7 fantastic destinations for solo travelers in Europe

Europe, known for its compact dimensions, enchanting cities, and countless outdoor adventures, has been a premier solo travel hotspot for individuals of all ages. However, with such a vast continent to explore, choosing the perfect spot for your solo journey can be challenging. The advantage of traveling alone is the freedom to choose your ideal destination, allowing you to visit some of Europe’s most remarkable and captivating locations.

To uncover these gems, we consulted our expert writers for their top recommendations on the best solo travel spots in Europe. Here’s where you should consider visiting. 

1. Sicily, Italy 

Suggested by Nicola Williams

In a land rich with vibrant cultural and historical treasures, travel companions can sometimes become a tiresome distraction. Solo Sicily offers unbridled joy. Its lively mix of beaches, mountains, delicious cuisine, sun-soaked wines, and active volcanoes ensures you’ll never feel bored. This sun-kissed island, embraced by three seas, carries a profound energy that encourages reflection and a comforting acceptance of solitude.

Begin your adventure on the Ionian Coast of Sicily’s mesmerizing east: join a guide to ascend the fiery slopes of Mt Etna and immerse yourself in the bustling Catania’s vibrant fish market. Enjoy vino rich with the warmth of the sun in volcanic vineyards. If you appreciate drama, the performances under the stars at ancient Greek theaters in Syracuse and Taormina will leave you enchanted for days – as will the heavenly Aeolian archipelago, featuring azure waters and hidden coves for every mood and occasion. In the west, the capital city Palermo tells captivating tales in shimmering gold mosaics at the Cappella Palatina within Palazzo dei Normanni, while Stanze al Genio – the unique palazzo home and majolica tile museum of an art enthusiast – is one of Italy’s most charming solo B&B options. Similarly, the romantically unusual quarry garden Giardino dell’Impossible features delightful rooms on butterfly-shaped Favignana.

2. Naxos, Greece

Suggested by Helen Iatro

With its pristine white beaches and gentle waters, it’s easy to think of Naxos as a family-only destination. However, the largest island in the Cyclades aims to attract solo travelers to explore its diverse offerings, from a historic capital to farm-fresh cuisine and exciting watersports.Begin your exploration with a stroll through the medieval town of Hora and admire the impressive Venetian-era Glezos and Della Rocca Barozzi towers. Next, try windsurfing with a skilled instructor at Flisvos Sport Club on Agios Georgios beach. If biking suits you better, join a Naxos Bikes e-bike and hiking tour through olive groves leading to Mt Zeus, the island’s peak at 1,003m (3,290 ft).

Afterward, stop by Halki village to taste Naxos’ fragrant PDO citron liqueur at a local distillery. Delve deeper into the island’s culinary scene with a visit to a dairy farm hosted by Philema Food Tours. Engage with farmers, feed the animals, and help make Naxos’ renowned arseniko cheese. Once satisfied, unwind with sunset yoga at Kite beach in Mikri Vigla. Soul in Motion’s Melina Rigopoulos offers sessions from June to September, along with occasional retreats.

3. Aix-en-Provence, France

Suggested by Nicola Williams

Exploring the vibrant city of Marseille in southern France can be a challenge. However, wandering through the elegant streets of its smaller, safer counterpart, just a 45-minute bus or train ride away, is definitely enjoyable. Start your adventure in chic Aix-en-Provence with a café crème and croissant under the lush plane trees at Le Forbin, steps from the fountain-adorned Cours Mirabeau. Time feels different at the town’s Musée Granet in Quartier Mazarin, filled with works by Picasso, Matisse, Monet, and local legend Paul Cézanne, who frequently painted the nearby Montagne Ste-Victoire. Following in his footsteps via e-bike makes for an inspiring day trip, whether you go solo or with a tour group.

Be sure to visit the 13th-century Église St-Jean de Malte adjacent to the art museum and the floral gardens of the stunning art gallery Hôtel de Caumont (1742), just a five-minute walk away. Afterward, enjoy a smoothie, shake, or chai latte at Book In Bar; this English-language bookshop-café is a favorite among students from Aix’s renowned university if you’re looking to mingle. As evening falls, find a spot for people-watching on a café terrace along the lively rue de la Verrerie, place Richelme, or Forum des Cardeurs. For a more intimate setting, head to place de l’Hôtel de Ville.

4. Palma de Mallorca, Spain 

Suggested by Chloe Braithwaite 

Palma de Mallorca is an inviting destination, featuring well-lit public areas, stunning beaches, and an abundance of restaurants, markets, and historic attractions. Solo travelers can easily enjoy a relaxed day here. Begin your journey at Mercat de Santa Catalina, the city's oldest food market, overflowing with tapas and local delicacies. Close by, Lluís Pérez Pastisser is a charming pastry shop famous for its croissant ibérico con tomatitos: a flaky croissant filled with ibérico ham and tangy cherry tomatoes. For excellent coffee, visit Café Riu Tort, or try Mistral Coffee, which takes pride in locally roasted beans.

