Travel smarter in 2025 with our guide to the best cities for going solo—where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of every moment.
There’s something magical about exploring a new city on your own terms. I’ve spent the last decade wandering solo through bustling metropolises and charming towns across the globe, and I can tell you—it’s transformative. Whether you’re taking your first solo trip or you’re a seasoned lone explorer, choosing the right destination can make all the difference.
So, which cities truly shine for those traveling alone in 2025? Let’s dive into the destinations that offer the perfect blend of safety, social opportunities, cultural richness, and ease of navigation—everything a solo traveler dreams of.
Why Solo Travel is Booming in 2025
Before we jump into specific destinations, let’s talk about why more people than ever are embracing solo adventures. Post-pandemic, there’s been a dramatic shift in how we approach travel. Many of us realized life is too short to wait for the perfect travel companion. After years of restricted movement, the desire for personal freedom and discovery has skyrocketed.
According to recent travel industry reports, solo travel bookings have increased a lot compared to pre-pandemic levels. People aren’t just traveling alone—they’re specifically choosing cities that cater to independent explorers.
Top 10 Cities for Solo Travelers in 2025
1. Singapore
Singapore stands out as a paradise for solo travelers seeking a perfect blend of safety, efficiency, and cultural diversity. This island city-state offers an impeccably clean, well-organized urban experience with extraordinary food and striking architecture.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Consistently ranked among the world’s safest cities
- Exceptional public transportation system
- English widely spoken as an official language
- Hawker centers offering affordable, world-class cuisine
- Impressive mix of ultramodern and traditional neighborhoods
The city’s famous hawker centers provide the perfect environment for solo dining adventures—you can sample diverse cuisines at reasonable prices while sitting at communal tables that often lead to friendly conversations.
2. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo consistently tops the charts for solo travelers, and for good reason. The combination of extremely low crime rates, efficient public transportation, and a culture that respects personal space makes it an ideal destination for those venturing out alone.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Exceptionally safe, even late at night
- Comprehensive subway system with English signage
- Abundance of single-seat dining options
- Fascinating mix of ultra-modern and traditional experiences
- Strong digital infrastructure for easy navigation
I’ll never forget getting pleasantly lost in the narrow alleyways of Golden Gai, where tiny bars seat just a handful of patrons—perfect for striking up conversations with locals and fellow travelers alike.
3. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen embodies the concept of “hygge” (coziness and comfortable conviviality), making solo travelers feel instantly at ease. This walkable city offers a blend of stunning architecture, innovative cuisine, and the famous Danish happiness.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Consistently ranked among the safest cities worldwide
- Compact city center easily explored on foot or bicycle
- English widely spoken
- Vibrant café culture perfect for people-watching
- Excellent museums and galleries for solo exploration
The city’s extensive cycling infrastructure means you can cover significant ground while feeling like a local. Rent a bike and cruise along the harbor or through the gorgeous King’s Garden.
4. Reykjavik, Iceland
Solo adventurers can find a distinctly enchanting experience in Reykjavik, a capital located in one of the globe’s most secure nations. This compact, walkable city serves as both a cultural hub and gateway to Iceland’s breathtaking natural wonders.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Exceptionally high safety ratings, particularly for women
- Small, manageable city center easily explored on foot
- English widely spoken by nearly all locals
- Thriving café culture and music scene
- Natural wonders are within easy reach for day excursions.
The city’s geothermal swimming pools serve as community gathering places where you can relax and potentially strike up conversations with friendly locals while soaking in warm waters against a backdrop of stunning landscapes.
5. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei often flies under the radar but offers an exceptional experience for solo travelers. The combination of incredible food, efficient transport, and kind locals makes it one of Asia’s most accessible cities.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Extremely safe with low crime rates
- Efficient and easy-to-use MRT subway system
- Abundance of night markets for solo dining adventures
- Free WiFi throughout the city
- Numerous temples and cultural sites
Don’t miss the experience of dining alone at Din Tai Fung for world-famous soup dumplings—solo dining is completely normalized here, and you’ll likely be seated much faster than larger groups!
6. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul perfectly balances ancient traditions with futuristic innovation. For solo travelers, this means endless variety—you can visit a 14th-century palace in the morning and shop in ultramodern Gangnam by afternoon.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Extremely safe with low crime rates
- 24-hour culture with activities at all hours
- Excellent public transportation
- Affordable solo accommodations
- Amazing food that’s easy to enjoy alone
The Korean concept of “pojangmacha” (street food tents) offers perfect solo dining experiences where you can sample local specialties while sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with locals.
7. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne’s relaxed vibe, cultural diversity, and artistic soul make it a haven for independent travelers. As Australia’s cultural capital, it offers endless activities for every type of solo explorer.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Exceptionally safe and easy to navigate
- Thriving café culture perfect for solo dining
- Excellent public transportation
- Numerous free activities and museums
- Diverse neighborhoods each with unique character
Wander through the famous laneways covered in ever-changing street art, hop on the free City Circle Tram, or join one of many walking tours—Melbourne makes it easy to fill your days with discovery.
8. Montreal, Canada
Montreal offers European charm without crossing the Atlantic. Its bilingual culture, stunning architecture, and year-round festivals create an atmosphere that’s both exciting and welcoming for solo visitors.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Safe urban environment
- Walkable neighborhoods
- Vibrant arts and music scene
- Diverse food options for every budget
- Mixture of French and English creates unique cultural experience
During summer months, the city comes alive with festivals almost every weekend, making it easy to join group activities and meet fellow travelers and locals alike.
