Travel smarter in 2026 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 2026? 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.
Solo travel is growing fast. Hostelworld’s State of Solo Travel report shows more solo bookings and searches than before the pandemic. People aren’t just traveling alone—they’re specifically choosing cities that cater to independent explorers. More travelers are seeking destinations where they feel safe, welcomed, and able to navigate confidently without a companion.
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. The city’s compact size and English signage make it incredibly easy to navigate alone, even for first-time visitors to Asia.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Singapore ranks very high on major safety indexes, for example the Economist Safe Cities Index
- Exceptional public transportation system with clear English signage and contactless payment
- English widely spoken as an official language
- Hawker centers offering affordable, world-class cuisine where solo dining is completely normal
- Impressive mix of ultramodern and traditional neighborhoods, all easily walkable
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. Solo travelers appreciate that Singapore’s efficient MRT system connects every major attraction, and the city feels safe to explore at any hour.
City Snapshot:
Solo Dining: Hawker centers and food courts throughout the city welcome solo diners with communal seating
Safety: Consistently ranked in the top tier of the Economist Safe Cities Index for infrastructure and personal security
Transport: Singapore’s MRT system is rated among the world’s best for cleanliness, efficiency, and ease of use
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. The city’s incredible organization means solo travelers can navigate with confidence, and the extensive English signage on trains and major attractions removes language barriers.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Exceptionally safe, even late at night, making it perfect for solo exploration
- Comprehensive subway system with English signage and user-friendly apps
- Abundance of single-seat dining options at ramen shops and izakayas
- Fascinating mix of ultra-modern and traditional experiences
- Strong digital infrastructure for easy navigation, including pocket WiFi rentals
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. Tokyo’s solo-friendly culture means you’ll never feel awkward eating or exploring alone; in fact, many restaurants are specifically designed for individual diners.
City Snapshot:
Solo Dining: Single-seat counters at ramen shops and sushi bars make solo dining a normal, comfortable experience
Safety: Tops global safety rankings with extremely low crime rates, even in late-night districts
Transport: Tokyo’s subway system is legendary for punctuality and coverage, with apps like Hyperdia making navigation simple
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. The compact city center and excellent bicycle infrastructure mean solo travelers can explore independently with ease, while the friendly, English-speaking locals create a welcoming atmosphere.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Consistently ranked among the safest cities worldwide for solo travelers
- Compact city center easily explored on foot or bicycle
- English widely spoken, making communication effortless
- Vibrant café culture perfect for people-watching and solo relaxation
- Excellent museums and galleries designed for individual 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. Copenhagen’s relaxed pace and design-forward spaces make it particularly comfortable for those traveling alone who want to take their time and enjoy each moment.
City Snapshot:
- Safety: Ranked among Europe’s safest cities with very low crime rates and excellent street lighting
- Transport: Copenhagen Metro and extensive bike lanes make solo navigation simple and enjoyable
- Solo Dining: Café culture throughout the city welcomes solo diners with communal tables and counter seating
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. The small size means solo travelers can orient themselves quickly, and the incredibly welcoming local culture makes it easy to strike up conversations and join group tours to explore beyond the city.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Exceptionally high safety ratings, particularly for women traveling alone
- Small, manageable city center easily explored on foot in a few hours
- English widely spoken by nearly all locals
- Thriving café culture and music scene where solo travelers blend in naturally
- Natural wonders are within easy reach for day excursions, with many group tour options
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. Solo travelers love that Reykjavik’s compact downtown makes it nearly impossible to get lost, and the abundance of tour operators makes it easy to safely explore Iceland’s famous landscapes.
City Snapshot:
Solo Dining: Cozy cafés and restaurants welcome solo diners, with many counter seats overlooking the harbor
Safety: Iceland consistently ranks as one of the world’s safest countries on the Global Peace Index
Transport: Small city center is walkable, with Strætó buses connecting outer areas
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. Solo travelers consistently praise Taipei for feeling both safe and easy to navigate, even for those who don’t speak Mandarin, and the city’s food scene is perfect for adventurous solo eaters.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Extremely safe with low crime rates, making solo exploration comfortable day and night
- Efficient and easy-to-use MRT subway system with English announcements and signage
- Abundance of night markets for solo dining adventures where you can sample many dishes
- Taipei offers broad free public Wi-Fi through government services such as iTaiwan and Taipei Free hotspots, so you can usually find a connection in MRT stations and public areas
- Numerous temples and cultural sites that are easy to visit independently
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! The night markets are especially solo-friendly, where you can wander, sample different foods, and join the crowds without feeling conspicuous.
