This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the blog!
Solo travel gives you space to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re hiking through quiet hills, eating your way through a new city, or watching the world go by from a café window, the experience feels personal and free. These destinations aren’t just beautiful—they’re solo-friendly, easy to get around, and full of things to do that don’t feel awkward if you’re going it alone.
📍 Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto has a peaceful rhythm that makes it perfect for solo exploring. The city is full of cozy guesthouses tucked into narrow streets, and walking through neighborhoods like Higashiyama or Gion feels like you’ve stepped into a different world. There’s something really grounding about how nature and daily life blend together here—from mossy garden paths to locals calmly riding their bikes past shrines. Flights into Osaka usually offer the best deals, and from there, it’s a quick train ride to Kyoto Station.
You’ll find yourself getting lost in the best way possible. There’s the calm of Maruyama Park and the charm of the old streets near Ninenzaka. Around every corner, there’s a small sweet shop, a quiet teahouse, or a peaceful garden. If you’re into photography or journaling, this city practically begs you to slow down and take it all in.
Things to do in Kyoto:
- Walk through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Visit Nishiki Market for snacks and souvenirs
- Explore Gion’s old town streets
- Relax in Maruyama Park or Kyoto Botanical Garden
- Check out Kyoto International Manga Museum
📍 Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is one of those places where every view feels like a screensaver. Whether you’re hiking solo or joining a tour, it’s super easy to keep busy and meet other travelers along the way. There are great budget hostels with mountain views, and it’s common for people to strike up conversations in a shared kitchen or during a group hike. Flights into Queenstown’s airport are scenic (mountains right outside your window), and once you arrive, everything feels close-knit and welcoming.
Lake Wakatipu is a stunning, mountain-framed lake in Queenstown, New Zealand. It’s perfect for walks, boat rides, or just soaking up the views.
Adventure is a big part of the draw here. You can hike Queenstown Hill for panoramic views, take a jet boat ride through Shotover Canyon, or just chill by Lake Wakatipu with a flat white in hand. Even if you’re not into extreme sports, the nature walks and boat cruises offer more low-key ways to soak it all in. The town also has cozy cafes and even a little art scene that’s easy to stumble into.
Things to do in Queenstown:
- Hike Queenstown Hill or Ben Lomond
- Take a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu
- Ride the Skyline Gondola for epic views
- Explore the local Saturday Craft Market
- Go on a day trip to Milford Sound
📍 Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a solo travel dream. It’s walkable, affordable, and packed with color and character. Cobblestone streets lead you past tiled buildings and tiny pastelarias where you can grab a coffee and people-watch for hours. Flights into Lisbon are often budget-friendly from Europe or the U.S., and staying in neighborhoods like Alfama or Bairro Alto gives you easy access to both the chill side of the city and the lively local culture.
There’s always something happening here. You might hop on the iconic Tram 28 one morning, then end your day catching sunset at one of the city’s scenic viewpoints, called miradouros. The vibe is laid-back and friendly, and day trips to places like Sintra or Cascais are just a short train ride away. Lisbon also has a strong digital nomad scene, so it’s easy to meet other solo travelers in co-working cafés or walking tours.
Things to do in Lisbon:
- Watch sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
- Take Tram 28 through historic neighborhoods
- Visit the Time Out Market for local food stalls
- Day trip to Sintra to see castles and gardens
- Explore the quirky shops and cafés at LX Factory
✈️ Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get the best flight deals, hotel offers, and travel tips—delivered straight to your inbox.
📍 Ubud, Bali
If you’re craving rest, reflection, or even a bit of healing, Ubud checks all the boxes. Surrounded by rice terraces and jungle, this part of Bali feels like its own little world. It’s easy to find calm here, whether you’re sipping ginger tea on a balcony or walking barefoot through a yoga studio. Many travelers book flights to Denpasar, then take a 90-minute ride into Ubud, where accommodations range from homestays to luxury eco-lodges.
While the wellness scene is huge—think yoga, massages, and meditation retreats—there’s also a lot to explore. Art galleries and markets give the area a creative pulse, and waterfall hikes or scooter rides through the countryside let you see a more rural side of Bali. Even just sitting in a cafe overlooking the rice fields can turn into the highlight of your day.
Things to do in Ubud:
- Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest
- Take a yoga class
- Walk the Campuhan Ridge at sunrise
- Explore Tegallalang Rice Terrace
- Browse local art at Agung Rai Museum of Art
📍 Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City is lively and full of character. It’s a place where you can go from museums to street tacos to leafy parks in a single afternoon. Staying in Roma or Condesa is ideal—both neighborhoods are solo-traveler friendly and packed with things to do. Flights into CDMX are usually affordable from North America, and the city’s metro and Uber system make it easy to get around on your own.
What makes this place really fun is the variety. You could start your day at the Anthropology Museum, stop for churros and hot chocolate in the afternoon, then browse local books or records at a market. It’s a city that rewards curiosity, whether you’re into food, art, or just people-watching. You’ll find everything from taco stands to trendy brunch spots without having to walk far.
Things to do in Mexico City:
- Explore Chapultepec Park and its museums
- Stroll through Roma and Condesa for coffee and vintage finds
- Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum
- Grab tacos at a local street stand
- Spend a morning at Mercado de La Merced
Final Thoughts
Solo travel isn’t about being alone—it’s about making space for new experiences, people, and maybe even a little growth along the way. Each of these destinations has that solo-friendly vibe, with plenty to do at your own pace. Whether you want adventure, calm, or a little of both, there’s something here that’ll stick with you.
When planning your trip, it helps to look up places to stay in the heart of the action, and book a few key activities in advance—especially if you want to join group tours or cooking classes. Flights and hotels are easier than ever to lock in these days, so once you pick your spot, everything else can unfold naturally. Trust the process, be open to meeting people, and let the journey shape itself.
Pingback: 8 Perfect Destinations for Solo Travelers - skyvoyagee