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Top 10 Solo Travel Destinations In The World
Our world is an artwork of nature. There are places so beautiful that our mind cannot imagine their beauty. We have heard about the paradise that God has created. But the creator has also dropped some of the paradise’s samples on our Earth. Looking at these places, a person feels absorbed in the moment and never wants to let go of this moment. And when you are traveling solo, these places allow you to discover your inner wanderer.
There is mainly something special about solo traveling. It gives you the freedom to indulge yourself in something that your inner self wants. It leads you to self-discovery, new friendships, and new adventures. Your sense of empowerment and independence increases when you step outside your comfort zone.
In this article, we are going to discuss the top 10 solo travel destinations in the world. There are many beautiful places to visit, so choosing can be challenging, especially if it is your first solo trip. But before we discuss the top solo destinations, let us understand the factors that make a place the best solo travel destination.
Criteria for Best Solo Travel Destination
As a solo traveler, I think the following factors are essential to consider while seeking a solo travel destination.
Safety: Safety is one of the greatest concerns of any traveler, and it should be. Since you are traveling alone, it becomes more important. Safety means that you are able to travel freely, walk at night, and feel reassured that you are safe alone.
Easily accessible: If your destination is easily accessible, it not only saves you money but also makes the overall journey pleasant. By easily accessible, I mean the country’s local and international transport system should be good. It is essential for one more thing. If you face any emergency or have to return home quickly, you don’t have to face any problems.
Affordable: Your destination should be affordable in terms of traveling, food, and residence. It is essential to plan your budget before leaving.
Activities: When we are traveling to a new destination, we often don’t plan anything. It is a common perception to let the new destination itself to us. While it is important not to overthink and ruin all the adventure, but it is necessary to plan out activities. It will help you to travel more easily, enjoy all the adventures, and visit all the fantastic places.
Communication: It is very important to be able to communicate with the local people for safe travel. Make sure you understand their language or vice versa.
Now, you know all the factors that are necessary to consider while choosing a solo travel destination. But don’t worry. This article presents the top solo travel destinations in the world that meet the above criteria.
1. Costa Rica
The first destination on our list is one of the happiest countries in the world. Costa Rica is a paradise for travelers. Whether you are a nature lover, culture explorer, or adrenaline lover, Costa Rica has everything for you.
While traveling, you will find some of the most friendly locals in the world. And because Costa Rica receives millions of tourists every year, almost everyone understands a bit of English there. You can hike in the Arenal Volcano National Park, enjoy whitewater rafting in the Reventazon River, and zip line through incredible jungles and waterfalls.
Costa Rica is home to almost 5% of the Earth’s species. Hundreds of unique species call this amazing place their home. Moreover, Costa Rica also has one of the most stunning coastlines in the world. If you want to learn how to surf, plan a trip to Peninsula Papagayo in Costa Rica. Undoubtedly, this country has a reputation for being the happiest in the world.
2. New Zealand
According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, New Zealand is ranked 4th among the most peaceful countries in the world. While it is a small country, New Zealand offers diverse landscapes to its visitors. If you are on your first solo travel trip, I recommend you choose this country. The locals are extremely friendly, and the local language is English. It remains one of the most popular destinations for hikers, solo travelers, and backpackers.
This country is blessed with incredibly stunning nature. It offers pristine glaciers, mountains, rainforests, fiords, and beaches. It is a paradise for thrill-seekers. You can go watch the dance of whales in the Bay of Plenty. Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and Franz Josef Glacier are some of the must-visit places in New Zealand. You can experience the real-life version of Shire at Hobbiton Movie Set.
Besides nature’s artwork, this country also has some highly developed, bustling cities for you to visit. Auckland, Christchurch, and Hamilton are some of the best examples. And if you want some adrenaline rush in your body, you can enjoy bungees, canyon swings, skydives, and Shotover Jets in this world.
3. Portugal
Whenever we hear the word ‘Portugal,’ the first thing that comes to mind is Cristiano Ronaldo. However, there is more to Portugal than the legendary footballer. It is a country with great weather, beautiful natural landscapes, fantastic café culture, and endless pastel de nata.
If you want to feel the real adventure of solo traveling, visit the Portuguese Island of Madeira. It is covered with mountains with peaks above the clouds. Pico Ruivo is the highest point on this island. You can go on a memorable hike to reach this point. Besides mountains, the island has jungles and warm waves. You can enjoy boat trips to Porto and Lisbon and surfing lessons in Albufeira.
4. Thailand
Next on our list is an Asian Paradise. Thailand is a country rich in culture, very affordable, easy to navigate, and with friendly locals. The local transportation system is excellent. You can quickly get around with the help of buses, ferries, trains, and cheap domestic flights.
You can enjoy kayaking and canoeing through the waters from Khao Sok Lake to Ao Phang Nga National Park. The food is fantastic, the local culture is waiting for you to explore it, and the nature is stunning. You can visit the island of Ko Yao Yai. You will feel the place as if it were something from a sci-fi movie. Hike through the rubber plantations and enjoy the pleasant beaches.
