What Makes the Best First-Time Solo Travel Destination?
For instance, over the years, I’ve discovered that the best first-time solo travel spots aren’t just about stunning views. Instead, they’re about the way a place feels when you explore it alone. Additionally, the right destination can boost your confidence, ensure your safety, and inspire you to travel independently again and again.
Here’s what I always look for:
- Safety – You want to feel comfortable walking around, even at night. Low crime rates, respectful locals, and helpful tourism services are all critical factors.
- Friendly Locals – For example, a warm smile or simple directions can ease your nerves, especially on your first trip.”
- Ease of Travel – Good public transport, walkable streets, and English-speaking locals can make things a lot smoother.
- Solo-Friendly Activities – Places that offer group tours, classes, or social hostels make it easy to meet people without pressure.
- Affordability – You shouldn’t have to spend a fortune to feel safe and have fun.
- Good Reviews from Other Travelers – I always read what other solo travelers say; real stories help you understand what to expect.
If a destination checks most of these boxes, you’ve likely discovered an ideal starting point for your journey. Better yet, once you take that crucial first step, the path forward becomes significantly more transparent and far more manageable.
Alternatively, here’s a version with a bit more personality:
When a place ticks most of these boxes, you’re looking at travel gold – the perfect launching pad for your adventure. Here’s the thing, though: once you actually commit to that first step, everything else falls into place much more naturally than you’d expect.
Top 10 Best Place to Travel Solo First Time
Traveling alone for the first time can be both exciting and intimidating. I still remember sitting at the airport before my first solo trip, heart racing and questioning whether I was crazy to do this. Little did I know that one leap of faith would transform my entire life. Now, after 7 years of solo adventures, I’m here to help you take that first step with confidence.
Here are my top 10 best places to travel solo for the first time. I’ve personally been to each one, and these are the destinations where I felt safe, welcomed, and inspired. I’ve gathered insider tips on the best places to stay and must-do experiences to take the guesswork out of your planning. I’ve also included where to stay and what to do, to make your planning easier.
1. Tokyo, Japan – Safe, Clean, and Calm
My Experience: Tokyo was my first solo international trip, and I still recall the peaceful feeling of arriving in such a well-organized city. I was worried at first, with a different language and busy streets, but I quickly realized that Tokyo is one of the safest and most respectful places in the world. No one stared, no one followed. People offered help without hesitation when I looked confused on the subway. As a solo woman, I felt completely safe.
Where to Stay:
- “&And Hostel Akihabara” – high-tech, spotless, helpful staff.
- “WISE OWL HOSTELS Tokyo” – fun vibe, close to nightlife.
- “Book and Bed Tokyo” – a dream for book lovers.
What to Do:
- Visit Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park.
- Explore the Tsukiji fish market and take a sushi class.
- Stroll through Harajuku and Omotesando for a fashion experience.
- Try capsule hotels or themed cafés.
- Day trip to Nikko or Mount Takao.
Affordability (My Opinion): Tokyo isn’t as expensive as many people think, especially if you plan smart. I stayed in hostels for around $30–40 a night, grabbed meals from 7-Eleven or local ramen shops for $5–10, and used a day pass for the subway. Some attractions are free, like temples and public parks.
I set a daily budget of $60–$70 and still enjoyed everything I wanted, including a sushi-making class and a day trip to Mount Takao. Tokyo rewards planning and offers quality even on a modest budget.
2. Lisbon, Portugal – Warm, Walkable, and Welcoming
My Experience: Lisbon felt like home almost instantly. I remember the sun reflecting off the tiled walls as I walked through Alfama. It was peaceful and full of history. The locals were so welcoming. Even when I didn’t speak Portuguese, people went out of their way to help me. I felt very safe walking around, even at night.
Where to Stay:
- “Selina Secret Garden Lisbon” – coworking + rooftop.
- “Home Lisbon Hostel” – family dinners and cozy vibes.
- “Lost Inn Lisbon” – clean and perfect for social travelers.
What to Do:
- Ride Tram 28 through old neighbourhoods.
