Ireland, Iceland, Italy, and beyond! Discover 2026’s best solo travel destinations

Many travelers prefer the flexibility and freedom of solo travel—no compromising on destinations, no scheduling headaches with friends, and complete control over your itinerary. Plus, you’ll return home with new friendships and the pride of stepping outside your comfort zone. And, that’s where guided group Solo Tours are a game changer. An expert Tour Director guides you through a thoughtfully crafted itinerary while you’re surrounded by fellow solo travelers, giving you the safety net of group travel with the freedom to explore on your own terms during free time. That’s the best of both worlds. You’ll uncover all the magic your destination has to offer—fully supported. On these tours, solo travel has never been simpler, and that’s why now’s the best time to travel solo.

Greece has a way of making solo travelers feel instantly at home. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, sharing small plates at a seaside taverna, or watching the sunset with new friends from your tour group, connection comes naturally here. The energy is relaxed, the locals are warm, and the scenery is a dream, making it easy to explore independently—without ever feeling alone.

Why solo travelers love Greece

Walkable neighborhoods: Island towns are made for leisurely strolls, but even big cities like Athens offer solo-friendly areas like the cafe-lined Plaka neighborhood. Even when meandering alone, you’ll feel connected to history when you spy the views of the Acropolis.

Welcoming island culture: Relaxed atmospheres make it easy to strike up conversations with local shopkeepers or fellow travelers over meze.

Stunning landscapes everywhere: Whitewashed villages, turquoise water, and ancient ruins create an ideal backdrop for a solo journey.

Social dining scene: Greece’s friendly rhythm makes dining alone optional, not inevitable, as you’ll always find opportunities to connect wherever you go.

What to know about solo travel in Greece

Greece is magical—but navigating it solo can come with a few logistical hurdles. Ferries sell out, island-hop timing can get complicated, and the most memorable experiences aren’t always easy to book on your own. That’s where a guided Solo Tour makes all the difference. On our Greek Islands for Solo Travelers: Crete & Santorini tour, you’ll skip long ferry queues, avoid complicated island-to-island planning, and step right into curated experiences like a sunset boat ride in Santorini and a guided foodie walk through Athens. You’ll have a private room to recharge, a built-in group of fellow solo travelers to share seaside dinners with, and an expert Tour Director handling every detail—so you can focus on soaking up the views (and savoring all that deliciously salty feta!).

Portugal is friendly, approachable, and endlessly charming—an ideal mix for solo travelers. Popular destinations like Lisbon and Porto are walkable and welcoming, while coastal towns invite slow, scenic strolls. Traveling solo here feels effortless, and once you’re sipping a glass of Port while gazing out over a charming waterfront viewpoint, you’ll see why we consider it one of the best countries for solo travel.

Why solo travelers love Portugal

Safe, walkable cities: Lisbon and Porto offer accessible neighborhoods that feel lively (but not overwhelming) for solo explorers.

Charming urban experiences: Solo travelers relish wandering through tiled alleyways, hopping on iconic yellow trams, and settling into riverside wine bars without feeling out of place.

Peaceful coastal moments: Scenic viewpoints and overlooks provide the reflective experiences solo travelers crave.

Warm, welcoming locals: It’s easy to feel at home when you’re sampling seafood and listening to fado music in a rustic tavern or bonding with other travelers over flaky pasteis de nata.

What to know about solo travel in Portugal

Portugal may feel compact, but some of its most memorable spots—like Sintra’s fairy-tale palaces or the vineyard-covered hills of the Douro Valley—require extra planning. Coordinating trains, securing tickets, and navigating rural areas can quickly turn into a hassle. Luckily, our Portugal for Solo Travelers tour seamlessly connects Lisbon, Porto, and the countryside, with expert-led visits to places like Sintra and the Douro Valley planned for you. That means you can spend your energy where it counts: enjoying golden-hour views from a miradouro (that’s a local term for a scenic overlook), trying that second (or sixth!) custard tart, or feeling moved by touching fado music performances. With a private room, a built-in group of fellow solo explorers, and a Tour Director guiding the way, we make one of the best solo travel destinations even more alluring.

Italy is solo-travel paradise—especially when the details are handled for you. From bustling piazza afternoons to quiet countryside mornings, it’s a destination that rewards both exploration and reflection. Meals are social, history is everywhere, and there’s something comforting about knowing you can dive into la dolce vita on your own terms.

