Top Cities in the World for Solo Travel

Thinking of travelling alone? That element of freedom and the ability to go wherever you want, whenever you want with no strings attached is one of the many perks of a solo exploration. Wake up and set your own schedule, make new-found friends or learn a language or two.

Immerse yourself in new cultures as we take you on a journey through the top cities in the world for solo travel.

Paris

Why visit? This French capital is just over an hour away and is extremely convenient for those not confident enough to travel too far afield. The plethora of sights, charming Parisian pavement cafes and lively landmarks make it impossible to feel alone.

Famous artists, fashion designers and architects flocked to this city to make their mark on the world,  now you can take full advantage of the wonders that Paris bestows.

Must-see sites:

• Eiffel Tower
• Louvre Museum
• Arc de Triomphe
• Sacré-Coeur
• Moulin Rouge

Top hotels in Paris for solo travellers:

• Lorette Astotel: This affordable chic hotel has all the amenities to ensure your stay is comfortable and top-quality.  It also places you within walking distance of the Notre Dame Cathedral and Opera Garnier.
• Kyriad Paris Bercy Village: After a day of sightseeing, rest knowing this homely hotel is ready and waiting with its free Wi-Fi, perfect for uploading your daily snaps and ultra-modern rooms offering a good night’s sleep.

Top tip:

• One of the best ways to see Paris is by bike. They’re free for half an hour and can be found dotted around the city streets.
• Purchase a multi-attraction ticket like the Paris Pass to skip the busy lines at iconic sites.

Rome

Why visit? Although renowned for its easy transport links, getting lost in Rome is something special. Discover hidden treasures, stumble across ancient landmarks and uncover some of the tastiest restaurants – after all, you’re in the land of pizza and pasta.

Don’t be fooled by its romantic status, it’s even more spectacular when you have the freedom to explore the Colosseum or Vatican City on your own clock.

Must-see sites:

• Trevi Fountain
• Spanish Steps
• Colosseum  
• The Vatican
• Roman Forum

Top hotels in Rome for solo travellers:

• Ars Hotel: All major attractions are within a radius of 5 miles from this historic villa style accommodation. Ars Hotel boasts a panoramic terrace, gym, room service and contemporary decorated rooms.
• Morgana Hotel:With the Colosseum two metro stops away, you’re placed in the heart of the city. Indulge in a sweet and savory breakfast from the hotel restaurant, or head to your classical designed room featuring a flat screen TV and mini bar.

Top tips:

• Eating alone in a restaurant can be a little daunting, luckily for you this Italian capital has pizzerias galore. Grab a slice and place yourself by the steps of the Trevi Fountain.
• Take a group guided tour, especially of the underground Colosseum. It’s one of the best ways to make new friends.

Reykjavik

Why visit? As a rapidly growing tourist destination, feel at ease knowing the locals in Reykjavik speak English extremely well. Not to mention it’s one of the safest cities to visit. It’s easy to travel alone in Iceland with tours such as the Northern Lights and Blue Lagoon on offer.

Alternatively, rent a car and tackle this snow-covered destination yourself – either way, this winter wonderland will captivate you with its beauty.

Must-visit sites:

• Golden Circle
• Harpa
• Blue Lagoon
• Northern Lights
• Þingvellir

Top hotels in Reykjavik for solo travellers:

• Radisson Blu Saga: Surrounded by mesmerising views of Iceland’s glaciers, this 4 star hotel is only 10 minutes from the city centre. There’s also a spa onsite, allowing guests to warm up in the sauna and steam room.
• Hotel Fron: Situated along the main shopping strip, Laugavegur the Hotel Fron has an elegant design and includes free Wi-Fi, spa access and room service.

Top tips:

• Travel between late August to mid-April for the best chance of viewing the Northern Lights.
• Save a few pennies and bring a refillable bottle for water and head to the local farm for fresh produce and whip up your own meal.

New York

Why visit? The atmosphere in New York is electric, the city literally never sleeps with its countless rooftop bars, endless landmarks and all-singing, all-dancing Broadway strip.

It’s impossible to feel out of place with locations such as Times Square, full of quirky cafes which are ideal for watching the world go by. You can walk to every hotspot or take the subway – it couldn’t be easier to get around.

Must-visit sites:

• Natural History Museum
• Rockefeller Centre
• Statue of Liberty
• One World Trade Centre
• Brooklyn Bridge

Top hotels in New York for solo travellers:

• Ameritania Times Square: This budget-friendly 3 star accommodation is the perfect base to rest your head after tackling the Empire State Building and Central Park.
• Roosevelt Hotel: Find the ultimate comfort at this 4 star hotel, there’s a helping of restaurants and bars onsite and the choice of 33 elegant suites for added luxury.

Top tips:

• Grab yourself a CityPASS for the duration of your trip, this covers your entry fee to New York’s major attractions.
• Carry cash – some restaurants will offer discounts if you pay in cash, this saves them money on credit card fees.

Lisbon

Why visit? One of Western Europe’s cheapest cities, Lisbon has budget-friendly holidaymakers covered. Solo escapes to this Portuguese capital are diverse and culture-rich, from its old-world districts to its traditional tram rides and bustling markets.

Did you know it’s one of the oldest cities in the world? This can be seen through its landmarks dating back to 1200 BC.

