Best Places to Travel Solo

Do you love traveling solo? Or have you ever wondered what are the best places to travel solo? Whether you are a seasoned solo traveler or just starting your travel journey, I’ve got you. Allow me to introduce you to the best places to travel on your own!

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

I’m a little bit biased because I absolutely adore Playa, but truly, it is a great destination for solo travelers. Playa del Carmen is lively, full of extremely kind locals, great Mexican food and all sorts of entertainment. If you love traveling solo, but you love making friends while traveling, Playa is the perfect place to blend the two. There are so many different opportunities to make friends: at the beach, at one of their famous theme parks, at the plaza, and even at your hotel or resort!

Accommodation recommendations: Rosewood Mayakoba, Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen, Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya (Adults Only)

Cartagena, Colombia

If you want to meet tourists and locals alike, and you want free entertainment at night, then head to Cartagena. What makes this such a great destination for solo travelers is the people. The locals are very friendly and welcoming, and the tourists are all there to have a good time, so they are happy to chat with other travelers. You’ll need to have your wits about you since scams are common in touristy areas. But other than that, it is perfectly safe and tons of fun. The Old Walled City really comes alive at night, so make sure to walk around and see if you can catch a performance of Cumbia or Mapalé.

Accommodation recommendation: Casa San Agustin, Hotel Capellan de Getsemani, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara

Buenos Aires, Argentina

If you want Europen vibes but want to avoid all the crowds in Europe, head down to Buenos Aires. Famously known as the Europe of Latin America, Buenos Aires lives up to its nickname. It is full of lovely architecture, and public parks, and the culture is very similar to certain parts of Europe. You’ll even see many restaurants with small tables and outside seating areas, like in Europe (it has an excellent food scene!) If you love theatre and art, then you’ll love Buenos Aires. The arts are deeply rooted in the history of the city, and they remain a staple of it to this day. Regardless of what kind of traveler you are or what you are into, the city is very walkable and easy to get around, making it a great destination for everyone who loves to explore new sights.

Accommodation recommendation: Four Seasons Buenos Aires, Alvear Palace Hotel, Faena Hotel

Alicante, Spain

If you are not interested in being social and you want a quiet destination with beautiful views, great beaches, and great food, then head to Alicante. This small city along the Mediterranean Sea is perfect for travelers who are more laid back and who just want a great place to relax. It is also an excellent destination for solo female travelers because it is quiet and safe. I am a very short woman who is not at all intimidating, and I would be walking around at 11 pm as worry-free as if it was 11 am. That’s how safe it is. If you want something to do, you could check out the Castillo de Santa Bárbara (Santa Bárbara Castle), the Archeological Museum, or one of the many nearby towns. If you just want to soak up the sun, and the waves, and eat paella by the beach, that’s great too!

Accommodation recommendation: Hotel Hospes Amerigo, Sha Wellness Clinic

Riga, Latvia

Now, admittedly, I would not spend more than two or three days in Riga. It is not a very big city. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty. What makes Riga one of the best places to travel solo is that it tends to be quieter/less crowded than other European capitals, it is very tourist friendly, very safe, full of history everywhere, and all of the major tourist sites are very close together. This last detail is especially important for travelers who are new to traveling on their own. Oh, and if you like art nouveau, then you’ll love Riga! The whole city is full of it!

Accommodation recommendation: Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga, Grand Palace Hotel

Kruger National Park, South Africa

I know, I know, a safari is not for everyone, but hear me out. Kruger National Park is probably the best place to fall in love with safaris. Filled with an abundance of wildlife and picture-perfect landscapes, Kruger is one of the best places to travel solo because it provides solo travelers with an opportunity to unplug and focus on themselves and the natural beauty around them. For those who love sunsets and sunrises, Kruger will not disappoint!

Accommodation recommendation: Singita Kruger National Park, Londolozi Game Reserve, Jabulani

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on solo travel. In need of further inspiration? Check out Gabriela Cervantes’s guide, Solo Travel for Women: Iceland, Victoria and Sydney.