Looking for the best countries for solo travel? I got you (coming from someone with a leghty travel CV).
Solo traveling is one of my favorite ways to explore the world. You get to move at your own pace, change your plans whenever you feel like it, meet people from all over the world, and discover places you might never have considered visiting otherwise.
But I also get that choosing your first solo travel destination can feel overwhelming. You want somewhere safe, relatively easy to navigate, and ideally affordable. Bonus points if the food is amazing, the locals are welcoming, and there are plenty of things to see and do.
The good news? There are so many countries that tick all these boxes.
After spending years traveling solo and discovering places that made me fall in love with traveling all over again, I’ve put together five of my favorite countries for solo travelers. Some are perfect for first-timers, while others are great if you’re looking for a little adventure, a change of scenery, or somewhere to stay for a few weeks or months.
These are places I’ve personally explored, fallen in love with, and would happily return to. Let’s get into it!
1. Thailand: The Perfect Country for First-Time Solo Travelers
If you’re thinking about taking your first solo trip, Thailand is a pretty amazing place to start and I low-key wish it was my first destination.
It’s affordable, has a well-established tourism infrastructure, offers incredible food, and is generally easy to navigate as a traveler. You’ll find plenty of hostels, organized tours, and fellow solo travelers, so meeting people along the way is rarely an issue.
And the people? Thailand is called the Land of Smiles for a reason. While experiences vary, I found the country incredibly welcoming, and there’s something about the overall vibe that makes it very easy to fall in love with.
My personal experience with Thailand
I first visited Thailand in 2025, and it was pretty much love at first sight. Since then, I’ve spent around 3 months in the country in total. I’ve experienced big-city life in Bangkok, chilled on islands like Koh Lanta and Koh Samui, explored Railay Beach, and spent time discovering Chiang Mai (which is so far my absolute favorite).
I used to laugh when people were raving about Thailand. Now I’m one of them. And honestly, I get why so many travelers keep coming back.
Thailand is one of those countries that’s just very easy to love. You can eat insanely well without spending much, find accommodation for different budgets, and plan your days around whatever you’re in the mood for.
It’s also a great destination if you’re traveling alone but don’t necessarily want to be alone all the time. There are plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers, whether you’re staying in hostels, joining day trips, or simply hanging out at a local café.
My tip: Don’t try to squeeze everything into one trip. Thailand might look small enough to explore quickly on a map, but every region has its own vibe. Pick a few places, give yourself time to settle in, and enjoy the slower moments too.
Best for: First-time solo travelers, budget travelers, digital nomads, beach lovers, foodies, and anyone looking for an easy introduction to Southeast Asia.
Why visit Thailand solo?
Honestly, because Thailand has a bit of everything.
Want to experience big-city life? Spend some time in Bangkok, where you’ll find buzzing street markets, rooftop bars, endless food options, and neighborhoods that feel completely different from one another.
More into island life? Head to Koh Lanta for a slower pace, Koh Samui for a mix of beaches and amenities, or Railay for dramatic limestone cliffs and beautiful beaches.
And if you’re craving something different, Chiang Mai is a great place to explore northern Thailand’s culture, temples, markets, and surrounding nature.
The best part is how different each destination feels. You can go from the chaos of Bangkok to a chilled-out island in just a few hours of travel. Every region has its own special charm, which makes Thailand a country you could easily spend months exploring without getting bored.
2. Portugal: For Ocean Lovers, City Explorers, and Slow Travelers
Portugal is one of those countries that seems to have something for everyone.
You’ve got beautiful coastlines, surf towns, bustling cities, historic villages, vineyards, and some seriously good food. It’s relatively easy to travel around, and its established tourism infrastructure makes it a great option for solo travelers.
Whether you want to spend your days exploring a city, hiking along the coast, surfing, or simply sitting at a café with a pastel de nata, Portugal makes it easy to find your own rhythm.