City Snapshot:
- Safety: Low crime rates and friendly locals make Taipei feel welcoming for solo travelers
- Transport: The Taipei MRT is clean, affordable, and simple to navigate with an EasyCard
- Solo Dining: Night markets and restaurants throughout the city embrace solo diners with single-seat options
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. The city’s 24-hour culture means solo travelers always have something to do, and the excellent connectivity makes it easy to hop between neighborhoods independently.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Extremely safe with low crime rates and well-lit streets throughout the city
- 24-hour culture with activities at all hours, perfect for jet-lagged solo travelers
- Excellent public transportation connecting all major areas
- Affordable solo accommodations, from capsule hotels to guesthouses
- Amazing food that’s easy to enjoy alone, with many restaurants catering to individual diners
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. Seoul’s subway system is incredibly user-friendly, with English signage and announcements making solo navigation stress-free, and free WiFi is available throughout the metro system.
City Snapshot:
Solo Dining: Many Korean restaurants have single-seat counters and solo portions, normalizing eating alone
Safety: Seoul is very safe for solo travelers, with active police presence and CCTV throughout public areas
Transport: The Seoul Metro is extensive, affordable, and easy to navigate with smartphone apps
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. The city’s friendly, laid-back atmosphere makes solo travelers feel immediately at home, and the grid layout of the city center makes navigation incredibly simple.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Exceptionally safe and easy to navigate, with a logical street grid in the CBD
- Thriving café culture perfect for solo dining and working
- Excellent public transportation, including free tram zones in the city center
- Numerous free activities and museums that solo travelers can enjoy at their own pace
- Diverse neighborhoods each with unique character, all accessible by tram
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. Solo travelers love the city’s café culture, where it’s completely normal to sit alone with a coffee and watch the world go by.
City Snapshot:
Solo Dining: Melbourne’s café and restaurant scene embraces solo diners with counter seating and communal tables
Safety: Melbourne is generally safe for solo travelers, with good lighting and public transport security
Transport: The tram network, including the free City Circle Tram, makes solo navigation simple
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. The city’s walkable neighborhoods and friendly locals make it particularly easy for solo travelers to find their way around, and the vibrant cultural scene provides endless opportunities to meet people.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Safe urban environment with friendly locals who often help lost travelers
- Walkable neighborhoods with clear signage in French and English
- Vibrant arts and music scene with many solo-friendly venues
- Diverse food options for every budget, from poutine stands to fine dining
- 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. Solo travelers appreciate that Montreal’s compact downtown and connected metro system make it easy to explore independently, and the city’s reputation for friendliness means you’re never truly alone.
City Snapshot:
Solo Dining: The city’s food scene welcomes solo diners, especially at bar seating and casual eateries
Safety: Montreal is generally safe for solo travelers, with good public lighting and active street life
Transport: The Montreal Metro connects all major neighborhoods with clear signage
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. The city’s independent spirit means solo travelers fit right in, and the abundance of hostels and co-working spaces makes it easy to connect with other travelers when desired.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Excellent hostel and co-living scene that facilitates meeting other solo travelers
- Efficient public transportation with the U-Bahn and S-Bahn covering the entire city
- Thriving nightlife with many solo-friendly venues where going alone is the norm
- Fascinating historical sites and museums perfect for individual exploration
- Diverse food scene at reasonable prices, from street food to international cuisine
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. Berlin’s large expat and traveler community means there are countless meetups, events, and group activities where solo travelers can connect with like-minded people.
City Snapshot:
Solo Dining: Berlin’s casual dining culture and beer gardens welcome solo diners without hesitation
Safety: Berlin is generally safe, though solo travelers should stay aware in busy tourist areas and at night
Transport: The extensive BVG network of U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and buses makes solo navigation easy
10. Porto, Portugal
PPorto 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. The friendly locals, stunning riverside setting, and affordable prices make Porto an excellent choice for solo travelers seeking a relaxed yet culturally rich experience.
Why it’s perfect for solo travel:
- Walkable historic center (UNESCO World Heritage site) where everything is within reach
- Very affordable accommodations and dining compared to other European cities
- Friendly locals eager to share their culture and help solo travelers navigate
- Beautiful riverfront for strolling and relaxing at your own pace
- World-famous port wine cellars with tastings that welcome solo visitors
The city’s small size creates natural opportunities to bump into fellow travelers repeatedly, often turning brief encounters into lasting friendships. Solo travelers love that Porto feels intimate and manageable, and the growing hostel scene means there are plenty of opportunities to socialize when you want company.
