Cool places to go alone: Ultimate Safe Spots 2025

Why Solo Travel Is More Popular Than Ever

Cool places to go alone are easier to find than you might think. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, the world offers countless destinations perfect for solo travelers. From the ultra-safe streets of Iceland and Singapore to the social scenes of Bali and Budapest, the best solo destinations combine safety, affordability, engaging activities, and opportunities to connect with others.

Top Solo Travel Destinations by Interest:

• Safest Overall: Iceland, Singapore, New Zealand, Portugal
• Best for Nature: Moab (USA), Switzerland, Costa Rica, Patagonia
• Best for Food & Culture: Vietnam, Italy, Spain, Santa Fe
• Most Social: Bali, Budapest, Australia’s East Coast
• Most Budget-Friendly: Thailand, Poland, Czechia

Solo travel is more than visiting new places—it’s about finding yourself. While it can feel daunting at first, taking that first step leads to one of life’s most rewarding experiences. You get to move on your own schedule, explore your interests, and avoid group compromises.

The key is choosing a destination with four essential qualities: safety (low crime rates), affordability (budget-friendly options), activities (plenty to do alone), and a social scene (chances to meet others).

For example, Iceland has been the world’s safest country for over a decade, and Singapore is one of the safest cities, making them ideal for first-timers. Meanwhile, Thailand and Portugal offer incredible value and rich culture, with locals who welcome solo travelers.

I’m Ramy Saber, founder of GoTravelHunt. I use my background in project management to help travelers plan stress-free solo adventures to cool places to go alone that match their interests and comfort levels.

Top Picks for First-Time & Female Solo Travelers

When you’re planning your first solo adventureor if you’re a woman traveling alonechoosing the right destination can make all the difference. These cool places to go alone consistently rank at the top for safety, welcoming vibes, and easy navigation. They’re designed to help you feel confident and comfortable from the moment you arrive.

Iceland: The Safest Adventure

Iceland isn’t just safeit’s the safest country on Earth. Year after year, it tops global safety rankings with incredibly low crime rates and welcoming people. If you’re nervous about a first solo trip, Iceland will put your mind at ease.

Beyond safety, the island offers jaw-dropping natural beauty. Imagine watching the Northern Lights, standing beside thundering waterfalls, or hiking across ancient glaciersthe landscapes are otherworldly.

Reykjavik makes the perfect home base. The capital is compact and easy to steer, filled with cozy cafes and colorful streets. Self-catering apartments are a great option, giving you the freedom to cook your own meals and save money. Consider staying in apartments outside the city center for a chance to see the Northern Lights from your window.

One important note: Iceland’s natural elements can be unpredictable. We always recommend getting travel insurance before you go. Better safe than sorry when you’re dealing with glaciers and geothermal areas.

New Zealand: The Backpacker’s Dream

New Zealand has earned its reputation as one of the friendliest countries on the planet. Ranked as the second safest country globally, it combines low crime rates with strong protections against discrimination. Everyone here speaks English, and Kiwis are genuinely warm and helpful to travelers.

The country’s diverse landscapes seem designed for adventure seekers. Remember those epic mountain scenes from “The Lord of the Rings”? That’s all New Zealand. Whether you’re into hiking, bungee jumping, or white water rafting (Rotorua boasts the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world), there’s something to get your heart racing.

The well-established backpacker trail means you’ll constantly meet other solo travelers. The campervan culture is hugeaffordable rentals double as your accommodation and transport. Alternatively, hop-on-hop-off buses let you travel at your own pace while meeting other backpackers.

Don’t miss unique experiences like a M01ori dinner and cultural experience in Rotorua, visiting the famous Hobbiton movie set, or taking a Milford Sound boat trip.

Portugal: The Perfect European Introduction

Looking for an affordable European adventure that doesn’t sacrifice safety or charm? Portugal checks every box. This sun-soaked country offers beautiful beaches, rich history, and friendly locals who speak excellent English. It’s become one of the top cool places to go alone for first-time solo travelers in Europe.

The weather is glorious most of the year, and you can easily bounce between the historic streets of Lisbon and Porto to the golden beaches of the Algarve. Getting around is simple thanks to efficient trains and buses.