- Visit Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.
- Try local custard tarts (pastéis de nata).
- Enjoy Fado music in Alfama.
- Take day trips to Sintra, Cascais, or Évora.
Affordability (My Opinion): Lisbon is surprisingly affordable, especially for a European capital. I stayed in a charming hostel for around €25 per night, and most meals cost under €10.
Public transport was cheap and reliable, and many of the city’s best experiences, like wandering through Alfama, watching sunsets from a viewpoint, or listening to live Fado music, were either free or very low cost.
I budgeted around €50–60 per day and never felt like I had to miss out on anything. If you’re mindful, Lisbon lets you enjoy culture, food, and beauty on a modest budget.
3. Bali, Indonesia – Spiritual, Social, and Easygoing
My Experience: Bali helped me reconnect with myself. I spent a week in Ubud, surrounded by nature, healing energy, and kind people. It’s a place where many women travel solo, especially for wellness and self-care. I never felt out of place. Every café or yoga class I walked into, I left with a new friend or story.
Where to Stay:
- “In Da Lodge” – chill hostel with social common areas.
- “Bisma Eight” – boutique and peaceful.
- “Ubud Aura Retreat” – next to Yoga Barn, perfect for wellness.
What to Do:
- Practice yoga at Yoga Barn or Radiantly Alive.
- Wander through the Tegallalang rice terraces.
- Visit the Tirta Empul holy spring.
- Try Balinese massage and healing ceremonies.
- Day trip to Uluwatu, Seminyak, or Nusa Penida.
Affordability (My Opinion): Bali is incredibly budget-friendly, which is one of the reasons it’s such a popular spot for solo travelers. In Ubud, I paid around $15 per night for a beautiful hostel with a pool and a communal kitchen.
Meals at local warungs (small restaurants) cost just $2–4, and yoga classes were around $7. Even full spa treatments and massages were affordable, ranging from $10 to $ 15. I comfortably lived on $30–$ 40 per day, including accommodation, food, and daily expenses.
Bali makes it easy to slow down, treat yourself, and stretch your travel funds, all without feeling like you’re sacrificing comfort.
4. Chiang Mai, Thailand – Calm and Community-Focused
My Experience: I extended my stay twice. Chiang Mai has a soft, slow rhythm, the kind that makes you forget about time. It’s budget-friendly and full of wellness and cultural experiences. I felt like the city held space for me to be.
Where to Stay:
- “Green Tiger House” – quiet, eco, and plant-based.
- “Hostel Lullaby” – social, clean, and close to everything.
- “The Inside House” – luxury but very solo-friendly.
What to Do:
- Visit the golden temples, such as Wat Phra Singh.
- Take Thai cooking and massage classes.
- Volunteer or visit ethical elephant sanctuaries.
- Explore Nimmanhaemin Road’s cafés.
- Day trip to Doi Inthanon or Pai.
Affordability (My Opinion): Chiang Mai is one of the most budget-friendly places I’ve ever traveled to. My hostel cost just $10–15 per night, and meals from local street vendors were usually around $2.
You can take a full-day cooking class for $25, and temple entrances are often free or just a dollar or two. Even a traditional Thai massage costs as little as $6–$8. I comfortably stayed under $30–35 per day for food, lodging, and activities.
It’s the kind of place where you can stay longer, do more, and still feel like your wallet is intact. Perfect for first-time solo travelers who want both peace and culture without overspending.
5. Reykjavik, Iceland – Nature and Safety Combined
My Experience: Iceland is where I truly came to terms with being alone. I explored the Golden Circle by myself, stopping wherever I wanted, at waterfalls, geysers, and cosy little cafés. Not once did I feel unsafe. People were kind, and even though Reykjavik is small, it’s packed with charm.
Where to Stay:
- “KEX Hostel” – stylish and social.
- “Galaxy Pod Hostel” – futuristic and fun.
- “Loft HI Hostel” – central with rooftop bar.
What to Do:
- Soak in the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon.
- See Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir on the Golden Circle.