The north of Thailand is a paradise for cultural lovers, while people go for nature, relaxing, and partying in the south. You can enjoy the tranquil spas and thrilling nightlife in Bangkok. To see the tropical paradise, you have to go to Phi Phi and Krabi Islands.
5. Netherlands
The Netherlands is a great solo travel destination for beginners, especially if you are from Europe. While in the Netherlands, you do as the locals do: Get a bike and ride in the streets. Visit the cafés and enjoy the coffee. This country has beautiful landscapes and amazing cities.
Though it can be a bit chaotic, you can go in April and May and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Tulip flowers. Located just outside the capital, the Keukenhof is known as the Garden of Earth due to seven million bulbs and hundreds of types of tulips here. You can actually start from the capital, Amsterdam, and visit the other cities in the Netherlands from there. Enjoy the city’s mesmerizing canals and bridges while visiting world-famous museums such as the Van Gogh Museum.
6. Greece
Greece is one of my favorite countries for solo traveling. The incredible scenery, warm weather, ancient heritage sites, friendly locals, islands, and local food await you in Greece. The Greek islands worth visiting are Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos, and Paros. Every island has its own vibe and atmosphere. You can visit the Eastern Orthodox Monastery sitting hundreds of meters up on a rock in Meteora.
If you are a history lover, you will surely visit the Acropolis in Athens. This monumental complex belongs to the ancient Greek civilization. The Archaeological sites of Mycenae and Olympia, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus are the must-visit places in Greece.
You can explore the old town of Paros and visit the picture-perfect Oia in Santorini. The island of Corfu is located in the north of Greece. It is blessed with stunning scenery. The double-sided beach of Porto Timoni is present here. For me, it is the most beautiful beach in Greece.
7. Morocco
Morocco is a diverse and culturally rich African country. Moroccan culture has a mixture of European and Arab influences. Morocco’s diverse landscapes are incredibly stunning. In this country, you can visit the largest desert in the world—the Sahara Desert. You can hike in the Agafay Desert and visit traditional Berber villages. At the same time, this country’s highest peak of the Atlas Mountain Range is also present. Mount Toubkal is located 40 miles south of Marrakech.
If you want to feel the Atlantic breeze, you can go to the coastal towns of Taghazout and Essaouira. These are perfect spots for kitesurfing. Morocco’s coastal cities were located on the path of an ancient trading route – the Silk Road. That’s why these cities are rich in culture, charm, and personality. Marrakech and Casablanca are the most famous tourist attractions. In Morocco, you must taste the local cuisine and traditional dishes.
8. Italy
Italy has the longest Mediterranean coastline and some of the most scenic and varied landscapes. Its capital, Rome, attracts millions of tourists each year. This city is home to the ancient ruins of the Roman Empire, one of the wealthiest empires in history. The Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Roman Catacombs, Appian Way, Circus Maximus, and Via Sacra are the must-visit places in Rome.
You can explore the winding vineyards in Tuscany. If you are mountain-lovers, the Italian Alps are waiting for you to climb them. Italy has a store of endless culture, history, and charm. This is particularly evident in medieval towns along the seaside. You should also explore Milan, Florence, Naples, Rome, and Bologna.
9. Australia
Central Australia is one of the most difficult destinations for traveling. I recommend that only experienced travelers go there. However, the Eastern coast of Australia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is easily accessible for travelers and backpackers.
Byron Bay is a famous destination for solo traveling. On Magnetic Island, you can enjoy the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Near the towns of Cairns, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Daintree Rainforest, and the Great Barrier Reef. Every now and then, you will find unexplored beaches where you are alone.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the world’s largest sandstone monolith—Uluru. It is 348 meters high from the red Earth that surrounds it. It is more than 500 million years old and dear to the Indigenous Anangu people. While in Australia, these are some of the must-visit places and things to do.
- Byron Bay Lighthouse
- Philip Island penguins
- Fraser Island experience
- Whitsundays scenic flight
- Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Drive the Great Ocean Road
10. Iceland
Iceland tops the list of the Global Peace Index 2024. And that’s why Iceland attracts millions of visitors and travelers each year. It means you can travel the country on your own without worry. Iceland is a paradise for nature lovers. You get to see the caves, geothermal spas, glaciers, volcanoes, and mountains.
In Reykjavik, you can explore the history in the museums and bathe in geothermal pools. The most popular trail in Iceland is the Golden Circle. It has some fantastic sightseeing points, such as the Gullfoss waterfalls, bingvellir, Glhufrabui waterfalls, and Geysir. Visit the Friðheimar Greenhouse to eat dishes made from geothermally grown ingredients.
The Westman Islands contain several active volcanoes. From mid-April to August, the largest colony of puffins gathers at the southern tip of Heimaey. Vatnajökull National Park is known for hiking and camping.
Conclusion
There are still some paradises left that should be on the list of top solo travel destinations in the world. But due to the length of the article, we need to stop here. We have also discussed the criteria for the best solo travel destinations: They need to be easily accessible, culturally rich, naturally beautiful, and safe.
Our world is blessed with unique places. Don’t worry. Everyone gets one life. Make it worth remembering. Grab and pack your bag. Go out. Enjoy yourself and discover your inner wanderer.
