Being single on Valentine’s Day is one of life’s cruelest jokes. Overstuffed with chocolate hearts, teddy bears, and tables for two, February 14th can be a struggle to get through when you are currently unattached. Luckily for the lonely hearts, Singles’ Awareness Day can provide some solace, on February 15th.
While a humorous holiday by definition, Singles’ Awareness Day can also be the ideal reason to start plotting your solo travels. And who knows? You might be able to eat/pray/love your way into a romantic encounter abroad! To help you out, we’ve come up with some of the coolest solo trips you can take.
Zagreb, Croatia
Perhaps you aren’t too happy about being single on Valentine’s Day due to a recent breakup. Zagreb, Croatia, is calling your name in the most cathartic of ways. In the city’s Upper Town, you’ll find the Museum of Broken Relationships, a space dedicated to the artifacts and stories of failed romances. Originally a traveling exhibition, the museum has grown into a permanent collection featuring objects donated from real-life breakups — letters, gifts, and personal mementos, all representing love lost. Visitors can even contribute their own relationship relics, turning heartache into a shared experience of closure and reflection.
Beyond its quirky museum, Zagreb is a wonderful destination for solo travelers. The city is highly walkable, with charming Austro-Hungarian architecture, lively cafés, and a welcoming atmosphere. Stroll through the picturesque St. Mark’s Square, explore the Dolac Market for fresh local produce, or take an afternoon coffee break at one of the many cozy cafés along Tkalčićeva Street — a social hub filled with music, food, and friendly locals. For those craving a bit of nature, Maksimir Park offers peaceful green spaces, while a short cable car ride up Sljeme Mountain rewards adventurers with stunning views.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Easily one of the most exciting cities in the United States, New Orleans offers singles a high-energy escape filled with music, history, and world-class cuisine. Solo travelers looking to meet people and partake in an endless stream of activities will find plenty to do on Bourbon Street, where jazz bands spill out of bars and revelers dance through the streets. But beyond Bourbon, there’s the Frenchmen Street music scene, where intimate jazz clubs like The Spotted Cat and Blue Nile offer authentic, soulful performances without the touristy crowds.
The city comes alive during its many festivals, including Mardi Gras, French Quarter Festival, and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival — all ideal times to visit if you want to experience New Orleans at its most festive. Food lovers traveling solo can indulge in classic dishes like gumbo and po’boys at local institutions such as Cochon or Commander’s Palace, or grab beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde. If you’re looking to explore beyond the party scene, take a solo stroll through the Garden District to admire historic mansions and oak-lined streets, or hop on a streetcar to City Park, home to the New Orleans Museum of Art and its scenic sculpture garden.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is a dream for solo travelers eager to immerse themselves in Japan’s history and traditions. The city’s iconic temples, like the golden Kinkaku-ji and the red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, provide breathtaking backdrops for exploration. Stroll through the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks create a serene escape, or wander the Philosopher’s Path, a picturesque canal-side walk lined with cherry blossoms in the spring.
For a deeper cultural experience, join a traditional tea ceremony in the historic Gion district, where you may even catch a glimpse of a geisha. Kyoto’s intimate izakayas and hidden matcha cafes offer cozy spots to meet fellow travelers or simply unwind with a bowl of ramen or a frothy cup of green tea.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Boasting over a million visitors each year, Queenstown, New Zealand, epitomizes the pursuit of adventure in solo travel. Located on the country’s South Island, the town is often hailed as the adventure capital of the world, making it an ideal place to let loose and push your limits. Queenstown is famous as the birthplace of bungee jumping, and thrill-seekers can take the leap at the Kawarau Bridge, the site of the world’s first commercial bungee jump. Measuring 43 meters high, the jump is a solo travel rite of passage.
Bungee jumping is just the beginning. Queenstown is also a top destination for skydiving, offering heart-pounding freefalls with breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. If jumping from a plane isn’t your style, try jet boating through the Shotover River Canyons, where powerful boats speed through narrow, rocky gorges at thrilling angles. Hikers and mountain bikers will find plenty to explore on the trails around Queenstown, including the Ben Lomond Track, which rewards climbers with panoramic views of the Southern Alps.
Banff, Canada
Banff is the ultimate destination for outdoorsy singles seeking adventure amid stunning natural beauty. Located in the heart of the Canada’s Rockies, this idyllic town offers a playground of activities no matter the season. Winter travelers can carve through fresh powder at Sunshine Village or Lake Louise Ski Resort, and then warm up with a soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs while gazing at the snow-covered peaks. Summer visitors can hike scenic trails like Johnston Canyon, paddle across the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, or go wildlife spotting for elk and mountain goats.
Beyond the great outdoors, Banff’s charming downtown offers plenty of ways to unwind. Grab a locally brewed pint at Banff Ave Brewing Co., enjoy live music at a cozy pub, or share travel stories with fellow adventurers over a hearty meal in a rustic lodge.
