Choosing a destination is one of the biggest decisions in solo travel.
Explore the destinations below to find a place that matches your confidence level, travel style, and travel goals.
If you’re still deciding whether solo travel is right for you, start with New to Solo Travel. If you’re ready to plan your trip, visit How to Travel Solo.
How to Choose a Solo Travel Destination
The best destination isn’t necessarily the most popular one. It’s the one that matches your confidence level, travel style, and comfort with getting around independently.
Ask yourself:
- How comfortable am I navigating a new place?
- Do I prefer cities, nature, beaches, or culture?
- Am I looking for a simple first trip or a bigger adventure?
Once you know those answers, explore the destinations below to find the right fit.
Compare Solo Travel Destinations
Portugal
- Ease: Easy
- Cost: Moderate
- Best for: First Europe trip
Germany
- Ease: Easy
- Cost: Moderate
- Best for: Train travel
Switzerland
- Ease: Very easy
- Cost: Higher
- Best for: Scenery
Accordion Content
Thailand
- Ease: Easy
- Cost: Low
- Best for: First Asia trip
Indonesia
- Ease: Moderate
- Cost: Low
- Best for: Adventure
United States
- Ease: Easy
- Cost: Higher
- Best for: Familiarity (if from US)
First-Time Friendly Solo Travel
If this is your first solo trip, start with a destination that feels manageable. You don’t need to prove anything by choosing the most adventurous option right away.
Places like Portugal, Germany, and parts of the United States are great for building confidence because transportation is straightforward, tourism is well established, and it’s easy to settle into a comfortable routine while you travel.
Europe for Easy Solo Travel
Europe is one of my favorite regions for solo travel because getting around is often easier than people expect.
Whether you’re riding trains through Switzerland, wandering historic neighborhoods in Portugal, or exploring cities in Germany, you’ll find plenty of infrastructure that makes independent travel feel less intimidating and more enjoyable.
Southeast Asia for Solo Travel
Before my first trip to Southeast Asia, I was nervous about traveling there alone. Once I arrived, I quickly realized how welcoming and traveler-friendly it could be.
Thailand is a great introduction to the region, while Indonesia offers everything from busy cities to quieter islands. Both are rewarding destinations if you’re looking for culture, food, and experiences that feel completely different from home.
Before You Go: Be Ready for the Unexpected
Even the best trips can come with surprises.
That’s why I created my free Just in Case Travel Guide, which covers common travel problems and what to do if they happen.
Inside you’ll find tips for:
- Lost luggage
- Missed flights
- Lost or stolen passports
- Travel delays and disruptions