- Visit Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa Concert Hall.
- Join small group tours for glacier hiking.
- Try Icelandic food at local cafés and food halls.
Affordability (My Opinion): Iceland is undeniably more expensive than many destinations, but with thoughtful planning, it’s possible to experience its wonders without overspending. In Reykjavik, I found dormitory beds in hostels like KEX Hostel or Galaxy Pod Hostel, ranging from $30 to $50 per night, while private rooms were around $100 to $120.
To manage food costs, I often shopped at local supermarkets like Bónus, spending approximately $18 per day when preparing simple meals. Dining out was pricier, with meals averaging $20 to $30.
For activities, I joined a Golden Circle day tour for about $80 to $90, which covered major attractions like Gullfoss and Geysir. The Blue Lagoon entry was around $60, but I discovered that local swimming pools offered a similar geothermal experience for just $10.
Overall, I budgeted around $100 to $120 per day, balancing essential experiences with cost-saving choices. While Iceland requires a higher daily budget, the unparalleled natural beauty and safety make it a worthwhile investment for solo travelers.
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Easy, Open, and Friendly
My Experience: Amsterdam was a breeze to navigate. The city feels designed for solo travelers, from bike rentals to museums and parks, everything is accessible and comfortable. I never once felt out of place exploring on my own.
Where to Stay:
- “ClinkNOORD Hostel” – ferry access and great atmosphere.
- “Stayokay Vondelpark” – inside the park, peaceful.
- “Ecomama Hostel” – chic, green, and community-focused.
What to Do:
- Visit the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Anne Frank House.
- Take a canal cruise or walk along the Jordaan.
- Rent a bike and explore De Pijp or Noord.
- Spend a lazy afternoon in Vondelpark.
- Try stroopwafels and Dutch fries from street vendors.
Affordability (My Opinion): Amsterdam is on the pricier side, but with a bit of planning, it’s possible to manage your budget. I paid around €35–45 per night for a bed in a well-rated hostel. Museum entries ranged from €10 to €20, but I got a discount card that helped cut costs for multiple attractions.
Meals from local markets or takeaway spots cost about €8–12, and I found that walking or renting a bike was not only affordable but also the best way to explore the city. I budgeted roughly €70–80 per day and felt like I got great value for a safe, clean, and culturally rich experience.
7. Barcelona, Spain – Colorful, Lively, and Fun
My Experience: I loved the rhythm of Barcelona, slow mornings, colorful afternoons, and vibrant nights. As a solo traveler, I felt welcomed and energized. Even at the beach or busy markets, I felt safe and happy.
Where to Stay:
- “Yeah, Barcelona Hostel” – modern and welcoming.
- “Casa Gracia” – stylish and boutique.
- “TOC Hostel Barcelona” – pool, rooftop, and significant events.
What to Do:
- Visit Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló.
- Enjoy tapas in Gràcia or El Born.
- Spend the day at Barceloneta Beach.
- Shop at La Boqueria Market.
- Attend a flamenco show or street festival.
Affordability (My Opinion): Barcelona offers excellent value for solo travelers. I stayed in a clean, social hostel for around €25–35 per night. Many major attractions, such as Park Güell and Sagrada Familia, cost around €10–15 to enter, but the beach, markets, and city walks are all completely free.
I found meals at tapas bars or food stalls ranging between €7 and € 12. You can also get a transport pass to save money on metro rides. My daily budget was about €60–70, which allowed me to enjoy both cultural experiences and great food without overthinking every expense. It’s a vibrant, affordable city with something for every type of traveler.
8. Vancouver, Canada – Safe and Naturally Beautiful
My Experience: Vancouver struck the perfect balance between city life and nature. I felt calm and secure walking along the seawall, even at night. Locals were polite, and the city felt very clean and inclusive.
Where to Stay:
- “HI Vancouver Downtown” – basic but central.
- “Samesun Vancouver” – social and traveler-focused.
- “The Burrard” – stylish retro hotel.
What to Do:
- Walk or bike around Stanley Park.