Bangkok, Thailand
It’s hard to feel intimidated by solo travel when you’re in the Land of Smiles, as Thailand is often called. Known for its warm hospitality, budget-friendly experiences, and well-trodden backpacker trail, Thailand is a favorite destination for solo travelers. Start in Bangkok, a city that buzzes with energy. Dive into the chaos of Khao San Road, a legendary backpacker hub filled with budget hostels, lively bars, and street vendors selling everything from pad Thai to scorpions on sticks. For a cultural deep dive, explore the opulent Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha, or visit Wat Pho, where you’ll find the country’s largest reclining Buddha statue.
Beyond Bangkok, you can explore the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya, the country’s ancient capital, where the ruins of temples and Buddha statues provide a glimpse into Thailand’s history. If beaches are calling your name, head south to Koh Tao, a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving, or Railay Beach, where towering limestone cliffs create a stunning setting for rock climbing and kayaking.
Lisdoonvarna, Ireland
Ireland can be a great place to test the solo travel waters. With easygoing locals, plenty of pints to be had, and gorgeous scenery, the country provides all the company you could need on a solo travel stint. However, if you are truly ready to mingle, you can always schedule your visit to Ireland around the Matchmaking Festival in the west coast town of Lisdoonvarna. Held every September, the festival has been attracting those looking for love for over 160 years. With plenty of music and dancing for the event, the Matchmaking Festival even boasts its very own matchmaker, who is rumored to have set up over 3,000 marriages.
Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is a paradise for singles who want to relax in the sun while still maintaining an adventurous spirit. This coastal town in Mexico boasts breathtaking white-sand beaches, a bohemian atmosphere, and a mix of eco-friendly resorts and lively beach clubs, providing the perfect setting for both solitude and socialization. Spend your days lounging on stunning beaches like Playa Paraíso, where turquoise waters meet soft, powdery sand, or explore the ancient Tulum Ruins, perched dramatically on a seaside cliff.
Adventure-seekers can snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear cenotes, underground limestone caves filled with refreshing freshwater, or take a day trip to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, home to diverse wildlife and stunning lagoons. As night falls, Tulum’s nightlife scene comes alive with beachfront clubs like Papaya Playa Project, where DJs spin under the stars, or rustic mezcalerías offering craft cocktails and laid-back vibes.
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Rome, Italy
Rome is rich in history, art, and culture, making it an enchanting destination for solo travelers. The Eternal City has no shortage of iconic landmarks, from the awe-inspiring Colosseum and the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum to the artistic wonders of the Vatican Museums, home to Michelangelo’s breathtaking Sistine Chapel. Exploring at your own pace allows you to fully absorb the grandeur of these historic sites while wandering through Rome’s charming, cobbled streets.
Food is an essential part of the experience, and Rome makes solo dining effortless with its cozy trattorias, vibrant outdoor cafés, and an abundance of gelato shops where you can enjoy a sweet treat while people-watching in Piazza Navona. Joining a food tour or a cooking class is a great way to connect with fellow travelers while indulging in authentic Italian flavors like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and suppli. In the evenings, take a stroll to the Trevi Fountain, toss in a coin to ensure your return, or relax with a glass of wine in the lively Trastevere district, where street musicians and bustling piazzas create an unforgettable atmosphere.
FAQs:
Q: What are some tips for staying safe while traveling solo?
A: Stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and research your destination’s safety guidelines. Share your itinerary with a trusted friend, and use apps like Google Maps for navigation. Avoid isolated areas at night and trust your instincts when meeting new people.
Q: How can I meet other travelers while traveling alone?
A: Join group tours, stay in hostels or social accommodations, attend local events, or use travel apps like Meetup and Couchsurfing. Cafés, co-working spaces, and walking tours are also great places to connect with fellow travelers.
Q: What’s the best way to pack for a solo trip?
A: Pack light, bring versatile clothing, and ensure you have essentials like a portable charger, travel insurance, and copies of important documents. A money belt or anti-theft backpack can help keep valuables secure.
Q: Is it more expensive to travel alone?
A: Solo travel can sometimes be pricier due to single-occupancy hotel rates, but you can save by choosing hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb. Look for group tours that don’t charge a single supplement and take advantage of public transportation.
Q: What’s the best way to handle language barriers when traveling alone?
A: Learn basic phrases in the local language, use translation apps like Google Translate, and carry a phrasebook. Body language and gestures can also help in communication. Many tourist areas have English-speaking locals, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Q: How can I make solo dining more enjoyable?
A: Choose lively cafés or communal seating restaurants, bring a book or journal, or sit at the bar where it’s easier to chat with staff and other diners. Food tours or cooking classes are also fun ways to experience local cuisine while socializing.
Where is your favorite destination to travel solo? Share your pick with us in our comments section below!