My personal experience with Portugal
I’ve spent around 5 months in Portugal over the years, mainly in Lisbon, but I’ve also explored the country on foot. Walking the coastal Camino de Santiago and the Fishermen’s Trail gave me the chance to discover smaller local villages and see a completely different side of Portugal.
And that’s something I love about traveling slowly. You start noticing the little things you’d probably miss if you were rushing from one famous attraction to another.
The locals I’ve met have been incredibly sweet, and Portugal just has this charm that’s hard to explain. It’s the kind of place where a random afternoon can turn into a memorable day without you really planning anything.
Also, I genuinely can’t get enough of pastel de natas and vinho verde. Give me a sunny terrace, a glass of chilled vinho verde, and a freshly baked pastel de nata, and I’m a happy person.
Portugal is also a great country if you’re looking for a mix of social experiences and solo time. You can meet other travelers in hostels or on hiking trails, then spend a few days somewhere quieter when you need a little break from socializing.
Why visit Portugal solo?
One of my favorite things about Portugal is how much variety you get. Lisbon is great if you love city life, with its winding streets, viewpoints, lively neighborhoods, and endless places to eat and drink. Porto offers a different atmosphere, with its historic architecture, riverside scenery, and famous wine cellars.
But please, don’t limit yourself to the cities. Portugal’s coastline is full of beautiful little towns, dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and places where life seems to move a little slower.
Take Ericeira, for example. It’s a surf town with a cozy, small-town vibe, plenty of cafés, and a community that attracts travelers from all over the world.
Then there’s Nazaré, known for its worlds biggest waves, coastal scenery, and traditional Portuguese atmosphere.
And if you’re into hiking, two routes worth looking into are the coastal Camino de Santiago and the Fishermen’s Trail. Both offer opportunities to experience Portugal beyond the usual tourist hotspots, passing through small villages and beautiful coastal landscapes along the way.
My tip: Explore beyond Lisbon and Porto. They’re both great cities, but some of my favorite experiences in Portugal have come from discovering smaller coastal towns and walking through places I would probably never have visited otherwise.
Best for: Solo travelers who love the ocean, hiking, surfing, food, charming cities, and slower travel.
3. Spain: Amazing Food, Laid-Back Living, and So Much to Explore
Spain is one of those countries I could visit over and over again without getting bored.
The lifestyle is laid-back, the food is amazing, the culture is rich, and there’s always something new to discover. Plus, the country is incredibly diverse, meaning that traveling between regions can feel like visiting completely different places.
If you’re looking for a solo travel destination where you can combine city breaks, nature, road trips, beach days, and cultural experiences, Spain is a pretty solid choice.
My personal experience with Spain
I’ve visited Spain too many times to count, and honestly, I’m obsessed.
There’s something about the Spanish language, the lively energy of the locals, and the overall lifestyle that makes me want to keep coming back. I’ve had amazing experiences in Spanish cities, but two of my favorite adventures happened when I went beyond the usual destinations.
In 2025, I walked part of the Camino del Norte along Spain’s northern coast, and I was completely blown away. Think dramatic coastal views, green landscapes, charming towns, and the kind of scenery that makes you stop every five minutes to take another picture.
The Camino was actually part of a longer road trip around Spain where I discovered so many unique places I’d never even heard of before. It’s one of the reasons I always encourage people to explore beyond the most popular destinations. Sometimes, the places you know the least about end up becoming the highlights of your trip.
Two of my personal favorites? Picos de Europa and San Sebastián.
Picos de Europa is incredible if you love mountains, hiking, and dramatic landscapes. It’s a completely different side of Spain from the sunny beach destinations many people picture.
San Sebastián, on the other hand, is a dream for food lovers. Its pintxos culture, beautiful beach, and elegant streets make it a place I’d happily return to. Fun fact - San Sebastián has one of the highest numbers of Michelin-starred restaurants per capita in the world.
And that’s the beauty of Spain: you can spend one trip hiking in the mountains, another exploring coastal towns, and another eating your way through its cities.