Take a leisurely stroll along Passeig des Borne, a tree-lined avenue featuring both luxury and popular shops. For a satisfying lunch, visit El Toque de Queda for a variety of charcuterie boards with local cheeses, or enjoy authentic Basque cuisine at La Vasca. In the afternoon, explore cultural landmarks such as the Catedral de Mallorca, complete with its serene Bishop’s Garden and the historic Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths). In the evening, check out Cineciutat, a non-profit cinema that screens films in their original languages. Conclude your day at Bar La Sang for natural wines, or make a reservation at Vermutería La Rosa for a traditional vermouth tasting.

5. Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Suggested by Monica Suma

Cluj-Napoca, located in northwestern Romania, offers a bohemian and more laid-back atmosphere compared to the larger, more chaotic capital of Bucharest. As the biggest city in Transylvania and the second largest in the country, Cluj (as locals call it) provides a relaxed vibe ideal for solo travelers, partly due to its student population and compact city layout. The city's roots date back to pre-Roman times (with 'Napoca' derived from the Dacians), but its stunning Baroque architecture from the Austro-Hungarian period truly stands out. With a burgeoning tech sector, Cluj is not only easy to navigate but also increasingly popular, blending a vibrant arts scene with cosmopolitan charm.

Cluj-Napoca is home to the renowned Transylvania Film Festival, along with the hugely popular Electric Castle and Untold festivals (avoid visiting in late July and early August unless you’ve booked well in advance or are prepared for sky-high accommodation costs). The city is currently buzzing with contemporary energy, highlighted by numerous specialty coffee shops, boasting the highest per capita ratio in the country (don’t miss Narcoffee Roasters). The culinary scene is equally thrilling, with the rustic-chic Casa Boema being a long-time favorite for its tranquil courtyard terrace. Best of all, nature is just a stone’s throw away. Hike up to Cetăţuia Park for stunning panoramic views of the city nestled between the Transylvanian Plain and the Apuseni Mountains.

6. Vipava Valley, Slovenia

Suggested by Daniel James Clarke

If you’re traveling solo, Slovenia’s Vipava Valley is the perfect destination for sipping – especially since you’ll never be drinking alone. In this wine-loving, hospitable community, it’s common to share a bottle of your finest with new friends. Scattered throughout the valley are hundreds of family-run, small-batch cellars, like Cejkotova Domačija, nestled beneath its fertile landscape, filled with casks maturing the local, golden-hued, fruity Zelen grape. Cycling between these hidden tastings is a solo traveler's fantasy. Gentle country roads weave through neatly tended vines and aromatic orchards, with dramatic karst mountains rising in the distance. If cycling isn't your style, hop on the seasonal wine train for a five-hour journey that guarantees new acquaintances, stopping at charming villages and vineyards. Volunteer during the September harvest, and you'll feel like part of the family.

Vipava’s charm extends beyond a glass, too. There are plenty of sober solo adventures available. Hike the Trnovo Forest Plateau for breathtaking views of the emerald valleys. Paraglide higher, propelled by the fierce bora wind cherished by locals. Several hostels foster a sense of community, while creative connections are abundant at Sinji Vrh Pension through its artistic workshops.

7. Faroe Islands

Recommended by Daniel James Clarke

The Faroe Islands rise from the wild North Atlantic like uncut emeralds scattered by a tempest. At first glance, this rugged land dominated by sheep, gannets, and puffins may seem like a daunting adventure. However, a closer look reveals a close-knit community that warmly welcomes solo travelers. Each year, islanders invite volunteers to assist with maintenance on their farms or in their homes. Heimablídni (Faroese for home hospitality) is deeply rooted here, with family-hosted meals being the norm. While some experiences require group bookings, others, like Heima í Stovu's supper club or Durita and Fróði's traditional Faroese feast featuring skerpikjøt (air-dried lamb) and ræst (fermented lamb and fish), invite sharing and storytelling among strangers.

Beyond Tórshavn's turf-roofed buildings and modern cultural spots, bite-sized adventures await. Hikes to the seemingly floating Lake Sørvágsvatn or the picturesque Kallur Lighthouse require no guide. Well-maintained roads, underwater tunnels connecting islands, and frequent ferries link communities, while a surprisingly good bus system allows for solo exploration without a car. Amidst towering sea stacks, waterfalls plunging into the ocean, or the stunning fjord-surrounded Saksun, you'll feel like a true castaway – yet you're never far from a warm chat over a cup of tea.