- Take a ferry to Granville Island.
- Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain.
- Explore Gastown, Chinatown, and Mount Pleasant.
- Join a kayaking tour in False Creek.
Affordability (My Opinion): Vancouver is definitely on the higher end when it comes to cost, but it’s possible to manage with some smart planning. I booked a hostel dorm for around $35–45 CAD per night, and meals from food trucks or small cafés typically cost between $10–15 CAD. Public transport is reliable and affordable; a day pass costs me under $10.
For activities, many of the best things, like biking the seawall, exploring Stanley Park, or visiting local markets, were free. Paid attractions like Capilano Suspension Bridge or Grouse Mountain tickets ranged from $20 to $40. My average daily spend was around $80–90 CAD, but it felt worth it for the mix of urban comfort and outdoor beauty.
9. Melbourne, Australia – Creative and Laid-Back
My Experience: Melbourne felt like freedom. I explored art-covered laneways, drank flat whites in quirky cafés, and went to free events. The city is safe, artistic, and full of solo-friendly spots.
Where to Stay:
- “Space Hotel” – female dorms and rooftop views.
- “The Nunnery” – charming and historic.
- “Selina Central Melbourne” – coworking + community.
What to Do:
- Explore laneways with street art tours.
- Visit NGV, State Library, and ACMI.
- Relax in Fitzroy Gardens or on the Yarra River.
- Eat your way through Queen Victoria Market.
- Take a day trip to the Great Ocean Road or Phillip Island.
Affordability (My Opinion): Melbourne can be moderately expensive, but it’s still manageable with a flexible budget. I paid about $30–40 AUD for a dorm bed in a hostel and often cooked simple meals or picked up something affordable from a local market for around $10–15 AUD. A coffee and pastry might cost $6, and public transport using a Myki card kept my daily movement budget under $10.
Many museums and galleries were free, and even day trips, like the Great Ocean Road, could be done on group tours for under $100. My total daily spend averaged around $70–85 AUD, and I never felt like I had to hold back from the full Melbourne experience.
10. Dublin, Ireland – Friendly and Full of Charm
My Experience: Dublin was one of the easiest places to connect with others. The Irish hospitality is real, people genuinely want to talk to you, help you, and make you feel welcome. It’s a great solo travel introduction.
Where to Stay:
- “Generator Dublin” – lively and centrally located.
- “Abbey Court Hostel” – social, fun, and safe.
- “Jacobs Inn” – clean with a modern twist.
What to Do:
- Visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells.
- Stroll along the River Liffey.
- Explore Temple Bar, but also take a look at the local pubs.
- Join a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher or Galway.
- Take a literary walking tour or a history museum crawl.
Affordability (My Opinion): Dublin can be a little pricey, but it’s still accessible with a bit of budgeting. I stayed in a clean hostel dorm for about €25–35 per night. A hearty pub meal or takeaway fish and chips usually costs around €10–15.
Entry to places like Trinity College and many museums ranged from €5–12, and there are also free walking tours that are super helpful for solo travelers. I got a Leap Visitor Card for public transport, which helped me move around affordably.
My total daily spend was approximately €65–75, which allowed me to enjoy the local culture, food, and even take a scenic day trip to the Cliffs of Moher without going over budget.
If you’re wondering where to go for your first solo trip, I hope this list helps. Every place here made me feel safe, inspired, and alive. Traveling alone can be one of the most empowering experiences you’ve ever had. Leap, the world is waiting for you.
Conclusion
Your first solo trip doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be yours. Each of these destinations helped shape my confidence, independence, and joy in ways I couldn’t have imagined before I packed that first bag.
Whether you’re planning a short getaway or dreaming of a longer journey, the most important thing is to pick a place that feels safe, welcoming, and manageable. These cities and countries offer all of that and more.
Remember, solo travel isn’t about being alone; it’s about being free. It’s about discovering not just new places, but new parts of yourself.
So, pause for a moment, listen to your gut, and begin; each step forward is a step toward the world and toward yourself.
You’ve got this.
– Ava