Why visit Spain solo?
First of all, the food. I mean, come on.nTapas, pintxos, tortilla española, fresh seafood, local wines… You could spend your entire trip eating your way around the country, and I wouldn’t blame you.
Then there’s the lifestyle. Long lunches, late dinners, lively streets, and people spending time together outdoors are all part of the experience in many parts of Spain.
Spanish cities are fantastic for solo travelers, too. You can spend your days exploring architecture, visiting museums, wandering through local markets, and discovering neighborhoods on foot.
But what makes Spain really special is how different each region feels.nThe landscapes, food, traditions, architecture, and even languages can change dramatically depending on where you are. And while Barcelona, Madrid, and Málaga are popular for good reason, there’s so much more to explore beyond these destinations.
My tip: Don’t plan your entire trip around the most famous cities. Rent a car or hit the road by train or bus, explore smaller towns, and give lesser-known regions a chance. Spain has so much more to offer than you might expect.
Best for: Foodies, culture lovers, road-trippers, hikers, beach lovers, and solo travelers who enjoy a laid-back lifestyle.
4. Vietnam: Affordable Adventures and Some of the Best Food
Vietnam is an incredible destination if you’re looking for an affordable solo trip with plenty of adventure.
It’s a country where you can explore huge cities, spend time in nature, experience a wild nightlife scene, visit traditional villages, and eat some of the best food of your life.
It’s also a popular destination among backpackers and solo travelers, which means you’ll find plenty of hostels, organized tours, and opportunities to meet like-minded people along the way.
And thanks to its established network of buses and trains, traveling between destinations is relatively straightforward.
My personal experience with Vietnam
Early 2026 I spent 3 months traveling through Vietnam from south to north, and it quickly became a trip I’ll never forget.
I’ll be honest: it took me a little time to get used to the traffic and overall volume of Vietnam (IYKYK). The constant beeping, the number of motorbikes, and the seemingly chaotic streets can feel overwhelming at first, especially if you’re used to quieter places.
But once you start getting into the rhythm of the country, there’s so much to love.
The food is absolutely fab. I’m still thinking about those crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with all the good stuff, fresh summer rolls, steaming bowls of pho, and all the random little places where I had some of my favorite meals.
Vietnam also has great infrastructure for travelers. Night buses and trains make it easier to cover long distances, and there are hostels all over the country where you can meet other solo travelers.
But my personal highlight was definitely a 3-day motorbike trip through the mountains in northern Vietnam - Ha Giang loop. The landscapes were unreal, and exploring the region this way was one of those experiences that reminds you why traveling is so special. You get to see places that feel completely different from the big cities and experience a side of the country that you might otherwise miss.
Why visit Vietnam solo?
Vietnam offers so much variety, and one of the best things about traveling there is how easy it is to shape your trip around your interests.
Want to experience city life? Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer busy streets, incredible food scenes, markets, cafés, and nightlife.
More into nature? You can explore mountains, rice terraces, caves, national parks, and beautiful coastlines.
Looking for something adventurous? Vietnam is famous among travelers for its motorbike routes, especially in the mountainous north.
And then there’s the food. Pho, bánh mì, fresh summer rolls, crispy pancakes filled with delicious ingredients… Vietnamese food is a reason to visit the country on its own.
It’s also incredibly affordable compared with many destinations in Europe, making Vietnam a great option if you want to travel for longer without spending a fortune.
My tip: If you have enough time, travel from south to north or vice versa instead of focusing on just one area. Vietnam is long and diverse, and each region offers something different. And if you’re up for an adventure, look into a guided motorbike trip in the north, even if you’re not an experienced rider yourself.
Best for: Budget travelers, backpackers, foodies, adventure seekers, nature lovers, and solo travelers who enjoy meeting people along the way.
5. France: Beautiful Cities, Incredible Food, and Unexpected Discoveries
France is one of those countries where you could travel for YEARS and still have places left to discover.