City Snapshot:
Solo Dining: Traditional tascas and riverside cafés welcome solo diners with warm hospitality
Safety: Porto is very safe for solo travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals
Transport: The compact city center is walkable, with Porto Metro connecting outer areas
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 who want to explore with confidence and peace of mind.
Safety: Tokyo tops many safety indexes according to the Economist Safe Cities Index. Reykjavik and Copenhagen consistently score high for personal safety, with well-lit streets and low harassment rates.
Public Transport: Singapore and Tokyo offer world-class transit systems that are safe, efficient, and easy to navigate for solo travelers at any time of day or night.
Solo Dining: Taipei, Tokyo, and Seoul have many single-seat options and dining cultures where eating alone is completely normal and never draws unwanted attention.
Women-Friendly Nightlife: Reykjavik and Copenhagen score high for personal safety, even during evening hours, with respectful nightlife cultures and safe late-night transportation options.
| 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, making solo travel accessible for every budget. Solo travelers can often save money by eating street food, staying in hostels, and exploring free attractions.
- Bangkok, Thailand: Bangkok street food often costs 30–100 THB ($1–$3) per dish. Expect hostel dorm beds to commonly average $10–$20, higher in peak season
- Porto, Portugal: Affordable European charm with meals from €8-12 and hostels starting around €15 per night
- Mexico City, Mexico: Top-tier museums, many of which offer free admission on certain days, plus street tacos for under $1
- Budapest, Hungary: Thermal spas, stunning architecture, and meals for under $10 make this a budget solo traveler’s dream
- Hoi An, Vietnam: Beautiful ancient town with food and accommodations at a fraction of Western prices
If you’re looking for even more off-the-beaten-path options where you can truly disconnect, check out these hidden islands for solo travelers that offer quiet escapes and unique adventures away from the typical tourist crowds.
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. When you’re traveling alone, you’re more approachable and more likely to strike up conversations with both locals and fellow travelers.
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, from pub crawls to cooking nights
- Take free walking tours: These tours attract other solo travelers and provide a natural environment for conversation and exchange of travel tips
- Use social apps: Platforms like Meetup, Bumble BFF, or Couchsurfing events connect you with locals and fellow travelers who share your interests
- Join group activities: Cooking classes, day trips, and pub crawls are designed to foster connections among solo travelers
- Work from co-working spaces: If you’re a digital nomad, these spaces offer both productivity and community with other remote workers
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 gives you the flexibility to form genuine connections that might not happen when you’re already traveling with companions.
Solo Travel Safety Tips
Even in the safest cities, smart precautions can make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. Solo travelers should always prioritize their safety without letting fear hold them back from adventure.
- Share your itinerary with someone back home and check in regularly
- Arrive during daylight hours when possible, especially in unfamiliar cities
- Research neighborhoods before booking accommodations to ensure you’re in a safe, well-connected area
- Keep digital copies of important documents in cloud storage
- Trust your instincts about people and situations—if something feels off, remove yourself
- Learn a few local phrases, especially for emergencies like “help” and “hospital”
- Use transportation apps rather than hailing random taxis, and always verify the driver’s identity
- Stay moderately connected with regular check-ins at home, but don’t broadcast your location publicly on social media
Best Times to Visit Solo Travel Hotspots
Timing can significantly impact your solo travel experience. Consider weather, crowds, and local events when planning your trip as a solo traveler.
- Tokyo: Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms or Fall (Sept-Nov) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
- Lisbon: May-June or September-October to avoid summer crowds while still enjoying warm weather
- Berlin: May-September for outdoor activities and festivals when the city truly comes alive
- Mexico City: November-April during the dry season for clearer skies and comfortable temperatures
- Melbourne: March-May or September-November for mild temperatures and cultural events
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. Solo travel teaches you to be comfortable with yourself, to navigate uncertainty, and to embrace spontaneous opportunities that you might otherwise miss.
Planning Your Solo Adventure
Ready to take the plunge into solo travel? Here are some steps to get started on your journey as a solo traveler:
- Choose your destination based on your comfort level and interests—start easy if it’s your first solo trip
- Research accommodations that cater to solo travelers, like hostels with social events or hotels in safe neighborhoods
- Plan a loose itinerary with plenty of flexibility to follow your interests and energy levels
- Pack light to maintain mobility and independence—you’ll be managing your own luggage
- Download useful apps like maps, translation, and transportation services before you arrive
- Book a few activities in advance to structure your first days and ease into solo travel
- Connect with solo travel communities online for specific advice and destination tips
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 2026. Traveling alone is one of the most empowering experiences you can give yourself, and these cities make it easier than ever to explore the world on your own terms.
