12 Best Solo Travel Destinations for First-Timers

Discover 12 of the best solo travel destinations where adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences await—perfect for first-timers ready to explore the world on their own terms.

Alyana Aguja
March 14, 2025
4 min read

12 Best Solo Travel Destinations for First-Timers — Fabio Comparelli from Unsplash

Traveling alone is an empowering experience to discover the world, learn about new cultures, and meet yourself. This article discusses 12 of the finest first-time solo travel destinations around the world, ranging from Kyoto’s peaceful temples to the lively streets of Lisbon and the great outdoors of Queenstown. If you’re looking for wild adventures, cultural experiences, or calm retreats, these places provide safety, hospitality, and unforgettable experiences for all types of travelers.

1. Kyoto, Japan

Image from Boutique Japan

Immerse yourself in the world of ancient temples, tranquil gardens, and traditional tea houses in Kyoto. It is a safe and friendly city where you can walk down historic streets like Gion and catch glimpses of geishas. Don’t miss the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Shrine with seemingly endless torii gates—ideal for serene solo discovery.

2. Reykjavik, Iceland

Image from Silversea

Reykjavik is a very safe city and a great hub for independent travel. You can relax in the Blue Lagoon, pursue the Northern Lights, or make day trips to stunning waterfalls and volcanic scenery. The people are welcoming, and the city’s small size makes it simple to get around on your own.

3. Lisbon, Portugal

Image from Great Value Vacations

Lisbon captivates with its rainbow-colored neighborhoods, winding cobblestone streets, and picturesque miradouros, or viewpoints. Take a ride on the famous Tram 28, enjoy pastéis de nata, and be mesmerized by soulful Fado music. The city’s relaxed atmosphere and low costs make it ideal for solo travelers looking for culture and relaxation.

4. Melbourne, Australia

Image from Wikipedia

Melbourne is a lively city famous for its street art, coffee culture, and multicultural food scene. Wander through laneways such as Hosier Lane, filled with vibrant graffiti, or take a solo walk along the Yarra River. It’s simple to meet other travelers in the city’s numerous intimate cafes or at social hostels.

5. Barcelona, Spain

Image from Spain.info

Barcelona is the ideal combination of beach and city, perfect for solo travelers. Admire Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, such as Sagrada Família and Park Güell, then unwind at Barceloneta Beach. Tapas bars are social and vibrant, so it is easy to make friends with locals and other travelers.

6. Queenstown, New Zealand

Image from www.queenstownnz.co.nz

Adventure beckons in Queenstown, the globe’s adrenaline capital. Whether bungee jumping, trekking, or taking scenic cruises on Lake Wakatipu, there are countless ways to test your limits. The town’s compact size and friendly environment make it simple to meet others and create memories to last a lifetime.

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Image from National Geographic

With its canals, quaint streets, and global museums, Amsterdam is a lone traveler’s heaven. Hire a bike to cruise like a native or take a relaxing canal boat tour. The city is extremely safe and welcoming, and there are tons of snug cafes ideal for folks-watching and unwinding.

8. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Image from Tripadvisor

Chiang Mai boasts a relaxed atmosphere, historic temples, and green mountains. You can learn to cook, go to ethical elephant sanctuaries, or shop at lively night markets. The living costs are low, and the locals are friendly, making it affordable and enjoyable for solo travel.

9. Vancouver, Canada

Image from Wikipedia

Nature and city cool converge in Vancouver, providing a harmonious balance of mountains, beaches, and cityscape. Take a leisurely stroll around the Stanley Park Seawall, hike through adjacent Grouse Mountain, or discover food diversity. Organized tours and friendly locals render solo wandering comfortable and secure.

10. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Image from Vogue

Walk through history as you stroll the old city walls of Dubrovnik and look down upon the glinting Adriatic Sea. Independent travelers can explore the city with local walking tours to discover its centuries-old history or just soak up the sun at nearby beaches. It’s a small city, ideal to stroll along narrow, stone-paved alleys.

11. Hanoi, Vietnam

Image from Tripadvisor

Hanoi’s chaotic charm is an exciting experience for solo adventurers. Wander through the Old Quarter’s narrow streets, sample street food like pho and banh mi, and visit tranquil spots like Hoan Kiem Lake. The city is affordable, and locals are known for their hospitality, making it easy to feel at home.

12. Copenhagen, Denmark

Image from Travel.Earth

Copenhagen is stylish, safe, and full of hygge (coziness). Rent a bike to explore its colorful streets, visit the iconic Nyhavn harbor, or enjoy the tranquility of the King’s Garden. The city’s café culture is perfect for solo downtime, and locals are approachable if you’re looking to chat.