Why solo travelers love Italy

Walkable historic centers: Rome’s cobblestone streets and Florence’s piazzas feel welcoming, not intimidating.

Rich dining culture: Long tables, bustling trattorias, and shared meal traditions make connecting over pasta and wine effortless.

Iconic landmarks everywhere: Ample historic sites keep every day feeling full, even when traveling independently.

Natural sense of belonging: Italy’s savor-every-moment energy makes solo travelers feel like they’re exactly where they’re meant to be.

What to know about solo travel in Italy

As dreamy as Italy is, navigating it solo can mean juggling train schedules, timed-entry museum tickets, and reservations at must-visit spots. Popular sites like the Colosseum or the Vatican require advance planning, and moving between cities can eat into your time if you’re coordinating it alone. On our Venice, Florence & Rome for Solo Travelers tour, those details are handled seamlessly. You’ll enjoy meticulously planned guided sightseeing, thoughtfully mapped routes between cities, and curated experiences that bring la dolce vita to life—plus, a built-in group of fellow solo travelers to share it all with and a private room to retreat to at night. That means more time savoring gelato in sunny piazzas and less time standing in line or deciphering train boards.

Thailand is one of those rare places where solo travelers instantly feel like they belong. The culture is warm, the food is unforgettable, and the experiences—floating markets, temples, tropical beaches—are even better shared. With a tour, you get the confidence to explore far and wide, plus a ready-made group to laugh, learn, and adventure alongside.

Why solo travelers love Thailand

Vibrant, inviting cities: Bangkok’s tourist-friendly atmosphere makes exploring temples and markets a breeze for solo travelers.

Natural solo dining: Street food culture and open-air stalls make eating alone feel casual, easy, and normal.

Awe-inspiring destinations: Postcard-worthy beaches and ornate gilded temples offer unforgettable solo-travel moments.

Warm hospitality: It’s hard not to feel welcomed, supported, and connected in the Land of Smiles—even when arriving on your own.

What to know about solo travel in Thailand

Thailand’s beauty is spread out—from Bangkok’s palaces to Chiang Mai’s temples to the turquoise islands in the south—which means coordinating flights, transfers, and local transportation can quickly become complex when traveling alone. Cultural nuances, language barriers, and navigating bustling transit hubs can add another layer of stress. On our Thailand for Solo Travelers: Bangkok, Phuket & the Islands tour, those details are seamlessly sorted. You’ll experience expertly guided visits to iconic sites like the Grand Palace, enjoy curated moments such as street food tastings and island kayaking excursions, and travel between regions with ease. You’ll have the freedom to explore independently—while always knowing support (and great company) is right there with you.

In Ireland, you’re never a stranger for long. Friendly locals, cozy pubs, and storytelling woven into daily life make it especially easy for solo travelers to connect. Add in dramatic landscapes and charming towns, and you’ve got a destination that feels both exciting and comforting—perfect for travelers who want meaningful experiences without the pressure of planning every moment.

Why solo travelers love Ireland

Approachable city life: Dublin’s walkable neighborhoods invite you to enjoy street performers, bookstores, and cozy cafes with confidence.

Friendly local culture: Grab a bar stool and a Guinness at a pub and get ready to make some new friends without even trying as you take in festive live music.

Dramatic scenery: Coastlines and rolling countryside hills are just as powerful to experience solo as they are to share.

Instant connections: With its rich culture and stunning scenery, the Emerald Isle’s the kind of place where solo travelers instantly feel at home.

What to know about solo travel in Ireland

Ireland’s most breathtaking sights—like the Cliffs of Moher or the Ring of Kerry—are spread across the countryside, where driving along narrow roads and coordinating routes can be tricky on your own. Public transportation doesn’t always reach those remote gems, and planning a seamless itinerary takes time. On our Ireland for Solo Travelers tour, transportation, accommodations, and must-see experiences are thoughtfully arranged for you. You’ll enjoy guided visits to iconic landmarks, scenic drives through the countryside, and evenings in traditional pubs—and don’t forget, you’ll have a private room to recharge in at the end of each day. With a small group of fellow solo travelers and an expert Tour Director leading the way, you can focus on soaking up every stunning shade of emerald—without worrying about the logistics.

