Where Should I Travel Solo for the First Time? Top Easy Destinations
Travelling alone for the first time can feel both exciting and intimidating. If you’ve been asking yourself “Where should I travel solo for the first time?” you’re not alone. Choosing the right destination is one of the most important steps in ensuring your trip is enjoyable and stress-free.
The best beginner-friendly solo travel destinations share three qualities: safety, accessibility, and a welcoming atmosphere. Your first solo trip should be somewhere you feel comfortable navigating, with opportunities to meet people and experiences that give you confidence for future adventures.
Below, I’ve rounded up some of the top easy destinations for first-time solo travellers, based on personal experience, global travel trends, and feedback from fellow solo explorers.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon has become one of Europe’s most popular cities for solo travellers. The Portuguese capital strikes a balance between rich history, modern culture, and affordability, making it a great first solo destination.
Why Lisbon works for first-time solo travellers:
- English is widely spoken, especially in the hospitality industry.
- Public transport is straightforward, with trams, metro, and affordable taxis.
- Portugal is one of the safer European countries, with a welcoming atmosphere for tourists.
Things to do in Lisbon as a solo traveller:
- Ride the famous Tram 28 through the city’s historic neighbourhoods.
- Explore Alfama, known for narrow streets, Fado music, and local cafés.
- Take a day trip to Sintra, with its colourful palaces and lush gardens.
- Walk up to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for panoramic sunset views.
Budget considerations:
- Hostel dorm beds start from £15–20 per night.
- Mid-range hotels average around £60–80 per night.
- Eating out is affordable, with traditional meals costing around £8–12.
Lisbon’s combination of affordability, safety, and sociability makes it a strong starting point for anyone new to solo travel.
2. Kyoto, Japan
Japan is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, and Kyoto offers a manageable, culturally rich alternative to Tokyo for first-time solo travellers and is one of my top travel bucket list destinations.
Why it works for first-time solo travellers:
- The country has one of the most efficient transport systems in the world.
- Crime rates are exceptionally low.
- Japan’s hospitality culture makes travellers feel welcomed and respected.
Things to do in Kyoto as a solo traveller:
- Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of bright orange torii gates.
- Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Discover traditional tea ceremonies and kimono rentals for cultural immersion.
- Take a day trip to Nara, home to friendly deer and the giant Buddha statue.
Budget considerations:
- Budget guesthouses and hostels cost around £20–25 per night.
- Mid-range hotels average £80–120 per night.
- Food ranges from £5 for a bowl of ramen to £15–20 for set meals.
For travellers worried about safety or culture shock, Kyoto offers reassurance while delivering unforgettable cultural experiences.
3. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is one of the world’s most famous solo travel destinations. Its unique mix of affordability, vibrant culture, and strong traveller community makes it especially beginner-friendly.
Why it works for first-time solo travellers:
- Huge community of backpackers, digital nomads, and long-term travellers.
- Extremely affordable compared to Western destinations.
- Many group activities like yoga retreats, surf schools, and cultural tours.
Things to do in Bali as a solo traveller:
- Relax in Ubud, known for rice terraces, art, and wellness retreats.
- Join a surf lesson in Canggu or Kuta.
- Explore temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu.
- Take a sunrise hike up Mount Batur.
Budget considerations:
- Hostels start as low as £5–10 per night.
- Private villas and mid-range hotels from £25–50 per night.
- Meals at local warungs can be as cheap as £2–3.
Bali is a great choice if you want a social environment, low costs, and a mix of culture and relaxation.
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a compact, affordable, and safe European capital that’s perfect for first-time solo travellers. Its historic old town and lively social scene make it easy to explore and connect with others. When I went to Prague, it was as magical as you would expect with quaint cobble streets and infamous historic Charles Bridge
Why it works for first-time solo travellers:
- Walkable city with reliable trams and metro.
- Affordable compared to Western European capitals.
- A popular stop on the backpacker route, making it easy to meet others.
Things to do in Prague as a solo traveller:
- Explore Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral.
- Walk across the historic Charles Bridge.
- Discover the quirky John Lennon Wall.
- Join a walking tour or beer-tasting tour to meet fellow travellers.
Budget considerations:
- Hostel dorms from £10–15 per night.
- Mid-range hotels average £50–70 per night.
- Meals in local pubs from £6–10.
For those looking for history, nightlife, and affordability, Prague is a solid first solo destination.
5. Melbourne, Australia
Australia is a safe and English-speaking destination, making it very beginner-friendly. Melbourne stands out as one of the world’s most liveable cities, with a vibrant cultural and café scene.
Why it works for first-time solo travellers:
- No language barrier for English speakers.
- Safe, modern, and easy to get around.
- A social city with plenty of backpacker hostels.
