10 Destinations First-Time Solo Travelers Should Visit + 10 They Should Avoid
Your first solo trip isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how that place makes you feel. The right destination can build your confidence, open doors to new connections, and leave you craving more. But not every spot is beginner-friendly.
Some cities are easier to navigate, safer to explore alone, and better set up for solo travelers looking to find their rhythm. Others might be stunning on the surface but come with challenges that are better tackled once you’ve got a bit more solo travel experience.
1. Japan
Spotlessly clean streets and incredibly helpful locals create the perfect training ground for solo travel beginners. Japan offers an efficient public transportation system that runs like clockwork.
Even with minimal Japanese language skills, you’ll find your way around with ease in Tokyo and Kyoto. The low crime rate and respectful culture mean you can focus on enjoying cultural experiences rather than worrying about safety.
2. Portugal
Cobblestone streets and colorful buildings welcome wanderers with open arms. Portugal’s charm lies in its walkable cities and budget-friendly options that won’t strain your wallet.
Lisbon and Porto offer excellent hostels where meeting fellow travelers happens naturally. The Portuguese are known for their warmth toward visitors, and English is widely spoken, making navigation stress-free for first-timers exploring solo.
3. New Zealand
Adventure awaits around every corner in this outdoor paradise. The well-established backpacker trail makes meeting fellow travelers effortless, especially in hubs like Queenstown.
New Zealand’s reputation for safety and the widespread use of English remove common solo travel barriers. The country’s stunning landscapes offer endless opportunities for guided group activities where you can bond with others while experiencing thrilling adventures.
4. Canada
Urban excitement blends seamlessly with breathtaking wilderness in this welcoming northern nation. The perfect balance of city comforts and outdoor adventures awaits solo explorers.
Canada’s reputation for politeness isn’t just a stereotype – locals in Vancouver and Montreal are genuinely helpful to visitors. With excellent public transportation and widespread English (plus French in Montreal), navigating these diverse cities feels remarkably stress-free.
5. Thailand
Friendly smiles greet you at every turn in this Southeast Asian gem. The established backpacker infrastructure in Chiang Mai makes meeting other travelers almost inevitable.
Thailand offers amazing value with comfortable accommodations and delicious street food at bargain prices. Group cooking classes, temple tours, and jungle treks provide natural opportunities to connect with others while experiencing the rich culture and stunning landscapes.
6. Iceland
Otherworldly landscapes await exploration in this land of fire and ice. The remarkably low crime rate makes Iceland one of the safest countries for solo travelers to wander freely.
Reykjavik serves as the perfect base with its compact size and English-speaking locals. Guided day tours to waterfalls, geysers, and hot springs along the Golden Circle route offer easy ways to experience Iceland’s natural wonders while meeting fellow travelers.
7. Costa Rica
Lush rainforests teeming with wildlife create an unforgettable backdrop for first-time solo adventures. The “pura vida” (pure life) philosophy embraces visitors with warmth and relaxed vibes.
Costa Rica’s excellent tourism infrastructure includes plenty of group activities like zip-lining, waterfall hikes, and wildlife tours. La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio offer the perfect combination of natural wonders and social opportunities in hostels and ecolodges.
8. Netherlands
Picturesque canals lined with historic buildings create the perfect setting for solo exploration on foot. The compact layout means you’re never far from your accommodation if you need a break.
Amsterdam’s bike-friendly streets and excellent public transit make getting around a breeze. Nearly everyone speaks English, and the Dutch directness means you’ll always get clear answers to your questions. The city’s vibrant café culture provides natural opportunities to meet locals.
9. Ireland
Cozy pubs filled with lively music offer natural settings to strike up conversations with friendly locals. The famous Irish hospitality isn’t just a stereotype – it’s a genuine cultural value that embraces solo visitors.
Ireland’s compact size makes exploring Dublin and Galway manageable and stress-free. English-speaking travelers face no language barriers, and the excellent public transportation connects major sites. Group day tours to stunning coastal areas provide built-in social opportunities.
10. Spain
Sunny plazas buzzing with local life invite you to linger over tapas and watch the world go by. The relaxed pace in Seville and Valencia allows first-time solo travelers to ease into independent exploration without feeling rushed.
Spain’s excellent train system connects these walkable cities where getting lost is part of the charm. Many locals speak English in tourist areas, and the Spanish tradition of dining late means restaurants are social spaces where striking up conversations feels natural.