Spain invites solo travelers to slow down and savor each moment. Long lunches, evening strolls, and lively plazas make it easy to feel part of the rhythm of daily life. A solo trip to Spain means you can confidently explore vibrant cities and historic sites—then enjoy flexible time to wander, shop, or people-watch to your heart’s desire.

Why solo travelers love Spain

Vibrant, walkable quarters: Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Madrid’s boulevards feel safe, energizing, and easy to navigate solo.

Tapas culture: Small plates and standing-room bars make dining alone feel natural and even communal.

Lively public spaces: Bustling plazas, sun-drenched parks, and cities that come alive after dark offer connection and independence simultaneously.

Low-stress exploration: Historic neighborhoods make it easy for a leisurely solo stroll to become a sightseeing excursion.

What to know about solo travel in Spain

Spain’s highlights are spread across regions, and coordinating high-speed trains, timed-entry tickets, and local reservations can quickly become a puzzle when traveling solo. On our Spain for Solo Travelers: Barcelona, Madrid & Seville tour, transportation between cities, hotel stays, and guided visits to iconic landmarks are seamlessly arranged. You’ll see bucket-list sites with expert insight, enjoy shared tapas dinners and cultural experiences designed for connection, and still have free time to wander neighborhoods or relax in a plaza at your own pace. With a private room included and a small group of fellow solo travelers, Spain feels immersive, social, and wonderfully easy, securing it a spot as one of the best places to vacation solo.

Japan is a dream for solo travelers who love independence with a side of support. It’s incredibly safe, impeccably organized, and endlessly fascinating. Whether you’re mastering famously efficient train stations, lingering in serene gardens, enjoying quiet moments that feel uniquely your own, or sampling sandwiches from 7-Eleven (trust us on this one), you’re free to fully immerse yourself in Japan, making it one of the best places to vacation solo.

Why solo travelers love Japan

Exceptional safety: Tokyo and Kyoto are incredibly comfortable cities for wandering solo, from bustling neighborhoods to serene temples.

Efficient transportation: Easy-to-use and reliable public transit makes getting around on your own a breeze.

Solo-friendly food culture: Ramen counters and traditional tea houses welcome solo dining.

Organized atmosphere: Japan’s meticulous culture makes it a dream destination for independent travelers who value ease and order.

What to know about solo travel in Japan

Japan’s mix of modern cities and rural highlights is part of its charm—but coordinating transportation, understanding local etiquette, and organizing bucket list experiences can feel overwhelming when you’re exploring independently. That’s where our Japan for Solo Travelers: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji & Kyoto tour truly shines. With transportation, accommodations, and expert guides taken care of, you’ll glide between cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka with ease, enjoy curated cultural experiences like tea ceremonies and food tastings, and have built-in opportunities for connection with fellow solo travelers. Private rooms are included, and thoughtful pacing means you’ll have time to explore temples, markets, and gardens just how you’d like.

Scotland has a way of drawing people together. From misty Highlands to historic cities, it’s a place where shared awe sparks instant camaraderie. Solo travelers love the balance of conversations with kind-hearted locals and moments for personal discovery—plus, a little rain and a wee dram or two tend to make strangers feel like friends pretty quickly.

Why solo travelers love Scotland

Easy-to-navigate cities: Edinburgh’s compact, walkable streets are famously safe and perfect for solo wandering by day and pub hopping by evening.

Dramatic Highland landscapes: Rainy weather and rolling hills provide the perfect backdrop for reflective solo travel moments.

Famously friendly locals: Just pop in a pub to see how easy it is to strike up conversations in every town.

Endless possibilities: Scotland’s blend of approachable cities and breathtaking scenery makes anything an option. Explore castles, meet Highland cows, try haggis, sample peaty whisky, take a hike in nature—it’s all on the table.

What to know about solo travel in Scotland

Scotland’s magic is best experienced beyond the cities, where scenic drives, historic castles, and stunning lochs are spread out. But, those logistics can be tricky to coordinate when you’re exploring solo. That’s where our Scotland for Solo Travelers: Highlands, Aberdeen & Edinburgh tour makes all the difference. With expertly organized transfers, thoughtfully planned sightseeing, and curated stops in places like the Highlands and Isle of Skye, you can relax and soak in the views without juggling maps or schedules. You’ll enjoy a private room included at no single supplement, comfortable transportation between destinations, and built-in moments for connection with fellow solo travelers. So whether you’re toasting in a historic tavern or gazing out over a misty loch, you’ll have the freedom to explore—and the support to make every moment count.