You’ve got stunning architecture, dramatic landscapes, charming villages, buzzing cities, beautiful coastlines, world-class art, and some of the best food and wine out there.
Whether you’re into mountain adventures, coastal walks, city breaks, or long lunches in little cafés, France offers plenty of options for solo travelers.
And while Paris is an obvious starting point, there’s a whole country waiting to be explored beyond the capital.
My personal experience with France
Where do I even start? I love France. A solo trip here can be such a treat. It’s the little things that make it special: finding an unexpectedly amazing (random) bakery, discovering a tiny wine bar, wandering through beautiful streets without a plan, or spending way too long deciding which cheese to buy from fromagerie.
But one of my FAVORITE travel memories in France comes from a trip I took with a friend a few years ago. We decided to buy tickets to a destination we knew absolutely nothing about. No extensive research, no detailed itinerary, no scrolling through hundreds of travel guides beforehand. We ended up flying to Nantes.
And honestly? We had a blast.
We didn’t know much about the city before arriving, which made discovering it even more fun. We were pleasantly surprised by its atmosphere, its character, and how much we enjoyed simply spending time there.
It’s a reminder that not every trip needs to be planned around a destination you’ve been dreaming about for years. Sometimes, choosing a place you’ve barely heard of and figuring it out as you go can lead to the best experiences.
That’s especially true in France, where so many cities and towns have their own distinct character, history, and food culture.
Why visit France solo?
France is a fantastic destination if you love combining different experiences in one trip.
You can explore the museums and architecture of Paris, hike in the Alps, sip some wine in vineyards in wine regions, wander through medieval villages, or spend your days exploring the coastline.
The food alone makes it worth visiting. Imagine starting your morning with a ridiculously good croissant from a random neighborhood bakery, picking up some smelly (yet yummy) cheese from a local fromagerie, and ending the day with a good bottle of French wine. Sounds pretty perfect to me.
France is also a great destination for travelers who enjoy exploring independently. Its train network connects many major cities, and you can easily build a trip around a few destinations rather than trying to see everything at once.
Of course, some rural areas are easier to explore with a car, so your ideal itinerary will depend on where you want to go.
My tip: Please, do peek outside of Paris. Paris is beautiful, but France has so much more to offer. Pick a smaller city, explore a region by train, or rent a car and visit some villages along the way. You might be surprised by what you discover.
Best for: Foodies, culture lovers, art enthusiasts, city explorers, hikers, and solo travelers who enjoy discovering places at their own pace.
What Makes a Good Solo Travel Destination?
A good solo travel destination is a place where you feel comfortable exploring on your own, can get around relatively easily, and have plenty of opportunities to enjoy yourself, whether that’s meeting other travelers or spending time alone.
For some people, that means affordable accommodation, good public transport, and lots of hostels where they can meet like-minded people. For others, it’s about feeling safe, exploring nature, discovering local culture, or having the freedom to slow down and do their own thing.
I’d also consider the local food scene, the variety of things to do, and how easy it is to travel between destinations. But most importantly, choose somewhere that genuinely excites you. There’s no point in visiting a famous party destination if you’re more into hiking in the mountains or spending your days exploring little coastal towns.
How Do I Choose the Best Country for My First Solo Trip?
Start by thinking about what you want from your trip. Are you looking for a relaxed beach holiday, an adventurous backpacking experience, bustling cities, or a mix of everything?
If you’re nervous about traveling alone for the first time, consider destinations with good tourist infrastructure, reliable transport options, and plenty of other travelers. Thailand and Vietnam are great options if you’re looking for an affordable trip with lots of opportunities to meet people. Portugal and Spain are excellent choices if you prefer a mix of cities, coastlines, culture, and outdoor adventures.
You don’t need to start with a long trip, either. A week or two in a destination that matches your interests can be a great way to get comfortable traveling solo.
Is Solo Travel Safe?
Solo travel can be a rewarding experience, but no destination is completely risk-free. Your safety depends on several factors, including where you go, how you travel, and the precautions you take.
