Deciding to embark on your first solo trip is a bold and exciting move. Whether TikTok adventures or stories from an older family member inspired you, you’re here because you’re determined to find the perfect destination for your first solo journey! Your first trip will have a lasting impact on your perception of travel, shaping it for better or worse, so we’re here to guide you to the right place.
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Why These are Ideal First-Time Solo Travel Destinations
Choosing the right place to visit can make a crucial difference in the outcome of your trip. The best locations for solo travellers offer a welcoming atmosphere, safety, ease of navigation, and enough charm to draw you back one day!
This guide will firmly help you find the best places for first-time solo travel, setting you on the path to adventure and unforgettable experiences!
1. Lisbon
Travel experts rank Lisbon as one of the best destinations on the planet for first-time solo travellers. This city was my first experience travelling solo and arguably changed the trajectory of my life.
Both charming and inviting, Lisbon offers a delectable mix of history, culture, food, and nightlife.
Upon arrival, you are immediately greeted by the sight of the Castelo de S. Jorge and the Cristo Rei. These historical landmarks will satisfy those fascinated by local culture, while the notorious Pink Street will captivate anyone eager to explore the vibrant bar and club scene.
The travel community highly rates the hostels in Lisbon, offering unique experiences compared to those elsewhere. Undoubtedly, Good Morning Solo Traveller Hostel provided me with the best hostel experience I have had to date. It offered an atmosphere that made it incredibly easy to meet people and the option to eat all-inclusively within the hostel.
Additionally, the local people are very welcoming to tourists and foreigners. They often speak good English and are patient and helpful. You’ll easily find someone willing to help you find your way or recommend the best place to eat. The city is truly one of the best places for first-time solo travel.
Regarding day-to-day experiences, Lisbon offers a robust and easy-to-navigate public transport system. Generally speaking, the city is very safe with no notable areas to avoid. Coupled with keeping your wits about you, you should feel safe and sound in this beautiful town.
2. Mauritius
Mauritius, with its exotic sights and amazingly hospitable locals, is a destination for those with a bit more cash in hand. While this beautiful island in the Indian Ocean offers wonderful experiences to its tourists, budget travellers may find it challenging to get a deal here.
Mauritius is one of the best places for first-time solo travel because it has the perfect blend of beautiful natural scenery, a wide range of activities, and renowned safety across the island.
The island boasts famous national parks such as Black River Gorges National Park and La Vallée des Couleurs Nature Park, where you can immerse yourself in a prime tropical paradise. Additionally, there is the dormant volcano Trou aux Cerfs (don’t worry, an eruption isn’t due).
For those who enjoy more active pursuits, Mauritius offers opportunities to hone your surfing skills or snorkel with giant turtles. While Mauritius may have a hefty price tag, it presents great value for money for those willing to splurge.
This destination is particularly appealing to solo travellers because, despite the potentially daunting long-haul flight, it offers unforgettable first solo trip memories.
If you’re willing to show yourself that nothing can hold you back, Mauritius beckons.
3. Dresden
Dresden, the wondrous capital of Saxony, has to be on this list. Levelled during World War II and entirely rebuilt in sophisticated German fashion, Dresden offers a unique opportunity for solo travellers seeking a mix of vibrant nightlife and fascinating history.
The city is culturally rich with an abundance of architectural sights and extensive museums. The Frauenkirche Dresden, the area’s most famous cathedral, is still undergoing repairs from the damage done during WWII. Additionally, the Procession of Princes and the Kunsthofpassage provide enchanting walks through the city.
It wouldn’t be fair to talk about Dresden without mentioning its nightlife. The nightlife in Dresden boasts immense popularity throughout Germany. Local bars like Groovestation may appear innocent from the outside but turn into techno raves come midnight. You won’t have any trouble finding bars and clubs that will give you a night to remember (or not).
Like many other German cities, Dresden is home to many English speakers who are friendly and helpful. The city also has an efficient tram system and ranks as one of the top 3 safest cities in Germany. It’s a no-brainer for those wanting to dip their toes into solo travel.
4. Egypt
People around the world know the charms of Egypt, and the locals understand this well. One moment, locals will praise you like a best friend, and the next, they will aggressively haggle with you. While you will feel a cultural difference in Egypt, it remains a phenomenal destination for your first solo trip.
Whether you are looking for the pyramids or swimming with dolphins, Egypt has it all.
You can explore one of the Seven Wonders of the World, from the pyramids of Giza to the Abu Simbel Temples near the Sudan border, and everything in between. Remnants of ancient civilization are everywhere you look, making it one of the most unforgettable trips of your life.
If history isn’t your thing, Egypt offers 1,500 km of coastline along the Red Sea, where you can relax on high-quality beaches or participate in activities such as snorkelling, paragliding, and swimming with dolphins. These activities come at a very reasonable price given Egypt’s currency, providing high value for money.
A word of warning to solo travellers: you will encounter scenarios where people try to sell you something or direct you to places you don’t want to go. Locals master cold sales and learn from a young age how to make the most of the many tourists.
While navigating this can be tricky, these experiences will reward you with memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Regarding safety, given the conflicts in bordering nations: I visited in late 2023 amid the Israel-Gaza war and felt completely safe throughout my travels in Egypt. The heavily guarded border ensures that regional conflicts are extremely unlikely to affect visitors.
5. Barcelona
The atmosphere in Barcelona is unique to the Catalan capital, making it a place you won’t want to leave. Home to one of the most famous football teams and some of the prettiest urban views in Europe, Barcelona is a must-visit.
As a solo traveller, Barcelona is undoubtedly one of the best places for first-time solo travel. Whether you prefer hostels or luxury stays, the city offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all preferences and budgets.
Barcelona is rich in history, with landmarks such as Montjuic Castle, Barcelona Cathedral, and the iconic Sagrada Familia. These historic sites offer a glimpse into the city’s storied past and have international recognition.
Football fans will appreciate the opportunity to visit one of the biggest clubs on the planet. If you’re lucky, you might catch a match at Camp Nou, Lionel Messi’s former home ground, and experience an atmosphere that’s hard to match. You can buy tickets online, but I recommend checking the fixtures before your visit.
You won’t be disappointed if you choose Barcelona as your first solo travel destination. However, be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas, as the city has a reputation for this.
Conclusion
In summary, this list of the best places for first-time solo travel offers a variety of experiences for different tastes and preferences. While destinations like Lisbon and Barcelona are classic choices for their vibrant culture and friendly atmospheres, places like Egypt and Mauritius provide unique and unforgettable experiences.
Ultimately, you’ve made the life-changing decision to take a leap of faith into the world of solo travel. Choose the destination that resonates most with your heart and get ready to create lifelong memories.
Safe travels!