Iceland is perfect for solo travelers craving something extraordinary. Its landscapes are otherworldly, its cities are safe and stylish, and its unique energy makes big adventures feel manageable. You’ll experience waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal wonders with people who are just as curious as you—no navigating remote roads alone required.

Why solo travelers love Iceland

World-renowned safety: Iceland is regarded as one of the safest countries in the world, so solo travelers can focus on the fun stuff, sans stress.

Compact, walkable capital: Reykjavik’s lively streets make popping into cafes, perusing design shops, and soaking in the majestic views easy.

Otherworldly landscapes: Thundering waterfalls and black-sand beaches offer awe-inspiring views that invite quiet contemplation.

Unique natural experiences: From daytime dips in geothermal-heated lagoons to late-night quests to spot the northern lights, unforgettable solo travel moments exist in spades.

What to know about solo travel in Iceland

Iceland’s beauty is wild—and that’s exactly why going guided matters here. Weather can shift quickly, roads can close unexpectedly, and many of the country’s most jaw-dropping sights are far beyond Reykjavik’s city limits. Navigating the Golden Circle or South Coast solo requires careful planning, real-time road monitoring, and confident winter driving skills, so solo travel packages make a big difference. On our Iceland for Solo Travelers: Reykjavik, Golden Circle & South Coast tour, you’ll explore these remote landscapes with expert local guidance and comfortable transportation. We handle route adjustments if conditions change, secure access to iconic sites, and thoughtfully pace each day so you can experience waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal wonders without stress.

Bali offers solo travelers a rare mix of adventure and ease, making it one of the best places to travel solo. Spiritual, scenic, and deeply welcoming, it’s a place where you can reset while still feeling supported. With other solo travelers everywhere to share temples, beaches, and meals with—and space to recharge on your own—Bali makes solo travel feel both grounding and unforgettable.

Why solo travelers love Bali

Welcoming Ubud streets: Walkable lanes lined with yoga studios, cafes, and artisan shops are famously solo-traveler friendly.

Spaces for reflection: Spiritual temples and lush rice terraces offer room to reset, recharge, and meditate.

Social beach towns: Grab a Bintang (that’s Balinese beer), head to the beach at sunset, and watch how easy it is to mingle with fellow solo as you bask in golden-hour light.

Solo dining is the norm: Whether at a local warung (a classic Balinese restaurant) or a laidback juice bar, eating alone feels natural, inviting, and optional as big, shared tables and bars invite natural conversation.

Sweet-spot balance: This island paradise strikes the balance between being restorative (think: yoga and meditation) and invigorating (think: beach clubs and lively bars) for solo travelers.

What to know about solo travel in Bali

Bali’s magic is spread across the island—from jungle temples in Ubud to coastal cliffs and traditional villages—which means coordinating drivers, timing visits around traffic, and navigating language differences can take real effort when traveling independently. On our Bali for Solo Travelers: Beaches, Temples & Culture tour, every transfer, hotel stay, and cultural experience is seamlessly arranged for you. You’ll explore sacred temples with expert insight, visit emerald rice terraces, experience traditional ceremonies, and enjoy curated moments designed for connection—all with a small group of fellow solo travelers. With a private room included and a knowledgeable Tour Director leading the way, you can focus on finding your balance (and maybe your bliss), knowing every detail is handled behind the scenes.

The beauty of solo travel is that it’s completely yours—so start by choosing a destination that aligns with your interests and comfort level. Craving culture and cuisine? Looking for nature and wide-open landscapes? Use that info to land on the best solo travel destinations for you.

Once you’re looking at a Solo Tour consider the tour pace and activity level to be sure it matches how you like to travel—whether that’s full days of sightseeing or a little more time to wander at your own speed. It’s also worth evaluating departure dates. Shoulder season can mean fewer crowds and great value, while peak months may offer can’t-miss weather and local events. And before you book, read recent traveler reviews (especially from fellow solo travelers) to get a look at what the experience feels like from someone like you. The right trip won’t just check the boxes. It’ll feel like it was designed with you in mind.