Solo travel offers unique opportunities to explore at your own pace and indulge your impulses. It gives you time to focus inward, discover yourself, and feel a sense of empowerment.
Yet, travelling alone can make you feel vulnerable. You might worry that being seen dining alone at a restaurant may make you a target. Maybe you worry you won’t be able to enjoy the nightlife because it could be unsafe to walk back to your hotel alone late at night?
You can travel alone and leave your personal stun gun behind when you visit one of these safe countries for solo travellers.
Iceland
Ranked the most peaceful country by the Global Peace Index, Iceland is an amazing destination for solo travellers. The nation’s crime rate is so low that the police in the capital city of Reykjavik don’t carry guns. The small island country is home to 130 volcanoes, many of which are still active, making volcanoes one of the more dangerous things you can encounter on your trip.
You can get to know the locals while travelling solo around Iceland since many natives speak fluent English. If you are ever lost or need recommendations, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friendly local who can guide you in the right direction.
Portugal
This small European country has gained popularity in recent years because of its stunning views and fantastic hostel culture. Solo travellers on a budget can enjoy quality accommodations and a lively social atmosphere. Many hostels offer dinner each night. You’ll enjoy delicious authentic local cuisine while making new friends.
Home to delicious port wine, much of Portugal is well connected by public transportation. Solo travellers will have an easy time exploring the large historic cities via train and bus. If you want to explore areas off the beaten path, you’ll likely need to rent a car or book a tour to get around.
Austria
Enjoy fantastic art, culture, and classical music in the stunning mountains of Austria. This country is incredibly safe for solo travellers and ranks sixth on the Global Peace Index. Most Austrians speak English, so you don’t have to worry about miscommunications if you can’t speak any German.
You’ll never run out of activities on your solo trip to Austria. The Austrian Alps offer exceptional skiing slopes. Even if you don’t ski, you can enjoy the mountains by taking a cable car up to the summit to enjoy the view from over 6,000 ft. elevation. Austria has many superb museums and baroque castles to explore if you prefer indoor activities.
Denmark
Known as the second happiest country in the world, Denmark has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe.
This Scandinavian country deserves to be on every solo traveller’s destination list this summer. Its northern latitude extends daylight hours during summer. You’ll enjoy more than 17 hours of sunlight, letting you explore everything this country has to offer.
A relatively flat country, Denmark is perfect for solo travellers who love to cycle. Biking around the capital city of Copenhagen is easy and safe, with over 220 miles of designated bike lanes. You can enjoy a bike ride through parks and open spaces on the 27 miles of bicycle paths.
Slovenia
Sharing borders with Austria, Italy, Hungary, and Croatia, Slovenia is a small yet vibrant country in south-central Europe. Its low crime rate ranks it fifth on the Global Peace Index. The country’s small size makes it easy to get around and explore the diverse history it has to offer.
Summer days in Slovenia average around 86°F. It’s the perfect weather for stand-up paddleboarding across Lake Bled. You can take a hike to discover breathtaking waterfalls and swim in hidden caves. In the evening, you can explore the capital city of Ljubljana, enjoy the local delicacies, and take part in the city’s vibrant nightlife.
New Zealand
Solo travellers to New Zealand will experience a crime rate that is lower than many U.S. cities. It has consistently been ranked second on the Global Peace Index. Natural disasters pose a bigger threat to most tourists than crime since New Zealand is at risk of earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.
The stunning countryside of New Zealand offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Solo backpackers can connect with an engaged online community on Facebook to get advice before starting their travels. While in New Zealand, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to connect with other travellers and locals alike. Everyone speaks English, even if their accent is slightly different.
