• Cities like Tokyo, Lisbon, and Vancouver offer solo travelers reliable transit, safe environments, and easy access to cultural highlights.
• Staying near a city center or train station improves access to attractions and solo-friendly services.
• Travel protection plans with travel insurance benefits can help manage trip disruptions, especially when exploring alone.

Planning a solo trip? This guide highlights some of the best cities for solo travel around the world, especially for Americans. While U.S. cities like San Francisco and Santa Fe offer great solo experiences, many international destinations provide strong transit, cultural variety, and solo-friendly infrastructure. From vibrant cities to small towns with interesting history, these places are easy to explore alone and popular with both solo travellers and solo female travellers.
Each city offers reliable public transportation, access to city centers, and opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Whether it’s your first solo trip or a new kind of travel experience, these destinations support confident, flexible, and rewarding solo adventures.
 

Lisbon, Portugal

The beautiful city of Lisbon combines historic charm with a relaxed pace, making it ideal for a solo trip. The city’s hills, trams, and waterfront areas are easy to explore, especially around the city center.

Travelers can enjoy live music, coastal day trips, and plenty of hidden gems. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and locals are known for being incredibly friendly.

Whether you're exploring the old town or enjoying fresh seafood near the water, Lisbon suits both structured itineraries and spontaneous adventures for solo female travelers and first-timers alike.
 

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam’s compact layout, canals, and bike paths offer smooth navigation for solo travelers. The city is known for its relaxed atmosphere, rich art scene, and beautiful architecture. English is commonly spoken, and Dutch people are generally welcoming. Museums, parks, and group canal tours offer chances to meet fellow solo travelers or explore independently.
With its blend of social settings and personal space, Amsterdam is a favorite for Americans looking to travel solo in a low-stress environment.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is considered one of the safest cities in the world, a status reflected in New Zealand’s Level 1 travel advisory from the U.S. Department of State.

This compact, scenic town is a top destination for solo travelers seeking structured access to hiking trails, lake cruises, and adventure sports. Hostels, cafés, and excursion centers are all within easy reach, making it simple to plan your day or join a group outing. Whether you're skydiving or browsing local markets, Queenstown offers a balanced solo experience in a safe, English-speaking environment.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is an underrated destination in Eastern Europe, full of thermal spas, historic buildings, and solo-friendly experiences. The city center is walkable and well-connected by metro and trams. Accommodations are in budget, and solo travelers can join public baths, ruin bar tours, or river cruises.
The mix of beautiful architecture, strong hostel culture, and manageable layout makes Budapest a practical and enriching stop for those who travel solo and want both culture and connection.
 

Paris, France

Paris remains one of the most popular cities for solo travelers, known for its world-class museums, iconic cafes, and walkable neighborhoods. The Eiffel Tower, Seine riverbanks, and historic districts like Le Marais are easy to explore alone.
For many solo female travelers, it’s the only place where dining solo at a sidewalk cafe feels entirely natural. Public transportation is efficient, and English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Whether you're visiting museums with a tour guide, enjoying great food, or chatting with fellow travelers, Paris often becomes a favorite city for those traveling solo in the European Union.

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne is a top choice for solo travelers interested in culture, coffee, and street art. The city has reliable public trams, a walkable city center, and solo-friendly accommodations. Neighborhoods like Fitzroy and St Kilda offer hidden gems for food, music, and local events.
Many fellow travelers explore Melbourne independently during the day and join group tours or workshops at night. The city’s creative energy and English-speaking environment make it an easy entry point for a longer solo adventure in Australia.
 

Sydney, Australia

Sydney combines world-famous beaches with a modern urban layout, ideal for those seeking variety. Iconic sites like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are easily accessed by ferry or train. The public transportation network is reliable, and English signage is consistent across the city.
Solo female travelers often stay near the harbor or Bondi to enjoy safe, active neighborhoods. From coastal walks to museum visits, Sydney supports a solo itinerary with both nature and culture.
 

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver combines outdoor access with urban convenience, making it a top pick for solo travelers. The city center is easy to navigate, and public transportation connects major neighborhoods.
Locals are known for being incredibly friendly, and English is widely spoken. Safe walking areas, scenic coastal paths, and a mix of city parks and cafés support solo exploration. With access to both nature and culture, Vancouver is well-suited for travelers planning a flexible, self-guided solo adventure.
 

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is ideal for solo travelers drawn to music, dance, and culture. The city center features walkable streets, public plazas, and historic architecture.
Many solo female travelers enjoy the social atmosphere, with group tango classes and food tours offering easy interaction. People speak English in most tourist areas, and transportation is manageable. With strong hostel networks and active nightlife, Buenos Aires supports both structure and flexibility on a solo adventure.
 

