Hey! Are you about to embark on your first solo trip? Have you thought long about where to go when you jet off on your own and wondering if it's a good idea? Don't have anyone to travel with but still want to see the world?
If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions then welcome! If you answered 'no' then you're still welcome.
I first started solo traveling when I was 18. Granted I went to stay with my dad's side of the family but I hadn't seen them in a decade so it was all super new to me. I flew on my own for the first time and had to navigate the airports without any help from my parents. It was scary at first but it awoke something within me, a love for solo traveling!
My first proper solo trip was a year later. I flew to London for the weekend to attend London Film and Comic-Con and was wandering around this huge city all on my own. A little nervous I found a real passion to be able to do exactly what I wanted and ever since I've found myself going on adventures around the world completely alone.
The biggest trip I ever did was back in 2016 when I packed a suitcase and flew to New York where I would begin a four week trip around the States. And let me tell you it was the best trip I've ever done!
Since my first solo trip back in 2011 I've been on numerous adventures on my own and found some real gems for solo travelers, especially female solo travellers, so without further ado here are my Top 5 Cities for Solo Travellers.
1. NEW YORK CITY
New York was my first real proper solo trip and it was an incredible first place to explore on my own. It is incredibly walkable, people are super friendly, and I felt really safe even at night. I stayed with my dad's friend (who I'd never met before) in Astoria, Queens, and navigated into the city on the Metro which was easy to figure out.
The people in New York are super friendly too so it wasn't weird being alone, asking for directions was easy-peasy and if you looked lost there was always someone to point you in the right direction.
Since NYC is popular with tourists there's always someone to ask if you want your picture taken with a famous landmark and the guided tours allow you to join a group for a while to explore the city and get some more information.
2. ATHENS
Last year I flew to Athens before joining a group of strangers to sail around the Saronic Islands with Medsailors. I spent the first day in the Greek capital on my own and really enjoyed exploring this ancient city. With picturesque alleys, Greek tavernas on each corner, and cobbled stone streets Athens was the perfect place for some solo slow traveling. Slow travel is when you just mooch around places with no real plans, just taking in the surroundings and enjoying it at a slow pace.
I walked from my hotel to Plaka where I had a stunning view of the Akropolis before settling down in a Taverna and enjoying my first Greek dinner.
3. PARIS
While you might not think of Paris as a place for solo traveling as it's often thought of a place for romance I really enjoyed my two days of roaming around the French streets. Traveling to Paris in early November was also the best time as it was just after half term so it wasn't crowded with tourists and it felt a lot calmer than I had expected. Paris is a super walkable city but if your legs get tired I recommend renting one of the many electric scooters that are milling about.
My favourite spot was at the top of Arc de Triomphe where I spent a good hour just taking in the stunning views of Paris in Autumn. I was trying to grab some selfies with the Eiffel Tower when this lovely American lady asked if I wanted her to take the photo, with the few other tourists up there it was easy enough to get a good snap and I'm happy she asked came up to me.
4. COPENHAGEN
My first ever 24-hour trip was when I still lived in Sweden. I decided to book a same-day return train to Copenhagen and spent the day exploring the picturesque Danish city. One thing you'll quickly notice about European cities is that they're super easy to navigate by foot which is how I often get around. Not only is it the best way to see a new place as you're likely to stumble upon some hidden gems, but it's also free!
Copenhagen has some great sights and is another city that's perfect for slow travel. Enjoy the Danish art of Hygge and just take a chill day strolling another stunning European capital.
5. EDINBURGH
Last on my list of favourite Solo Travel Destinations is the stunning Scottish capital of Edinburgh. I came here in December 2018 and explored the Christmas Market and wandered the Royal Mile. Edinburgh is one of the most stunning cities in the UK and is the perfect place for solo travelling.
Join in on one of their many walking tours, enjoying the views from Edinburgh Castle, and try a Scottish Breakfast. I recommend staying in the Kick Ass Hostel as it has the most stunning views of the castle and an excellent breakfast!
Whether you're looking to travel far or staying local there are always great places to travel solo. Don't worry about feeling out of place for being on your own, no one cares. If you're looking for somewhere to go on your first solo trip then I recommend looking into one of the above-mentioned cities. My number one tip for any first time solo travelers is to pick somewhere where you feel safe and do your research.
