[Expert Picks] 15 Must-Visit Solo Travel Destinations in 2025

Solo travel is rising year after year, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down in 2025.

A 2024 study by Skyscanner showed that 43% of respondents traveled solo that year, with more solo trips on the horizon (62% of respondents planned to take between 2 and 5 solo trips in the next year).¹ Solo travel can be fun and rewarding and a way to see the world the way you want to while focusing on self-growth, but your destination matters.

Some places are better for solo travelers than others, and it can be challenging to decide where to go, especially when you’re doing all the planning, organizing, and traveling yourself. According to the survey by Skyscanner, things important to travelers deciding where to go on solo trips included “a relaxing environment, low crime rates and safe areas to explore, and affordability.”

Considering these parameters and using our own data, research, and travel experience, this article will help you decide where to go and list some of the best destinations for solo travelers so you can find the perfect spot for your next trip.

Why Travel Solo?

Here at Upgraded Points, many of us travel alone because we love to travel. But if you’ve never traveled by yourself, it can be daunting, especially the first time.

According to the aforementioned survey, many travel solo for self-care and wellness purposes, for confidence and personal growth, and the freedom to do what they want during travel and not adhere to anyone else’s schedules. Of course, you might also travel alone simply because you don’t have anyone to go with, and that’s fine too. Spontaneity, challenging yourself, and getting to know a new culture or locals are other reasons.

But whatever your reasons may be, the destination is the most important factor — it can make or break your solo travel experience.

How To Decide Where To Go (and Key Tips for Solo Travel)

We already mentioned that safety (especially for women), affordability, and a relaxing environment are important to solo travelers when deciding where to go.

But so are points and miles. According to a survey by American Express Travel, 45% of travelers plan trips around using their points. Using points can make pricey destinations more accessible to solo travelers and open up the world.

When deciding where to go, follow these general tips:

• Choose your destination wisely: Think about what destinations match your interests (the list below will help).
• Start slow: First-timers should start with domestic destinations, shorter trips, or destinations closer to home.
• Safety first: Research destinations that are safe and easy to access and get around in.
• Stay in touch: Buy an eSIM or get a roaming plan so you can contact friends and family and access key maps or apps you need to get around and stay safe.

Where To Go if You’re Traveling on Your Own (Based on Interests and Travel Style)

We did the research so you don’t have to, using our own travel knowledge and experiences, statistics, and our data to help you find your next solo adventure.

1. Miami: Best Domestic Destination for Solo Travelers

In 2023, Upgraded Points performed a deep dive into U.S. cities to find out which U.S. destination is the best place for solo travelers to visit, based on safety, accommodation, transportation, food, and activities, using data from the FBI, Bureau of Transportation Statistics, Viator, Airbnb, and several others. Miami scored the highest out of 50 cities, thanks to a low number of violent crimes, a solid amount of vacation rentals, and a massive number of tours (many of which are rated 5 stars). And if all else fails, you can always hit the beach, an affordable and fun solo activity.

Hot Tip:

Not a fan of Miami’s steamy weather or getting sand between your toes? Find out which other spots are the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

2. Italy: Best Destination for Solo Traveler Foodies

Italy is known for its gastronomy. There’s the slow food movement and delicacies like rich meats and truffles in the north, and eggy pasta, fresh seafood, citrus delights, and refreshing granita in the south and the islands. And let’s not forget the wine, the prosecco, and aperitivo, the Italian version of happy hour, where you munch on Italian tapas and sip Aperol spritz.

Italians love to share their food and culture with visitors, and you can enjoy Italy’s cuisine alone without breaking the bank or feeling awkward about dining alone. Eat budget slices of pizza, cones of gelato, or a cannoli from a food market. Or make new friends on a food-centric tour — Viator offers over 1,000 cuisine-focused tours, from street food in Naples to Chianti and farmhouse lunches to learning how to make pizza and pasta.

3. Washington, D.C.: Best Destination for First-Timer Solo Travelers

Washington, D.C., comes in at No. 3 in our best places to travel alone in the U.S. round-up. It’s a fairly simple trip for solo travelers traveling alone for the first time. You can drive, fly, or take the train to arrive. It’s part of the U.S. and English-speaking, and you can easily see some of the top attractions in just a couple of days (first-timers may want to try shorter domestic trips before embarking on rural or far-off international destinations).

The nation’s capital has plenty to do and see if you’re alone, like museums, parks, and monuments. It scored a 100 out of 100 for public transport and a 98 out of 100 for walkability, ideal for solo travelers who want to move around safely and affordably by metro or simply wander on foot.

4. Japan: Best Destination for Solo Traveler Adventurists

Japan has all sorts of activities for solo travelers, from wandering Takeshita Street in Tokyo for Harajuku shopping to skiing in Niseko and soaking in traditional Japanese onsens. But you have to be ready for a full-on cultural immersion, as you won’t have anyone there to help you translate or navigate street signs or menus in Japanese.