In Lisbon, social hostels make it incredibly easy to meet other travelers. If you want a more authentic beach experience away from the tourist crowds, head to Tavira in the Algarve, where your budget will stretch even further.

The activities here blend culture with fun. Learn to make Portugal’s famous custard tarts in a cooking class in Porto, watch the sunset on a boat trip in Lisbon, catch some waves with surf lessons in Albufeira, or sip your way through the stunning Douro Valley on a wine tasting tour.

Singapore: The Ultra-Safe Urban Hub

If you want to ease into solo travel with an ultra-modern, spotlessly clean, and incredibly safe destination, Singapore is your answer. This city-state consistently ranks among the safest, with strict laws and low crime rates.

Singapore’s efficient public transport system is legendary. The MRT (metro) makes getting around effortless. Consider grabbing an eSIM so you always have data for navigation.

For accommodation, pod-style hostels offer privacy and comfort, perfect if you want to meet people but also value your personal space.

The city is a fascinating blend of nature and urban life. The futuristic Gardens by the Bay feels like a sci-fi movie, while the Night Safari offers a unique after-dark wildlife experience. For thrills, Universal Studios provides a full day of fun. For culture and world-class food, explore Chinatown and sample everything at a Hawker Centrethese open-air food courts serve incredible meals for just a few dollars.

The Best Cool Places to Go Alone for Every Interest

This section dives into destinations based on specific passions, helping you find a trip that perfectly matches your personality and interests. We believe that the best cool places to go alone are those that resonate with your unique travel style.

For the Nature Lover & Hiker

For those whose hearts beat for the great outdoors, these destinations offer breathtaking landscapes and ample opportunities for exploration.

• Moab, USA: This Utah gem is a paradise for solo nature travelers, home to two incredible National Parks: Arches and Canyonlands. Hiking here is a fantastic solo activityit’s cheap, safe, and you’ll never feel out of place enjoying the stunning vistas on your own. For more adventure, try an off-roading tour with a reputable local operator.
• Switzerland: With its serene fjords, colorful fields, and majestic Alpine peaks, Switzerland is a hiker’s dream. Ranked #7 on the Global Peace Index, it boasts an impressively low crime rate, making it wonderfully safe for solo travelers. The capital, Berne, offers a safe base from which to explore the surrounding mountain ranges.
• Costa Rica: Rich in wildlife and vibrant culture, Costa Rica is a dream for nature enthusiasts. Many locals speak English, and the country is very accessible. Explore the Cloud Forest in Monteverde, witness the majestic Arenal Volcano, or soak in natural hot springs. For thrill-seekers, Monteverde also offers some of the region’s longest ziplines and one of Latin America’s highest bungee jumps. If you prefer a guided introduction, consider joining a group tour.

For the Foodie & Culture Vulture

If your travel motivation revolves around tantalizing your taste buds and immersing yourself in rich histories, these are the cool places to go alone for you.

• Vietnam: A favorite for solo travelers, Vietnam offers an incredible culinary journey and deep cultural experiences. From busy street food tours in Hanoi to learning authentic dishes in a cooking class, your palate will thank you. Culturally, you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, dig into history at the War Remnants Museum, or witness traditional water puppet shows.
• Italy: With its unparalleled history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, Italy is a dream for any solo traveler. The country is well-connected by trains and buses, making it easy to hop between cities. While Venice and Rome are iconic, consider Bologna for its vibrant student life and fantastic food scene, or Florence for a pizza and gelato class. A visit to the Colosseum in Rome is, of course, a must.
• Spain: Spain offers an enchanting blend of culture, history, and incredible food. Madrid, in particular, is an excellent choice for solo travelers and is considered much safer than some other popular Spanish cities for solo exploration. We highly recommend joining a food tour to dive into the local tapas culture.
• Santa Fe, USA: This charming New Mexico city is a must-see for its unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures. Small enough for a long weekend, Santa Fe captivates with its distinct architecture, thriving art scene, and incredible Southwestern cuisine. Don’t miss restaurants like La Choza or Paper Dosa, and explore historical sites like Puye Cliff Dwellings or Bandelier National Monument.