Before booking, research the specific regions you want to visit, check current travel advice, and learn about common scams or local safety concerns. Think about transportation, accommodation, and whether you’ll feel comfortable exploring alone.
It’s also worth considering your own experience and confidence level. Some travelers feel perfectly comfortable navigating busy cities, while others prefer quieter destinations or joining organized tours.
The goal isn’t to find a place where nothing can go wrong. It’s to choose a destination where you feel comfortable enough to enjoy the experience.
What Are the Most Affordable Countries for Solo Travelers?
If you’re traveling on a budget, Thailand and Vietnam are great places to start. Both offer affordable local food, budget accommodation, and plenty of ways to explore without spending a fortune.
Portugal and Spain can also work well for budget-conscious travelers, especially if you’re flexible with your accommodation, travel outside peak season, and explore destinations beyond the most popular tourist hotspots. France can be more expensive in some areas, but smaller cities and thoughtful planning can help keep costs down.
Remember that your travel style matters just as much as the destination. Staying in hostels, using public transport, eating where locals eat, and traveling more slowly can make a big difference to your overall budget.
Should I Choose a Destination Based on My Interests or Its Popularity?
Definitely your interests!
Just because everyone is visiting a particular destination doesn’t mean it’s the right place for you. If you love hiking, look for countries with great trails and beautiful landscapes. If food is your thing, choose somewhere with a cuisine you’re excited to explore. If you want to meet people, look for a destination with a lively backpacking scene, social hostels, and group activities.
Also, think about the kind of experience you want. Do you prefer bustling cities or quiet villages? Mountains or beaches? Cultural experiences or outdoor adventures? Do you want to meet lots of people or enjoy some proper alone time?
And don’t be afraid to look beyond the obvious destinations. Some of the best travel experiences happen in places you hadn’t even considered visiting before.
My advice? Choose a destination that fits your interests, not just your Instagram feed. You’re the one taking the trip, so make it an experience you’ll genuinely enjoy.
So, Which Country Is Best for Solo Travel?
Honestly, it depends on what you’re looking for.
All five countries offer something different, and the best destination for you will depend on your budget, travel style, interests, and how much experience you have traveling alone.
Here’s a quick overview to help you decide.
| Country | Best for | Budget | My personal highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | First-time solo travelers, beaches, food, and meeting people | Budget-friendly | Exploring different regions, from Bangkok to the islands |
| Portugal | Coastal adventures, city-life, surfing, hiking, and slow travel | Moderate | Walking coastal trails, discovering small villages and living Lisbon life |
| Spain | Food, culture, road trips, and diverse landscapes | Budget to moderate, depending on the region | Picos de Europa and San Sebastián |
| Vietnam | Backpacking, adventure, food, and nature | Very budget-friendly | A three-day motorbike trip through Ha Giang loop |
| France | Food, art, architecture, and regional discoveries | Moderate | Spontaneously discovering Nantes |
Budget levels are relative and depend on your travel style, season, accommodation, and activities.
Best country for first-time solo travelers: Thailand
If you’re nervous about taking your first solo trip, Thailand is a great place to start. It’s affordable, has plenty of traveler-friendly infrastructure, and makes it relatively easy to meet other people.
Just remember that no destination is completely risk-free. Do your research, take normal travel precautions, and choose the places and activities that fit your comfort level.
Best country for budget solo travel: Vietnam
Vietnam is an excellent choice if you want to travel for longer without spending too much. Affordable accommodation, local food, and a range of transportation options make it particularly appealing to backpackers.
Best country for food lovers: All of them, honestly
Choosing just one feels impossible.
Thailand and Vietnam are incredible if you love bold flavors and street food. Portugal has its pastries, seafood, and wine. Spain is a dream for tapas and pintxos. And France? Well, the bakeries, restaurants, cheese shops, and wine alone deserve a separate trip.
Best country for nature and outdoor adventures: Spain and Portugal
Both offer fantastic opportunities to explore on foot.