Still, Japan is one of the safest countries when it comes to crime, and you likely won’t feel threatened, even if you get lost in a maze of Tokyo streets. And it’s hard to feel alone at one of the busiest intersections in the world, Shibuya (a hot tip from Chris Hassan, social media and brand manager at Upgraded Points: Soak in the drama from above at a nearby Starbucks instead of actually crossing). Or lean into your solitude and access more remote areas of the country by train or bus — consider hiking through Aso-Kuju National Park and Daisetsuzan National Park or escaping Kyoto’s crowds at the Kyoto Trail.

5. Madrid: Best Destination for Solo Travelers Looking for Culture

Madrid has some of the most enticing cultural activities in all of Europe, especially if you’re an art lover. I’ve spent hours alone wandering the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, taking in masterpieces by Salvador Dalí, Francisco Goya, and Diego Velázquez. There’s also plenty to see outdoors, like strolling past fountains, regal buildings, and manicured gardens at the Retiro Park or taking in the crowds along the famous Gran Vía.

The Spanish capital is one of the safest (and sunniest) European capitals, and it’s also popular for its affordable cuisine and lively nightlife — it’s one of the few destinations I can say with certainty that walking around at midnight is relatively safe in most areas. And, if you’re up for a day trip, take a guided tour of a nearby town like Segovia or Toledo, or visit on your own by bus or train.

6. Netherlands: Best Destination for Solo Cyclists

The Dutch cover a fourth of their journeys in the Netherlands via bicycle, so if you love to cycle, you’ll fit right in. Amsterdam alone has more than 300 miles of bike lanes, which means it’s safe to get around on 2 wheels (just watch for other bikers — one of the biggest dangers for tourists biking, especially if you aren’t familiar with the area and road rules).

Amsterdam has many preset cycling routes that are easy to do on your own, as does Rotterdam. Utrecht has also repeatedly been voted as one of the top cycling cities in the world, ranking high in categories like infrastructure and safety. Some Utrecht hotels even offer biking and accommodation packages that include free bike rental, and the city is home to the longest rainbow-colored bike path in the world.

7. Canada: Best Destination for Solo Hikers

Canada is one of the world’s safest destinations, and it’s an English-speaking country that’s close to the U.S., making it quick and easy to arrive. While hiking alone can seem daunting at first, this type of trip is ideal for travelers who really need peace, quiet, and fresh air. You won’t have to wait for anyone, and no one will have to wait for you!

However, it’s best to hike alone only if you’re a seasoned hiker or you’re doing relatively easy trails. Luckily, Canada’s trails are often well-marked, and you can consult trail conditions at Park Canadas before beginning. Parks like Banff National Park or Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies both have well-marked trails ideal for solo hikers.

Hot Tip:

Canada is also one of the top destinations for solo female travelers. It’s safe and beautiful, and it has much to offer in terms of nature, culture, and cuisine.

8. Chile: Best Destination for Solo Explorers

If you love to explore, Chile has some of Latin America’s most diverse and beautiful landscapes. If you plan to visit many Chilean regions alone, it might be handy to speak some Spanish and have experience getting around in Latin American countries, since Chile is long and large. The Lake District is one worth seeing on your own, scattered with freshwater lakes. Patagonia is the edge of the world, Chile’s southernmost region, and is best for explorers who are ready for wilderness and extreme cold.

If you really want to visit Chile but aren’t ready to tackle Patagonia, the Atacama Desert is a must-see destination that’s a little easier to access. Ryan Smith, the news managing editor for Upgraded Points, points out that while there are tours that take you to all the sites near San Pedro de Atacama (from salt flats and stargazing points to archaeological ruins and volcanoes), these can get expensive. Instead, travelers should know that to “rent a 4×4 and go wherever you want, whenever you want, is the best way to see it all and save money along the way.”

9. Aruba: Best Destination for Solo Travelers Who Love the Beach

Aruba is known as one of the safest Caribbean islands. It’s small and easy to navigate, making it ideal for solo travelers. According to Nick Ellis, senior editor and content contributor for Upgraded Points, traveling solo to Aruba is a great idea for every type of traveler. “Spend a long day on the powdery white sands and in the turquoise ocean waters, and then enjoy a tasty dinner and a few drinks in town after. There’s enough to do to keep oneself occupied, but also the perfect amount of natural beauty, allowing you to really relax,” he said.

Despite its small size, the island has many beaches — some with all the amenities, and others more wild and rural. Traveling on your own means you get to choose.

10. New Zealand: Best Destination for Active Solo Travelers

New Zealand is far from the U.S., but if you can handle the long flight on your own, you’ll be rewarded with unique and exciting activities. Christine Krzyszton, senior finance contributor for Upgraded Points, has visited New Zealand on her own 3 times in the past 2 years, and some of her suggestions for what to see and do on your own include “hiking at Castle Hill, where ‘Chronicles of Narnia’ was filmed, bungee jumping near Queenstown, or taking the Wellington cable car to incredible walking trails. The active solo traveler will have no issue traveling in this picturesque, safe country.”