For the Social Butterfly Seeking Community

Traveling alone doesn’t mean you have to be lonely. These destinations are renowned for their social scenes, making it easy to connect with other travelers and locals.

• Bali, Indonesia: Often called the perfect introduction to Southeast Asia, Bali is a haven for solo travelers seeking community. It’s incredibly catered to Westerners while retaining its unique charm, offering a mix of surf, cafes, temples, and nature. Areas like Canggu and Ubud are popular, and hostels are a fantastic way to meet people. Getting around is easy with local ride-hailing apps. Activities like visiting the Monkey Forest, taking an ATV tour, or joining a cooking class are great for group interaction.
• Budapest, Hungary: This vibrant European capital is safe, busy, and boasts an amazing atmosphere. Budapest offers a fantastic mix of activities and is surprisingly affordable. It’s famous for its unique “ruin bars,” which are perfect for socializing. Social hostels are excellent for meeting fellow adventurers. Don’t miss soaking in the famous Sz e9chenyi Thermal Baths, exploring the historic Buda Castle, or taking a river cruise.
• Australia (East Coast): Australia’s East Coast is a magnet for backpackers and solo travelers, known for its accessibility and vibrant social scene. The coastline offers countless stops, and you’ll find plenty of other travelers on the same route. Traveling by bus is a popular way to explore. Consider experiences like a Fraser Island adventure, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, or a Whitsundays scenic flight.

For the Budget-Conscious Explorer

Traveling solo doesn’t have to break the bank. These destinations offer incredible experiences without requiring you to splurge, making them perfect cool places to go alone on a tighter budget.

• Thailand: This Southeast Asian jewel is rich in culture, incredibly safe, and very affordable. Locals are friendly, and the country is exceptionally easy to steer with a great network of ferries, trains, and buses. In Bangkok, staying in a hotel in Chinatown puts you right in the heart of the action. Enjoy a street food tour, visit the famous Floating Market and Maeklong Railway, or take a cooking class in Chiang Mai.
• Krakow, Poland: A personal favorite for many, Krakow is an affordable, safe, and fun European city that is busy with tourists year-round. It offers a wealth of history and culture without the hefty price tag of Western European capitals. Social hostels are great for meeting people. A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau is a poignant experience, and exploring the historic Wieliczka Salt Mine is a unique adventure.
• Prague, Czechia: Prague is another amazing and affordable European city for solo travelers. It’s safe, incredibly walkable, and packed with gorgeous architecture and fascinating history. The city offers a vibrant nightlife and a very social atmosphere. Award-winning hostels are highly recommended for meeting others. Explore the stunning Klementinum Library, visit Prague Castle, or enjoy a relaxing dinner boat trip on the Vltava River.

Essential Safety Tips for Traveling Alone

Traveling solo is incredibly rewarding, and a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a safe and stress-free experience. While these cool places to go alone are generally safe, smart travel practices are always key. Think of safety planning as the foundation that allows you to truly relax and enjoy your adventure.

Research & Preparation

Before you go, research your destination’s local customs, cultural norms, and common tourist scams. This knowledge helps you travel confidently and respectfully.

Book your first night’s accommodation in advance, especially for late arrivals. It provides a safe base to land and orient yourself without the stress of a last-minute search.

Learning a few key phrases in the local language shows respect and can lead to genuine connections. Even just “hello,” “please,” and “thank you” can make a big difference.

Know the local emergency numbers and save your embassy’s contact information in your phone. Having this readily available provides peace of mind.

We cannot stress this enough: get travel insurance. For solo travelers, it’s essential. Choose a reputable provider that offers global health and travel coverage for emergencies, lost luggage, or trip cancellations so these bumps don’t become disasters.

Staying Aware & Connected

Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member back home. Give them your flight details, accommodation addresses, and a general outline of your plans. Check in regularlyeven a quick text gives your loved ones peace of mind.

Trust your intuition. This is perhaps the most important safety tip. If a situation or person feels wrong, listen to that feeling. Don’t worry about seeming rude; remove yourself from situations that don’t feel right.

Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas. Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit streets. Keep your phone charged, but don’t walk with your head buried in your screen. Being present and observant is your best defense.

