The Best City Trips for Solo Travelers

Whether it’s meeting new people or being free to set your own schedule, there are plenty of reasons why traveling solo can be one of the best experiences out there.

But when it comes to globetrotting on your own, not all destinations are created equally. For a safe, friendly, accessible, and exciting trip all rolled into one, check out our list of the world’s best cities for solo travelers, according to global traveler data.

Cusco, Peru

Cusco—located 11,152 feet above sea level—is the gateway to the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. Most accommodations ((like the highly-rated Kokopelli Hostel Cusco) cater to backpackers with social spaces and events, so there’s a good chance you’ll meet lots of solo travelers if you’re visiting on your own. Stay in the heart of the action around the Plaza de Armas and right next to the unforgettable Cathedral of Santo Domingo. Weave your way through the city’s narrow cobblestone streets and climb the steep hills to catch a glimpse of the surrounding mountains. Don’t forget to check out Pisac Market to buy unique indigenous crafts and taste authentic empanadas. Then finish up the day over pisco sours with fellow solo travelers in one of the city’s cave-like bars. ¡Salud!

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh’s pubs are usually packed with friendly Scots who love to strike up a conversation. That means you won’t have to entertain yourself for long here. But it’s also the kind of city where you can easily keep yourself occupied as a solo traveler. Start with a pub crawl or a walking tour of all the places where J. K. Rowling wrote “Harry Potter.” Or check out some of the sketchier parts of the Scottish capital made famous in the cult classic “Trainspotting.” For some soul-searching, hike up Arthur’s Seat—a now extinct volcano—and go for a relaxing stroll. And don’t forget must-sees like the bagpiper busker – and tartan kilt-filled shops along the Royal Mile or Edinburgh Castle whose weathered turrets form an eerie silhouette on the skyline. End your day at Ramsay’s B&B – a traditional townhouse in Edinburgh’s New Town neighborhood.

Kyoto, Japan

Japan’s ancient imperial capital is one of the easiest places in the world to visit if you’re on your own. Expect friendly, polite locals eager to speak English, guest houses and hostels with communal atmospheres, solo-friendly restaurants, great street food, and plenty of places to find your zen. Visit Fushimi Shrine and stroll through the peaceful gardens while passing through thousands of vermillion torii, or shrine gates. Their deep reddish paint is said to ward off evil and disease. For something less superstitious, head to Kiyamachi Dori, a street running parallel to the Kamo River and a smaller canal. Here you’ll find street food and restaurants like Nikunabe Chiba where you can sit at the long bar and watch food being prepared. At night, stay at the friendly Lower East Nine East Hostel.

Granada, Spain

This small Andalusian city is perfect for solo travelers thanks to the open, social culture revolving around live music and food. Enjoy some free tapas along Calle Elvira and wash it all down with local wine and sangria. At Plaza Large in the old Arabic quarter of Albaicín, share platters with new friends in an outdoor café overlooking the square, or join locals sitting on benches and do some people-watching. The city is also very pedestrian-friendly and full of ornate Islamic architecture, including the Moorish Alhambra Palace. Stay at the highly-rated ECO Hostel in the center of town.

Porto, Portugal

Porto is a great destination for parties of one. With several highly-rated, excellent-value hostels, it’s easy to enjoy home-cooked food and meet other travelers when you’re away. Many locals also speak English fluently and the weather is mild year-round, meaning you can venture out and lose yourself in the city’s hilly streets whenever you visit. Head to Ribeira— the ancient quarter lining the Douro River—and enjoy a glass of local port at a table for one with views of the Dom Luís I Bridge. Check in to the Casa do Cativo and make the most of the outdoor swimming pool and garden.