Spain has dramatic mountains, beautiful coastlines, and diverse landscapes, while Portugal is great for coastal hiking, surfing, and exploring smaller towns along the ocean.
Of course, Vietnam, Thailand, and France also have plenty to offer if nature and outdoor adventures are high on your list.
Source: https://pin.it/4qEpwcy4B
Best country for slow travel: Portugal
Portugal is a great choice if you want to settle into a place rather than constantly move around.
Spend a few weeks in Lisbon, find a surf town you love, or walk one of the country’s coastal trails. It’s a country where slowing down can be just as rewarding as seeing the sights.
A Few Tips for Choosing Your First Solo Travel Destination
If you’re still unsure where to go, here are a few things I’d consider before booking your trip.
1. Think about your budget.
Your money will go much further in countries like Vietnam and Thailand than in many parts of France. That doesn’t mean you can’t travel Europe on a budget, but accommodation, transport, and eating out can add up quickly in some destinations.
2. Consider how easy it is to get around.
If it’s your first solo trip, you might feel more comfortable somewhere with established transport connections, plenty of accommodation options, and a well-developed travel scene.
Thailand, Vietnam, Portugal, Spain, and France all offer good options, although transport can vary significantly between regions.
3. Think about how social you want your trip to be.
If you want to meet other solo travelers, look for destinations with plenty of hostels, group tours, and activities.
Thailand and Vietnam are particularly popular with backpackers, while Portugal and Spain also have plenty of opportunities to meet people, especially in cities and surf towns.
4. Don’t overlook safety.
All five countries can be great solo travel destinations, but safety depends on where you go, how you travel, and the precautions you take.
Research your specific destinations before leaving, be aware of common scams and local risks, and use reliable transportation, especially at night. In busy tourist areas, keep an eye on your belongings.
And remember that feeling comfortable in a destination is personal. Choose somewhere that matches your experience level and travel style. Personally, I’ve felt very safe in all of these countries.
5. Don’t plan every single detail.
I’m all for doing your research, especially when traveling solo, but leave some room for spontaneity.
Some of my favorite travel memories came from exploring places I knew very little about, taking a random turn, or deciding to stay somewhere longer because I liked the vibe.
You don’t need to see everything. Sometimes, the best part of traveling is simply being somewhere new and figuring it out as you go.
Document Your Solo Travels with Wentfar
Solo traveling comes with SO many memories. Random cafés, hidden gems, beautiful places, people you meet, and little moments you wish you could relive.
But keeping track of everything isn’t always easy. Your photos are scattered across your phone, favorite places are saved somewhere in Google Maps, and memories quickly get buried in your camera roll.
That’s one of the reasons I built Wentfar – a travel app that helps you document your trips, track the places you’ve visited, and turn your photos into a visual travel feed and map. You can also share your adventures with friends and family and keep all your travel memories in one place.
Because traveling isn’t just about ticking destinations off a list. It’s about all those little moments along the way, and they’re worth remembering.
Ready for your next adventure? Give Wentfar a try!
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sokkio.wentfar
Final Thoughts: Just Book the Trip
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from traveling solo, it’s that there’s no single perfect destination.
Some places will surprise you with their landscapes. Others will win you over with their food, their people, or the little moments you didn’t expect to remember.
Thailand made me fall in love from the very first visit. Portugal keeps pulling me back with its coastal charm. Spain has me completely obsessed with its culture and vibe. Vietnam gave me some unforgettable adventures. And France reminds me that sometimes the best discoveries happen when you know absolutely nothing about where you’re going.
So, if you’re planning your first solo trip, don’t overthink it.
Choose a country that excites you, do enough research to feel comfortable, and give yourself the freedom to explore.
And if you’ve already been traveling solo for a while, take this as your sign to go somewhere a little different. Skip the obvious destination, book that random train ticket, or spend a few weeks exploring a region you’ve never heard much about.
You never know which place will steal your heart next.