Traveling solo might seem daunting, but it’s also liberating. It forces you to step out of your comfort zone, yet it also means you can travel on your own terms. If you’re thinking about exploring the world solo this summer, PureTravel is bursting with tips and advice on our travel blog.
Here are a few of the best destinations for independent travelers right now:
1. Lisbon, Portugal: Europe’s Relaxed Capital
Lisbon is one of the best places to head if you’re travelling solo for the first time. It’s easy to explore on foot, full of friendly locals, and brimming with charm. Top places to explore include centuries-old neighborhoods like Alfama, and São Jorge Castle, from which you can enjoy panoramic views over the city.
To make matters easier, English is widely spoken, so you won’t have to worry about struggling with Google translate!
During the summer, the city truly comes alive. You will have the chance to witness colourful street festivals, outdoor film nights and live music. If you fancy a day trip, simply alight on the train to Sintra’s fairy-tale castles, or spend the afternoon by the coast in Cascais. Lisbon is easy to explore solo but full of opportunities to meet fellow travelers.
2. Kyoto, Japan: A Deeply Cultural Experience
Japan might initially seem a scary place to visit alone, but it’s actually one of the safest countries for solo travel. Once the capital of Japan, the city Kyoto is a wonderful choice, being somewhere you will find quiet temples, bamboo forests, traditional ryokan inns, and beauty all year round.
You’re almost guaranteed to feel welcome when dining solo, whether at ramen counters or cozy izakayas. Early summer is one of the most enchanting times to visit, with hydrangeas in bloom and smaller crowds than later in the season.
Independent travelers after solo adventures will find that public transport is easy to use. In short, it’s one of the best destinations for those seeking a serene solo experience.
3. Reykjavik, Iceland: Stunning Solo Adventures
If it’s a taste of the wild you’re after, Reykjavik is the ideal base for solo travelers, since it also offers a dash of urban comfort.
From here, you can explore waterfalls, geysers, glaciers and hot springs. Iceland is known for being safe and full of breathtaking landscapes. You might want to rent a car or join a guided tour, perhaps to see the Golden Circle or soak in the Blue Lagoon. Or maybe you’ll head to Þingvellir National Park.
If you visit in summer, you will experience the strangeness of 24-hour sunlight. Meeting people is relatively easy, with Reykjavik’s coffee shops and music scene making it easy to connect with locals or fellow adventurers.
4. Hoi An, Vietnam: Brimming with Life
If you love history, great food and warm hospitality, Hoi An is a top pick for solo summer adventures. A small but atmospheric town in central Vietnam, it has cobbled streets lit by lanterns and magical local markets.
Since it has a slower pace, it’s perfect for solo travelers. You might want to spend your days cycling to the beach, shopping in local markets or connecting with friendly people.
There’s a solid community of travelers and expats, many of whom are staying longer than they initially planned.
5. Vancouver Island, Canada: Ideal for Nature Lovers
If you love the great outdoors, Vancouver Island is hard to beat. Here you can head on hikes along the coast, or, if you love watersports, head kayaking or surfing. Or perhaps you would like to visit the stunning remote forests. All of this can be done with a short trip from Victoria or Tofino.
Whether you’re camping alone or joining a tour, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures.
Summer is one of the best times for wildlife watching, with it possible to spot everything from black bears to orcas. It’s ideal for those who want to unplug and reset.
6. Tbilisi, Georgia: Utterly Unforgettable
If you’re after something more offbeat, Tbilisi is an underrated gem. Georgia’s capital is an incredibly welcoming city that brings together old-world charm and a modern buzz. Here you will experience everything from ancient churches to graffiti-plastered art spaces.
On a budget? Georgia is known for being affordable, along with having highly hospitable locals. It is also a gateway to the Caucasus Mountains, which are something of a hiker’s paradise.
Solo travelers here are generally treated more like honored guests than outsiders.
Tips for Successful Solo Summer Travel
Stay open to new experiences but also be cautious. It’s always important to share your travel plans with someone back home. And follow your gut: if something feels off, it probably is.
Remember not to overbook. Some people like to reserve a couple of nights at the place they arrive, but then leave room for spontaneity. Some of our best travel experiences arise from chance encounters or those last-minute changes.
And don’t forget that traveling alone doesn’t mean being alone the whole time. You can always join walking tours, group classes, or strike up conversations in cafes. Some of the best travel memories come from brief but meaningful connections.
If you’re searching for the best destinations for independent travelers, don’t forget to explore more tips on our blog.
