra fissure.

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There's good reason Costa Rica has been called "the happiest country on earth" for so long. Whitewater rafting on the Reventazón River, ziplining through beautiful rainforests, rappelling down waterfalls, and hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park are just a few of the adventurous outdoor pursuits available in Costa Rica.

Arenal's hot springs are ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure, or you can relax on the white sands and watch the wildlife at Playa Manuel Antonio, a tropical beach in Manuel Antonio National Park.

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According to the Global Peace Index, New Zealand is the world's second-most peaceful country, making it a popular destination for solo travelers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

The country is ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors and is a great place to meet other travelers. Cruise Milford Sound's fjords, rainforests, and waterfalls; heli-hike Franz Josef Glacier; hike a portion of (or the entire) Tongariro Alpine Crossing; discover the wonders of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves; or spot whales in the Bay of Plenty.

Take a day trip to Waiheke Island for wine tours or visit the Hobbiton Movie Set to explore the real-life version of the Shire if you need a break from all the adventuring. There is plenty to keep you occupied during your solo adventure.

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Mexico is perfect for those taking a solo trip, as the country has both a vibrant backpacker culture and welcoming resorts. The people are warm and welcoming, and the country is filled with cultural landmarks and stunning natural scenery.  

You can go whale watching in Los Cabos, sightseeing in Tulum, eating tamales and drinking mezcal in Oaxaca, or exploring the vibrant art scene in Mexico City.   

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Taking a train trip across Switzerland, with its breathtaking landscapes, could be one of the best decisions you ever make. Stunning waterfalls, forests, and lakes can be experienced on your Swiss Travel Pass-inclusive journey. The next step is to disembark and go on an Alpine hike, explore some medieval castles, and sip some Swiss wine.

It's only natural to indulge in this rich dessert in the land that gave birth to milk chocolate. Take a chocolate-themed walking tour in Lucerne or Zürich, or visit one of the many world-famous chocolate factories in the region, instead of just picking up a bar of Toblerone or Lindt at the nearest grocery store.

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Chile has a stunningly beautiful and varied landscape. You can go on an adventure that suits your fancy by visiting Torres del Paine National Park or the San Rafael Glacier in Patagonia, an active volcano in the Lake District, or by camping out under the brilliant night sky in the Atacama Desert.

Santiago is where culture and adventure meet, and the city is compact enough to explore on foot or bike. You can take in the city from above by climbing San Cristóbal or Santa Luca Hill, or spend an afternoon in the Bellavista neighborhood's quaint boutiques, cafes, and cocktail bars.

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The Netherlands is a fantastic place to test out your newfound independence on a solo trip. In the relaxed and welcoming city of Amsterdam, bike like a local. Beginning in Vondelpark, a well-liked city park, cyclists can travel to famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum while taking in the city's picturesque canals and bridges.

If you visit Holland between the middle of April and the first week of May, you will see fields upon fields of the country's most beloved flower, the tulip. Just outside of Amsterdam is the Keukenhof, also called the Garden of Europe due to its abundance of tulips and other bulbous flowers. And if you want to see even more vibrant flowers, the annual Tulip Festival in Noordoostpolder is not to be missed.

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Spain is a country with something for everyone, from world-class art galleries and architecture to mouthwatering cuisine and lively nightlife to breathtaking outdoor adventures.

Visit Park Güell, a public park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Barcelona. Antoni Gaud, a Catalan architect, designed much of the modern architecture, sculptures, and mosaics found there. Visit Sagrada Familia next on your Gaud itinerary before heading to the Picasso Museum. If hunger strikes, head to Mercado de La Boqueria, the city's oldest market.

Ocata Beach, close to Barcelona, and Socorro Beach, on Tenerife, are just two of Spain's many examples of its world-class coastline. Those who are feeling courageous and adventurous can start their journey on the Camino de Santiago in Malaga or hike the Caminito del Rey.

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Solo travelers with an appreciation for culture should make a trip to Austria. Experience firsthand why Vienna is called "The City of Music" by taking in a performance at the State Opera House or the Musikverein. In addition to its famed coffeehouse culture, Vienna is home to numerous museums that are equally as fascinating.

The city of Salzburg served as the setting for the film "The Sound of Music," and visitors can experience the city through the lens of the musical by taking themed tours, seeing Mozart's birthplace, and ascending Hohensalzburg Fortress for breathtaking panoramas.

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One more solo-friendly destination is Denmark. Copenhagen's Nyhavn neighborhood is a great place to begin your exploration of the city, with its colorful townhouses and iconic wooden ships. Then, go for a stroll in the beautiful Tivoli Gardens. The popular destination is known for its amusement park, but it also has beautiful gardens, bubbling fountains, and an aquarium.