Keep expensive items and large amounts of cash out of sight. Blending in makes you less of a target. Use reliable transportation optionsstick to official taxis, reputable ride-sharing apps, or established public transport systems.

Protecting Your Belongings

Pickpockets can be an issue in crowded tourist areas. While the destinations we’ve recommended are generally safe, statistics show that cities like Barcelona, Spain have higher rates of petty theft. Be vigilant in busy markets and on public transport.

Invest in an anti-theft bag with features like slash-proof material and lockable zippers. When dining, keep your bag on your lap or looped around your chair legnever hang it on the back of your chair.

Never leave your belongings unattended, even for a moment. Use lockers at hostels or the beach, or take valuables with you.

Create digital copies of all important documentspassport, visa, insurance policy, and credit cards. Save them to a cloud service or email them to yourself. If your physical documents are lost or stolen, having digital backups will save you enormous stress.

Frequently Asked Questions about Solo Travel

What is the #1 safest country for solo travel?

If safety is your top concern, Iceland stands out. Consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, Iceland boasts extremely low crime rates and a peaceful, welcoming society. Its safety record isn’t just a statistic—it’s part of the culture. The locals are helpful, and the infrastructure is designed with travelers in mind. Iceland offers that rare combination of adventure and peace of mind that makes it an ideal choice for anyone seeking cool places to go alone.

Is it weird to go on vacation alone?

Not at all! Solo vacations are incredibly popular because they offer something group trips can’t: complete freedom. You get to wake up when you want, eat what you want, and spend as much time at each attraction as you desire. Want to spend an entire afternoon reading by a pool? Go for it. Feel like exploring a new city from dawn to dusk? Nobody’s stopping you.

Beyond the practical benefits, solo travel is genuinely empowering. It pushes you out of your comfort zone, helps you make decisions on your own, and lets you find strengths you didn’t know you had. Many solo travelers describe their trips as transformative. So if you’re hesitating, let that worry go. Solo travel is one of the most rewarding adventures you can have.

How do I meet people when traveling by myself?

One of the biggest misconceptions about solo travel is that you’ll be lonely. Meeting people is often easier than you’d expect! The key is being open to conversation.

Hostels are your best friend for social connections. Many are designed with community in mind, featuring common areas, group dinners, and organized activities that make it easy to meet fellow travelers.

Free walking tours are another fantastic option. You’ll explore a new city and naturally connect with other travelers who share your curiosity.

Group activities create instant camaraderie. Whether you’re taking a cooking class, joining a food tour, or hiking with a group, these shared experiences make conversation flow naturally.

Don’t underestimate the power of simply striking up conversations at cafes, bars, or on public transport. Many other solo travelers are also looking to connect! A simple “Where are you from?” can lead to wonderful friendships. Language exchange meetups also offer a great way to meet both travelers and locals.

The beauty of solo travel is that while you have the freedom to be alone, you’re never truly isolated. The cool places to go alone we’ve highlighted all have vibrant communities of travelers ready to welcome you.

Your Solo Adventure Awaits

Taking the first step into solo travel is one of the most empowering experiences you can have. It’s not just about visiting new places; it’s about finding new parts of yourself. Whether your heart yearns for adventure in the mountains, cultural immersion in a vibrant city, or simply a peaceful retreat, there’s a perfect destination out there for you.

The beauty of solo travel is that it’s entirely yours to shape. Want to spend all day hiking in Moab’s red rocks? Go for it. Feel like wandering through Porto’s charming streets at your own pace? Absolutely. There’s no compromise, just you and the open road.

With a little planninglike booking your first night’s stay, getting travel insurance, and researching your destinationyour trip can be safe, affordable, and unforgettable. From the ultra-safe streets of Iceland and Singapore to the social scenes of Bali and Budapest, the world is full of cool places to go alone that welcome solo travelers with open arms.

Every experienced solo traveler was once a first-timer. You’re not just planning a tripyou’re opening a door to freedom, self-findy, and adventures you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Ready to find your perfect solo adventure? Let GoTravelHunt help you take that first step. Explore our complete guide to the best vacation spots to start planning your journey. The world is waiting for you.