9. Berlin, Germany
Berlin continues to reinvent itself while maintaining its reputation as Europe’s coolest city. For the solo traveler, it offers an intriguing mix of history, counterculture, and cutting-edge creativity.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Excellent hostel and co-living scene
- Efficient public transportation
- Thriving nightlife with many solo-friendly venues
- Fascinating historical sites and museums
- Diverse food scene at reasonable prices
The city’s alternative spirit means nobody looks twice at someone exploring alone—whether you’re checking out flea markets in Mauerpark or sampling street food at Markthalle Neun.
10. Porto, Portugal
Porto has emerged as Lisbon’s more laid-back sister city, offering similar charm at an even more accessible price point. Its compact size makes it particularly appealing for solo travelers who want to explore on foot.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Walkable historic center (UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Very affordable accommodations and dining
- Friendly locals eager to share their culture
- Beautiful riverfront for strolling and relaxing
- World-famous port wine cellars with tastings
The city’s small size creates natural opportunities to bump into fellow travelers repeatedly, often turning brief encounters into lasting friendships.
Best Cities for Solo Female Travelers
Safety concerns often weigh more heavily for women traveling alone. These cities have established particularly strong reputations for solo female travelers:
| City | Safety Rating | Public Transport | Solo Dining Ease | Women-Friendly Nightlife |
| Copenhagen, Denmark | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Tokyo, Japan | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Reykjavik, Iceland | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Singapore | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Melbourne, Australia | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
Most Affordable Cities for Solo Travelers
Traveling alone doesn’t mean breaking the bank. These cities offer amazing experiences at budget-friendly prices:
- Bangkok, Thailand: Street food for under $2, hostels from $10/night
- Porto, Portugal: Affordable European charm with meals from €8-12
- Mexico City, Mexico: Top-tier museums, many of which offer free admission on certain days.
- Budapest, Hungary: Thermal spas, stunning architecture, and meals for under $10
- Hoi An, Vietnam: Beautiful ancient town with food and accommodations at a fraction of Western prices
How to Meet People While Traveling Solo
One of the biggest misconceptions about solo travel is that it’s lonely. In fact, solo travel often results in deeper and more meaningful connections than traveling with a group.
Here are some tried-and-true ways I’ve made friends in new cities:
- Stay in social accommodations: Hostels, guesthouses, and co-living spaces often organize events for guests.
- Take free walking tours: These tours attract other solo travelers and provide a natural environment for conversation.
- Use social apps: Platforms like Meetup, Bumble BFF, or Couchsurfing events connect you with locals and fellow travelers.
- Join group activities: Cooking classes, day trips, and pub crawls are designed to foster connections.
- Work from co-working spaces: If you’re a digital nomad, these spaces offer both productivity and community.
I’ll never forget joining a cooking class in Lisbon where I met three other solo travelers. We ended up exploring the city together for the next four days!
Solo Travel Safety Tips
Even in the safest cities, smart precautions can make your trip more enjoyable:
- Share your itinerary with someone back home
- Arrive during daylight hours when possible
- Research neighborhoods before booking accommodations
- Keep digital copies of important documents
- Trust your instincts about people and situations
- Learn a few local phrases, especially for emergencies
- Use transportation apps rather than hailing random taxis
- Stay moderately connected with regular check-ins at home
Best Times to Visit Solo Travel Hotspots
Timing can significantly impact your solo travel experience. Here’s when to visit some top destinations:
- Tokyo: Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms or Fall (Sept-Nov) for pleasant weather
- Lisbon: May-June or September-October to avoid summer crowds
- Berlin: May-September for outdoor activities and festivals
- Mexico City: November-April during the dry season
- Melbourne: March-May or September-November for mild temperatures
The Solo Travel Experience: Why It’s Worth It
Traveling alone challenges you to step beyond your comfort zone in the most rewarding ways. You’ll develop confidence, problem-solving skills, and cultural awareness that serve you long after your trip ends. There’s also the unmatched freedom to follow your whims—sleep in or get up for sunrise, spend hours in one museum or hop between attractions, splurge on a nice meal or grab street food.
As someone who’s traveled both ways extensively, I’ve found solo journeys often leave the deepest impressions. There’s something about navigating a foreign city entirely on your own terms that creates indelible memories.
Planning Your Solo Adventure
Ready to take the plunge? Here are some steps to get started:
- Choose your destination based on your comfort level and interests
- Research accommodations that cater to solo travelers
- Plan a loose itinerary with plenty of flexibility
- Pack light to maintain mobility and independence
- Download useful apps like maps, translation, and transportation services
- Book a few activities in advance to structure your first days
- Connect with solo travel communities online for specific advice
Final Thoughts: The World Awaits
Whether you’re drawn to the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, the historic charm of Lisbon, or the cultural melting pot of Melbourne, solo travel offers rewards that simply can’t be duplicated any other way.
The cities we’ve explored here represent just the beginning—each offering unique advantages for those brave enough to venture out alone. The most important thing is taking that first step. Book the ticket. Pack your bag. The world is waiting, and it has never been more accessible to solo travelers than it is in 2025.