Kronborg Castle is a must-see for any fan of Shakespeare's works, as it served as the model for Elsinore Castle in the play "Hamlet." Take a train ride to Hillerd, where you can visit Frederiksborg Castle, the Danish National Museum.

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Starting in Tokyo Whether you're in the mood to go shopping in the opulent Ginza district, taking a ride to the top of one of the world's tallest towers, exploring the Sens-ji temple, feasting on ramen at Ichiran Shibuya (the famous chain serves steaming bowls of ramen at no-frills booths), or strolling through a traditional Japanese garden, Tokyo has something for everyone. In the glittering metropolis, entertainment options are endless.

Take the bullet train to Kyoto, where you can relax among the many beautiful temples, gardens, and shrines. As the birthplace of the tea ceremony, Kyoto is a great place to experience this ancient custom. See the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom in the spring.

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Summer in Norway is the best time to go because of the pleasant temperatures and the abundance of outdoor activities. By foot, bike, or public transit, visitors to Oslo can see the city's many cultural attractions. Take a multi-day cruise through the country's famous fjords on a Hurtigruten coastal steamer — there is no single supplement on select voyages — and disembark at various ports along the stunning coastline to go hiking, kayaking, on a safari, and more. The Arctic Circle will be traversed.

However, if viewing the aurora borealis is at the top of your travel bucket list, a visit to Norway between November and March will put you there at the height of the phenomenon. Visit Troms, in the center of the aurora zone, for the best possible views of the phenomenon.

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Ireland is a great choice if you're nervous about traveling abroad without knowing the language. Dublin is a great place to visit for a number of reasons, including the UNESCO City of Literature, the shopping on Grafton Street, and a pint of Guinness in the Guinness Storehouse.

Galway is also not to be missed due to its beautiful scenery and welcoming locals. Take a stroll along the beautiful Salthill Promenade and stop in a cozy pub in Eyre Square to hear some traditional Irish music. Take a ferry to the nearby Aran Islands to see ancient forts and ruins, or ride the bus to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher to take in the breathtaking scenery.

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If you just want to lie on a beach and take in some rays, this South American nation is ideal. Playa Mansa and Playa Brava are just two of Punta del Este's many stunning beaches. However, if you're looking to avoid the crowds, the beaches in Jose Ignacio and Rocha are better options.

For those looking to combine a trip to the beach with some historical sites, museums, and traditional Candombe music and dance performances, the capital city of Montevideo is a great option.

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Albania is quickly becoming a popular destination for lone travelers due to the warmth of its people and the beauty of its landscape. Some of the clearest, bluest water in the world can be found at the Blue Eye spring, which is located near Saranda. Since you probably won't want to go swimming here, you can enjoy the sun and sand on any of Albania's stunning beaches instead, or you can relax in the Benja Thermal Baths in Prmet, which are rumored to have curative powers.

Berat, also known as the "town of a thousand windows," is a beautiful city that deserves to be visited if only for a day. It's easy to see why UNESCO has designated this city as a World Heritage site, what with its Ottoman-era buildings, medieval castles, mosques, and Holy Trinity Church.

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Vietnam is a land of limitless possibilities. Bai Tu Long Bay is home to some of the most eye-catching blue water and natural landscapes in the world, so board a boat leaving from H Long and take a cruise there. Experience the world's largest natural cave, Hang Sn oong, with a guided tour. The full moon in Hi An coincides with the city's monthly full moon festival, where hundreds of lanterns are floated down the Thu Bn River.

One of the city's earliest surviving structures, Bn Thành Market offers delicious street food, and a visit to the War Remnants Museum and the C Chi Tunnels will teach you all about the Vietnam War. Visit Hanoi and take a stroll around Hoàn Kim Lake, two of the city's most popular tourist destinations.

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There are a number of large cities in Germany that can be visited by independent travelers. Berlin is full of museums, historical sites, cafes, nightclubs, and parks, all of which are easily accessible by bike. Oktoberfest is a great time to visit Munich, but if you'd rather avoid the crowds, the city's beer gardens are enjoyable year-round. And if you visit Frankfurt, you'll find a thriving restaurant scene, trendy shops, and a beautiful botanical garden in this ever-growing metropolis.

There are more than 20,000 castles in Germany, so visiting a few on the side is highly recommended. Any of Germany's historic sites, from the Gothic-style Liechtenstein Castle to the dramatic Neuschwanstein Castle, will make you feel like you've entered a fairy tale.