Cusco, Peru

Cusco serves as the base for trips to Machu Picchu and is well-prepared for solo travelers. The old town area is walkable, with pocket-friendly accommodations and access to guided excursions.
Many visitors join group tours to meet fellow travelers while exploring ancient ruins. The altitude may require planning, but the city’s layout and safety make it manageable. Local markets and cultural events provide great ways to experience the region’s heritage.
 

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena combines beautiful beaches, historic streets, and warm weather, ideal for travelers wanting a laid-back solo trip. The cobblestone streets of the old town are full of hidden gems, from cafés to live music venues.
English is spoken in most tourist areas, and many accommodations are solo-friendly. Group walking tours and day trips to nearby islands help solo travelers connect while keeping their independence. Cartagena is a visually rich and culturally vibrant choice for first-time or experienced solo explorers.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is one of the safest cities for solo travelers, with organized neighborhoods and a highly efficient transit system. Restaurants and cafes often cater to individuals, and solo diners are common.
The city blends tradition and modern life, from temples to high-tech districts. Visitors on their first solo trip will find clear signage, helpful locals, and neighborhoods like Shibuya and Asakusa that are easy to explore. Whether it’s your first night or a longer stay, Tokyo supports independence and curiosity for any solo adventure.

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is ideal for solo female travelers and others seeking cultural variety with modern convenience. English signage is common in subways and public areas, and many locals are incredibly kind to tourists.
Travelers often stay near hubs like Myeongdong or Hongdae, which offer access to shopping, markets, and traditional palaces. Solo visitors can explore independently or join city tours to meet fellow travelers. With its food scene, tech-savvy transit, and overall safety, Seoul is a practical and enriching city for Americans who travel solo.
 

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai attracts solo travelers with its peaceful temples, local markets, and wellness retreats. The city is pocket-friendly and compact, making it easy to get around without a strict itinerary. Many travelers join cooking classes, elephant sanctuary visits, or hiking groups, ideal for connecting with fellow solo travelers.
Chiang Mai’s pace is slower than Bangkok’s, which appeals to those seeking reflection or soul searching in a beautiful country. With its warm climate and welcoming community, it’s a great place for a flexible, low-pressure solo trip.
 

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town combines mountains, beaches, and city life in a destination that suits independent travel. Solo visitors often stay near the V&A Waterfront or Table Mountain for convenience and safety. The city offers guided hikes, cultural tours, and panoramic views ideal for photography or reflection.
English is widely spoken, and public transportation includes buses and rideshare apps. Whether it’s your first trip or part of a longer itinerary, Cape Town’s mix of natural beauty and structure supports a rewarding solo trip.
 

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is a sensory-rich city with historic souks, courtyards, and hidden gems in the old town. Many solo travelers stay in riads near the medina, where walking tours and group excursions offer safety and connection.
While fewer people speak English outside tourist areas, hotel staff and guides often do. This destination suits those looking for guided exploration, traditional architecture, and a strong local culture. Solo female travelers may want to research ahead for dress norms and transit tips.
 

Kigali, Rwanda

Kigali stands out as a well-organized base for solo travelers interested in learning about Rwanda’s history or visiting nearby natural parks. The city is compact, and transportation is straightforward with taxis and motorcycle services.
Kigali’s calm pace and respectful culture appeal to those seeking soul searching or cultural depth without chaos. English and French are both spoken in public areas, making it easier for Americans to travel solo with confidence.
 

Final Note

No matter where you plan to go, solo travel benefits from preparation. Book accommodations in central areas or near reliable public transportation, and read reviews from fellow solo travelers to find places that are supportive and secure. Join local tours or group activities to connect with others while maintaining your independence.
While many destinations listed here are considered safe, unexpected travel delays, trip cancellations, or medical issues can still occur. A travel protection plan that includes travel insurance benefits and access to non-insurance assistance services can help manage disruptions and support you throughout your solo trip.
 

FAQs for Best Cities for Solo Travel

1.Should I avoid countries with a Level 2 advisory?

Not necessarily. A Level 2 advisory means "Exercise Increased Caution." Many popular solo travel cities fall under this level, but are safe when you stay in well-reviewed areas and follow local advice.

2.What’s a good length for a first solo trip abroad?

Start with 5 to 7 days. It gives you enough time to explore without feeling overwhelmed. Choose one city as a base, especially if it’s your first solo trip.

3.What if I feel uneasy or homesick while traveling solo?

Build downtime into your schedule and stay connected with friends or family through messages or video calls. Exploring in shorter blocks and keeping familiar routines can help you stay grounded.

4.Are city centers better for solo accommodations?

Yes. Staying near the city center or a train station usually gives you better access to transit, food, and local attractions, especially important for solo female travelers.

5.How do I choose between a big city and a small town??

Big cities offer more structure, activities, and transit, while small towns often feel more relaxed and personal. Choose based on how comfortable you feel navigating new places alone.