You might be concerned about exploring rural locations alone, but New Zealand is very safe, ranking fourth in the World Population Review’s list of the world’s safest cities. Just know that getting around New Zealand’s stunning and diverse landscapes as a solo traveler can get expensive (you might want to rent a camper van). A group tour is a way to travel on your own but never get lonely, and it may be the most cost-effective option.

11. London: Best Destination for Solo Travelers With Points

We already mentioned that nearly half of travelers plan their trips around points, and since London is an expensive city, using your points can really help you save on airfare and hotels. Many airlines fly between London (which has several airports) and U.S. hubs, offering flexibility for arrival and departure using points. All major hotel brands (Marriott, IHG, Hyatt, and Hilton) have a decent, if not large, presence in London, meaning you have endless possibilities for free accommodation, assuming you have a sizable stash of points.

London is also easy to get around in using the Tube, and with so many people around, you’ll always feel safe. And with endless activities, from museums and the London Eye to West End musicals and vintage shopping, there’s something for every traveler.

Hot Tip:

Because so many airlines fly between London airports and the U.S., you may be able to find a deal using points. Consider getting a flexible credit card, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card, which allows you to follow the deals and transfer your Chase Ultimate Rewards points to a number of airline and hotel partners, such as the British Airways Club, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, Marriott Bonvoy, or World of Hyatt, among others. Keep an eye out for transfer bonuses, where you can often get up to 30% more points.

12. Costa Rica: Best Destination for Eco-Conscious Solo Travelers

Costa Rica is one of the most sustainable countries in the world. It has practically reversed deforestation and is home to nearly 5% of the world’s wildlife species, making it the perfect place to view animals in the wild and discover pristine jungles, waterfalls, and beaches. According to Michael Y. Park, senior editor and content contributor for Upgraded Points, eco-conscious travelers will feel right at home because both the government and private businesses have invested heavily in ecotourism, offering significant variety.

“When I was in the Arenal area for a month, I stayed in back-to-nature treehouses, luxury ecoresorts, volcano-powered spas, and on and on, with a surprising number of relatively well-maintained roads and so on for a country that doesn’t even have an army.”

Michael Y. Park, senior editor and content contributor for Upgraded Points

13. Portugal: Best Destination for Solo Travelers on a Budget

Solo travelers who want a cost-effective trip should head to Portugal, where you can grab a beer for just a couple of dollars, a sit-down meal for under $12, and a hotel room for less than $100 per night. Costs vary by season and city, but if you’re in the market for an affordable urban destination, go to Porto, which is less expensive than Lisbon.

Smaller towns like Obidos and Coimbra, rural areas like the mountainous Serra do Lousa, and inland areas of the Algarve are typically more cost-effective than Lisbon or Cascais. It’s fairly easy for solo travelers to get around the country, as it’s well-connected by affordable train and bus systems.

Hot Tip:

You can often find cheap deals to fly to Portugal from the U.S. using points or cash. You can transfer points from Bilt Rewards, Capital One Miles, or Marriott Bonvoy to TAP Air Portugal Miles&Go, and these are some of the best ways to redeem TAP Air Portugal miles.

14. Thailand: Best Destination for Solo Travelers Who Want To Be Social

If you want to make friends while traveling alone, head to Thailand. There’s even a backpacker street in Bangkok that attracts visitors who want to shop, hang out, and drink with other like-minded travelers: the seedy but fun Khao San Road. Throughout the entire country, you’ll find travelers who want to be social — dancing at Koh Phangan’s (in)famous Full Moon Party or volunteering at elephant rescue centers near Chiang Mai. Hop on a free walking tour, hang out on the beach, or make a friend over a beer at a night market.

And you might even make a local friend, too. According to Upgraded Points’ Ranjan Sahu, “Thai people are warm, friendly, kind, easily approachable, and always have a big smile.”

15. Bali, Indonesia: Best Destination for Solo Wellness Travelers

Bali is full of wellness resorts, retreats, spas, and activities that encourage self-reflection and relaxation. If you’re a traveler who needs a wellness break, the Indonesian hub is also an affordable way to treat yourself, with wellness retreats and hotels at all price points.

Joining a Bali retreat is a nice way to travel alone but also have social interaction, as the destination attracts solo travelers. You could also stay in a points hotel (there are many) and consider taking yoga classes, doing wellness activities, or indulging in spa days. On your way home, stop in nearby Singapore, which is one of the safest countries in the world.

Final Thoughts

Traveling solo has many benefits, and you’ll enjoy it when you choose the right destination. From beachy paradise to buzzing cities and spots closer to home, consider one of these places the next time you want to travel alone.