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Finland is home to more than three million saunas, making it a great place for solo travelers to connect with locals in cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Savonlinna.

However, the Finnish culture is not limited to saunas. Magnificent buildings, museums, parks, and markets can all be reached by foot or public transportation in Helsinki. You can spend a day in a wooden town like Rauma or Loviisa, or you can visit the coast and marvel at the beautiful array of lighthouses. Even though you might enjoy "The Land of the Midnight Sun" more in the summer, the best time to see the Northern Lights is in the dead of winter.

Scotland is the ideal place to recharge your batteries, what with all the rich history, exciting outdoor activities, and breathtaking scenery. Anyone who appreciates tranquility and picture-perfect scenery will feel at home here. Visit Holyrood Park and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art while you're in Edinburgh.  

You'd be missing out if you didn't take advantage of the country's more than 550 world-class golf courses while you're there.  

In a bold mood Seek out the Loch Ness monster in the Scottish Highlands, and while you're there, stop by the historic Urquhart Castle, which has been standing since the thirteenth century.   

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This location is highly sought after by those traveling on their own because of its high safety rating and abundance of exciting activities. Get your trip rolling in Sydney, with its warm welcome and thriving art, food, and sports scenes, and spend some time strolling along Sydney Harbour or checking out Bondi Beach. Surf Victoria's world-famous breaks and then do a coffee shop hopping tour of Melbourne via tram. Tasmania also has excellent hiking trails, so you can take in Australia's natural beauty on foot. Speaking of, snorkelers can find the Great Barrier Reef in North Queensland.  

Considering the size of the country, flying between cities is the most convenient option, but you can also rent a car and experience an Australian road trip. You could also take the historic train The Ghan across the country. Experience the outback on your own terms by riding the famous train from Adelaide to Darwin.    

Banff National Park puts you in close proximity to breathtaking scenery.

Canada, from the mountains of British Columbia to the bright lights of Toronto, is packed with things to see and do. Our northern neighbor is easily accessible in terms of language, exchange rate, and transportation options; getting there takes only a couple of hours on a plane or a few days in the car, depending on your route.   

If you decide to visit Canada's largest city, Toronto, you can take in the sights and sounds at the Harbourfront Centre, sample delicious fare at St. Lawrence Market, and get to know the city's many distinct neighborhoods. Vancouver is a waterfront city where you can go for a bike ride or experience the vertiginous Capilano Suspension Bridge, which is 230 feet in the air and 450 feet long. Banff National Park in Alberta is where you should go to see the Rocky Mountains and glacial lakes.   

Picture of a tourist on Phi Phi Island, Thailand, riding a longboat.

Since it is inexpensive and easy to get around, more and more people are visiting Thailand on their own. Bangkok is home to delicious cuisine, exciting nightlife, and relaxing spas. Beautiful beaches line the Andaman Sea in this tropical paradise; some of our favorites are in Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands.   

Trains, subways, buses, taxis, and even long-tail boats and tuk tuks are all easily accessible. If you want to celebrate the Buddhist New Year with parades, street parties, and performances, then plan a trip to Thailand around the middle of April for the Songkran Water Splashing Festival.  

Book a trip to Croatia if you want to see beautiful scenery, learn about history, and eat delicious food without breaking the bank. The favorable exchange rate and friendly locals make this an ideal destination for solo travelers. Get your beach on in the pristine waters surrounding the Dalmatian Coast. As you relax alone, you can take in the sight of the clear water, soft sand, and towering limestone cliffs. Then you can walk off all that white truffle pasta and fresh seafood by exploring Dubrovnik's historic Old Town.  

Egypt is becoming a more popular destination for lone travelers. One of the best (and probably safest and most convenient) ways to see the African country by yourself is on a cruise down the Nile. Enjoy tasty falafel in Cairo, visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, and uncover mysterious temples and tombs across Egypt. Then, after exploring an ancient site by boat, you can relax in your five-star lodgings.  

There are also modern additions to the ancient attraction. The Luxor Avenue of the Sphinxes reopened in 2022 after extensive refurbishment. The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza is scheduled to open in 2023, so keep an eye out for it.  

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Visit England and go on long, solitary walks along the coast, through small towns, or through the city. Americans taking a trip across the pond often make London their starting point. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea service at The Lanesborough, visit the Rembrandts and Cézannes at the National Gallery, and ramble around Trafalgar Square.  

There are also the quaint English villages that will transport you back in time. Visiting historic sites is a highlight of any trip to England, and the country's fairytale castles and the industrial cities of Yorkshire do not disappoint.