Must-see sites:

• Belem Tower
• Alfama
• Castelo de S. Jorge
• Jeronimos Monastery
• Time Out Market

Top hotels in Lisbon for solo travellers:

• Czar Lisbon Hotel: Bask in your lavish surroundings as this hotel transports you into a ultra-modern paradise with its elegant contemporary decor. This city spot is close to Lisbon’s most iconic points of interest.
• Hf Fenix Lisboa: Guests can enjoy added perks at this establishment such as a bar and spacious garden for soaking up the Portugal sun. From your window you can admire views of the cosmopolitan city before you.

Top tips:

• Although this city is best explored by foot, it didn’t get its nickname ‘The Seven Hills of Lisbon’ for no reason. We’d suggest buying a 24-hour public transport ticket for roughly 6 euros.
• Join a food and wine evening tour to avoid eating alone.

Berlin

Why visit? Cheaper than other major cities, Berlin won’t put strain on your wallet with eating, sleeping and exploring proving extremely affordable. You could say this German delight has it all, whether its history, art, museums, nightlife, shopping or restaurants – there’s a mixed bag of activities to revel in.

Although famous for its Holocaust background, Berlin is renowned for its floral vistas. In the summer, find holidaymakers and locals alike indulging on picnics by the canal side or in one of its perfectly manicured gardens.

Must-see sights:

• Berlin Wall
• Holocaust Museum
• Berlin TV Tower
• Brandenburg Gate
• East Side Gallery

Top hotels in Berlin for solo travellers:

• Berlin Mark Hotel: Based only 2 minutes from the famous Kurfürstendamm, Berlin’s most famous shopping boulevard, this swanky hotel not only provides a winning location but sensational first-class facilities in-house.
• City Hotel Berlin East: Experience ultimate comfort at this 4 star centrally located hotel. Providing you with easy access to the Capital’s landmarks, all the essentials are at your fingertips.

Top tips:

• A Segway is a fantastic way to explore the sights and an fun experience in itself.
• Purchase a Berlin Welcome Card this covers your transportation and discount to major attractions, it’s a win-win.

Florence

Why visit? Tackle Florence solo-style! Both young and old will be in awe of this Italian gem, it’s an architectural masterpiece with every street corner flooded with artwork, quirky buildings and ancient landmarks.

Travelling alone in this Renaissance city has its benefits, its Tuscany food and drink will have you making new-found friends as you bond over an Aperol Spritz. Be inspired by paintings from Leonardo De Vinci one minute and take in panoramic views from Piazzale Michelangelo the next.

Must-visit sights:

• The Uffizi
• II Duomo di Firenze
• Ponte Vecchio
• Piazza della Signoria
• Giotto’s Bell Tower

Top hotels in Florence for solo travellers:

• Hotel IL Granduca: Its old-world charm allows you to truly embrace Florence culture and design. This deluxe establishment is inspired by historical events such as the Grand Duke of Tuscany Pietro Leopoldo – a time capsule of beauty.
• Hotel Kraft: Enjoy the hotel’s terrace garden, restaurant, dramatic city views and more. You won’t be disappointed by the rooftop pool and spacious rooms.

Top tips:

• To avoid the hustle and bustle of tourists, travel outside of the summer months. After all, Florence is just as beautiful in the spring and autumn.
• Take a day trip outside of Florence and experience Pisa or Siena.

Budapest

Why visit? It’s easy! Submerge yourself in Budapest’s spa culture with a dip in the thermal baths, take a cooking class, get lost in art exhibitions or tick off key landmarks on a walking tour, for solo holidaymakers the possibilities are endless.

Home to some of the best bars in Europe, you can’t visit this city without a stop at one of its ruin pubs or a walk along the River Danube.

Must-see sights:

• Fisherman’s Bastion
• Hungarian Parliament Building
• Buda Castle
• Széchenyi Thermal Baths
• St. Stephen’s Basilica

Top hotels in Budapest for solo travellers:

• Marmara Design Hotel: Marvel in views of the Danube right from your room, or after a day of tackling the main sights enjoy an a la carte dinner.
• Three Corners Hotel Bristol: Hosting a rich buffet breakfast and happy hour cocktails at its bar, this hotel has all the amenities you need. There’s also a free sauna, fitness area and glass-roof lounge.

Top tips:

• You’ll most likely receive change in their currency which is Hungarian forints if you take euros, so it’s best to stick to their local money when exchanging yours.
• Take the tram for as little as 2 euros, this transportation link has also been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Krakow

Why visit? Although its the second largest city in Poland, Krakow is not overwhelmingly large to explore. It is however home to one of Europe’s largest squares, placing many major sights within walking distance. Admired for its fairytale-like architecture and medieval vibe, it’s a bucket list worthy city. Not to mention, it’s extremely budget-friendly!

Must-see sights:

• Wawel Royal Castle
• Oskar Schindler’s Factory
• Tatra Mountains
• Old Town Krakow
• Auschwitz Concentration Camp

Top hotels in Krakow for solo travellers:

• Leone Aparthotel: Nestled between the Old Town and Jewish Quarter, this 3 star boutique style hotel has around-the-clock customer service and first-class facilities to ensure your stay is one-of-a-kind.
• Regent: Situated among a string of bars and restaurants, this city centre accommodation features all your must-have facilities including Wi-Fi, TV, 24-hour reception, safety deposit box and a restaurant.

Top tips:

• Bundle tours are a great way to save some cash, you can usually bag offers like two for one excursions.
• There are companies that offer free walking tours for areas such as the Jewish District.

Now that we’ve covered all the top city breaks perfect for solo travellers, you’re just a click away from world-famous landmarks, breathtaking sights and top-quality cuisine.