Top 3 Destinations for Solo Travelers

Portugal

• Start in Porto, where you can wander through azulejo-covered streets and explore world-class art museums.

• Take a scenic river cruise along the Douro to admire terraced vineyards and sip port wine.

• Head to Sintra, a fairytale town filled with colorful palaces and lush gardens—perfect for a day of exploration.

• Unwind in Cascais, a charming seaside town with golden beaches and a relaxed.

• Overall: Portugal is affordable, safe, and incredibly easy to navigate, making it ideal for anyone traveling solo.

• Where to stay: The Yeatman in Porto for luxury with vineyard views, or Tivoli Palácio de Seteais in Sintra for a palace hotel experience.

Norway & Sweden

• The Norwegian fjords are the main attraction—opt for a multi-day cruise or shorter excursion through iconic spots like Geirangerfjord or Sognefjord.

• Cruising solo is incredibly easy, with well-organized tours and opportunities to meet fellow travelers while soaking in dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters.

• Explore charming Bergen with its colorful Bryggen wharf, then head to Stockholm for elegant architecture, world-class museums, and a vibrant café culture.

• In Sweden, wander through Gamla Stan (Old Town) and enjoy the innovative food scene and design-forward culture.

• Overall: Both countries are exceptionally safe, English is widely spoken, and the infrastructure makes solo exploration seamless—even in remote areas.

• Where to stay: Hotel Union Øye in Norway for fjord-side luxury, or Ett Hem in Stockholm for an intimate, home-away-from-home experience.

Italy

• Start in Rome, where you can spend days exploring ancient ruins, world-class museums like the Vatican, and stunning architecture around every corner.

• Head to Bologna for some of the best food in the country—solo dining is not only accepted but celebrated here.

• Grab a seat at a cozy trattoria and savor fresh pasta and regional wines.

• Venture into Tuscany for wine tastings in sun-drenched vineyards, where you'll easily connect with other travelers and welcoming locals.

• Overall: Italy's rich culture, walkable cities, and passionate approach to food and art make it an unforgettable destination for solo adventurers.

• Where to stay: Hotel Locarno in Rome for Art Nouveau charm near Piazza del Popolo, or Palazzo Talìa for a boutique experience in the heart of the city.

Quick tips

• Portugal: Book your Sintra palace tickets online in advance to skip the long lines, especially at Pena Palace.

• Norway: Invest in a Norway in a Nutshell tour pass for seamless fjord exploration with trains, buses, and ferries all included.

• Italy: Book skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican and Colosseum—you'll save hours and have more time to explore.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Europe page.