Things to do in Melbourne as a solo traveller:
- Wander through Melbourne’s laneways and street art.
- Visit the Queen Victoria Market.
- Take a day trip to the Great Ocean Road.
- Explore the city’s café culture.
Budget considerations:
- Hostel dorms from £20–25 per night.
- Mid-range hotels from £70–90 per night.
- Food is pricier than in Asia, with meals averaging £10–20.
Melbourne is best suited for travellers who want comfort, culture, and an easy transition into solo travel.
6. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver offers a rare balance of modern city life and stunning natural surroundings. For travellers who want to combine outdoor adventures with urban exploration, this is an excellent choice.
Why it works for first-time solo travellers:
- Safe and welcoming Canadian culture.
- Plenty of outdoor activities suitable for solo exploration.
- English-speaking environment.
Things to do in Vancouver as a solo traveller:
- Walk or cycle around Stanley Park.
- Take a trip to Grouse Mountain for hiking or skiing.
- Explore Granville Island Market.
- Join group tours to nearby Whistler or Vancouver Island.
Budget considerations:
- Hostel dorms from £25–30 per night.
- Hotels average £90–120 per night.
- Food is mid-range, around £10–15 per meal.
Vancouver is an excellent option if you want a mix of city life and outdoor adventure.
7. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of the most vibrant and social cities that I have visited in Europe, offering an excellent introduction to solo travel. The combination of culture, nightlife, and beach makes it unique.
Why Barcelona works for first-time solo travellers:
- Strong hostel culture, perfect for meeting people.
- Excellent public transport.
- Mediterranean climate for year-round visits.
Things to do in Barcelona as a solo traveller:
- Visit La Sagrada Família and Park Güell.
- Relax at Barceloneta Beach.
- Explore the Gothic Quarter.
- Join a tapas or flamenco tour for a social evening.
Budget considerations:
- Hostel dorms from £15–20 per night.
- Mid-range hotels from £70–90 per night.
- Meals range from £10–15 for tapas to £20–25 for full dinners.
Barcelona is ideal if you want a lively, social city with both culture and relaxation opportunities.
Tips for Choosing Your First Solo Travel Destination
- Prioritise safety: Choose destinations with a reputation for being safe and welcoming.
- Language can make things easier: Your first couple of solo travel destinations should be English-friendly destinations which can reduce stress.
- Transport is key: Reliable public transport helps solo travellers feel more independent. Making sure you also know the local ride sharing platform is as important as knowing public transport as SE Asia has Grab instead of Uber and places like Prague or Barcelona rely on Bolt.
- Social opportunities: Cities with hostels, group tours, or expat communities make it easier to meet people.
- Budget matters: Affordable destinations allow more freedom and flexibility, especially on a first trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About First-Time Solo Travel
Portugal is often recommended as one of the easiest countries for first-time solo travellers. Cities like Lisbon are safe, affordable, and English is widely spoken. Japan is another popular choice due to its safety and efficient transport system.
When choosing your first solo travel destination, consider factors like safety, budget, ease of transport, language barriers, and the availability of social opportunities such as hostels or group tours. Destinations like Lisbon, Prague, and Barcelona tick all these boxes.
Yes, many women travel solo every year. Safety depends more on the destination and personal awareness than gender. Countries like Japan, Portugal, and Canada are considered very safe for solo female travellers. Research local customs, avoid risky areas at night, and trust your instincts.
Budgets vary depending on the destination and travel style. In Europe, budget travellers can expect to spend £40–60 per day including accommodation, food, and transport. In Asia, this can be much lower at £20–30 per day. Mid-range travellers should expect £80–120 per day in most destinations.
Meeting people while travelling solo is easier than many think. Staying in hostels, joining walking tours, using travel apps, and taking part in group activities like cooking classes or day trips are all great ways to connect with others. Personally, I don’t like staying in hostels so for me its about taking group tours/trips is where I am able to meet new people.
Some common mistakes that I have done as a solo traveller include overpacking, not buying travel insurance, underestimating costs, and failing to research local customs – this was particularly important when I visited SE Asia. Many new solo travellers (including me!) also try to do too much too quickly instead of allowing time to relax and adjust.
For peace of mind, Yes! It’s a good idea to book your first few nights of accommodation and any must-see experiences in advance. Beyond that, leaving some flexibility allows you to adjust plans, meet people, and explore spontaneously.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your first solo travel destination is about finding a place where you’ll feel safe, supported, and inspired. Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Prague, the temples of Kyoto, or the beaches of Bali, each of these destinations offers the right mix of comfort and adventure for first-time solo travellers.
Once you take that first trip, you’ll quickly realise that solo travel opens up a world of possibilities – and the confidence you gain will stay with you for every journey that follows.