11. India
Constant sensory bombardment can quickly overwhelm even experienced travelers. The cacophony of sounds, vivid colors, and powerful aromas create an intense experience that might be too much for first-timers.
India’s cultural nuances and social dynamics require a steep learning curve. Transportation logistics can be complicated, and the stark poverty in some areas can be emotionally challenging. Consider visiting with a friend or guided tour first before tackling this amazing but complex country solo.
12. Egypt
Persistent vendors can make simple sightseeing feel like running a gauntlet. The relentless touting at major attractions often leaves first-time solo travelers feeling hassled and unable to enjoy the magnificent history.
Egypt’s complex bargaining culture can be stressful for the uninitiated. Women traveling alone may face unwanted attention. Consider joining a reputable tour group for your first visit to experience the pyramids and ancient wonders with less stress.
13. Russia
Cyrillic alphabet signs can make simple navigation feel like decoding a puzzle. Few Russians outside major tourist areas speak English, creating significant communication barriers for solo travelers.
The visa application process involves extensive paperwork and planning. Russia’s vast size makes transportation between cities time-consuming. While St. Petersburg and Moscow offer incredible cultural experiences, they’re better tackled after you’ve built confidence through solo travel in more accessible countries.
14. Brazil
Complex urban layouts combined with significant wealth disparities create challenging environments for solo navigation. Even seasoned travelers must stay vigilant in cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
Brazil’s Portuguese language differs from Spanish, limiting the usefulness of basic Spanish skills. Safety concerns require constant awareness of your surroundings and belongings. The country’s vibrant culture and natural beauty are best experienced after developing solid travel instincts.
15. Morocco
Labyrinthine medinas create magical but disorienting settings where getting lost is practically guaranteed. Persistent offers from self-appointed “guides” can make simple exploration feel overwhelming, especially in Marrakech and Fez.
Morocco’s cultural differences regarding personal space may surprise Western travelers. Women particularly face unwanted attention and comments. The country’s incredible architecture, markets, and cuisine are better appreciated after developing confidence through solo travel in more straightforward destinations.
16. South Africa
Stark contrasts between neighborhoods require careful navigation and local knowledge. Crime rates in parts of Johannesburg and Cape Town necessitate constant awareness that can detract from enjoying the experience.
South Africa’s public transportation system has significant gaps, often requiring rental cars. While the country offers breathtaking landscapes and amazing wildlife, first-time solo travelers might find the safety considerations stressful. Consider visiting with a tour group before returning independently.
17. China
Formidable language barriers await beyond the handful of international hotels and major attractions. Few Chinese citizens outside the tourism industry speak English, and translation apps often fail behind the Great Firewall.
China’s internet restrictions block familiar apps like Google Maps, making navigation challenging. The massive scale of cities like Beijing and Shanghai can overwhelm first-timers. This fascinating country rewards visitors with incredible experiences but requires more travel savvy than most beginners possess.
18. Saudi Arabia
Strict social codes govern public behavior in ways that can catch Western travelers off guard. Recent tourism developments haven’t fully addressed the significant cultural adjustments required, especially for women traveling alone.
Saudi Arabia’s conservative dress requirements and gender segregation in many spaces create logistical challenges. Public transportation remains limited, and alcohol is prohibited. While the country offers fascinating historical sites, its complex regulations make it better suited for experienced travelers.
19. Vietnam
Swarms of motorbikes create intimidating street-crossing scenarios that can paralyze first-time visitors. The constant honking and seemingly lawless traffic flow in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City prove overwhelming for many solo travelers.
Vietnam’s tourist areas harbor various scams targeting newcomers unfamiliar with local pricing. While the country offers incredible food, scenery, and value, navigating the initial cultural adjustment requires resilience. Consider visiting after building confidence in more straightforward Southeast Asian destinations like Thailand.
20. Venezuela
Unpredictable situations can develop quickly in a country facing ongoing economic and political challenges. Even experienced travelers struggle with the rapidly changing security landscape and practical difficulties. Venezuela’s currency complications and shortages of basic supplies create logistical hurdles.
Despite boasting incredible natural beauty including Angel Falls, the current situation makes it unsuitable for first-time solo travelers. Safety concerns, limited tourist infrastructure, and complex navigation issues require advanced travel skills.