Travel experts reveal 5 cities that are perfect for solo travellers, from a 1,500-year-old hotspot with ‘welcoming locals’ to ‘one of the safest countries in South America’
Traveling alone can be pure enjoyment as only one person is responsible for the itinerary. You.
Choose the wrong destination, however, and the “alone” part of the deal can suddenly become a problem. Especially if there are safety problems.
So what are the ‘right’ destinations?
See below. We spoke to travel experts from The Points Guy, Aditi Travel and Travel City for their top tips on the best cities and countries for a solo adventure, from the ‘safest country in South America’ to places where making friends is a breeze is down to ‘welcoming locals’ and plentiful hostels.
Scroll down for more information – and don’t forget to vote in our poll for your favorite solo destination…
Tbilisi, Georgia
Solo travel expert Helen Youngman recommends Georgia’s capital Tbilisi (above) for a getaway for one. According to her, the ‘hospitable locals’ are one of the many advantages
Helen Youngman, who runs a solo travel holiday company Aditi Travelrecommended the 1500 year old Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, which lies at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
Helen told MailOnline Travel: ‘Tbilisi is a creative and eclectic city with a historic old town, colorful Ottoman architecture and warm and welcoming locals, making it perfect for solo exploration.
‘Relax in the city’s famous sulfur bathhouses, enjoy wine tasting in cozy cellar bars and for a taste of famous Georgian hospitality and cuisine, book a meal at a local family home.
‘Stay at: Rooms Hotel Tbilisiset in a beautifully restored building and a great base for exploring the vibrant local culture.’
Santiago, Chile
Nicky Kelvin of The Points Guy said Santiago (above) is ‘one of the safest countries in South and Latin America’ with ‘beautiful natural scenery’ and ‘a huge hostel culture’
Nicky Kelvintravel expert and Editor at Large at The points mana must for a hotspot in South America, surrounded by the snow-capped Andes and Chile’s Coast Range mountains.
Nicky explained to MailOnline: ‘Chile is considered one of the safest countries in South and Latin America, and the capital has a particularly low crime rate.
‘Once you’ve ventured outside of Santiago, you can enjoy skiing in the Andes, hiking in the Atacama Desert, and even enjoy cycling wine tastings.
‘In terms of natural beauty, the rugged Chilean landscapes are difficult to beat.
‘Plus, the whole country has a huge hostel culture (with both budget and luxury options), making it easy to find new friends. Would you rather stay in the city? Santiago has many accessible viewpoints, fantastic museums and also delicious restaurants.’
Berlin, Germany
Nicky recommended Berlin for a solo European city break, noting its ‘excellent public transport, high level of spoken English’ and plentiful hostels
Travelers looking to explore Europe are spoiled for choice, but Nicky recommends the German capital for those venturing out on their own.
He noted: ‘Berlin is a city with a low crime rate, excellent public transport, a high level of spoken English and a progressive atmosphere that will make almost anyone feel at home.
‘With many hostels and free tours, you can easily meet other solo travelers in a low-pressure environment.
‘Berlin also has a fantastic public art trail, so wandering around the city on foot is particularly easy and entertaining.’
Melbourne, Australia
Lee Dobson, co-founder of Travel City, suggested Melbourne because it has a “vibrant cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods and welcoming locals.” Above – Melbourne Flinders Street train station
Lee Dobson, co-founder of Travel citythat offers reviews and suggestions on where to go, recommended vacationers.
He told MailOnline: ‘Melbourne stands out as a great city break for solo travelers due to its vibrant cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods and welcoming locals.
‘The city is known for its street art, coffee culture and countless festivals. Solo travelers can visit the National Gallery of Victoria, explore the alleys full of unique shops and cafes, and relax in the Royal Botanic Gardens.
‘Melbourne’s extensive tram network makes getting around easy. The city is also a gateway to natural attractions such as the Great Ocean Road and the Yarra Valley – perfect for day trips.”
Taipei, Taiwan
Nicky Kelvin recommended Taipei for solo holidaymakers, noting that it is “as good as Japan” in terms of safety, but “much cheaper” than Tokyo. Above: Taipei’s National Concert Hall on Freedom Square
Nicky from The Points Guy suggested that solo travelers looking to explore Asia should venture to Taiwan, an island country off the east coast of China.
He explained: “Taiwan is on par with Japan in terms of security [capital city] Taipei is much cheaper to visit than Tokyo for a solo traveler.
‘With an immense range of budget and boutique accommodation options, as well as major brand hotels that are also well priced (think Kimpton and Hilton), individual travelers are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation options.
‘Free walking tours are offered in many neighborhoods and are a great way to connect with like-minded travelers, as are street food tours.
‘An added bonus: Taipei’s metro system is clean, organized and safe. There is even classical music played as the trains approach.’